By Kim Jackson. Each year on November 11th, Canadians pause in silence to honour and remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace. For two minutes, people young and old pause to reflect.
This year, recent sacrifices might be on the tip top of minds. Sacrifices such as those made by Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo, both killed in the line of duty here in Canada. Officer Vincent was close to retirement when he was struck in a targeted hit and run in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Two days later, Corporal Cirillo was taking a turn as part of this fall’s Ceremonial Guard watching over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier when he was gunned down. Both deaths are being investigated, but officials do say they do not suspect the two cases are linked.
Until your life is personally touched by the death of a loved one, there’s no way you could possibly realize the enormity of the sacrifice made. More than 1,500,000 Canadians have served throughout our nation’s history and the more than 118,000 made that ultimate sacrifice. Yet, we try to understand.
For two minutes, our nation is unified in a poignant silence that speaks volumes over any written word or melody. We see faces of loved ones flash before us as we remember their sacrifice and service. Our aging veterans are celebrated and our lost are mourned.
Let us never forget to teach the younger generation the honour and privilege it is to serve.
