Canada Kicks Ass - Clarkson visits Cdn. forces in Persian Gulf

Governor General Adrienne Clarkson celebrated Christmas eve with Canadian forces in the Persian Gulf Tuesday. Clarkson delivered hundreds of cards, video greetings and messages from Canadians.

"People realize here on this ship that Canadians remember them this Christmas," Clarkson told CTV Newsnet in a telephone interview from HMCS Montreal. "That's the main reason we're here, so people will realize that they are serving for Canada and making the sacrifice of not being with their families."<

Clarkson also delivered a football signed by members of the Montreal Alouettes, who won the Grey Cup in November.

"I hope I've been able to bring them the message that they are appreciated," said Clarkson. "That feeling is important for them."

"These people are doing something that needs to be appreciated."

The Montreal and HMCS Winnipeg are deployed in the region as part of Canada's commitment to Operation Apollo.

She will hand out medals and promotions to personnel aboard The Montreal on Wednesday before being whisked to The Winnipeg by a military helicopter for a similar ceremony.

The Southwest Asia Service Medal is being awarded to members of the forces involved in Operation Apollo for more than 90 days.

"As commander-in-chief, I find it very meaningful to decorate and promote people in the field," Clarkson said.