Innisfail students and families, as well as those in Penhold, Bowden and Spruce View, paid homage to Canadian soldiers with multiple ceremonies of remembrance last week.
The Chinook's Edge School Division's three Innisfail schools honoured the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers on Nov. 5 at separate events, while the new Penhold Crossing Secondary School held its first Remembrance Day ceremony that was attended by more than 700 students, teachers, and members of the community.
“It was a moving ceremony,” said Dennis Cooper, mayor of Penhold.
As well, St. Marguerite Bourgeoys School held their ceremony on Nov. 6, with members of #7 Penhold Squadron in attendance, along with veteran Ed Bukowski.
A group of more than 200 students, parents, teachers and visitors were led at the Catholic school ceremony by Allyson Bendfeld's Grade 3 class.
Grade 3 student Eaden Baier escorted the crucifix to the stand beside the podium accompanied by the cadet squadron after which the eight-year-old opened the remembrance.
Three students recited “In Flanders Fields” before 77-year-old war veteran Bukowski was introduced and spoke of his 45 years of service to Canada, which included three NATO missions, one peacekeeping mission, and a tour at the North Pole.
“At one time, I flew one of the jets (CF-104) that is on display in front of the Legion, and have more than five hours flight time logged,” said Bukowski.
The veteran added he finished his career in Penhold and is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 104.
Members of the St. Marguerite Bourgeoys School Grade 3 class continued the proceedings with a reading of Mona Gould's poem, “This was my brother at Dieppe,” and an overview of Operation Jubilee, otherwise known as Dieppe.
The playing of the Last Post led to the Act of Remembrance, followed by the stirring crowd response, “We shall remember.”
To conclude the ceremony, a moment of silence was observed as a power point presentation flashed across the screen showing images of the First World War, Second World War, and the Korean War, and the recently fallen Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, who was slain last month in Ottawa.
The students quietly left the gymnasium after the playing of Reveille as an act of respect.
Bukowski was impressed with the young emcee for the afternoon ceremony.
“He asked me lots of questions and led the audience enthusiastically for a young man,” said the veteran.
Meanwhile, Baier said he was honoured to be chosen to lead the ceremony adding he Bukowski was wise and brave to fight for his country.
“I would like to serve Canada like Mr. Bukowski,” said Baier.
The Royal Canadian Legion will hold their ceremony at the auditorium starting at 10 a.m. on Nov.11 and ending up at the cenotaph where the wreaths will be laid as well as the reading of the names of those who gave their lives to ensure Canada's freedom.
