“May the news of this great conquest
Go all the province round.
Come all ye bold Canadians,
Enlisted in the cause,
To defend your country,
And to maintain your laws.”
-Geoff Berner, “Come All Ye Bold Canadians (Song of the War of 1812)”

The following is a statement by Ontario PC Leader Tim Hudak on United Empire Loyalists’ Day and the War of 1812:

“Two hundred years ago, the United Empire Loyalists defended their homeland and forever shaped the character and boundaries of our province and nation.

“The United States Congress had declared war against the British Empire, believing they could quickly annex Upper and Lower Canada, with thousands of American soldiers outnumbering the small number of British regulars. However, they greatly underestimated the military skill of their opponents.

“The War of 1812 would last for over two and a half years, as English- and French-Canadians, First Nations and the British banded together as allies. From Fort York to Amherstburg and beyond, the Loyalists battled bravely to overcome what at times seemed like insurmountable odds.

“Men and women risked their lives to protect their families and became national heroes. From generation to generation, we pass down their names and stories, from Laura Secord’s dangerous trek to warn our soldiers to General Isaac Brock’s stunning military victories.

“Among key victories for the allies was the capture of the U.S. fort at Michilimackinac, the Battle of Detroit and the Battle of Queenston Heights.

“Today on United Empire Loyalists’ Day, we pay tribute to those who set the foundation for our country’s national unity, and remember the values they fought for: peace, order and good government.”