In a moving ceremony under sunny skies, Canadian peacekeepers and Afghanistan military veterans were remembered at Powell River’s cenotaph.
Bronze plaques recognizing the two groups of veterans were added to the cenotaph to memorialize more recent military service by Canadian service men and women. Korean War veterans were the last to receive such distinction on the monument.
Lieutenant-Colonel Tod Strickland, an army officer who was brought up in Powell River and who is a veteran of Afghanistan, spoke at the cenotaph ceremony, held Saturday, September 20. He told those in attendance that the day marked a noteworthy and important day in the history of the cenotaph’s hallowed space.
“As we gather together to rededicate our cenotaph and unveil bars honouring those from the local area who participated in peacekeeping missions and operations in Afghanistan, I am humbled to be part of this moment,” he said.
Strickland gave appreciation for the additions to the cenotaph and for ensuring that the efforts of modern service men and women are not forgotten.
“My words cannot express the gratitude that we veterans from Powell River feel on this day,” he said.
