Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on released the following statement on the Anniversary of the Dieppe Raid:
“Canadians remember the Second World War as a triumph for our still-young nation and its allies. Pictures of our heroes being welcomed across Europe, or jubilant crowds celebrating VE Day in Toronto, are often the first images that the conflict brings to mind.
“Today, as we recall the tragedy and heroism of the Dieppe Raid, we are reminded of just how arduous the road to victory was.
“In the dark days of 1942, with much of Europe under Nazi occupation, the Allies had high hopes for what they christened ‘Operation Jubilee’: a raid on the occupied port of Dieppe that would be one of the first tests of Canadians in ground combat.
“But it ended tragically. Our troops alone saw over 900 killed, more than our British and American allies combined. And for over 1,900 who were taken prisoner by the Germans, years of harsh deprivation would lie ahead.
“As we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice at Dieppe, and many more who suffered as prisoners of a brutal regime, we reflect on how the courage and professionalism of these brave Canadians paved the way for Europe’s liberation from Nazi tyranny.
“Lest we forget.”