Remembrance Day has been observed since 1919, just a year after the end of World War I. In 2014, events are being held to commemorate the start of that so-called Great War 100 years ago.
A total of 1,500,000 men and women have served in Canada’s armed forces in our nation’s history. Of that number, 118,000 lost their lives defending our way of life.
There were 12 Powell River soldiers who died in World War I and 55 in World War II.
Unfortunately, in 2014, our service men and women must continue to work to ensure democracy survives, both here and around the world.
Two soldiers recently lost their lives on home soil to Canadian citizens.
We enjoy a safe life here in Powell River and wars seem very distant from us when they happen in a place we only know from looking at a map of the world. A soldier’s death in Ottawa or Quebec brings the state of world conflicts closer to us.
In this century it seems reprehensible that people shoot, bomb or behead in the name of their God, to defend an artificial border, to maintain the flow of oil, to subjugate women and impose their will on others without weapons or the ability to defend against guns and bombs.
Tolerance for differences can bring enrichment to us. Intolerance can bring hatred. While all the major religions of the world project goodwill and love toward others, they also are perverted by followers who profess to know the only path to acceptance and enlightenment.
What a waste of potential. In spite of the darkness that creeps into the world, we need to remember the achievements that human beings have accomplished and continue to accomplish.
Next week, we will gather to remember and give our thanks to those who heeded the call for service to country.
A parade of veterans, RCMP members, firefighters, paramedics, conservation officers, cadets, Scouts and Guides will lead into a service at Dwight Hall followed by a ceremony outdoors at the cenotaph. Names of members of the armed forces from Powell River who lost their lives will be read out and official wreaths presented.
Once again, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we will remember them.
