The Canadian delegation will include Second World War Veterans and Canadian Forces Veterans, representatives of Veterans' organizations, youth, caregivers, parliamentarians and media. Thirteen youth delegates, from Canada's thirteen provinces and territories, will participate in remembrance and educational activities throughout the week.

"This journey will honour the truly extraordinary Canadians who served so courageously so that we may live freely," said Minister Thompson. "In travelling to France and Belgium we will remember and pay tribute to the great sacrifice made by Canadian men and women in the First World War. These events will also provide our youth participants with an opportunity to learn more about the importance of our history and the need to preserve it and share it with future generations."

The entire delegation will first participate in a ceremony of remembrance at Le Quesnel Memorial in France in honour of all those who served in the First World War. On November 11, Minister Thompson, parliamentarians and Veterans of the delegation will attend an international ceremony in Douaumont, while the youth participants attend ceremonies in Belgium at the City of Mons, and at Menin Gate in Ypres. The entire Canadian delegation will also attend a burial service for Private Ralph Tupper Ferns of the Royal Regiment of Canada. Private Ferns went missing on August 14, 1944, near Haut-Mesnil, Normandy, France and his remains were recovered in 2005.

The end of the First World War was a defining moment for Canada in the 20th century. From 1914 to 1918, Canada would see more than 650,000 men and women serve. Canada's accomplishments had earned our country a newfound respect and recognition, both at home and around the world, as an independent country in its own right.

For more information about the First World War, reports on the delegation's progress in France and Belgium or details on events in your area, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca.