Thousands gather in Ottawa for Remembrance Day tribute to Canada’s veterans

On a grey and gloomy Monday, thousands of veterans, military personnel, and their supporters gathered at Canada’s National War Memorial in Ottawa to pay tribute to those who have fought and died to protect the country and its freedoms. Despite the threat of rain, the crowd size was one of the largest in recent memory, with people from all over the country coming together to honour the men and women who have served in times of war and peace.

The ceremony began with MCpl Timothy Reid playing the Piper’s Lament on his bagpipes, bringing tears to the eyes of many in attendance. As four CF-18s flew overhead, marking the 100-year anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force, the crowd stood in solemn silence. Dignitaries, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, laid wreaths at the base of the memorial in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, while the choir sang In Flanders Fields.

Rabbi Idan Scher delivered a powerful benediction, urging all Canadians to look out for the country’s veterans and their families. He emphasized the importance of not leaving any veteran behind and called on the nation to stand united in support of those who have sacrificed so much for the country. The National Silver Cross Mother, Maureen Anderson, laid a wreath on behalf of all Canadian families who have lost a child to military service.

The ceremony took place against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts around the world, including the situation in Ukraine and the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Canadian Armed Forces are currently deployed in various locations, including Latvia and Ukraine, as part of international efforts to maintain peace and security. Gen. Jennie Carignan, the chief of the defence staff, called on more Canadians to volunteer to serve in the Armed Forces to meet the country’s NATO commitments and face the challenges of the time.

This year marks several important anniversaries for the Canadian Armed Forces, including the 80th anniversary of Canadians landing at Juno Beach on D-Day in 1944 and the 10th anniversary of the end of the Canadian mission in Afghanistan. The ceremony paid tribute to the sacrifices made by those who served in these conflicts and the impact it has had on their families.

The presence of Silver Cross Mothers, such as Maureen Anderson and Agatha Dyer, added a somber reminder of the human cost of war. Both women have lost sons who served in Afghanistan and spoke of the lasting impact it has had on their lives. As the nation paused to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by the country’s veterans, the message of unity and support for those who have served rang loud and clear.