Remembrance Day 2014

Remembrance Day is special day reserved for observing and remembering members of the armed forces who lost their lives in the line of duty. Poppy Day, as it is also known as, is observed in Canada and across the Commonwealth of Nations member states in the month of November.

The red poppy that you see in this picture has become a symbol of Remembrance Day. Canadians remember and honor our veterans by wearing a poppy; attending Remembrance Day events in their local communities; and other ways in schools and business places.

“In Flanders Fields” is one of the most famous war poems written by Canadian physician Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. The poem was written by him in May 1915 after the funeral of one of his fellow soldier who dies in battle. The poem is often recited during Remembrance day observance events.

This Remembrance Day is especially takes on a new meaning given the events that unfolded in Parliament Hill in Ottawa on October 22, 2014 where Corporal Nathan Cirillo was shot down while standing guard at the National War Memorial. And a couple of days earlier, Warrant Officer, Patrice Vincent was run over by a vehicle driven by Martin Couture-Rouleau in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec.

You may be new to Canada and may not fully comprehend the importance of remembering our veterans. But, we are able to live in a free and beautiful Canada because of the sacrifices made by man and women who gave their lives for this freedom. So do your part in remembering and honoring our veterans this Remembrance Day…lest we forget!

If you want to learn more about Remembrance Day, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website or click on the banner below, where you will find a wealth of information and learning resources.

Image Credit: Intro Remembrance Day image created by author