Soaring over the Highway of Heroes

There are so many ways to remember Canadians who have served in the military over the years. I am always amazed by the many powerful war memorials in cities, towns and villages across our country.

But one of the most amazing things I have ever seen is the Highway of Heroes.

This stretch of Highway 401 in eastern Ontario is where Canadians who have died overseas often travel after being returned to our country. The fallen soldiers arrive at the airbase in Trenton and are then respectfully driven to Toronto before being sent on to their final resting places. More than 40,000 brave Canadian Armed Forces members served in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2014—the largest military mission since the Second World War. Sadly, some 158 of them died during these efforts in far-off Southwest Asia.

I remember one time flying above the Highway of Heroes when four Canadian soldiers who died in Afghanistan were taken home to be buried. There were so many people standing on the sides of the road and on the overpasses to offer their respects as the official cars drove past. Police officers and firemen saluted and Canadian flags were flying at half-mast. It made me so sad but also proud. Canadians will always remember the men and women who served and died in Afghanistan. And we will also remember those who continue to protect our peace and freedom today.