It is one of Canada’s most heartfelt and enduring traditions.

On Remembrance Day, Canadians across the country paused and paid their respect to those killed in war and military conflict. Royal Canadian Legion branches conducted ceremonies in Lakeland communities to mark the occasion.

A good crowd braved the cold weather at Bonnyville’s outdoor service; St. Paul’s observance returned to the Recreation Centre after two years of pandemic restrictions. Similarly, Cold Lake Branch 211 partnered with the City of Cold Lake and 4 Wing to present its Remembrance Day parade at the Energy Centre.

All of the ceremonies were well-attended.

And, as is the custom, the solemn observances were followed by food and socializing. St. Paul Legion offered a lunch reception at the Recreation Centre, while Bonnyville and Cold Lake branches invited the public to join them in their Legion halls for a bite to eat and a beer.

Many of those unable to attend marked the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month with a moment of silence wherever they were, and churches and schools held special Remembrance services in the week leading up to November 11.

The Colour Party marches off after the Cold Lake service. JEFF GAYE
A veteran lays a wreath. JEFF GAYE
In Cold Lake, Scouts Canada and Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre were among the organizations laying wreaths.  JEFF GAYE
In Cold Lake, Royden Moon recited In Flanders Fields.  JEFF GAYE
In Cold Lake, Branch 211 president Todd Rorke addressed the parade.  JEFF GAYE
The 4 Wing Band performs the hymn “Airman’s Prayer” during the Cold Lake Remembrance Day service. JEFF GAYE
In Bonnyville, Rollie Inman, Willie MacGregor, and Bonnyville mayor Elisa Brosseau were among those laying wreaths in Bonnyville. SUBMITTED
In Bonnyville, Cadets are members of RCSSC Huron. SUBMITTED
Bonnyville SUBMITTED
The St. Paul service was well-attended by members of the public, the RCMP, and 401 Squadron from 4 Wing Cold Lake. SUBMITTED
In St. Paul. SUBMITTED
In St. Paul. SUBMITTED
In St. Paul, Joshua Kutryk. SUBMITTED