Thousands of students, parents and residents in our region took time to pay their respects and honour veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Ceremonies and parades were held at legions, community gathering places and at cenotaphs for Remembrance Day on Monday.
Many began with the singing of O Canada and included powerful renditions of The Last Post while names were read aloud.
In Thunder Bay, the Fort Williams Sea Cadets proudly took part in Remembrance Day services.
Photo: Fort Williams Sea Cadets
In Kenora, it was a standing room only crowd for ceremonies, with wreaths laid by dignitaries at the cenotaph and poppies were removed from lapels for another year.
Wreath laying in Kenora. Photo: Tim Davidson
“Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the selflessness and bravery of the women and men who fought and continue to fight for the freedoms we value today,” said Premier Doug Ford. “For every veteran, for every fallen soldier and for every active member, we stand forever grateful and take this time to remember the sacrifices made on the battlefield for us.”
In Dryden, members of the city fire department and a large crowd took part in Remembrance Day ceremonies.
City of Dryden Fire Services attend Remembrance Day services. Source: FB
Meantime, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in his annual Remembrance Day message that Canadians have answered the call of duty for generations.
“In the tunnels and trenches of Vimy. On the beaches of Dieppe and Normandy. In the mountains of Afghanistan. Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans have – throughout every chapter of our history – kept Canadians safe. Signing up to serve in times of war and peace,” said Trudeau.
The Fort Frances services were held at the cenotaph in the town cemetery.
Fort Frances Remembrance Day Services. Photo: Royal Canadian Legion
“Leaving behind their family for days, weeks, and months. Fighting shoulder to shoulder alongside Allies, against artillery fire, missiles, and bombs. Some returned home from the battlefield never truly the same. Others never returned at all.” added Trudeau.
