2015 Remembrance Day services in Pincher Creek

Toni Lucas

Royal Canadian Legion #43 held their annual Remembrance Day Service on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at the Pincher Creek Community Hall. The main and upper floors were full with people who came to pay their respects to those that have given their lives in the service of our country, and those who continue to protect our freedoms today.

Reverend Dave Goff

Everyone stood as the Colour Guard marched in, starting the ceremony. Jackie Therriault played 'O, Canada' on the piano, joined by the voices of everyone who filled the hall. A prayer was said by Reverend Dave Goff. In the British Armed Forces they had buglers mark the times of the day before wristwatches were common. Last Post marked the end of the day's duties, and over time became what was played to mark the final rest of a solider. The sounds of the Last Post filled the hall before the two minutes of silence was observed. The hall was still while many individuals had private thoughts about family, loved ones, freedom, peace, and war. Then Reveille was played, the traditional wakeup call, and everyone resumed their seats.

Lt. Commander Pierre Comeau

Lt. Commander Pierre Comeau spoke about his time serving in Afghanistan. He said he is often asked if it is worth it. He spoke of history, of people struggling in various countries including Canada to recognize the value of human life and how even in enlightened and modern countries that has taken hundreds of years. He said this is a struggle which continues in Afghanistan and it is up to the individual to decide if the struggle for freedom and human rights is worthwhile here at home.

Sheila Provost with Silver Cross Mother wreath

The first wreath was laid on behalf of bereaved mothers by Sheila Provost. Then one by one, others came to the front to show their respects from the Legion and local governments. After that individual families were called to the front, then organizations and service groups, churches, schools and unions,  and businesses. Sgt. Norman Walker and Service Officer Hal Sigurdson laid the wreaths. Royal Canadian Army Cadets Fort Macleod 2309 and Royal Canadian Air Cadets #859 members helped throughout the ceremony, often bringing wreaths to the front by for those who did not attend.

RCMP

RCMP and Pincher Creek Emergency Services members

Pincher Creek Emergency Services members

Royal Canadian Army Cadets and Royal Canadian Air Cadets

Royal Canadian Air Cadets (Tracey Hoffman photo)

Sadie Bannick, Jaeger Hann, Chase Lincez and Anshul Chhabra

RCMP officers before the ceremonies start

After all the wreaths were laid pianist Jackie Therriault performed 'Abide with Me' and 'God Save the Queen'. Groups were invited to join the March Off of the colours after the Colour party had made a half circuit of the room, making a beautiful tribute to those that serve our country. After the ceremony many went to the Legion to visit and spend some informal time together.

Jackie Therriault

Foothills 4-H Beef Club

Carter McGlynn and Hunter McMullen

Howard Davies and Frances Gladstone with Vista Village's wreath

Lest we forget.