The day kicked off with a 10:00 a.m. parade, which saw among police and military marching the streets of 105th Avenue, children and city representatives joining the procession.
This was followed by a ceremony surrounding the outdoor cenotaph, which included a moment of silence and a formal playing of the trumpet.
Inside the Legion, there was barley a seat available as Councillor Dan Davies emceed the Remembrance Day service, which commenced with the marching of flags, followed by the singing of ‘O’ Canada’, two minutes of silence, and short speeches by Mayor Lori Ackerman, MLA Pat Pimm, and Senator Richard Neufeld.
“On Remembrance Day, we acknowledge the courage and gallantry of those who served our country,” Mayor Ackerman said. “During times of war, individual acts of heroism occurred frequently; only a few were recorded and received official recognition.”
Mayor Ackerman adds, “In remembering all who served, we recognize the many who willingly endured the hardships and the fear so that we can live in peace.”
MLA Pimm took the time to acknowledge the liberties often fought for in foreign wars.
“[Remembrance Day] reminds us of the freedoms we enjoy here in our country have come at a very heavy price,” MLA Pimm goes on to say. “Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association, freedom of vote are all things that we sometimes forget to be thankful for.”
MLA Pimm adds, “There are many parts of the world where people are denied these freedoms – we’re lucky to have Canadians willing to defend them for us.”
Senator Neufeld recognized the tragedy that hit Quebec and Ottawa in October.
“The recent, tragic deaths of Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent in Quebec and Corporal Nathan Cirillo in Ottawa remind Canadians that the threats to our values and principles as a free and democratic society are as real today as in generations past.”
The Remembrance Day service wrapped up with the wreath ceremony, singing of ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘God Save the Queen’, an ovation for veterans in-house, as well as closing prayers from Padre Louise Hart.
“Help us to show our gratitude as we continue to stand up for the values they fought to defend,” Padre Hart concluded. “…We live and hope that one day wars will end and peace will endure.”
There’s still time for you to catch the remainder of the Legion’s Remembrance Day ceremony, as plenty of events are being held throughout the day, including horse races, turkey shoot, dinner and dance.
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