May 11, 2007
PETAWAWA

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today addressed a Red Friday rally in support of Canadian troops in Petawawa, Ontario. The Prime Minister began his remarks by lauding those in attendance for standing by the Canadian Forces and its mission in Afghanistan.

“I’d like to thank you for the incredible amount of strength and support you have displayed over the last 12 months while hundreds of members from CFB Petawawa were deployed in Afghanistan,” said Prime Minister Harper.

The Prime Minister spoke of their heroic acts in Afghanistan, noting that nine soldiers from the base were recently honoured for their service. The Prime Minister went on to speak of the importance of ensuring Canadians from coast-to-coast are made aware of their stories of professionalism, bravery, and selflessness.

“Unfortunately, these soldiers didn’t get the attention they deserved, because their stories were eclipsed by arguments in the House of Commons over the allegations of Taliban prisoners. I sincerely hope their stories get told when the Governor General formally awards their decorations,” said Prime Minister Harper.

This is the second year that Red Friday rallies have been held across the country. The event grew out of the “Wear Red Friday” campaign, which was started by family members of soldiers from CFB Petawawa in 2006.