“Sir William Stephenson’s contributions to the success of the Allied war effort in defeating the Axis forces during World War Two were transformational in their impact. Particularly, as it relates to his liaison efforts, as head of the British Security Coordination office in New York City, that helped secure American material support for the UK during the war prior to the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. His concurrent partnership during the war with the legendary Col. William Donovan, Chief of the CIA’s predecessor, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), was instrumental in securing recognition by U.S. lawmakers on the need to establish a permanent post-war intelligence agency. The Central Intelligence Agency's formal establishment on September 18, 1947 owes much to the Stephenson / Donovan wartime collaboration.

“Canada has benefitted tremendously from its partnership in the Five Eyes intelligence cooperation alliance first established in the 1940's; a liaison cadre involving the security & intelligence agencies of the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. The CIA has been and remains a critical ally in this essential group. 

“The 140 stars carved into the Memorial Wall of the CIA’s headquarters in Langley, Virginia, attest to the dangers inherent in securing their nation’s security as each star is dedicated to a member who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. Their sacrifice is not forgotten. 

“Sir William Stephenson’s own valiant service to Canada, as a decorated World War One veteran, and to Great Britain, as an accomplished World War Two era intelligence chief, also merit our acknowledgement, our thanks, and our respect. We will remember him.”

– Ralph Mahar, Past National Vice President, The Pillar Society

"While it is doubtful that anyone will ever fully know or realize the accomplishments of Sir William Stephenson (Intrepid) in bringing the Second World War to a close, one fact is certain. His role was absolutely key to the success of the Allied cause.

"The Intrepid Society is also proud to support and recognize Sir Wiliam Stephenson’s efforts resulting in the creation of the CIA on September 18, 1947. And, the ongoing recognition of Sept. 18th as a day to honour all those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the ever evolving world of espionage which has played a major role in securing the safety of the free world."
– Dwight MacAulay, CVO, President, Intrepid Society of Winnipeg

“Since its creation, the CIA has provided and continues to provide critical services to national and international intelligence efforts in battling terrorism, and organizations bent on destabilizing world peace and democratic governments. While this anniversary is often overlooked, it is a very important date to pause, reflect, and remember the brave men and women who have worked in the shadows and served their nation, and in many respects the world, in the cause of peace and freedom. In this way, we must always remember our duty to promote, defend, and enforce the principles and virtues for which they fought and died to uphold.”

– Stéphane Ouellette, President & CEO, MNCTP