There is a lot going on in the legislature these days so I hope you’ll forgive me for writing about something other than politics this week. On Monday I had the absolute honour of addressing the crowd gathered at the rec centre for Remembrance Day services. There was standing room only. Like everybody there I was overwhelmed to see the outpouring of support for our Veterans. Here is the speech that I wrote and gave. Thanks to all who worked so hard to put such a moving ceremony together.
“It is an honour for me to have the opportunity to take a few minutes to honour our heroes today.” November 11th, Remembrance Day.
It is without question one of the most important dates on the calendar.
It is a day we come together and stand united to pay tribute, to “remember” the sacrifices so many have made throughout history so we could stand here today as we are and enjoy our freedom.
We must always remember to be grateful for what we have in Canada, in Alberta, in Chestermere, Langdon, Rocky View County and area.
It’s easy to take for granted all we have, to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. But in many parts of the world, people don’t share our freedom.
And our freedom came with a great price.
Nearly 120 thousand Canadians paid the ultimate sacrifice for us.
117 thousand men, woman, and boys died fighting for this country. They took their last breath on foreign soil. They were a world away from family and loved ones. From South Africa to France to Korea to Afghanistan and countless other countries, our brave Canadian men and women fought.
They enlisted to fight for the greater good.
And that’s why we wear our poppies right above the heart. We shall remember that sacrifice.
My daughter Ally Grace told me the greatest story last week.
A veteran of World War II came and spoke to the kids in a grade two class at her school. It wasn’t her class, but the kids were talking about this man and what he had done, and i think picking up on the fact that teachers and everybody else were showing this man a great deal of respect.
I think in their own way the kids understand the significance of it.
And it got me thinking, as I do every year this time, you know one day our Veterans from the Second World War won’t be able to share their stories anymore.
And that’s why it’s so important that we do.
It’s important that we share their stories with our kids. It’s important that they can relate to the ultimate sacrifice paid so we can enjoy what we enjoy today.
And there is great pride in remembering those brave men and women and honouring them.
Canadians didn’t just show up to the battle, Canadians were revered.
Canadians were feared by the enemy on the battlefield.
That is a testament to the strength and character of this nation.
Canada was the first commonwealth country to send troops to Britain in 1939.
When there was a need, we were there.
We are there. It’s the Canadian way!
We have a lot to be thankful for and we have a lot to be proud of.
To our Veterans, to those currently serving, and to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us,
We honour you today, and remember you all year round.
Thank you, God bless,
Lest we forget!
