High Commissioner addresses veterans at Canadian Battle of Britain commemoration
Speech by Howard Drake highlights the courage and sacrifice made by Canadians during the Battle of Britain.
British High Commissioner Howard Drake speaks during the Battle of Britain Commemoration in Ottawa on Sunday, 15 September 2013. Credit: Canadian Forces
British High Commissioner Howard Drake delivered an address during the Battle of Britain 73rd Anniversary Ceremony in Ottawa on Sunday, 15 September 2013. In his speech he highlighted the courage and sacrifice of the fine young Canadian pilots during the Battle and expressed the enduring gratitude of the United Kingdom.
The High Commissioner was delighted to hear the stories of Canada’s veterans and pass on his own words of gratefulness.
“I never forget the debt of gratitude my generation owes to those that fought for the freedom we treasure today,” he said.
Over 100 Canadian pilots took part in the Battle of Britain with almost a quarter of them paying the ultimate sacrifice.
The ceremony saw not only a number of veterans on parade but also a flypast by historic aircraft from the Second World War.
The event highlighted the close intertwined relationship between the Royal Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force.
“Canada and the UK stood shoulder to shoulder then as we so often do today,” reflected the High Commissioner on the enduring relationship.
Photos from the ceremony can be found on the British High Commission’s Flickr page.