DECADES LONG PROCESS COMPLETED: SASKATCHEWAN HONOURS ITS SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN

The province is naming northern landmarks in honour of 58 Saskatchewan men and women who gave their lives in service of their country in both World Wars, the Korean War and with the Canadian Merchant Navy.

"We are paying tribute to the valiant men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars and battles in defense of our nation and in support of liberty around the world," Minister responsible for Information Services Corporation (ISC) Eric Cline said.

The Saskatchewan Geographic Names Board has determined that northern Saskatchewan land features will bear the name of five Victoria Cross recipients from World War I, six who died in World War II, 20 who died in service with the Canadian Merchant Navy, and 27 who lost their lives in the Korean War.

ISC is responsible for the Saskatchewan Geographic Names Board, which has named 3,913 northern lakes, peninsulas, bays, rivers and islands after those who have served for Canada. Honouring the six who died in World War II completes the Saskatchewan Geo-Memorial Project, which began in 1947.

"We're pleased to conclude the Geo-Memorial project and felt that it was important to recognize Saskatchewan born citizens who died serving our country in the Canadian Merchant Navy and the Korean War, as well as Victoria Cross recipients from World War I," ISC President and CEO Mark MacLeod said. "It is a natural extension to honour these individuals who gave so selflessly."

Where possible, families of the deceased are contacted and receive a commemorative scroll, as well as research about the geographic feature that has been named in honour of their relative. This documentation is retained as part of the permanent place name files, accessible by any interested person or group.

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For More Information, Contact:

Lenn McDonald Information Services Corporation Regina Phone: (306) 787-0941