Remembrance Day

-- Zambaga Zorigtbaatar, International Work Study Student

Every year on November 11, Remembrance Day, we pause for two minutes of silent tribute, and we attend commemorative ceremonies in memory of the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country during times of war. We honour those who fought in the First World War (1914-1918), the Second World War (1939-1945), and the Korean War (1950-1953), as well as those who have served since then. More than 2.3 million Canadians have served our country, and more than 118,000 have died. These wars touched the lives of all ages, all races, and all social classes. They gave their lives and their futures so that we may live in peace.  

The enduring emblem of Remembrance Day is the red poppy, inspired by the renowned war poem "In Flanders Fields," authored by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae during World War I. Today, the red poppy serves as a visual tribute, worn as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made by military personnel. 

Reference: www.veterans.gc.ca