Commitment to duty and service to others are important values for Northerners. We have always understood that strong people contributing to their communities is what makes this a strong territory and a strong country.

Today we join Canadians from coast to coast to coast in honouring the contributions and sacrifices made by the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces during their mission in Afghanistan. It is through their actions – and the actions of men and women just like them – that Canada is helping to build a better more peaceful world for all of us.

To mark the end of the Canadian military mission in Afghanistan, the Governor General has issued the following proclamation:

• Whereas Canadians, both at home and abroad, have honorably, courageously and loyally served Canada by participating in the Afghanistan mission from 2001 to 2014;
• Whereas March 31, 2014 marks the end of the Canadian military mission in Afghanistan;
• Whereas the strength and courage demonstrated by our men and women in uniform serving on the battlefield and supported by personnel from other government departments have advanced the national interests of Canada in the fight against terrorism;
• Whereas the families of our men and women of Her Majesty’s Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian communities from coast to coast to coast have admirably and consistently supported the sacrifices being made by those serving in Afghanistan;
• Whereas it is desirable to build and strengthen an appreciation in Canadians for their contribution to the Afghanistan campaign and to promote the special role our families and communities play when our sons and daughters are in foreign lands;
• And whereas it is desirable to recognize our appreciation for the sacrifice of all those who serve our great nation and all those who have paid the ultimate price for freedom;

Therefore, His Excellency the Governor General in Council, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, orders that a proclamation do issue declaring May 9, 2014 as a “National Day of Honour”.

I now invite you all to join with me in observing two minutes of silence in to honour the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who served in Afghanistan, including the 158 who gave their lives in helping to promote peace, security and democracy during the mission.