Statement by the Métis National Council's Minister Responsible for Veterans on the 77th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy

June 6, 2021

The Métis National Council's Minister Responsible for Veterans issued the following statement today on the 77th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy:

"Today, on the 77th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, we reflect and give our heartfelt appreciations to the brave military servicemen and women of the Métis Nation who alongside forces comprised of Allied soldiers from Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom fought bravely or gave their lives in a battle that is a historic milestone in Canadian and the Métis Nation's collective history."

"On this day, June 6, 1944, over 150,000 soldiers; 14,000 Canadian soldiers composed of hundreds of our Métis Nation soldiers bravely stormed Juno Beach, as part of extensive combined air, land and sea military operation. With Canada's Allies and military might, Métis Nation soldiers participated in the destruction of German defences on the beaches of Normandy and the elimination of tyranny over the oppressed people of Europe that resulted in peace and security for the world."

"Métis soldiers alongside Canada and Allied forces breached the Atlantic Wall and overcame painstaking odds to achieve a victory that is enshrined in our collective memories. The bravery and selflessness demonstrated by Métis soldiers on that day in Normandy and throughout the war remind us of our peoples' incredible determination to defend our freedom, fundamental human rights, and democracy across the Métis Homeland. Our soldiers are a shining example of strength under adverse conditions and graciousness in uplifting situations."

"The Métis Nation continues to face COVID-19, which has forced us to augment this year's commemorative day. I would like to invite all Métis Nation citizens to pay their respect to Métis Nation Second World War (WWII) Veterans who fought in the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy safely and creatively. Visit our website at www.metisveteran.ca for information on our national Métis Veteran Legacy Program honouring Métis Nation WWII Veterans and see how you can get involved."

"Our collective responsibility is to pay our respect to those who served and sacrificed their lives in the name of freedom. Métis Veterans joined Canada's call to arms to protect rights and liberties around the world, they are our true heroes, and they will forever be in the thoughts and prayers of our Nation."

"Our Heroes Today, Tomorrow, and Forever"

Meeqwetch,

David Chartrand
Minister responsible for Veterans
Métis National Council

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