The events of the past few weeks involving Canada’s fallen soldiers, and ongoing conflicts around the world, have given me more of a pause for thought this coming Remembrance Day. While I always pay respect to fallen soldiers, our veterans, and to active military personnel, this Remembrance Day just feels a little more special to me. Judging from the sales of Remembrance Day poppies, I think it feels a little more special to many Canadians.
Like so many others, I had family members who fought in World War II. Sadly, I have also known a number of veterans of the war in Afghanistan – some who came home completely messed up by what they saw/experienced in the desert – and one who came home in a casket.
My first-born nephew is currently serving in the US Army, and while he isn’t presently on the front lines of any world conflict (thank goodness), there is always the chance that, one day, he could be called upon to defend the United States and – I won’t lie – that scares me.
What about you? What family stories do you have from wars past? Do you have family members who are military veterans, or that are active duty military personnel? How will you be commemorating this Remembrance Day with them?
This Remembrance Day, be sure to take a moment to remember the many brave men and women who gave their lives to give us freedom here in Canada, and to remember those who continue to risk their lives today to keep us safe. Honour our soldiers with a moment of silence, take part in a local commemorative service, slip a few dollars into their donation bins and then proudly wear the poppy you get in return. There are so many ways we can honour our veterans and current military personnel.
A number of towns and cities across Canada will be holding special ceremonies on Remembrance Day. If you can’t attend one of these ceremonies, here are a few things you can do in honour of our veterans:
This November 11th, when you see a veteran, reach out, shake their hand, give them a hug, and thank them for what they have done, and what they continue to do – for all of us.
For Canada.
