As Canadians gather to celebrate with friends and loved ones, I want to extend my sincere wishes to the entire Defence Team for a happy holiday season.

Thank you for all your hard work and dedication throughout 2018.

As Canadian Armed Forces members and public service employees, you demonstrate your unwavering commitment to Canada. Whether it be at home fighting fires in British Columbia and helping with flood assistance in New Brunswick, or abroad delivering on our international commitments in Mali and Ukraine, you serve the public good each and every day.

Canadians across the country are proud of the work you do at home and around the world to keep us safe.

We have accomplished so much together this year. With significant investments in our Royal Canadian Navy, our Canadian Army and our Royal Canadian Air Force, we are ensuring that you have what is needed to do the important work that we ask of you.

This season is a special time to be spent with family and friends. But for some, your commitment will keep you from being with your loved ones while posted abroad.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I want to thank you and your families for this sacrifice and for all you do.

You make Canada proud.

Happy holidays and Merry Christmas.

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan

Minister of National Defence