By: Ariana Siu

Photo Link Picture by Bartus, David on Pexels.

Almost a century ago, the Canadian federal government declared November 11 as Remembrance Day in response to the end of the First World War. This day recalls the sacrifice and dedication of those who have served on behalf of Canada. Originally named Armistice Day, November 11 calls for people to remember the horror of war and for the end of global hostilities.

This significant day is observed annually in events and ceremonies. The Last Post is played and In Flanders Fields is recited as observers reflect on those who have made generous sacrifices. Numerous facilities such as schools hold two minutes of silence at exactly 11 a.m. on this day for the cause. Moreover, the red poppy has become a visual pledge to bear in memory the fallen. It has also become the symbol for the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign, a non-profit organization aimed to provide a better life to veterans and their families. By donating through the Poppy Campaign, supporters don the poppy pin as an expression of support.

It is indeed surreal to realize that the conflict of the First World War had taken place more than a hundred years ago. Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae’s famed poem declares: “The torch; be yours to hold it high”. As fellow Canadians fortunate enough to live in a peaceful and flourishing country, we are obliged to keep the memory of the fallen alive and honor their sacrifice, allowing Canada to become the better place that they have fought for.

Donate to the Poppy Trust Fund today at https://legion.ca/donations.

Works Cited

“Donate to the Poppy Fund.” The Royal Canadian Legion, https://www.legion.ca/remembrance/the-poppy-campaign/donate-to-the-poppy-fund. Accessed 24 October 2023.

McCrae, John. “In Flanders Fields by John McCrae.” Poetry Foundation, https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47380/in-flanders-fields. Accessed 24 October 2023.

“Remembrance – Remembrance Day | Canada and the First World War.” Canadian War Museum, https://www.warmuseum.ca/firstworldwar/history/after-the-war/remembrance/remembrance-day/. Accessed 24 October 2023.