Remembering those lost in war
By Mona Mattei
Grand Forks gathered around the Cenotaph on Wednesday, Nov. 11 to recognize those lost in wars past and present. The annual ceremony was organized by the Royal Canadian Legion. A large crowd came together to honour the fallen including members of the ambulance services, fire departments, border services, legion members, scouts, brownies and guides, and RCMP.
After a parade to the site with the Grand Forks Pipes and Drums leading the march, services commenced. The traditional poem In Flanders Field was read, followed by the laying of nearly 70 wreaths at the cenotaph including several family wreaths honouring lost loved ones.
People present for the ceremony were moved as 135 yellow balloons were released into the air. Each balloon represented Canadians who have been lost in the current mission in Afghanistan. As they floated away, the crowd took a moment to remember. Rev. Simon Shenstone gave a closing prayer before the band lead the procession back to the legion for camaraderie.
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