Redcliff residents gather in remembrance

Southern Alberta Newspapers PHOTO by Anna Smith LEST WE FORGET: It was standing room only for the Redcliff Remembrance Day Service on Monday morning, a day blessed with nice weather for all. A piper and drummer lead the march into the park as the procession approaches the Redcliff Cenotaph.

By Anna Smith
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Parkside School was overflowing with Redcliff and area residents as they gathered to honour the fallen and those who still fight on for freedom.

This year’s Remembrance Day Ceremony began as it has for many years prior, with veterans, RCMP, dignitaries, cadets and scouts gathering outside the Redcliff Legion. After forming up, the march, followed by a large crowd of family members and other attendees, made its way up to Parkside School, which quickly ran out of even standing room as service-goers spilled out into the foyer.

The service itself featured prayers by Rev. David Carter, the Redcliff Legion Chaplin, who spoke openly on the importance of family, and urged those listening to treasure the interesting people in their lives, because “you do not have them for a whole lifetime.”

“This also relates back to this remembrance, of course, because there are many of us here, with loved ones suffered in so many different ways as they travelled and served this country, throughout the whole world,” said Carter. “As we look to these wonderful, loving Rugrats that will face the world that is yet to come, we know in our hearts we have faith for them, about all the different wonderful things that will happen in their lives.”

The recently passed George Hope, a well-known and longstanding member of the Redcliff Legion, was honoured with a mention at the service.

The Margaret Wooding School Choir performed multiple songs, as did Ron Mason, who lead To The Town I Love So Much, which touches on the different ways that conflicts can affect a community.

Following the indoor service, the march continued out to the Redcliff Cenotaph for the laying of several wreaths, presented by municipal officials, local law enforcement, businesses and the families of veterans.

The social that followed likewise filled the Redcliff Legion’s available seating as guests enjoyed sandwiches and a chance to catch up with friends and other members of the community.

As always, said Legion President Baz Cole with some emotion, the Legion is deeply touched by the support of the community, and is deeply grateful for another year of phenomenal turnout to show care and respect for their veterans.