The Ontario government has formally dedicated the "Highway of Heroes" by unveiling signs along a stretch of Highway 401 that commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of Canadian soldiers, Premier Dalton McGuinty said today.
"The road that links Ontario and Quebec is named in honour of the two leaders who gave life to our young nation more than 140 years ago," said Premier McGuinty. "It is enormously fitting, then, that we dedicate a portion of this very road in honour of those who gave their lives for our nation."
New "Highway of Heroes" signs have been installed along the route, commemorating Canadian soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. This dedication pays tribute to the solemn journey fallen soldiers take once they return to Canada and are formally transported from Trenton to Toronto. The 172-kilometre stretch of Highway 401 between Toronto and Trenton will keep its official name — the Macdonald-Cartier Freeway.
These processions have drawn large crowds of mourners — local residents, emergency service personnel and veterans — who have gathered on nearby overpasses, waved flags and saluted in support of Canadian troops.
"The designation of this significant section of the Macdonald-Cartier Freeway honours the sacrifice given by Canada's military personnel in the service of our nation, and the support of our troops by all Ontario citizens," said Major-General Richard Rohmer, co-chair of Ontario's Veterans' Memorial Advisory committee.
"We are creating a legacy in remembrance and respect of our troops who have courageously given their lives in the line of duty," said Transportation Minister Donna Cansfield. "Dedicating a stretch of Highway 401 that has become the route of fallen soldiers is a fitting honour for our fallen troops."
Highway 401 is Canada's busiest highway. It now joins several other Ontario highways that have been dedicated to the memory of Canada's war heroes. These include Ontario's Veterans Memorial Highway (Highway 416), the General Brock Highway (Highway 405) and the Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Commemorative Highway (Highway 62).
"This Highway of Heroes reminds us that our freedom, safety and prosperity is often purchased by the sacrifices of others," said Premier McGuinty. "We owe them a great debt — and while we can never repay that debt, we can see to it that their courage and commitment will always be remembered."
