On November 11th, Remembrance Day is observed to commemorate armistice agreement that ended the First World War on Monday, November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m.–on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Every year on November 11, Canadians pause in a moment of silence to honour and remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace. We remember the more than 1,500,000 Canadians who have served throughout our nation’s history and the more than 118,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice.
This rang true this November 11th as Chestermere residents packed the Chestermere Regional Recreation Centre to standing room only to participate in the touching Remembrance Day Service. Despite the extremely frigid temperatures, young and old packed the main hall, adorned with poppy’s, to come together as a community to show their gratitude and respect for those that have, and continue to serve.
The service was hosted by Councillor Stu Hutchison with others including Father John Wright, Mayor Patricia Matthews and MLA Bruce McAllister all sharing their thoughts and words of peace.
“This year’s Remembrance Day in Chestermere was particularly special and emotional. Having the flags from different eras when Canadians were fighting for our freedoms and that of others, are very poignant symbols. This year, Canadians showed we will not be terrorized by senseless acts of violence and murder. We will not shy away from gathering together to remember those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. We will be strong and free and we will remember. I’m so proud of our community for coming together for this ceremony and showing what it means to be Canadian.”, said Mayor Patricia Matthews.
Bruce McAllister, MLA for Chestermere – Rocky View, reflected on the ceremony saying, “It was an incredibly moving tribute and show of respect to our Veterans, to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation, and for those currently serving. I was particularly encouraged to see so many children in attendance. I had a long talk with my 8 year old daughter Ally about the importance of Remembrance Day to Canada. It is important that our kids understand that our freedom came with a great price. I am never more proud to be a Canadian then I am on Remembrance Day. As we solemnly remember the countless brave men and women who gave their lives fighting tyranny so we can enjoy the freedom we have today. Our soldiers have acted with courage and conviction, and earned a reputation around the world that makes our hearts swell with pride when we hear of it. Think of the tulips sent every year from the Netherlands to honour the actions of Canadian soldiers during WW2. Reflect on the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917, where more than 3,500 Canadian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice and Canada gained new recognition on the international stage. We have much to be proud of as Canadians.”
As 400 plus people stood and sang ‘O Canada’, led by soloist Emily Moore and accompanied by the Chestermere High School Band, an overwhelming feeling of pride and love filled the room. As members of the RCMP, Chestermere Fire Department, Members of Government and Military stood strong and proud, the wave of emotion crept out for a few as a silent tear fell for those that have fought and lost their lives defending the country that they hold so dear.
“Remembrance Day Services are important community events that take time to pause to honor those that have paid so much to ensure our freedom and way of life we enjoy. Unfortunately, we often take our freedoms for granted. As it was stated at this years’ service, our freedom is not free and has come at a great price both in the past and most recently in Ottawa and Quebec. The RCMP, as one of the oldest regiments in Canada, has a long tradition in military service and participation across the country and overseas in Remembrance Day services. The Chestermere RCMP members are proud to continue with this tradition locally. We are equally proud to work with our community members to plan and organize this event. The important contributions of the 3125 Calgary Highlanders Royal Canadian Army Cadets, the Chestermere Fire Service and Chestermere Community Peace Officers are worthy of mention. The invaluable work of the Remembrance Day and Cenotaph Committee members including our two Town Councillors, Stu Hutchison and Heather Davies will be show cased at the 2015 Remembrance Day Service with the completion of the Chestermere Cenotaph in Anniversary Park. Special thanks this year should go to Nancie Huneault, events coordinator of the Town of Chestermere, for doing much of the coordinating and logistics of this year’s event. Also special note, the role of Shawn McKenzie for his assistance in leading the color party during a time of significant personal challenges. The support of the public by their respectful enthusiasm and attendance at the Chestermere Remembrance Day Services is nothing short of amazing. It is wonderful to see parents bring their children and youth groups such as the girl guides and boy scouts involve their young people. It is a reminder to proudly recognize those amongst us with past and present military service to our country. We have a great country and a great community. The strength and solidarity shown each November 11 is a powerful reminder to show how fortunate we are to call Chestermere our home. “, commented Glenn Henry S/Sgt. Detachment Commander of the Chestermere RCMP Detachment.
“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. ” – by Laurence Binyon
