10 November 2010

Canadian Pacific Salutes Fallen Soldiers

Calgary Alberta - On November 11th, all Canadian Pacific trains in Canada and the United States will safely halt at 11 a.m. local time, observe two minutes of respect in silence, and then sound a long train whistle in tribute. A Remembrance Day and Veterans Day service will also be held at CP's headquarters in Calgary.
 
On land, sea, and in the air, Canadian Pacific, its people, resources, ingenuity, and expertise have been needed to support war efforts at home and abroad. "Canadian Pacific recognizes the contributions our employees have made in times of war both past and present" said Scott MacDonald, vice-president transportation. "Many of our employees continue to serve. These brave men and women are a legacy and an inspiration, as are the many CP employees who are today listed military reservists."
 
Canadian Pacific has been touched by the tragic impacts of World War I and World War II. Over thirty-three thousand CP employees served in the last century's two world wars. Sadly, 1,774 employees died in battle. In the two World Wars combined, 24 of 74 CP ships were lost to enemy action. In the air, CP pioneered the transatlantic delivery of bombers to Britain. At home, Canadian Pacific's efforts included transporting troops, supplies, and equipment in addition to making its shops available for the output of Valentine tanks, engines for frigates, landing craft, naval vessel power equipment components, naval guns, anti-submarine devices, and fire-control equipment.
 
The tradition of service continues, with 44 Canadian and American employees currently listed as reservists. In Canada, CP moves Canadian Forces' equipment and is one of Canada's most supportive employers of primary Reserve Force personnel. In the United States, CP is a proud partner of the US Army PaYS program, which recruits soldiers interested in obtaining a quality civilian job following service to their country.
 
These brave men and women will be honoured at CP's Remembrance and Veteran's Day ceremony. Canadian Pacific executives, employees, Police Service officers, pensioners, members of the Lord Strathcona's Horse Royal Canadians, Canadian Forces King's Own Regiment, Calgary 41st Brigade Group, the 2554 Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Cadet Corps, and members of the public will recognize their service at a special ceremony at CP's Calgary Head Office, on 9 Ave SW next to the Steam Locomotive.