Remembrance Day, November 11th, is a day to honour our the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. With many of the veterans being older, observing COVID-19 precautions is even more vital. For the safety of everyone, traditional ceremonies are being cancelled or limited.
Vancouver Victory Square ceremony is usually Canada’s second largest event of remembrance but this year it will be limited to 50 people in attendance. The general public is discouraged from attending, but encouraged to “remember in place” by watching online or live on Global TV. The traditions of the ceremony will continue; laying of wreaths, last post and reveille, O Canada and God Save the Queen will be performed. A 21-gun salute from HMCS Discovery will echo across the city, and a fly-over from CFB Comox and local heritage aircraft groups will hopefully pass overhead.
Local Legion Branches will be hosting (if allowed under Provincial Health orders) private events for veterans and members to celebrate and remember together in a safe environment. The Legions also provide mp3 files of O Canada, God Save The Queen, In Flanders Fields and many other traditional elements of ceremonies to assist other events or as you remember in place. As well you can find out what’s happening with your town’s Remembrance Day ceremony around the province at legionbcyukon.ca
This year’s pandemic restrictions have also limited the Legion’s annual poppy campaign which provides significant donations and support each year. This year, you can also support the veterans and Legions by visiting poppystore.ca for all sorts of poppy products or create your own digital poppy at mypoppy.ca
However you remember and honour those who’ve served this country on Remembrance Day, please do so in a safe manner.