I want to thank you all for coming out this evening to speak about something very important to me, our soldiers and our veterans. First off, if you are are an active duty service member or a veteran, please stand. These folks have put their lives on the line for us, and I want to start off by giving you all our sincere thanks, let's give them a round of applause.

Canada has, in recent years, taken a leading role in the War on Terror. Groups that we fight across the world are guilty of the abuse of the fundamental rights that we hold dear, and those groups have pledged to bring that fight to us. We have seen terror attacks in Canada in recent years, and I know security is something we are all worried about. The UCP is committed to ensuring the safety of Canadians and the protection of Canada, at home and abroad.

For our active duty service members, we want to ensure they have the best equipment and protection so they can accomplish their mission and return home to their families. That means investment in the equipment we have now and in the research to develop the equipment we will need tomorrow. For our veterans, it means ensuring that their benefits keep pace with the cost of living, so that we continue to support those to whom we owe so much. For our strategic interests, it means ensuring Canada's continuing strong participation in NATO.

Together we can ensure that Canada remains a safe and well protected place. Thank you