On this Remembrance Day or Veterans Day, honor those who fight for our freedom.
The 11th day of the 11th month marks Remembrance Day in Canada or Veterans Day in the United States of America. At the 11th minute of the 11th hour of the day, we remain silent for a moment to commemorate those who gave their lives and those who continue to fight for our country. These men and women sacrificed their family, their friends, and their lives to keep us safe within our borders.
As the poppies blew amidst the fields, gunshots fired and men fell to their lives in hopes of freedom. Such honorable men and women knew nothing but love and pride for their country. They fought and persevered through hot days, chilly but sleepless nights, poor living conditions, and painful wounds. Today, when you step outside to buy groceries or curl up in your blanket to watch some TV, remember those who allow you to do this without worrying about your life. Take a moment to recognize that we remain in our homes safely because of the contributions of these men and women.
What can you do to thank those who sacrificed everything for you?
You can start by taking two minutes of your day and remaining silent to pay your respects to the Veterans. Say thank you to a veteran. Wear a poppy. Honour the fallen Veterans on the Legion’s Wall of Honour and Remembrance. Plant poppy seeds in your garden. Volunteer your time to help the veterans in your community. Advocate for veterans’ rights. You can also donate to the Legion’s Poppy Fund. The donations made towards this fund go to support veterans, serving the military, RCMP members, and their families all year around. The fund provides these people with essential services within the community including seniors support services, housing and care for the elderly and youth programs. Most importantly, remember to not take your freedom for granted. Realize that the price for this freedom was paid by the lives of the veterans and their families. Remember to always remember those who died for you. Lest we forget.
“In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place: and in the sky The larks still bravely singing fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.” –Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae