A sunny but chilly morning in many parts of our province did not stops thousands upon thousands of people from attending Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Many ceremonies began with the playing of O Canada and included powerful renditions of a trumpeter performing the Last Post while wreaths were laid by dignitaries at cenotaphs and inside community hubs.
In Halifax, a 21-gun salut rang out over the city from Citadel Hill and in Hammonds Plains the emcee acknowledged first responders for their efforts battling tragic wildfires in early June.
Flyover at ceremonies in Hammonds Plains.
Sullivans Pond in Dartmouth had a much larger crowd this year, as it merged with Halifax’s Grand Parade ceremony.
The event in the city downtown was relocated due to the site being used by people experiencing homelessness.
Residents walk to the cenotaph at Sullivans Pond over a bridge lined with crocheted poppies made by seniors at the Oakwood Terrace Nursing Home
“Every November 11th, we honour the memory of those who gave their lives in service to our country and province. We pay tribute to their courage, their sacrifice and their legacy.” said Premier Tim Houston.
Memebers of the Royal Canadian Air Force were part of the parade into Cole Harbour Place.
“And we remember. We are reminded of what it means to be Canadian – democracy, peace justice. We have a responsibility to uphold these values and to defend them against any threat.” said Houston.
In Bridgewater, residents young and old packed Veteran’s Memorial Park in the heart of the town to pay their respects.
Remembrance Day ceremonies in Bridgewater. November 11, 2023.
“The poppy is a powerful symbol of Remembrance Day and of our freedom. We wear it to show our gratitude to the veterans who have given so much to defend our way of life,” explains Houston. “It’s important that we teach the next generation the significance of Remembrance Day so their legacy lives on.”
In Yarmouth, residents filled Mariner’s Centre to honour veterans past and present including Jim McRae, who will be turning 106 later this month.
Jim McRae, (red blanket) will be 106 on November 28th. Royal Canadian Air Force veteran from WWII. May be the last in Canada with the Distinguished Flying Cross.
McRae served as a pilot in the Second World War and placed a wreath on behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 61 in Yarmouth.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called Remembrance Day “an opportunity to recognize members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have courageously answered the call of duty.”
In Lunenburg, residents gathered at the cenotaph near Town Hall while the 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron performed a flyover of the community.
Remembrance Day ceremonies in Lunenburg on Cumberland Street. November 11, 2023.
“When it was needed most, they left behind their families and homes. Many returned with severe trauma – or didn’t return at all. Their sacrifice is a debt that we can never repay.” – PM Justin Trudeau
In Port Hawkesbury, residents packed their umbrellas and rain coats to attend ceremonies at the cenotaph just off Reeves Street.
Community members lay wreaths of behalf of veterans. November 11, 2023.
“As we reflect on this debt, we are reminded that this day is not just about the past; it is about our present and our future. Canadian Armed Forces members continue to show unwavering resolve and bravery.” stated Trudeau.
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