Veterans Affairs Canada: Canada's National History Society Receives Federal Support for Vigil 1914-1918

OTTAWA, ONTARIO, Jun 12 (MARKET WIRE) --
Vigil 1914-1918, a public Vigil to commemorate Canada's fallen service
men and women from the First World War, will take place at the National
War Memorial in Ottawa from November 4 to 11, 2008, thanks to Government
of Canada support.

On behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs,
the Honourable Jason Kenney, Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and
Canadian Identity, announced today a contribution to Canada's National
History Society.

Funding of up to $300,000 provided through Veterans Affairs Canada's
Community Engagement Partnership Fund, will support the production and
delivery of Vigil 1914-1918 at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.
Beginning at sunset on November 4, the names of Canadians who lost their
lives in the First World War will be projected onto the National War
Memorial each night. The last name will appear just before sunrise on
November 11. Canadians will have the opportunity to watch the event live
via the Internet. The national vigil in Ottawa will be streamed live
through an interactive Web site and Canada's National History Society
will provide support materials to schools or communities interested in
holding their own vigils.

"Our government is committed to remembering the great sacrifices and
achievements of all those who have served Canada," said Minister
Thompson. "Vigil 1914-1918 will pay tribute to each Canadian who made the
ultimate sacrifice during the First World War."

"The men and women who served in the First World War contributed so much
to our collective history," said Mr. Kenney. "This will be an important
opportunity for Canadians to pay tribute to these individuals for their
courage, devotion, achievements and sacrifice."

The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit
groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering
remembrance activities and events.

To learn more about this Fund, call Veterans Affairs Canada at
1-877-604-8489 or visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca.

Contacts:
Veterans Affairs Canada
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
613-992-7468

Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
Richard Roik
Director of Communications
613-996-4649

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