The 2019 Decoration Day ceremonies took place at cemeteries throughout Moose Jaw and during a memorial service at the Crescent Park cenotaph on Sunday afternoon, involving members of the military, Legion and ANAVETS from throughout the area.
Leading the troops and cadets as they marched into the park was, as always, the Royal Canadian Legion colour party, featuring veterans carrying the Canadian flag and other banners representing the province and various organizations.
They’re a ubiquitous presence at military memorials throughout the area and take pride in being part of such events.
“I served in the military for 30 years so it’s near to my heart, especially being with the Legion for 25 years and being on this colour party for that whole time,” said colour party commander Steve Richardson of being a part of Decoration Day. “It’s important because it’s a chance to honour those who have served in the Canadian military over the years and to remember their sacrifice.”
On its surface, Decoration Day holds a unique place for the Canadian military, as it originally honoured those who fought in Ridgeway during the Fenian Raids and eventually grew to encompass the Northwest Rebellion, Second Boer War and First World War. Since then it’s become a counterpart to Remembrance Day, which focusses on the First World War and beyond.
“Decoration Day started with the very first war Canada back in 1866 and they were never recognized, so we said ‘we’ll recognize them’ and a group of veterans took that on,” Richardson explained. “The first one was in 1890, which is 25 years after the battle, and the government wouldn’t do anything. So to recognize those people we started doing these parades and it’s continued ever since.”
A solid contingent of civilian supporters braved the hot sunshine to take part in the weekend, something Richardson said is always a nice thing to see at such events.
“It’s excellent, because we know word is getting out to these people, they’re seeing what it’s all about and they ask questions,’ he said. “So we’re always glad to tell them who we are and what we do and what we’re about. The Legion does more than just sit at Legion Hall, and to be out here and let them see us helps everyone understand that.”
“We’re proud to be a part of things like Decoration Day and Remembrance Day and remembering all those who served.”
