 On February 18, 1943, squadron leader Alfred Brenner of Toronto was flying off the coast of the Netherlands when he and his crew spotted an enemy convoy consisting of five destroyers. Rather than peeling away and calling for reinforcements, squadron leader Brenner attacked low over the waves, dropping a torpedo that successfully hit a 5,000-ton enemy vessel. Facing heavy fire, their plane was shot down but not before they sent an SOS. Alone in dangerous waters, with a life raft and few resources, Alfred and his crew sent another call for rescue by sending a messenger pigeon that they had taken from their aircraft. After two long days at sea, Allied forces picked them up in a daring rescue mission. For his bravery, squadron leader Brenner received Britain's distinguished flying cross. In the face of danger, Alfred and his crew chose to be brave. They chose to put their own lives on the line for the greater good. It's no wonder his citation reads, This officer has displayed the greatest keenness and devotion to duty. Including the eight brave members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have lost their lives in the exercise of their function this year. We will honor their memory and never forget them. Mr. President, on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, we recognize the chance that we have to live in a country like ours thanks to the sacrifice, the service and the tenacity of the people who have lived this terrible war. They have endured the loss of brothers, sisters and friends, but despite everything, they have found hope and compassion for each other. During decades, they have continued to pave the way to build a better world and to serve the common good. And it is this same sense of duty and sacrifice that has also led our Armed Forces to participate in multiple missions to maintain peace, especially in Korea and in Afghanistan. When we need them, our women and men in uniform are always ready to support each other's support. Recently, they have proven altruism by protecting and helping our most vulnerable citizens. Our elderly people in long-term care establishments. Mr. President, their efforts and their dedication to the values of Canadians are the reflection of what we have the best to offer. Our veterans served Canada with honor and valor right across this country and all around the world. They stepped up for us, and now it's time for us to do the same for them. We don't need to wonder how we will rise to the moment because we need only look around Canada to see the answer. We see it in young people getting groceries for older veterans to keep them safe. We see it in frontline workers who, after hours of standing on tired feet, never give up as they care for our parents and grandparents, the last members of the greatest generation. We've seen it in the crew of the HMCS Fredericton and the members of the Snowbirds, brave women and men who, even after tragedy, continued to show us what service and sacrifice means. Together, we will build a better world with them. Thank you, Mr. President.