NMR - Memorandums
1110-1 (Chap)
27 Feb 09
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LOURDES 51st
INTERNATIONAL MILITARY
PILGRIMAGE: 14-18 MAY 2009
1. The Lourdes, France, International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) was first officially organized in 1958 by military chaplains and military members from the many countries who had participated in the tragedy of the Second World War. They wanted to meet in order to pray for peace and reconciliation among nations. From the very beginning, Canada was an active participant. To continue this tradition and in a spirit of friendship with our brothers and sisters from the different military delegations across the world, I would like to invite our Canadians posted in Europe to participate.
2. The aim of the event is to join with military personnel of some 32 countries, to parade and pray together for peace, justice and unity. This unique world class event is yet another means by which the Canadian military can build relationships and maintains its standing amongst its allies. Our Formation needs senior serving volunteers from the ranks and the officer corps. To this end, I thank the Formation Chaplain, Padre Maj Gaby Legault, for taking the lead in standing up a Canadian contingent.
3. The pilgrimage is open to all volunteering military members who in turn are encouraged to bring their families if they so desire. The IMP will be held from 14 to 18 May 09 (including two travel days). To make this a viable contingent, I am permitting the Formation Chaplain to fund up to 13 military members (plus the coordination team). Participants will submit claims as if on regular TD minus the transport expenses. Those wishing to attend must get approval from their chain of command and I will authorize release of international duties for NATO serving personnel. Once a member is approved by his/her chain of command, they are to initiate a claim from their respective OR. The Formation Chaplain’s fincode will be provided upon providing the non-refundable 50 Euros down deposit. Attendees will be in uniform for all official functions and, although they will parade from one event to the other, attendance of any religious ceremony is not mandatory. By volunteering for this event, military members will be representing Canada and the CF and are therefore expected to act accordingly.
4. For more information, please connect to the CFSU(E) website or for registering, please contact Ms Ruth Hughes at +32 (0) 65.44.5693 or at uksu-padre@skynet.be . Joining instructions will be provided later on and the deadline for registering is 27 March 09.
// OSB//
CJ Henneberry
Col
NMR
(00)(32) 65.44.40.21
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