How and why we celebrate Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day has been recognized in Canada since 1931. However, the occasion was initially known as Armistice Day, and was exclusively a celebration of the end of World War I. Here’s what Remembrance Day is all about today and how you can celebrate it.
REMEMBRANCE DAY IN CANADA
Remembrance Day is celebrated annually on November 11 to honour the contributions of all military service members who gave their lives defending our nation. Similar commemorative events, such as Decoration Day in June and Paardeberg Day in February, were held before World War I. However, the scale of the Great War and the extensive human cost incurred by the conflict led to the adoption of a single celebration. Canada’s armed forces have since been involved in a number of conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan, as well as a long list of peacekeeping operations across the globe. Veterans of these wars are likewise honoured on Remembrance Day.
HOW TO CELEBRATE REMEMBRANCE DAY
Here are some ideas for honouring our veterans and their bravery: • Wear the poppy over your heart • Observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. on November 11 • Attend a Remembrance Day ceremony in your region • Speak with veterans or listen to interviews with them • Learn more about Canada’s memorial monuments • Visit a war museum or memorial in your region • Learn more about Canada’s involvement in a conflict, peacekeeping mission or humanitarian effort