Honouring Canadian Peacekeepers on National Peacekeepers’ Day

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the largest single-day loss of Canadian life in a peacekeeping mission.

This anniversary coincides with National Peacekeepers’ Day, allowing all Canadians a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of all those who have served on international peacekeeping missions and those who have paid the ultimate price.

“On National Peacekeepers’ Day, we remember the service and sacrifice of Canadians who have dedicated their lives to building a more peaceful world,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a statement to recognize National Peacekeepers’ Day.

“Today, Canadian men and women continue this proud tradition, putting on uniforms emblazoned with the Maple Leaf and representing our country’s long-standing commitment to helping those in need,” continued Trudeau.

National Peacekeepers’ Day falls annually on August 9.

Complicated History

Since the 1940s, Peacekeeping missions have taken Canadians to Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

More than 125,000 Canadians have bravely answered the call of duty and participated in nearly one hundred peacekeeping efforts around the world over the last eight decades to participate in intervention operations, broker peace and stand as observers.

However, their efforts have come with a price. In fact, August 9th is National Peacekeepers’ Day because it marks the tragic incident that took place on August 9, 1974.

On that day, a Canadian Armed Forces Buffalo aircraft on a routine supply flight for the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in the Golan Heights was shot down over Syria, resulting in the death of all nine Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) peacekeepers aboard the flight.

“The legacy of Canadian peacekeepers is one of unwavering compassion and courage, as they have helped restore peace and security to regions devastated by conflict,” said Ministers of Veterans Affairs, National Defence, Foreign Affairs and Public Safety in a joint statement to mark National Peacekeepers’ Day.

Peacekeeping Cost

Over the years, more than 130 Canadians have lost their lives in international peacekeeping missions. And many more have returned home with invisible and physical injuries. In fact, many veterans can attest to the fact that peacekeeping missions specifically have played a significant role in impacting their mental health.

“They brought Canadian expertise to help manage some of the world’s most complex conflicts. Tragically, some 130 of these brave women and men lost their lives in the line of duty, and many more returned home with enduring physical and psychological wounds.

“On National Peacekeepers’ Day, we pause to recognize the remarkable contributions of Canadian military members, police officers, diplomats, and civilians who have dedicated themselves to peacekeeping missions around the world. We acknowledge the sacrifices made by these individuals and their families in the pursuit of global peace and security,” continued the ministers joint statement.

Recognizing efforts since 2008

Since 2008, Canada has observed National Peacekeepers Day on August 9 to not only commemorate the tragic incident of 1974 but to honour all those who have served. Veterans and CAF members who have served in peacekeeping missions participate in commemorative events across the country.

A national ceremony is held each year in Ottawa at the Peacekeeping Monument.