CARSTAIRS - Many local residents, including families with young children, attended the Remembrance Day ceremony at Hugh Sutherland School on Friday.
As in past years, the event was hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #53 in Carstairs.
Legion member and town councillor Marty Ratz was the MC at this year’s event. He paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who served during the Second World War.
“She served as a driver and a mechanic” said Ratz. “She was also the monarch who bestowed an honour of us being allowed to use the prefix Royal in the Canadian Legion. We recognize her passing.”
Ratz also recognized local Royal Canadian Legion members who passed away over the past year.
Pastor Don Short spoke during the ceremony, speaking in part about the First World War poem In Flanders Fields.
“As people we are very forgetful so we need to make a conscious effort to remember,” said Short. “Help us to remember the sacrifice the soldiers made on our behalf and for our freedom. These soldiers paid a great price for all of us.”
Members of the 185 Olds Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron took part in the ceremony, including in the colour party.
The ceremony included the singing of Amazing Grace, as well as the playing of a video commemorating veterans and their sacrifices.
Among those laying wreaths of remembrance this year was Silver Cross Mother Susan Curnow. Other wreaths were laid on behalf of federal, provincial and local governments, service organizations, emergency services, police, veterans, community groups, schools, individuals and others.
