Regina Youth Honor WW1 Veterans by Cleaning Headstones Ahead of Remembrance Day
As we approach Remembrance Day, a group of young people from Regina, Saskatchewan, are bringing to life the spirit of gratitude and respect. About 50 youths, ranging from ages 11 to 18, recently gathered at the Field of Honour in Regina Cemetery. With simple tools—scrub brushes, rags, soapy water, and a strong sense of purpose—they set out to clean the headstones of World War I veterans buried there. This initiative is a heartfelt act of remembrance, one that signifies much more than a day on the calendar. It’s an acknowledgment of the sacrifices these soldiers made and a reminder to future generations of the importance of preserving history and valuing peace.
The effort began when three 14-year-olds, inspired by their desire to give back, brought the idea to life. Through the volunteer-matching website JustServe.org, they gathered others to participate, turning what could have been a small gesture into a community-wide act of appreciation. The children not only cleaned but also raked leaves around the graves, putting in physical work to honor those who served. This activity is a profound way of connecting the past to the present, bridging the gap between history and the lives of these young people, many of whom are experiencing this act of commemoration for the first time.
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One participant, Teyla Nalder, eloquently expressed why this initiative is so significant: "It’s important because we’re remembering that what they did wasn’t just for nothing—it mattered." Teyla’s words echo the feelings of many involved in the project. This act of service underscores that remembering the past isn’t a mere ritual; it’s a way of valuing peace and security in the present. These young volunteers recognize that the lessons of the past hold weight in today’s world, reminding us that conflicts and sacrifices like those made by WW1 soldiers are part of a larger story about resilience, courage, and the cost of freedom.
Events like these, which occur in communities across Canada and beyond, highlight the enduring relevance of Remembrance Day. They inspire a new generation to engage with the past and appreciate those who fought for the freedoms we now enjoy. By cleaning headstones, these youth are not only paying tribute to soldiers but are also cultivating empathy and historical awareness in themselves—a powerful reminder that remembrance isn’t passive. It’s active, enduring, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s something we pass on to those who come after us.
In a time where global conflicts and tensions continue, such acts of remembrance become even more valuable. The physical act of cleaning—of preserving these markers of history—is symbolic of how each generation must preserve and uphold the values that veterans fought for. This Remembrance Day, we can all take a cue from these young people by finding ways to remember, honor, and actively participate in acts that promote peace and unity in our own communities.
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