Once again, it was standing room only for the Remembrance Day Ceremony at the 100 Mile Community Hall on Nov. 11.
Once again, it was a wonderful service that moved along like a well-oiled machine.
While there was a nip in the air and the number of marchers appeared to be down slightly, there was an extremely good representation of Veterans, Canadian Rangers, Cadets, RCMP members, fire departments, area service clubs and others who joined the parade.
This year’s parade was led by piper Glen Esdale and his wailing bagpipes added something special in the crisp morning air.
Once again, Ray Carlson was the Parade Marshall and he kept everyone in step as they marched down Birch Avenue to the appreciation of a small crowd lining the sidewalks.
Once inside the hall, there was some time for old friends to greet each other, which, for some, was their once-a-year meeting.
Those who had mustered at the Coach House Square for more than a half hour before the short march welcomed the warmth of the hall.
One of the touching moments was the poem, entitled Message to Canada, that was read by Royal Canadian Legion Branch #260 – 100 Mile House past president Bev Torrance. The poem was written by 108 Mile resident Carl Gimse’s grandfather Capt. G.M. Downton, who served with the 3rd Canadian Pioneers Third Canadian Division, in 1916.
The most emotional time came after bugler Brian Beattie played the “Last Post” and we stood in silence, while many silent prayers were said through quiet moving lips.
Again this year, Padre John Marshall gave a stirring prayer and benediction made more meaningful by his raspy voice catching the attention of everyone in the hall.
The saddest time was during the reading of The Fallen who have passed since last year’s Remembrance Day: Matilda E. Blakely, Charles P. Cue, Maurice Dalby, Alan E. Gear, James S. Jerome, Joe Katchmar, Harry C. Partridge, Jack C. Swift, Tom Tomlinson and George Welbourn.
They, and those who have passed before them, are the reason we gather together on Remembrance Day.
It is our opportunity to honour, remember and thank them for their sacrifices and our freedom and the democracy we enjoy today.
Lest we forget.
