Remembrance Day is going to be special this year because of the tragedy that took place in Wainwright, said Royal Canadian Legion General Stewart Branch No. 4 Co-Chair of Public Relations Glenn Miller.
“It shows the constant danger,” Miller noted, which our men and women in the forces face, who train to protect our freedoms.
During Lethbridge’s Remembrance Day ceremony this year, the 429 Lethbridge Bison Squadron is scheduled to fly over the city.
“It’s always great to have a squadron return home and get a chance to interact with the community,” Miller added.
Miller also encourages people who would like to make a poppy or thank you card at home or at school to drop those off by Friday. “So, we can deliver those to our Veterans in the community during Veterans’ Week.”
On Nov. 4, there will be a Poppy Flag Raising Ceremony at the Lethbridge Cenotaph, followed by a dedication service of the newly-inscribed Battle Honour Afghanistan.
“Which reflects southern Alberta’s contribution in that long duration of Canada’s participation in Afghanistan,” Miller explained.
There’ll be a Veterans’ Dinner to conclude the events of Nov. 4, which is sponsored by the Lethbridge Rotary East Club.
According to Miller, the dinner has been a long-standing partnership, as Veterans and their spouse or caregiver can register for a free dinner. Please register for this event by Friday.
This year’s annual Poppy Campaign is underway with a new permanent start date of Oct. 24.
“It’s being set by the Dominion Command of the Royal Canadian Legion,” said Miller.
This past weekend, cadets, scouts, and 4-H members were out offering poppies in the community.
“I encourage everyone to wear a poppy throughout the campaign, not just on Remembrance Day. New this year at the branch is a Velcro poppy patch, which may be an alternative. They’re available at the Legion,” added Miller.
Miller said thanks to the City of Lethbridge, the Veterans’ Crosswalk, located across from the Lethbridge Cenotaph, has been refreshed with a new scheme. “We’re grateful for the City in honouring our Veterans.”
The City’s Veterans’ Banners Program has 191 banners located throughout the city.
“To read the biographies, you can visit lethbridgeveteransbanners.ca,” Miller shared.
Veterans’ Week runs Nov. 4-11 and includes a Lethbridge Hurricanes Military Appreciation Night Nov. 6
Remembrance Day Ceremony One will take place at the Lethbridge Cenotaph starting at 10:45 a.m. Ceremony Two will take place at the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre starting at 11:45 a.m.
The Lethbridge Military Museum, located near the Lethbridge Airport at the Vimy Ridge Armoury, will be open with free admission from 12-4 p.m.
