The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Speaker, as Remembrance Day approaches, I rise in this Honourable House to pay tribute to the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, our country. Newfoundland and Labrador has a proud and enduring military tradition.

For generations, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have answered the call to serve in defence of our province, our country and the values we hold dear. Many made the ultimate sacrifice, while others returned home carrying the lasting effects of their service.

On November 11, we pause to honour their courage, dedication and selflessness. We remember those who never came home, those who served in uniform, and the families who stood beside them through times of uncertainty and loss.

As we gather at war memorials throughout our province, we are reminded that remembrance is not only about reflecting on the past. It is also about recognizing those who serve today and renewing our commitment to the freedoms secured through the sacrifices of those who came before us.

I ask all honourable members to join me in remembering those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them. Lest we forget.