December 21, 2022

For most, the holiday season is a time for family and friends. A time of rest and rejuvenation. But for the serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and for every Canadian serving at our Missions abroad who find themselves away from home, the holidays can be a difficult time. They are missing—and are missed by—their loved ones.

I know first-hand how hard you all work to represent Canada, to keep people safe, to defend our security, interests and ideals, and to engage meaningfully with other countries. And I also know yours is not an easy task.

You are there for Canadians living and travelling abroad. You are there for communities facing hardship and strife. You provide people around the world—Canadians and non-Canadians alike—with essential services and support. And you understand one undeniable fact: when people work together to address global problems, good things happen.

The professionalism and dedication shown by members of the Canadian Armed Forces and all Canadians posted abroad are essential to our country’s success on the world stage.

To all of you, on behalf of all Canadians, I offer my thanks. I recognize the sacrifice you are making and I am grateful for the work that you do every day.

This holiday season, I hope that you take care of yourselves, in body, mind and spirit. And I wish all of you a wonderful New Year.

Mary Simon

Media information:
Rideau Hall Press Office
343-573-7563
media@gg.ca

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