“In Flanders Fields, the Poppies Blow...”

By Mallory Cawthra

At the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month, Remembrance Day is observed every year in response to the end of fighting during the First World War, known as the Great War. It has been 103 years since the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, signalling a cease fire between the allied powers and the central powers. Lest we forget.

Remembrance Day is a time to remember, reflect and honor those brave men and women who served during the First World War and subsequent wars. Ten percent of the Canadian population died during World War I. The red poppy is an enduring symbol of remembrance and is traditionally worn on the left shoulder close to the heart, to honor the sacrifices made by those who didn’t make it home, as well as our Canadian Veterans. Every year the Royal Canadian Legion has poppies available for those who wish to wear one, and donations are also accepted to support Veterans and their families.

There are still Canadian veterans alive that served during World War II and the Korean War. There are some Canadian Veterans that currently live in Leader and the surrounding communities that served in places like Afghanistan. Even if you are unable to attend a service this year, it is important on Remembrance Day to take some time to honour those who paid the ultimate price and those that have served and continue to serve our country.

On November 11th, 2021, starting at 10:45 a.m., there will be a Remembrance Day Service at the Leader Community Centre – the address is 402 First Avenue West - in the Town of Leader.

There will also be a service starting at 10:45 a.m. on No- vember 11th in the Village of Abbey at the Abbey Business and Community Centre (ABC Centre). The address is 336 Cathedral Avenue, and Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) regulations will apply. For those who cannot attend, the service will be livestreamed on the Abbey Sask Facebook page.