For the last years, I can not recall when I made it a regular November event, I have been attending the Remembrance Day service in Richmond Hill. It is always held the Sunday before Remembrance Day so this year November 6. The Cenotaph is in the old part of town in front of the Conaghy Centre that originally was a school. Built in 1923 to honour the World War One fallen from the town. The wall then moved on to include the people from World War Two. This year the little Cairn behind the wall has a new plaque for those who served in Hong Kong.
The event starts with a band, groups of Veterans, Cadets- Air and Army, the York Region police, the Knights of Columbus and members from the local Legion marching to join the crowd. The Richmond Hill High School Band plays for all the anthems and hymns. Everyone sang along to the Canadian Anthem. The hymns Abide with Me and O God Our Help in Ages Past are always sung. Reminds me of my church days. Favourite hymns for all. Readings which of course include In Flanders Fields. The Last Post, 2 Minutes of Silence, the Lament and the Rouse. It takes some time to place all the wreaths representing local places, agencies and many families who have lost loved ones in various conflicts where Canadians served throughout our history. The one that brings closer meaning is Private Dunning who died in Afghanistan. His parents and grandparents are always present laying a wreath.
The service is basically the same each year. It is the crowd that varies. Parents come to see their young cadets march taking lots of pictures. New dignitaries place the wreaths. The mood however remains the same very sombre. Most crowds or gatherings have people talking through all the speeches and events. Not so! Quiet reflection was enjoyed especially by me. I appreciate it when people are listening and cellphones turned off. Attention to the event and surroundings.
A beautiful sunny day! I have attended in the rain, in the cold and all unpleasant conditions. But this year the perfect day! I see some people I know from various situations. One chair of the local Chamber of Commerce said it was her first time! Young people are coming out in droves too. It seems the world conflicts bring remembrance closer to them. Not isolated wars in history but modern conflicts that connect all wars. The urgency for peace everywhere! The men and women serving today were honoured and mentioned too!
A flag always carried. Lest we Forget! So snapping some pictures and walking home, it is always a good feeling to stop and honour those Canadians who lost their lives, those who served and returned home and those who are serving now. Find a service near you and try to attend. It will be worth the time spent.
good post, Barb!
ReplyDelete