On this week, in what is the eleventh month, on the eleventh day and at the eleventh hour, Canadians will give pause to honour and reflect on the sacrifice of those brave soldiers who have served and continue to serve Canada.

Over the past weeks Canada has again collectively grieved at the loss of life from soldiers in uniform who were targeted because of their commitment to serve Canada. As a country we will never forget these sacrifices and our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and families of these fallen members of our armed forces.

We must also not forget that these soldiers served to fight for democracy and for freedom. They serve to protect the innocent from those who would do them harm. These are Canadian values and what have built a stronger, greater Canada. Part of our national anthem is our commitment that as Canadians we stand and on guard with glowing hearts for our true north that is strong and free. On this Remembrance Day when we sing these words that define who we are as a country let us never forget these are freedoms that were fought for by brave men and women who continue to stand on guard to this very day.

I would also like to remind the citizens of Okanagan-Coquihalla that in addition to our armed forces many brave Canadians also volunteer to serve. Canadian doctors and medical care workers, journalists, teachers, aid workers and others have bravely volunteered to help those most in need in regions that are besieged by conflict. Increasingly these individuals have also been targeted by violent and oppressive forces who continue to engage in senseless violence.

On this Remembrance Day let us remember, let us honour and let us give thanks for all of those who made the commitment to serve.

I will be traveling throughout Okanagan-Coquihalla on Tuesday however for the duration of the week as the House of Commons is not sitting I am available to meet and hear your concerns first hand. I can be reached at dan.albas@parl.gc.ca or toll free at 1-800-665-8711.