Veterans Day

Veterans Day is an annual observance to honour and remember the sacrifices of military personnel who have served in times of war and peacekeeping missions. Originally known as Armistice Day, it commemorates the end of World War I and celebrates the service of both living and deceased veterans. While events and traditions may slightly vary, the central theme of the observance remains the same: to express gratitude to brave men and women for their dedication and valour.

In Canada, the importance of Veterans Day, also known as Remembrance Day, cannot be overstated. Approximately 1.1 million Canadians have served in various conflicts, peace support operations, and international emergencies. Canadians have a rich military history, dating back to the Boer War at the turn of the 20th century. This observance serves as an opportunity for Canadians to respect and honour those who have served and those who continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as recognize the selfless contributions made by families of service members.

Observance of Veterans Day in Canada typically includes wearing red poppies on lapels, symbolizing the sacrifices made by military personnel. Commemorative ceremonies are held across the country, most notably at the National War Memorial in Ottawa where the Canadian government officials and thousands of citizens gather to pay their respects. A two-minute silence is observed at 11:00 a.m. on the 11th of November, marking the end of World War I, in remembrance of the fallen. This tradition serves as a poignant reminder of the courage, strength, and selflessness displayed by those who have served and those who continue to serve Canada.