|
|
|
Audio
Section |
|
|
DEVOLIN
ON CANADIAN SUPPORT IN AFGHANISTAN
|
Mr.
Barry Devolin (Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock, CPC):
Mr. Speaker, I am one of many Canadians who has been treated well abroad – simply because I am Canadian.
In high school, I had the opportunity to spend a year in the Netherlands as a Rotary Exchange Student, where…
I enjoyed a never-ending series of warm receptions – especially from older people – as a consequence of Canadian sacrifices made during World War II.
About 10 years ago, I had the opportunity to live in South Korea for a year and a half.
As in Holland, I often received a positive reaction when I said I was Canadian.
Once again, I was standing on the shoulders of Canadian soldiers who traveled halfway around the world to fight for freedom and democracy.
Mr. Speaker, I hope that one day, maybe 20 years from now, my son or daughter will have the opportunity to travel – and maybe they’ll choose to go to Afghanistan.
At that time, I trust they will be warmly received, as I was in Holland and Korea, and I expect the Afghan people will say:
“We appreciate the fact that Canadians were here to help us in our moment of need.
It was never easy – and it wasn’t always popular.
But Canada – and Canadian soldiers and aid workers – were here when we needed them most. Thank you.”.
|
|
|
