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Commemorative services marking 70th anniversary of Dieppe raid

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Spectators look on as veterans during the commemorations to honor Allied soldiers killed 70-years ago in a failed World War II invasion, take place in front the sea, in Dieppe, northern France, Sunday Aug. 19, 2012. Some 1,400 soldiers were killed in "Operation Jubilee" when the Allies tried to briefly invade Dieppe to test German defenses. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

DIEPPE, France – Commemorative ceremonies today are marking the 70th anniversary of the Dieppe raid during the Second World War.

Thousands of people turned out in the French coastal town for events marking the raid on Aug. 19, 1942, which turned out to be a disaster.

Over 900 Canadians who spearheaded the mission in northwest France were killed, and nearly 2,500 others were wounded or taken prisoner.

Seven veterans, all in their 90’s, are part of the Canadian delegation.

The Canadians have been joined by French military and government officials.

Canadian Veterans Affairs Minister Steven Blaney says with thousands turning out, it’s been very emotional.<

“It goes to you heart,” Blaney said.

“I’m speechless … and overwhelmed by the emotion we can feel here in Dieppe today.”

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The Canadian Press

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