Canadian Memorial Park Dedicated in Bosnia

Left to right, Major-General Stuart Beare, Commander Land Force Training Doctrine, Mr. Hamdija Lipovaca, Mayor of Bihac, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Canadian Ambassador to Bosnia-Herzigovina Mr. David Hutchings symbolically plant a maple tree in Bihac's newly dedicated Canadian Memorial Park. The park is dedicated to the many Canadian peacekeepers who have served in Bosnia-Herzegovina since 1992. Between 1992 and 2007, more than 40,000 Canadians served in the Balkan countries; twenty-three of them lost their lives there. Major-General Beare served in Bosnia for several years and was in command of the Canadian, British and Dutch Multi-National Brigade (North-West) September 2003 to September 2004.

May 5, 2007
Bosnian Park Dedicated To Canadian Forces

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(May 5, 2007) - In recognition of the significant contribution the Canadian Forces (CF) have made to help bring peace and security in the Bihac region of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Mayor of Bihac, Mr. Hamdija Lipovaca, announced the dedication of a local park, Canadian Memorial Park, during a ceremony held in Bihac earlier today.With this dedication, Canadian Memorial Park will serve as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the CF, especially those who were wounded or killed while serving as part of peace-support operations in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Since 1992, more than 40,000 CF members have served in the Balkan region, of which 23 Canadians lost their lives in the service of peace."The men and women of the Canadian Forces have left a very positive impression of Canada upon the people of Bihac," said Mayor Lipovaca. "It is fitting then that this park dedication serve as a lasting memory of Canada's devotion to helping the people of Bihac return to a peaceful way of life," he added."Our soldiers, sailors and Air Force personnel have formed deep-rooted bonds of friendship with the people of Bihac they have had the privilege of meeting and working with over the past decade and a half," said Major-General Stuart Beare, who attended the ceremony as the senior Canadian military representative. "We in the Canadian Forces, as well as all Canadians, share a great sense of pride knowing vital infrastructure has been re-built and there is now burgeoning prosperity evident with busy shops, crowded cafes and bustling streets," he added.Canadian Memorial Park is located along the Una River, which runs through the town of Bihac. This specific site was chosen for its peaceful setting and popularity as a destination for both the local population and tourists.