On June 6, 1944, Canadian soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, France in a bold military operation that cost countless men their lives, and changed the face of history forever. Together with their American and British allies, Canadian troops participated in an aggressive, coordinated attack on German posts all along the coast of Normandy. The success of this operation came at a high cost. In but one day of battle, 340 Canadians lost their lives, 574 were wounded, and 47 were taken prisoner. The sacrifice paid by Canadian troops was not in vain, however, for Canada’s remarkable efforts helped secure a continuous Allied front on the French coast, eventually ensuring the retreat of German forces occupying the area. Almost 60 years later on June 6, 2003, hundreds of Canadian Veterans, dignitaries, and students traveled to Normandy to commemorate the courage and bravery of our forces, and to celebrate the opening of the Juno Beach Centre.

The goal of the Centre is to explain the nature and scope of Canadian involvement in the Second World War, by showcasing the human experience lived by thousands of Canadians both abroad and at home. It features interactive technology that integrates authentic newsreel footage, still photos, and audio recordings. The Centre can be visited in Normandy, France, or through an interactive website at www.junobeach.org. This will allow Canadians to witness the realities of sacrifice and remembrance, and to learn about the high price paid for the freedom we enjoy today.

The Juno Beach Centre was made possible through the hard work and dedication of a group of Second World War Veterans who participated in the D-Day landings and the subsequent battles in Normandy and throughout Western Europe. The Government of Canada has provided over $3 million in funding to the Centre, and will continue to provide an annual contribution of $200,000, which will cover the cost of the interpretive guide program and will help to defray annual operating costs at the Centre.

Peter Milliken, M.P., was pleased to participate in a local ceremony on June 6, 2003 that remembered the sacrifices made by Canadian troops on D-day. Following a parade from City Hall to the Cataraqui Town Centre, the ceremony featured a live telecast of the official opening of the Juno Beach Centre in Normandy. A number of local Veterans traveled to Normandy to witness the opening of the Centre in person. Many more Veterans who had participated in the D-day landings and other important war efforts honoured Kingston with their presence at the local ceremony.