Huntsville's Remembrance Day ceremony: Let us never forget

The falling snow and chilly temperature on Sunday morning did not deter a large crowd from gathering for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Locals, most wearing poppies on their coats, huddled close together for a view of the cenotaph and to hear those speaking.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ended ‘the war to end all wars,’ World War I (1914-1918), during which more than 66,000 Canadians soldiers gave their lives so that others would not have to. There are 23 individuals from Huntsville and the surrounding area on the Honour Roll of the War Dead from World War I, and more than 35 for World War II (1939-1945). Many more were wounded.

A line of wreath-bearers stretched out for more than a block as they awaited their turn to come forward. The crowd watched quietly and intently as each was introduced and placed their wreath before the cenotaph, all in remembrance of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who contributed so much to the freedom of people they would never meet.

Huntsville Mayor Scott Aitchison gave a brief but moving speech to the crowd, saying, “Remember those who served back then, who serve today and who will serve in the future.” He paused before adding, “I am grateful, as we are all grateful, for all that they do to protect us all.”

Following the outdoor ceremony, many in attendance took a quiet moment to place their poppies in the snow on the cenotaph before heading inside for the Remembrance Day Service, which was followed by a parade through town.

Later in the afternoon, youth volunteers from throughout the community gathered at the Anglican Church to participate in the Bells of Peace initiative where the church bells rang 100 times to mark the anniversary of the end of World War I.