Sixty-eight years have passed since the end of the Second World War, and 95 since the end of the First World War. It can be easy to forget how much those many years of violence and loss shaped the world we know today. Unfortunately, there are only 91,400 veterans from the Second World War and 9,900 veterans from the Korean War still alive in Canada today. It is expected that within the next five years, all Second World War veterans will be gone. As Canadians, we will remember the sacrifices that these men and women made, and we should be forever grateful for their service.
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa holds a handful of memorial services across the city. All are open to members of the public who wish to remember those who have served Canada since 1914. If you are looking to do more than just wear a poppy, here is a list of events that are happening on or around Remembrance Day.
Canadian War Museum
At precisely 11:00 am on Monday November 11th, a beam of sunlight will shine through a window at War Museum’s Memorial Hall to illuminate the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. However, if you are unable to make it to the museum, they offer a live broadcast.
National War Memorial
The tomb of the Unknown Soldier, also known as the Cenotaph, is located in the town square off Wellington and Elgin. On November 11th, at 11:00 am, the annual Remembrance Day ceremony will take place. Members of the Canadian Forces, as well as war veterans, will be present.
Canadian Armed Forces Central Band and Governor General Foot Guards Band – We Will Remember
On Sunday November 10th at 2:00 pm, there will be an opportunity to see two of Canada’s prominent military bands perform in concert.
*Located at 11 Aviation Parkway
Documentary: The Belgian Forest
On November 10th at 1 pm, and November 11th at 1 and 2 pm, the Aviation Museum will be showing a documentary on RCAF bombers during the Second World War.
For more information on parades and ceremonies happening in the City, please visit: http://ottawa.ca/en/news/remembrance-day-schedule-changes-4
PhotoSources:
http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/laurencathyturner/
http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/department/press/gnstat