Glenboro gathers to honour veterans at annual Remembrance Day service
As a slight but harsh breeze swept through Glenboro, residents from the community and surrounding area gathered at the Cenotaph on Tuesday morning for the annual Remembrance Day Service, hosted by The Royal Canadian Legion Glenboro Branch #71. The ceremony began at 10:45 a.m., bringing together veterans, community members, students, and families to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed for Canada.
The service opened with the singing of “O Canada,” followed by a Call to Worship delivered by Lay Minister Sharon Hamilton, who spoke about turning away from fear and violence and toward peace and reconciliation instead. Her message encouraged reflection on the cost of war and the continuing importance of working toward a more peaceful world.
Branch Vice President Ernie Bezaire welcomed those in attendance and offered words of gratitude for the service and sacrifice of past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces. “We gather to give thanks to Almighty God for His goodness to us as a nation and commonwealth,” he said, “and to remember those whose courage and loyalty are cherished in our memories.”
The Reading of the Honour Roll followed, recognizing local men and women who gave their lives in service to their country. The solemn moment was observed with the traditional Last Post, Two Minutes of Silence, and Reveille.
As the stubborn breeze moved through the crowd during the two minutes of silence, it served as a reminder of the harsh conditions faced by the men and women who served and those who continue to serve our country today. In that moment of quiet reflection, the community offered prayers and gratitude for their sacrifice.
The Citation, “They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old…” was read by the Branch Vice President, with the crowd responding together, “We will remember them.”
Wreaths were then laid at the Cenotaph by veterans, local organizations, and community representatives, each gesture a symbol of remembrance and gratitude.
The poem “In Flanders Fields” was recited, its timeless words echoing the enduring duty to remember those who have fallen and to uphold the peace they fought to preserve.
A Letter from the Prime Minister, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to honouring veterans and supporting those currently serving was read and followed by a prayer of Remembrance and Prayer for the Forces.
“God of love, ever caring, ever strong. Stand by us in our time of need.
“Watch over the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces and all armed forces around the world, especially those, who are serving far from home. Look after them in every hardship and grant them your peace, that, following in the footsteps of our veterans, they may bring peace to the countries in which they serve.”
As the service came to a close, attendees paused to reflect and visit with neighbours, united in gratitude for the freedoms safeguarded by generations of Canadian men and women in uniform. Following the ceremony, the Legion opened its doors for refreshments and fellowship, giving the community a chance to share stories & memories in a spirit of remembrance and appreciation.
Lest We Forget –
Honour Role
1914-1918 – Killed in Action
B Bjarnason, A Burnett, W.F. Dodos, E.F. Downs, W.J. King, W.J. Lyall, A.G. Madeline, B. Marshall, J. McKay, A.J. McNicol, A.S. Moore, G. Norwood, G. Richardson, A.V.G. Robb, F. Rumble, N. Rusk, G. Sigtrygson, S.W. Sigurdson, T. Sigurdson, O. Stephenson, C. Swanson, H. Tull, A.F. Vinet, G. Vrooman, R.C. Williams and H.S. Wilton.
Died in Service
B.W. Biles, F.J. Bailie, Christine Frederickson, E. D. Garnett, W. Hindly, F.R. Mallon, G.F. McFadden and W.H. Tiller.
1939-1945 Killed in Action
M. Bailey, J.M. Barker, M. H. Brown, Gordon Cline, H.T.M. Cooper, D.R. Donogh, T. Frederickson, R. H. Hutton, A.B. Isliefson, T. Jonsson, P.N. Pennycook, R. Thompson and T. L. Waite.
