Embassy of the United States of America

May 12, 2008

OTTAWA - Today, May 12th, 2008, marks the 50th anniversary of the historic Canada- U.S. defense partnership, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). 

NORAD was born a decade after the valiant heroes of the Second World War had confronted and defeated the tyrants of their day and returned home to our countries determined to keep the homeland secure.

Their vision would become the most successful and unique peacekeeping agreement the world has ever known.

Since May 1958, the people of our two sovereign nations have been protected by the men and women of NORAD who monitor both the skies and now the seas, for man-made threats to North America.

And today, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of this historic partnership, NORAD only becomes more vital. 

Happy Anniversary NORAD!

May God bless all of those who protect and all of those they willingly serve.