With all pandemic restrictions lifted, Moose Jaw’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59 is encouraging residents to attend this year’s Decoration Day in full force to remember Canadians who died in global conflicts.
Decoration Day pre-dates Remembrance Day by decades and was first held on June 2, 1890, when veterans placed decorations at the Canadian Volunteers Monument in Toronto on the anniversary of the Fenian Raids. Once Canadian soldiers became more involved in international conflicts — especially after the Boer War of 1899 to 1902 — the event became more celebrated and higher profile.
Today, it honours those who fought for Canada in all conflicts before, during and after the First and Second World Wars.
Last year's event was capped at 40 people maximum due to pandemic restrictions. Many attendees wore masks, while they also did their best to physically distance.
This year’s Decoration Day takes place on Sunday, June 5, at Rosedale Cemetery. Residents are encouraged to come out at 10 a.m. and help plant flags near the headstones of veterans. A service of remember will then be held at noon and last for about half an hour. Some highlights of the service include prayer, Bible reading, reflection, laying of wreaths and Last Post and Reveille.
Besides Rosedale Cemetery, volunteers will descend on other cemeteries throughout the city, decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with small Canadian flags, offering a small gesture of honour for those who served their country.
It’s exciting to hold this year’s event, especially with all pandemic restrictions lifted, said legion president Roy LaBuick. Most people have fewer fears about being in large crowds, whether kids’ sports or adult events. The fact the event is outdoors should also make people less apprehensive about gathering.
After the service finishes, the legion encourages residents to head to the legion building on High Street West for a barbecue that includes burgers and salads.
Besides the legion, it’s likely that members of the ANAVETS, 15 Wing and Dragoons will also attend the event.
