Ceremonies held across Canada to honour WWI veterans
Posted Apr 9, 2010 12:27:47 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Canadians across the country are holding special ceremonies, Friday, to remember those who fought in the First World War.
The ceremonies are being held on the 93rd anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, and the first since the loss of Canada’s last-known veteran of the “war to end all wars.”
John Babcock died on February 18 at the age of 109.
The national ceremony will be held at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean and chief of defence staff Gen. Walter Natynczyk attended the National End of an Era Commemorative Ceremony.
In Nova Scotia, flags at the province’s legislative buildings were at half-mast and City Hall was decorated with poppies coloured by school children.
“There were not only incredible sacrifices made to take Vimy Ridge, but the bravery and skill of our military personnel from Canada and Newfoundland was heralded around the world and is noted in our history as Canada’s coming of age,” says Halifax Mayor Peter Kelly said. “It is an honour to take a moment to thank and salute such an incredible generation of military heroes.”
People also marked the day by gathering at the Grand Parade cenotaph for a ceremony.
