Canadian Armed Forces call off military celebrations for Montreal's 375th anniversary

The Canadian Armed Forces havedecided to cancel their participation infestivitiesto mark Montreal's 375thanniversary, so soldiers can continue to assist inflood relief efforts across Quebec.

Military activitiesincluding a parade, a concert and air shows were supposed to start this weekend and last into next week, as part ofcelebrations across the island of Montreal.

Soldiers have been on the ground in Montreal and in other flood-stricken municipalitiesin Quebec since last week, after the province asked for military assistance to hold backrisingfloodwaters.

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Quebec Premier PhilippeCouillardtold flood victims in the hard-hit region of theMauricieThursday that the Canadian Armed Forces will stick around,even after water levels go down.

Armed Forces to stay in Quebec even after waters recede, PhilippeCouillardsays

Among the cancelled military festivities are:

• Military music concerton May 13.
• Air shows on May 13 and 14.
• Freedom of the city ceremony on May 14.
• Exhibit of military vehicles and equipment on May 14.
• The military parade as part ofMontreal's 375th anniversary on May 17.