Suspension of the National Sentry Program - Rehab. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

[Scarlett]

http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=1045069

April 1, 2016 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Due to the rehabilitation work to take place at the National War Memorial that will make the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier inaccessible to the public, the National Sentry Program is suspended for the 2016 season.

Sentries will resume this ceremonial duty in 2017 and perform sentry duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from April 9 (Vimy Ridge Day) to November 10 each year until 2020.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, situated in front of the National War Memorial, is our most iconic and visible reminder of the service and sacrifice of members of the Canadian Armed Forces. The National Sentry Program reinforces Canada’s commitment to pay tribute to our fallen and to honour those who served.

For information regarding the rehabilitation of the National War Memorial, please contact Public Services and Procurement Canada at media@pwgsc-tpsgc.gc.ca or 819-420-5501.

http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=1044549

OTTAWA, Ontario, March 31, 2016 — Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wishes to advise the public that the National War Memorial, located at the intersection of Elgin and Wellington streets in Ottawa, Ontario, will be inaccessible from the second week of April 2016 until early November 2016.

PSPC is undertaking a major restoration of the National War Memorial, which consists of completing structural slab replacement, replacing damaged pavers where needed, repairing damaged areas of the Cenotaph and refurbishing the bronze statues. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier will be preserved and protected throughout the project.

During the restoration project, the public will not have access to the site.

Every effort will be made to ensure uninterrupted pedestrian circulation around the site. Should vehicular traffic be affected, motorists will be advised.

The National War Memorial, unveiled in 1939 to commemorate the response of Canadians in the First World War, symbolizes the sacrifice of all those who have served Canada in time of war in the cause of peace and freedom.