We proudly wear the red poppy in remembrance of the noble and brave who were the fallen in the wars of our long history.
Red is the colour of sacrifice, blood, and our flag, that represents all Canadians.
Nov. 11 was the date of the Armistice that ended the First World War, at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month.
And since the first Armistice Day, we honour the dead, as well as the living who every day make sacrifices in the hope that we can live in peace.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, a defining moment in Canada’s history.
It is said that the First World War marked Canada emerging as a country, a world leader, and a beacon for freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
This year is especially poignant.
Two of Canada’s finest were recently murdered in separate incidents. Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent died after being struck down by a car in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que., and Cpl. Nathan Cirillo was shot last week in Ottawa, as he stood guarding Canada’s National War Memorial in Ottawa.
As we remember the fallen, let’s also pay tribute to those who continue to serve, for their bravery that is so humble and also be thankful that they choose to wear their country’s flag on their uniform.
Those who have been lost to us live on in our hearts and we must keep their stories alive.
Our thoughts and our prayers are with the victims, their families and their friends
They will be remembered.
Coralee Oakes is the MLA for Cariboo North and is the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
