The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today in recognition of Canadian Armed Forces Day:
"Today we celebrate members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who work tirelessly to defend the values of peace, freedom, and democracy. As always, our military personnel show unwavering strength, courage, and dedication, both at home and abroad.
"Through Operation UNIFIER, they are sharing their knowledge and skills with members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who are fighting for their country in the face of Russia's illegal and unjustifiable invasion. CAF members are also supporting NATO's assurance and deterrence mission in Latvia through Operation REASSURANCE.
"Members of the Canadian Armed Forces have helped uphold peace, security, and the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region through Operation HORIZON. And they provide invaluable assistance to communities at home during natural disasters through Operation LENTUS.
"No matter the task, members of the Canadian Armed Forces serve with skill, dedication, and honour. We remain committed to supporting them, and their loved ones, so that they can continue doing this critical work.
"This is why we're making significant investments in the Canadian Armed Forces. By 2029-2030, we will have almost tripled our defence spending compared to 2014-2015. Through Canada's renewed defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free, we're ensuring that our personnel have the tools and equipment they need to do the vital tasks we ask of them. This includes a new fleet of early warning aircraft, tactical helicopters, as well as enhancing cyber capabilities. This builds on investments we've already made in the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the Canadian Special Operations Forces.
"To support Canadian military families, we have also committed to improving access to affordable childcare and housing for CAF personnel on bases across Canada. This includes establishing a Canadian Armed Forces Housing Strategy, building new housing, renovating existing housing and exploring the redevelopment of National Defence properties for housing.
"To our Canadian Armed Forces personnel, and to your loved ones: We will continue to support you as you represent our country on sea, on land, and in the air with great pride. You have my deepest thanks for your service, your sacrifices, and your strength, so that we can live in a safer and more peaceful world."
