Canadians gathered at cenotaphs and monuments across the country today to remember and pay their respects to those who fought for and died in service of Canada.
This year’s theme of the ceremonies was both highlighting how there is still currently conflict in Ukraine and marking the 80th anniversary of the ill-fated attack on Dieppe.
During the attack, 916 Canadians died in a single day.
Padre Larry Hurley, with 418 Wing RCAFA, spoke at the Remembrance Day ceremony in Belleville. He reminded those in attendance that we are still experiencing conflict today.
“The war in the Ukraine assaults our minds every day. Our spirit is troubled with what we see and hear in the reports presented in living colour on our television. Plans are proffered. Life plans are destroyed and no answers to the prayers are received.”
Padre Hurley called on those in attendance to look inward to make change.
“Ladies and gentlemen of all ages, I suggest that you look in the mirror or take a selfie on your cell phone. Why? I’m suggesting that when you do that, you may see a candidate to be a God quality conduit needed to help solve the dilemma.”
Over 1,000 residents attended the ceremony in Belleville.
In Trenton, a Remembrance Day ceremony was held at the cenotaph.
Reverend Lynn Mitchell highlighted the Highway of Heroes Tree campaign in her speech.
“The Highway of Heroes Tree Tribute Memorial is the largest living memorial in the world honouring armed forces, a memorial which will over time renew and expand itself, symbolizing our collective and ongoing duty to protect the land and the freedom for which our fallen have fought.”
A structure highlighting 67 members of Canada’s military can be found at the ONroute Trenton North station.
Mitchell says it’s important to remember all who made the sacrifice to defend our freedoms.
“We honour all of them. Their valour, their dedication, their heart, their courage. We honour those who made the supreme sacrifice. We honour the sacrifice of their families. Greater love has no one than this. And we remember.”