In addition to conveying his grandmother's wishes for a happy day of celebration, the duke took a moment to recognize the Canadian armed forces serving in Afghanistan.  "This is an important moment for Canada for this month the servicemen and women in the Canadian armed forces cease their combat role in Afghanistan," the Duke said.  "N'oublions jamais," never forget, he added in French referring to the sacrifice of Canada's servicemen.  "Catherine and I are also thrilled and excited by the prospect of the next 8 days ... it will be an adventure that we will never forget," he said.  The itinerary for the nine-day tour features a mix of official events with and less formal activities, including a cooking workshop in Montreal and the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo and festival.  This is their first official foreign trip as a married couple.  Earlier in the day, the royal couple welcomed 25 of Canada's newest citizens at a Citizenship Ceremony. Prince William smiled and shook each persons' hand while the Duchess passed out Canadian flags.  Thousands camped out on Parliament Hill with the hopes of nabbing the perfect spot to see the royal couple as they participate in celebrations.  Kate wore a creme dress by Canadian designer Reiss to the ceremony, CNN affiliate CTV reports. She also donned a red hat topped with maple leaves and the Queen's Maple Leaf broach.  Prince William and Kate arrived in Ottawa on Thursday aboard a Royal Canadian Air Force jet.  "Catherine and I are so delighted to be here in Canada. Instilled in us by our parents and grandparents, we love this country. We have been looking forward to this moment for a very long time," William said.  Prince Charles and Diana visited Canada in 1983.
Britain's Prince William and his wife, Catherine, joined a crowd of almost 300,000 Canadians to mark the celebration of Canada Day.Friday marks the 144th anniversary of the country's independence