Canadian Forces and Veterans to be Honoured Once Again with Free VIA Rail Travel This Summer

June 03, 2010

OTTAWA, ONTARIO – Brian Jean, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray – Athabasca and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities is pleased to announce the third year of VIA Rail’s Canadian Forces Family Appreciation fares to celebrate the contributions made to the country by Canada’s military personnel and veterans.

“We as Canadians can stand proud because of the efforts of our men and women in uniform.  The introduction of this special offer, in partnership with VIA, is just one simple way that we can honour the members of the Canadian Forces and their families,” said Brian Jean. “As the father and son of a soldier, I am personally touched at this gesture.  I hope that military families take advantage of this offer, whether to visit family and friends or just to take a trip together to see this beautifully scenic nation of ours by train.”

Between July 1st and August 14th, 2010, active or retired Canadian Forces personnel and veterans will be entitled to free Economy class rail travel on selected trains across the entire VIA network. In addition, Canadian Forces personnel and veterans will be eligible for a 25% discount off the best available fares for travel in both Business and Sleeper class. Each active or retired Canadian Forces member may also bring up to five immediate family members with them, at a 25% discount off the best available fare in any class of service.

The Canadian Forces Family Appreciation fare can also be combined with VIA’s children’s summer travel discounts.  Please note that all tickets must be booked between June 1st and 15th for travel between July 1st and August 14th.  

Close to 17, 000 current or retired Canadian Forces personnel took advantage of VIA’s initiative to honour them with a special fare in 2009.