Today, here in Canada is Remembrance Day. This is the day that we honour our veterans from World War I, World War II, The Korean War.
In the town where I live, there were 16 young men who gave up their lives, so that we may be free. Each year, during our Remembrance Day Services, we honour them, by playing a poppy on a cross, as each of their names is called out one by one.
Scripture is read, poems are read. A Remembrance Day message is given. All this is done, so that the price of freedom is not forgotten.Our National anthem is sung, Last Post is played. There is a 2 minute silence. Reveille is played. An act of Remembrance is recited.
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them”
“We will remember them” being said by all.
Wreaths are laid, one by one. Starting with the Government of Canada down to anybody who would like to lay a wreath for anybody else that you wish to remember on this day.
The Queen’s anthem is then sung. “God Save the Queen”
I am a member of The Royal Canadian Legion. It’s an organization that was made up of veterans for veterans. I volunteer my time to go to meetings, set up for the Remembrance Day service, deliver poppies to the community.
I am honoured to know a few veterans, who are still with us & live in the area. They come to the services wearing their medals with honour. If you ask them what they are, they will proudly tell you.
So, today on 11th hour, the 11th day of the 11th month; please take a few minutes of silence to remember those who have fought for our country, so that you may be free today.
In Flanders Fields
The World’s Most Famous WAR MEMORIAL POEM
By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Composed at the battlefront on May 3, 1915
during the second battle of Ypres, Belgium
