Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance spent most of 2009 in the country as commander of Task Force Kandahar only to be called back to the area in June and given the same responsibilities.

The former commander of The Second Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (2RCR) at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown was asked to return to Afghanistan when Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard was accused of engaging in an intimate relationship with a female member of his staff while in theatre.

Brig.-Gen. Vance said he has a good perspective on Canada’s capabilities in Afghanistan after having seen so much of the Armed Forces in action. “I have had a pretty good perch now for over a year to watch our Armed Forces do its thing under very difficult circumstances,” Brig.-Gen. Vance said in a recent interview.

“I am kind of privileged. (I’m) ever more humbled by the magnificence of our soldiers. Every time one does something like this, one just realizes how lucky we are to have the soldiers we do.”

Read the full article at the Daily Gleaner.

FREDERICTON, N.B. – The True Patriot Love Foundation will hold a major Tribute Dinner in Fredericton in October to benefit several military charities, including the Canadian Forces Benevolent Fund, the Military Family Resource Centre and the Wounded Warriors Fund. Funds raised will go toward helping military families and wounded soldiers in both New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

The Foundation made the announcement today at a news conference attended by dignitaries including Keith Ashfield, minister of national revenue, minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and minister for the Atlantic Gateway; New Brunswick premier Shawn Graham; Col. Michael Pearson, base commander of CFB Gagetown; Julie Fotheringham, executive director of the True Patriot Love Foundation; and Elisabeth Rybak, chair of the this year’s event and provincial chair of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council.

The Tribute Dinner event will be held Thursday, October 28, at the Delta Fredericton Hotel with funds being raised through ticket sales, sponsorships and an auction of military helmets painted and decorated by local artists.
Minister Ashfield, who is also the Member of Parliament for the area that includes CFB Gagetown, the largest military training base in the Commonwealth, hopes the proceeds from the gala will ease the hardships faced by some military families and injured soldiers. “New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island have long and storied military histories, and I’m sure we will step up to the plate to show these families and soldiers how much we care. Our entire country owes them our gratitude and support, especially when they have paid a heavy price.”

“New Brunswickers have always been strong supporters of our military and CFB Gagetown is a major economic engine for our province,” said Premier Graham. “Our compassion and support for these families and soldiers in need will definitely shine through and I’m positive the gala event will be a huge success. We’re here for them.”

Col. Pearson says that funds raised will have a direct positive impact on military families. “I’ve seen first-hand the tremendous pain that these families go through whether it is because of a soldier killed in action, a soldier who’s been injured and faces a long or life-long recuperation, or the challenge of constantly adjusting to new surroundings with multiple moves. While military life can be tremendously rewarding, we must also recognize that it isn’t always easy and that some soldiers and their families pay very dearly for their commitment to keeping Canada safe.”

The three charities that will benefit from funds raised at the October gala event are:

Canadian Forces Benevolent Fund: supports service personnel and/or spouses and the unique circumstances of military families when they face unforeseen financial difficulties.

Military Family Resource Centres: autonomous non-profit organizations that provide consistent services to all military families, including support groups for families, children’s activities and community integration programs.

Wounded Warriors Fund: supports all Canadian Forces members wounded on operations at the outset of their healing process. The fund aims to improve the general morale and welfare of the soldiers and their families.

“The True Patriot Love Foundation is excited to hold its first regional Tribute Dinner in Fredericton,” Foundation executive director Fotheringham said. “We are truly grateful to our supporters, because even heroes need heroes!.”

“The success of this event will have a direct positive impact on the lives of military families in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island,” event chair Rybak said. “People can support Tribute Dinner 2010 in a number of ways, either by purchasing a ticket to attend, sponsoring the event, bidding on one our helmets during the auction, or purchasing a family tree sculpture. We’re looking forward to seeing many people there.”

Tickets are $200 each and are available now by calling 1-877-990-0949 or by visiting the True Patriot Love Foundation website at www.tpl-nbpei.com. For information on sponsoring the event or the helmet auction, call Elisabeth Rybak at 506-962-0802.

About True Patriot Love Foundation
True Patriot Love Foundation (TPLF) was founded in 2009 by a group of citizens who want to make a positive contribution to the lives of Canadian military personnel and their families – to serve those who serve on behalf of our nation. The Foundation has grown through generous contributions from patriotic Canadians, corporations and other organizations.
TPLF supports funds and charities dedicated to supporting the Canadian Military and their families. Through these charities and funds, we are able to help families quickly reunite in times of illness, injury and death, access rehabilitation and counselling related to injury-induced life adjustments and support the needs of the children of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and our fallen comrades. Our funding complements and enhances, but does not replace, existing public and non-public programs. EVEN HEROES NEED HEROES.

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For more information, please contact:
Julie Fotheringham
416-951-7988
julie.fotheringham@hageman.ca

Approaching the bridge you are struck by the flags first, the numbers of people second and the way that parking regulations are ignored third.

As I walked from my spot at the Tim Hortons at the north east corner of the bridge, the site loomed closer, I noticed my cheeks were cold, the
temperature was brisk for an early June late afternoon. No…as I raised my hand to my cheek I realized that my cheeks were wet. Tears ran down my face and continued until I had returned to my car.

Old and young, vet and not, average and notable all gathered on this overpass to share a common feeling. This feeling, I can only surmise, was oneof respect. Respect for the family of the fallen, respect for the sacrificeand respect for the dedication to a cause of others beyond fear of losingones own life.

Four streams of traffic roared by below, horns honked to those on thebridge, lights flashed waves exchanged. Gradually many more arrived…comments made…hello…there seem to be some new people here….Hello…so sorry for your loss….

The flags! Attached to poles attached to sticks, metal rods, 1 x 1′s, shelf brackets….what ever the common man would need to hoist the nations colours so it could snap in the brisk east wind. Proud, respectful and without care. The nations flag the provinces banners and some that signified the cause.

Four streams of traffic began to become three. One stream from East to West began to subside. A flow, a trickle and then nothing. A moment passes and the a lone police car, lights flashing leading the way, make sure it is safe. Another a short time later and then the object of this time appears.

Hats removed. Silence descends. Each salutes in their own way as the sacrifice passes under our feet. In silence the crowd disperses…my cheeks are so cold.

Jerry McDonnell
K.I.M. Inc., True Patriot Love Toronto Tribute Dinner

'Helmeeta' Helmet by Karen Richardson

We are companions who fight against this combat disorder.
We recognize our love is too rare to abort,
We are looking for an answer,
We ask for support.

“It is a privilege to receive this tribute on behalf of Canadian military families who proudly serve our country and guard our freedom,” said Shaun Francis, Chair of TPL. “This gift will help care for families while their loved ones serve far from home, and provide special supports to families of injured soldiers when they return.”

General Natynczyk, Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff, who was present, expressed his deep appreciation on behalf of the men and women who have served in Afghanistan and Haiti.

This is the second royal gift that TPL has received in its first year as a foundation. The first donation of $250,000 was made, in lieu of the customary gift offered during royal visits, last November at the request of their Royal Highnesses, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.
TPL’s 2009 Gala raised a record $2.3 million and the majority of the proceeds were donated to the Canadian Military Families Fund, established by (Ret’d) General Rick Hillier. Other charities supported by TPL include Soldier On – a fund that uses sport to help heal wounded soldiers – to enable a delegation of 18 Canadian soldiers and their families to travel to the Paralympics to witness first hand the accomplishments of those facing similar challenges. TPL’s 2010 Gala will be held in once again in Toronto on the eve of Remembrance Day.
About True Patriot Love Foundation: The True Patriot Love Foundation steps in to assist military families in unforeseen and urgent needs that result from military duty, including rehabilitation after an injury, educational support for children with special needs on remote bases, financial assistance in the case of injury or death, and urgent and extraordinary financial demands where the ability to provide family necessities is at risk.

________________________________________

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today delivered the following remarks at a dinner held in honour of Her Majesty The Queen:

“Thank you, Mr. Minister.

“Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness,

“Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

“Tomorrow concludes Your Majesty’s twenty-second Royal Tour as Queen of Canada.  Each of these occasions has been very much like a family gathering.  Rituals are observed, milestones are celebrated, and bonds are strengthened.

“Your faithfulness to Canada over so many years has made a difference.  It reminds us that our country itself is like a family.  And that we have an extended family around the world, in the Commonwealth.  In 1973 in this very place, Your Majesty said you ‘would like the Crown in Canada to represent everything that is best and most admired in the Canadian ideal.’  In this you have succeeded marvellously!

“Throughout your reign you have been a constant voice for mutual understanding and tolerance.  And as head of the Commonwealth, a strong advocate for freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.  And we believe there are no virtues,  no values, more Canadian than these!  I would like to take this opportunity, Your Majesty, to offer a personal word.  It is said that the endurance of the Crown depends on ‘magic.’ Observing your service to Canada throughout my lifetime, I believe the reality is simpler than that, and much more powerful.

“The enduring strength of the Canadian Crown is the result of your hard work and devotion.  And the affection and esteem in which you are held by Canadians are very real, and indeed profound.  I spoke recently with a young man who saw Your Majesty and Your Royal Highness on a walkabout here in Toronto, during the Golden Jubilee Tour. Your Royal Highness spoke with the young man, who is from London, Ontario.  The young man told me, ‘I was impressed.’  He said some things
about my own hometown that even I’d forgotten. ‘They know this country better than anyone.’

“You know this country and its people, having met countless Canadians of every background and way of life.  And, while you make it look effortless, we know that it is not.  But it is inspired by your devotion to Canada. A devotion we would all do well to copy.  We no longer speak as often as once we did, of the importance of doing one’s duty.  But by your unfailing example, you have shown us the power of that virtue!  Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, as tomorrow we see you off, allow me, on behalf of all Canadians to thank you for being with us, yet again, and to wish you a safe journey.  Ladies and gentlemen, it is customary on such occasions that an official gift be given.

“Her Majesty and His Royal Highness were delighted to learn  that a donation would be made in their name to support the well-being of families of the Canadian military, those of current and former members of the naval forces of Canada and children from economically disadvantaged homes.

“I am very pleased to announce, therefore, that in the name of Her Majesty and His Royal Highness, the Government of Canada will make substantial gifts to the True Patriot Love Foundation, the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund, and the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation.  Finally, no family gathering is complete without a bit of nostalgia.  Your Majesty is no stranger to Canada’s favourite sport, having attended your first hockey game here in Toronto, in 1951.

“In 2002, Your Majesty made history as the first monarch to open a hockey game, by dropping the ceremonial puck in Vancouver.  As the saying goes, the crowd went wild.  I am happy to announce that that wonderful moment has been incorporated in a new display to be housed in the Hockey Hall of Fame.  And within that display, Your Majesty, is a personal gift to you, to mark your latest Royal Tour of Canada.  By way of explanation, as Queen of Canada, you share in the recent triumph of our Canadian Olympic hockey champions.  And so, I say you are not only ‘victorious, happy and glorious,’ – you are also Canada’s Most Valuable Player!

“I now ask Your Majesty to officially unveil this new tribute to Canada’s favourite sport.

“Ladies and gentlemen, will you please charge your glasses, and rise for the Loyal Toast to Her Majesty, Queen of Canada.

“The Queen.”

________________________________________

DÉCLARATION DU PREMIER MINISTRE DU CANADA

Le Premier ministre Stephen Harper a prononcé aujourd’hui l’allocution suivante à l’occasion d’un dîner offert en l’honneur de Sa Majesté la Reine :

« Merci, Monsieur le Ministre.

« Votre Majesté, Votre Altesse Royale,

« Distingués Invités, Mesdames et Messieurs,

« C’est demain que se conclut la vingt-deuxième tournée de Votre Majesté en tant que Reine du Canada. Chacune de ces occasions ressemble beaucoup à une réunion de famille. Des rituels sont observés, des jalons sont célébrés et les liens sont renforcés.

« Votre fidélité au Canada au cours de ces nombreuses années a fait une différence.  Elle nous rappelle que notre pays est comme une famille. Et que nous avons une famille élargie à travers le monde, au sein du Commonwealth. En 1973 et en ce même lieu, Votre Majesté a dit que vous souhaitiez que la Couronne au Canada représente tout ce qu’il y a de mieux et de plus admiré dans l’idéal canadien. Votre vœu a été pleinement exaucé!

« Tout au long de votre règne, vous avez été une voix constante pour notre compréhension et notre tolérance mutuelles.  Et en votre qualité de chef du Commonwealth, vous avez été également une ardente défenseure de la liberté, de la démocratie, des droits de la personne et de la primauté du droit. Et nous croyons qu’il n’y a pas de vertu, pas de valeur, plus canadiennes que celles-ci! Je voudrais profiter de cette occasion, Votre Majesté, pour vous adresser personnellement quelques mots. On dit que l’endurance de la Couronne relève de la « magie ». Si l’on songe au service que vous avez rendu au Canada tout au long de ma vie, je crois que la réalité est plus simple que cela, et beaucoup plus puissante.

« La force durable de la Couronne canadienne est le fruit de votre dur labeur et de votre dévouement. Et l’affection et l’estime qu’ont pour vous les Canadiens et les Canadiennes sont bien réels, et même profonds! J’ai parlé récemment avec un jeune homme qui a vu Votre Majesté et Votre Altesse royale dans un bain de foule, ici à Toronto, au cours de la Tournée du Jubilé d’or. Votre Altesse Royale a parlé au jeune homme, qui est originaire de London, en Ontario. Le jeune homme m’a dit: « J’ai été impressionné. Son Altesse Royale a dit des choses à propos de ma ville natale que j’avais moi-même oubliées. Ils connaissent ce pays mieux que quiconque. »

« Et vous connaissez sa population; vous avez rencontré un nombre incalculable de Canadiens et de Canadiennes de tous les milieux et de tous les horizons. Et, si vous avez l’air de faire cela sans effort, nous savons qu’il n’en est rien. Mais cela vous est inspiré par votre dévouement envers le Canada. Un dévouement que nous ferions bien d’imiter. On ne parle plus aussi souvent de l’importance de faire son devoir. Mais par votre exemple constant, vous nous avez montré le pouvoir de cette qualité! Votre Majesté, Votre Altesse Royale, puisque vous partez demain, je voudrais, au nom de tous les Canadiens et Canadiennes vous remercier d’avoir été encore une fois parmi nous et de vous souhaiter un bon voyage. Mesdames et Messieurs, c’est la coutume en de telles occasions d’offrir un cadeau officiel.

« Sa Majesté et Son Altesse Royale ont été ravis d’apprendre qu’un don serait fait en leur nom pour améliorer le bien-être des familles des militaires canadiens, des membres actuels et anciens des forces navales du Canada et des enfants provenant de foyers défavorisés.

« Je suis très heureux d’annoncer, par conséquent, que, au nom de Sa Majesté et de Son Altesse Royale, le gouvernement du Canada fera d’importants dons à la Fondation True Patriot Love, à la Caisse de bienfaisance de la Marine royale canadienne et à la Fondation Tim Horton pour les enfants. Enfin, aucune réunion de famille n’est complète sans un peu de nostalgie. Votre Majesté connaît bien le sport préféré des Canadiens, après avoir assisté à votre premier match de hockey à Toronto, en 1951.

« En 2002, Votre Majesté a écrit une page d’histoire en étant la première monarque
à faire la mise au jeu d’une partie de hockey, en laissant tomber la rondelle cérémoniale, à Vancouver. Comme le dit l’adage, la foule était en délire. Je suis heureux d’annoncer que ce merveilleux moment a été intégré dans une nouvelle exposition du Temple de la renommée. Et dans cette exposition, Votre Majesté, il y a un cadeau personnel qui vous est offert, à l’occasion de votre plus récente tournée royale du Canada. En tant que reine du Canada, vous partagez le récent triomphe de nos champions canadiens du hockey olympique. Et bien, je dis que vous n’êtes pas seulement « victorieuse, heureuse et glorieuse » mais que vous êtes aussi la plus précieuse joueuse du Canada!

« Et je demande maintenant à Votre Majesté de dévoiler officiellement ce nouveau tribut au sport préféré des Canadiens et des Canadiennes.

« Mesdames et Messieurs, veuillez remplir vos verres et porter un toast à Sa Majesté la Reine du Canada.

« La Reine. »

The push behind Canada’s largest military fundraiser began in earnest yesterday, as former chief of defence staff Rick Hillier announced the return of the True Patriot Love Foundation gala.

Last year, on the night before Remembrance Day, 1,700 soldiers, entertainers, elected officials, corporate sponsors and Masters of the Universe squeezed into the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for the event’s inaugural, raising $2.3-million for veterans and military families — the most ever in Canada.

The goal for this year’s event, again scheduled for Nov. 10, is $2.4-million.

“To be associated with these young men and women in uniform, and to be associated with their families is one of the — actually, it’s the only perk I had as chief of the defence staff — and it’s one of the things I enjoy most in life,” Mr. Hillier told a Toronto news conference yesterday.

His charity, the Military Families Fund, received the largest portion of last year’s total.

Read the full article at the National Post.

For the True Patriot Love Foundation, supporting the troops is more than just a bumper sticker.

The millions raised by the foundation provide services for Canadian war veterans and their families that aren’t covered by the military or provincial health care — counselling for a family about to say goodbye to a soldier or guidance for one who is returning, money for emergency child care and therapy for special needs children.

The foundation will hold its second annual fundraising gala on Nov. 10 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and hopes to raise another $2.4 million, founder Shaun Francis told a news conference Tuesday.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE AT THE TORONTO STAR.