Defence Minister Jason Kenney issued the following statement:

“International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to reflect on the valuable contributions that women make every day to the vitality of Canadian society, and the strength of the Canadian Armed Forces.

“Women have a full and equal opportunity to serve in all military occupations, and at all levels of leadership. Women in Canada’s military have raised the bar — leading and fighting in combat operations, flying heavy lift and armed aircraft in hostile environments to commanding air detachments and ships during counter-terrorism missions.

“This year’s theme, “Be the Change”, is one that Canadian Armed Forces women are embracing every day. They are role models of patriotic service to our country, while helping Canada to empower women and girls through operations around the world.

"Over 2.5 million Afghan girls now have brighter futures by attending school, thanks in part to the sacrifices of Canadian troops like Captain Nichola Goddard, Corporal Karine Blais, and Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht. And today our military mission in Iraq is helping to save women who would otherwise be victims of ISIL's violent misogyny and sexual slavery.

“We celebrate and honour the important work of women, and recognize their many responsibilities as military members, mothers, daughters, wives, and sisters. I thank the women of the Canadian Armed Forces as they continue to stand on guard for Canada with determination, dedication and professionalism.”

src:news.gc.ca