Every country has a unique history, but some dates are so significant that we wish our generations to remember and celebrate them.
Pragya
For instance, if you are in Canada around 11th November, you will know it’s something special there. Yeah, they celebrate 11th November as Remembrance Day. It is to recall Canadian military history, the date soldiers stopped attacking, and the day the First World War formally ended. The purpose behind this is to tell younger generations about those who fought and represented their nation during wartime.
If you have no idea about this day in Canada, let me introduce you to some more interesting facts relating to it. I know you are eager to know that, so let’s begin-
1. Armistice Day
It was originally known as “Armistice Day,” Remembrance Day marked the conclusion of World War I on November 11, 1918.
2. Poppy Campaign
Money generated through the Poppy Campaign helps army Canada’s Veterans in need. It’s incredible to think that the tradition of wearing poppies dates back to a time of commemoration that spanned from the last Friday in October until November 11th, Remembrance Day. What’s even more remarkable is that people also wear poppies at remembrance occasions throughout the year, including combat anniversaries.
3. National Remembrance Day Ceremony
#Recap! The Canadian Army took part in Remembrance Day ceremonies across Canada to commemorate the brave soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
— Canadian Army (@CanadianArmy) November 16, 2023
Lest We Forget. pic.twitter.com/esupRZ6Ncg
The National Remembrance Day Ceremony, led by the Governor, is conducted at the War Memorial in Ottawa and is aired nationally. You can watch this ceremony either from your hotel or even look up public places airing the same to get the full Canadian experience!
4. The National (Silver) Cross Mother
The National (Silver) Cross Mother is a symbol for all moms whose sons or daughters are deceased while serving in the military. The Royal Canadian Legion chooses the yearly honoree and sets a wreath at the bottom of the War Memorial during the National Remembrance Day Ceremony. An emotional yet strong way to pay tribute indeed, don’t you think?
5. A Statutory Holiday
I have to tell you this. You must remember the varying observances of Remembrance Day across the country before planning your itinerary for travelling, as except for Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday in most Canadian provinces.
6. 11-11-11
At 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, Canadians pause for a moment of silence to observe and remember the ultimate sacrifice. If you are in Canada, you must do it, as a sign of respect.
7. Wars Fought by Canadian Military Personnel
Do you know that Canadian military personnel have fought across World Wars, the Korean War, the South African War, the Arab-Israeli Conflict in 1974, and Afghanistan, among other conflicts?
8. Remembrance Day Was Held on Thanksgiving
Historically, Remembrance Day was held on the same day as Thanksgiving. However, many veterans and civilians advocated for the holidays to be honoured separately, and they moved Thanksgiving to a different date in 1931.
9. John McCrae’s Poem
Canadian John McCrae wrote the poem In Flanders Fields, which has become associated with Remembrance Day, they frequently recite it during commemorations, so if you want to indulge in the same, look up the lyrics and sing with your full heart!
10. Poppy Always on the Left
You will notice one thing. the Legion recommends wearing the poppy on the left lapel of clothing, as the right to the heart is workable and honours the soldiers. It’s a powerful gesture that unites Canadians in remembrance and gratitude. So, wear a poppy and become a part of the authentic Canadian culture in its truest essence!
11. The Victoria Cross
For their respective acts on various occasions during the assault on Passchendaele, one of the most heroic and devastating battles of the First World War, Sergeant Thomas William Holmes and James Peter Robertson were awarded the Victoria Cross.
12. The Last British Soldier
A big surprising fact now! Harry Patch, the last British soldier to survive the First World War, survived to the age of 111, he passed away in 2009.
13. Aboriginal Canadians
During the First World War, over 4,000 Aboriginal Canadians fought for Canada, accounting for roughly one-third of Aboriginal men qualified for combat.
14. Korean War Killed Canadians
The Korean War killed 516 Canadians, making it the third-worst conflict in Canadian history.
15. Afghanistan
Before operations ended in March 2014, around 40,000 Canadians had served in Afghanistan.
16. The Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is situated near the War Memorial, it houses the bones of an unnamed Canadian soldier slain during World War I. The tomb commemorates all Canadians killed in action who are buried unmarked. As you stand before the Tomb, you won’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served the country.
Impact on the Future Generation
I think one of the aims of celebrating the remembrance day is to spread awareness among young Canadians about the selfless military service of the armed forces of their country. The Royal Canadian Legion does not support making the day a national holiday.
Instead, it believes that a mandatory procedure for the remembrance day will be followed in schools, and children can better understand the significance of celebrating this day through presentations and speeches.
An initiative like Canada’s Remembrance Day is undoubtedly a wonderful means by which the general public can better understand how some unknown heroes of their country served to maintain peace and the integrity of the nation.
Last Updated on April 21, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
