Honouring Heroes: Montreal Marks Remembrance Day
Today in Montreal, a somber yet heartfelt Remembrance Day ceremony unfolded at Place du Canada, bringing together members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and the public to honour those who served and sacrificed for Canada. The morning began under the first heavy snowfall of the season, setting a reflective tone for the day. The ceremony was marked by a 21-gun salute and a flyover by the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, with dignitaries including mayor-elect Soraya Martinez Ferrada and Member of Parliament Marc Miller, a former infantry commander, in attendance. More than a hundred people were present, braving the cold to pay their respects.
Veterans shared personal stories that underscored the emotional weight of the day. Bruno Plourde, who served 40 years in the Armed Forces including deployments in Congo, Bosnia, and Afghanistan, reflected on a comrade lost during their mission in Afghanistan. “We have a special place in our heart for him today,” Plourde said. He explained that Remembrance Day is not only a time to remember those who paid the ultimate price but also a reminder to keep them in mind throughout the year. Canada’s mission in Afghanistan, which lasted from 2001 to 2014, had left many veterans with memories of loss and the lasting impact of war.
Also Read:- Over 100 Aston Martin Jobs at Risk in St Athan Amid Global Challenges
- Big Brother Returns as Dreamworld Unveils Thrilling New Attractions
Corporal Vincent-Gabriel Lamarre, who served in Afghanistan in 2010 and 2011, shared how he lost many friends—not on the battlefield, but gradually after their service, as some struggled with mental health and others disappeared from his life. “It’s a lot of emotion for me today,” Lamarre said. He noted that while mental health services are available for active and retired members, many are hesitant to reach out. It took him months before he felt ready to seek help himself. His words highlighted the unseen battles that continue long after a soldier leaves the field.
For some, the day holds deep personal significance beyond military service. Len Kander, a former teacher from Ontario, spoke about teaching students the legacy of veterans, including his own father and uncles who served in the Second World War. He emphasized that understanding these sacrifices is crucial for future generations. “In order to move on, we have to see what has happened before, so we don’t make the same mistakes,” he said. Kander stressed that remembering veterans is not just about history; it’s about the shared responsibility and respect of all Canadians.
Across the country, from Halifax to Toronto, ceremonies like these are held each year, a poignant reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of Canada’s veterans. As the snow fell gently over Montreal, the message of Remembrance Day was clear: the courage and sacrifices of those who served belong to all of us, and their memory must be carried forward every day.
Read More:
0 Comments