On April 25, Ste. Anne’s Hospital hosted a touching ceremony commemorating the 70^th anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement. In honour of the occasion, officials from the Embassy for the Republic of Korea in Ottawa and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Montréal were in attendance to present Peace Ambassador medals and Certificates of Appreciation to the Korean War veterans residing at the facility.

With some 50 guests in attendance, including dignitaries, family members, veterans, and Ste. Anne’s Hospital employees, the event was an opportunity to pay respectful tribute to our 12 veterans from a conflict that is too often forgotten.

Our President and CEO, Mr. Dan Gabay, was particularly glad to be able to attend this ceremony. In his remarks, he addressed the veterans directly, saying, “Dear veterans, your contributions to Canadian history are nothing short of phenomenal. We must ensure that this heritage is passed down to future generations of Canadians. We have a collective obligation to remember.”

After the ceremony, light snacks were served courtesy of the Embassy for the Republic of Korea in Canada, including delicious Korean desserts. Live piano music contributed to the ambiance. It was a lovely opportunity to chat and to share memories.

The Korean War ended on July 27, 1953. The Canadian soldiers bravely fought to defend the shared values of Canada and the Republic of Korea, including peace, democracy, and freedom. Some 516 Canadians perished in this conflict.

Peace Ambassador medals and Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Korean War veterans residing at Ste. Anne’s Hospital.

Friends and family members of the Korean War veterans in attendance at the commemorative ceremony.

Colonel Dongwon Lee, Defence Attaché with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Canada, was proud to convey his country’s deep gratitude to veteran Gérard Boulanger.

Dan Gabay, President and CEO of our CIUSSS, and Isabelle Caron, Director of the Support for Elderly Autonomy Program—Long-Term Care, took the opportunity to thank veteran Marcel Bellavance for the sacrifices he made during the Korean War.

From left to right: Colonel Dongwon Lee, Defence Attaché with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Canada; veteran Gérard Boulanger; Sang-Hyun Park, Vice-Consul, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Montréal; and, Dan Gabay, President and CEO of our CIUSSS.