The National Cemetery Act, Bill C-17, confers a very special honour upon Beechwood Cemetery recognizing it as the national cemetery of Canada, created by Canadians for Canadians.
As CTV News reported on March 5, 2009: “By virtue of its location here in our National Capital, Beechwood serves as a focal point for our national memorial events, including Remembrance Day, and it is an appropriate place to conduct state burials,” said Jim Prentice, our nation’s Minister of the Environment. Calling the announcement “a significant milestone in our collective history,” Minister Prentice went on to say that Beechwood Cemetery will serve as a fitting resting place for “national leaders and other great Canadians.” Said Prentice, “Establishing a national cemetery in Canada’s capital will serve as an important symbol of Canadian unity and pride, and a means of preserving and promoting Canada’s rich history and our diversity.”
While Beechwood, as the National Cemetery of Canada, is the final resting place for our Canadian Forces, Veterans, War Dead, our National Police Force, the RCMP, Governors-General, Prime Ministers and Canadian Victoria Cross recipients, it is also the home of our everyday Canadian heroes, our families and loved ones.
