Remembrance Day
Halifax takes a moment to honour its soldiers
On Nov. 11, Haligonians gathered at Grand Parade for Remembrance day
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A moment of silence at 11 a.m. Sunday in Grand Parade.On Sunday, Haligonians of all ages gathered for a moment of silence to honour those who served in Canada’s military.
Halifax had several events for Remembrance Day, including one at Parade Square where wreaths were laid by veterans, government officials and several community groups. Others participated in the event differently, including Sara Pluta, a 14-year-old student, who performed a poem about soldiers suffering from PTSD.
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People pin red poppies on a white cross at Parade Square.
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Joanne Geddes, a veteran, said Remembrance Day is a time for reflection.Joanne Geddes, a Zone 15 commander with the Royal Canadian Legion, attended the Parade Square ceremony and said the day is a time to look back. Related stories
“It is a time to reflect and be thankful for what a great country we live in and all the sacrifices made from people before us, and people still making those sacrifices,” said Geddes who served in over 35 different places including Israel, Ottawa and Halifax.
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Beth Phillips said it’s important for her daughter to know about Remembrance Day.Remembrance Day is also a day where younger generations, like six-year-old Leeila Phillips, can hear stories from veterans.
Her mother, Beth Phillips, brought her to the ceremony. Beth Phillips’ late grandfather served in the Second World War and used to tell her stories. Leeila’s father is currently serving as part of the Royal Canadian Navy.
“It is very important to carry on to the next generation what has happened,” said Phillips.
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Emilie Coleman and Jean Raphael from France were excited to see red poppies everywhere.Emilie Coleman, who is from France, was glad she was able to experience a Canadian Remembrance Day ceremony.
“The war implicated the country I come from as well, so it is nice to see how it’s done here in Halifax,” said Coleman.
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White doves were released during the ceremony.This Remembrance Day was different than most, as it marked the 100th anniversary of the Armistice. It was signed on Nov. 11, 1918, bringing the First World War to an end. According to Veterans Affairs Canada, close to 115,000 Canadian soldiers died in both world wars.
There were other events held Sunday for Remembrance Day, including a 21-gun salute at the Halifax Citadel and screening of the movie George about George Price, the last Commonwealth soldier to die in action on Nov. 11, 1918.
