Fly the Flag of Remembrance Ceremony

Premier Roger Grimes and Municipal and Provincial Affairs Minister Oliver Langdon will join officials of the Provincial Command of the Royal Canadian Legion today in the foyer of the east block of the Confederation Building to participate in the annual "Fly the Flag of Remembrance Ceremony."

The ceremony, commencing at noon, provides an opportunity to acknowledge the service and achievement of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who served at home and overseas during the first and second World Wars, and the Korean Conflict, and to honour the memory of those who lost their lives while in service to the country.

Premier Grimes acknowledged the significance of this event and said: "The courage and sacrifices of those who served in war should never be forgotten."

The Premier also recognized the value of this province�s youth and the role they will have in the future of the country. "As today�s youth prepare to be tomorrow�s leaders, they must be aware of the historical events that have helped form this country into the place it is today."

Minister Langdon said: "We have an important military history and it is important that we express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for the freedoms that we enjoy."

Bill Titford, program chairman with the Royal Canadian Legion, encouraged people to wear the poppy this month. "The poppy is a sign of respect to those who have sacrificed themselves for the freedom that we enjoy."

Today�s ceremony will feature the traditional March on the Colours and performances by the Singing Legionnaires.

The ceremony will mark the beginning of Remembrance Week, which is observed from November 1 to November 11.

Media contact:

Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960
Lynn Hammond, Municipal and Provincial Affairs, (709) 729-1983

2002 11 01                                      12:20 p.m.