Valley residents remember those who serve

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 406 in Barry’s Bay held a moving Remembrance Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11th. The ceremony was led by hosts Tom Vlasic and Bev Burchat because this year Branch 406 President, Heather Poliquin, who is also Commander of Legion Zone G7, was required at the Pembroke ceremony to lay a wreath on behalf of Zone G7. Vlasic and Burchat were ably assisted by Paul Mitton who read the prayer and by Lisa Hildebrandt and Dave Lockhart who led the singing. In their welcome, the hosts also acknowledged participation by the 3rd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment, and contributions from Comrade Mary Baxter. Also attending were staff and students from St. John Bosco School and The Boundless School. Above: Remembrance Ceremony hosts (on Legion porch) greet the assembled crowd while members of the 3rd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment salute.

The opening remarks acknowledged why Remembrance Day is so important. “Through many wars and conflicts, brave Canadians have made unimaginable sacrifices leaving behind their families, homes, and dreams – to protect the values and freedoms that made our country what it is today. Their courage and selflessness allow us and generations yet to come, to live in peace.”

Vlasic and Burchat pointed out the significance of this Remembrance Day 2025. It marks “the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic, the Liberation of the Netherlands, Victory in Europe Day, and the 80th Anniversary of the end of WWII.  It is also the 25th Anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.”

It was heartening to witness many children and young people in the crowd, despite the cold weather. Above: All ages came out to remember those who served.

In addition to the official wreaths that were laid, many local individuals and businesses contributed by providing wreaths that had been prepositioned at the cenotaph. These included:

As the ceremony concluded and before attendees entered the Legion Hall to warm up and enjoy some light refreshments, they were reminded: “Today we have come to remember those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of our nation.  Their commitment to duty and the price they paid remind us of the value of peace and freedom. We want to express our gratitude to all who came to remember. As we leave here today, we do so with a renewed pledge to never forget those who have fallen in service to Canada.  Let us ensure that the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice lives on in our actions and words.”