Communities remember those who served

“Today we honour the memory of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We also honour those who returned who by their example and their courage, have passed on to succeeding generations a better knowledge and understanding of the word ‘duty’. We shall remember them.”
-Chris Freeman, Chair, Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Thousands gathered today at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton to reflect and remember the sacrifices made for the freedom we enjoy today.

At 11 o’clock, the museum’s Lancaster flew overhead to mark a moment of silence.

On this day in 1918, fighting ended on the western front during World War I. But the day now pays tribute to all veterans, and is marked with ceremonies across the country.

Premier Kathleen Wynne was at Queen’s Park this morning for its annual Remembrance Day ceremony. In her speech, the premier honored those who gave their lives, and fought for Canada’s freedom.

“Whether young or old, many still bear the scars of combat. Some of these are visible.. Not as an ideal, but as a right, they fought for our liberty… Bigger than themselves.. For their country.”

Wynne also said that Canada stands as a beacon of hope to millions around the world, and that we should remember that the many freedoms we enjoy as Canadians are ours because of our veterans’ legacy and sacrifice.

People also gathered to pay tribute to our veterans at Gore Park in downtown Hamilton.

Crowds came to show their respect for Canadian soldiers, and to observe a moment of silence. A remembrance ceremony and parade were also held at Gore Park this past weekend.

There had been speculation about whether embattled Toronto mayor Rob Ford would attend this year’s ceremony at Old City Hall. But he was among the officials who paid tribute to the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans.

“The people of Toronto join all Canadians to remember and honour those who have fought for our freedom. We honour and remember the service and sacrifice of more than one and a half million Canadians. It is hope that by remembering, we will do all we can to strive for peace.”

There are reports of scattered boos from the crowd as Ford approached the podium. One veteran reportedly refused to shake the mayor’s hand, because he says the mayor is “a druggie.”

The federal government is considering awarding battle honours to military units that fought in Afghanistan. If it goes ahead, the government would have several options: recognizing an entire theatre of operations to specific campaigns, battles and actions.

Although Canada’s combat mission ended in 2011, the training mission continues into March.