In 2008, August 9 was officially designated as a day to honour Canadian peacekeepers who have served or are currently serving in peacekeeping operations around the world. Canada has demonstrated exceptional leadership internationally since the start of peacekeeping operations through its ongoing willingness to defend human rights and democratic values, and its close cooperation with its allies and partners.
The choice of August 9 is significant, and the date commemorates the great sacrifices made by Canadian peacekeepers, regardless of where they are stationed. On August 9, 1974, nine CF personnel who were part of an UN peacekeeping mission in Egypt were on a regular supply flight to the Golan Heights when their aircraft was shot down during a Syrian missile attack. These nine Canadian peacekeepers lost their lives in the attack, a tragic event in the history of Canada’s peacekeeping operations.
Every year on August 9, CF personnel, veterans and police officers take part in ceremonies across the country to mark National Peacekeepers’ Day. An official ceremony is also held in Ottawa every year at the National Peacekeeping Monument.
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