A Time of Remembrance

November 04, 2008

Canada's Veterans have a proud heritage, history and tradition. Our Veterans were ordinary men and women who did extraordinary things. They were there when we needed them most. Each year, Canada marks Veterans' Week from November 5 to 11. It is a time to honour and remember all those who served Canada in times of war, military conflict and peace.

This year marks a poignant time in Canada’s history – the 90th Anniversary of the end of the First World War. Canadians contributed in many ways to our country's great efforts in the First World War. The struggle involved virtually the whole country and made enormous demands on the Canadian people, whether they were involved in the actual fighting or remained on the home front to work in industry or farming to support the war effort.

To help honour those 68,000 men and women who lost their lives a vigil will be held from November 4th until November 11th at Grand Parade in Halifax where the names of those Canadians who paid the ultimate sacrifice will be projected on St. Paul’s Anglican Church. As with every vigil, the Halifax Vigil will run for seven nights, starting at 5:00pm each evening. The first name appears at 5:15pm. Each night’s vigil will be 13 hours long, ending at sunrise the following day. The vigil will then recommence at 5:00pm and run another 13 hours. The last name will appear as dawn breaks on November 11th. The public is invited to come and reflect on the names that represent each individual contribution to the evolution of Canadian democracy. It offers Canadians the opportunity to remember and reflect on those who served and died protecting Canadian values.

Taking part in remembrance events develops a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served and continue to serve our country. As Canadians, we have endless opportunities to become involved in remembrance. We can talk to a Veteran, visit a local cenotaph or monument, and attend a Vigil and/or a Remembrance Day ceremony.

As Remembrance Day approaches, please, wear your poppy with pride.