It was 105 years ago to the day that the first Remembrance Day service took place in the city of Moose Jaw.
Through all those years, the community’s support of the event has been unwavering -- generations and values change decade by decade, but every November 11, the city pauses to remember those who served their country and gave their lives in battle to preserve our freedom.
That was once again the case on Saturday morning, as thousands filled the stands at the Moose Jaw Events Centre for the annual Remembrance Day service.
“Especially here in Moose Jaw, we’re so grateful for the people who come out,” said Bob Travale, president of Moose Jaw Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59. “It’s a tradition across Canada, of course, but especially here in Moose Jaw where there’s such a military history. The people come out every year to attend the memorial service and it’s always so appreciated.”
With how long the event has been taking place, it would be easy to see support fall off, especially with so much time having passed since the last major worldwide conflict. But the days leading up to Remembrance Day gave a good example of why we’ll never forget as schools throughout Moose Jaw held their own ceremonies to honour veterans.
As a result, a new generation learns about the sacrifice of those who came before them and continue to do their best to honour their memory.
“I’m 76 years old, and even as a little kid we were brought up to honour Remembrance Day and the fallen who fought for Canada in previous years, and it’s always nice to see and hear that continuing,” Travale said. “It’s a very important day of the year for us and it always means a lot to everyone to see the kind of support we get.”
The service was conducted by longtime Legion chaplain Rev. Doug Shepherd and included the presence of soldiers from all branches of the military locally, including the ANAVETS, 15 Wing Moose Jaw and the Saskatchewan Dragoons, The event has also expanded to include the RCMP, thanks to their efforts to defend the country in its earliest years and beyond..
Retired Chief Warrant Office Rick Elmer played the Last Post and Rouse, with piper Michelle Gallagher playing the Lament.
Organizations from all over the community laid wreaths at a cenotaph set up in the Events Centre, and the event closed with members of Legion, 15 Wing and Dragoons marching from the arena down High Street to the Legion Hall -- a part of the service that hadn’t taken place the previous two years due to bitter cold weather.
The Vanier Collegiate Choir was also on hand and performed during the laying of wreaths while the Moose Jaw Band City Band and Friends played ‘O Canada’ and ‘God Save the King’.
For more information on the Royal Canadian Legion and all they have to offer in the community, visit www.royalcanadianlegionbranch59moosejaw.ca and be sure to follow them on Facebook.
