| Message from John Tory on Wear Red Friday |
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| Sunday, 01 October 2006 19:00 |
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Friends,Some times it’s best to say it simply. I want to begin by saying “Thank You”. “Thank you” Natascha MacKay, Louise Morris and all the families of our men and women serving overseas who have pulled together to support their loved ones… and support each other…during difficult times. “Thank you” to the organizers of today’s rally for allowing all of us to express our gratitude to our men and women in uniform. Thank you for getting the message out to them; that their fellow Canadians stand behind them and that we are all so proud and grateful of the heroic work they do. And I want to say thank you to everyone here today. Everyone who is wearing red today, and on future Fridays – for honouring the families of our Canadian forces – and letting them know that, even in times of worry, they never walk alone. Even as Canadians gain a deeper and deeper appreciation for the risks and sacrifices that our soldiers, sailors and other military personnel make on our behalf… we should also pause to think that every soldier who serves fights is someone’s loved one. A husband. A wife. A Father. A Mother. A Sister. A Brother. A Daughter or Son. Every one of these heroes has a hometown…they have friends and former classmates…they have goals and dreams…that they real, flesh and blood Canadians – except that they made the brave decision to serve. This bravery extends to their families. Who bear the burden of service with them. For these families the distressing headlines, the risks, the burdens of war…fall heavily on their shoulders…in the form of worry and doubt. They are all our families and friends. They are our neighbours and co-workers. Even if we’ve never met – they’re our fellow Canadians – and they bear a burden in the service of our country. When we support our military families – we are also providing peace of mind to those who served. There is no greater way to say “Thanks” To that end, I encourage all Ontarians and Canadians to support their closest Military Family Resource Centres – and to let the Military Families in your community know that – even in their times of worry and fear. A grateful country stands by them. That’s why I hope more and more people hear today’s call. That’s why I hope we see more and more people wear red. Thank you. John Tory Leader of the Official Opposition |