‘It is really important to take time’: Remembrance Day marked in Lethbridge

Across Lethbridge and the country, sacrifices made many years ago are still being commemorated, even by younger generations, for Remembrance Day.

In Lethbridge and across Canada, people stopped to recognize the sacrifices of those who have served our country.

The cenotaph and Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre were the main gathering places for local Remembrance Day services.

“Doing the ceremonies always helps, because I know that there are those that no longer can be here, and so this is our way of saying thank you—our way of showing support and respect,” said Jenn Cummings, Army Cadets 2296 lead representative.

At both events, attendees heard stories about the sacrifices and hardships during war.

Some were also grieving the loss of loved ones, such as Linda Learn, whose son, Private Mark Anthony Graham, was killed in Afghanistan.

“It’s very meaningful to recognize that community also recognizes there has been a sacrifice, not just of Mark, but of all the other fallen from Afghanistan, as well as all of the men and women we’ve lost,” she said.

Strong attendance across the city shows local residents still want to honour fallen soldiers and veterans.

And with plenty of young people taking part, it shows that tradition isn’t going anywhere.

“It’s very encouraging, especially with the younger people, the young children, the school-age children. Nice to see them here, and honoured to see them here, because I do it for family reasons,” said Mike Duffy with the Lethbridge RCMP Veterans Association.

Organizers and participants believe everyone should take the time on Remembrance Day to pay tribute to those who have sacrificed for Canada’s freedom.

“It is really important to take time over busy schedules and come in and remember those that have sacrificed for the great country we live in today,” said Major Mitch Montminy with the 20th Independent Field Battery—Lethbridge’s Canadian Army Reserve.