THUNDER BAY – A service was held at the Mount McKay Cenotaph in spite of harsh weather conditions, to honour the soldiers who served Canada in even harsher conditions.
“This service was started in about 1995 by my father, Private Frank Banning, in an effort to help him cope with his PTSD from World War 2, and it’s just a wonderful service usually, but the weather’s not cooperating today,” said organizer Catherine Banning.
“But, it is what it is, the soldiers have been through worse conditions than this, so we can barrel through it today.”
Many residents of Fort William First Nation and the City of Thunder Bay made the journey, which was made all the more treacherous by torrential rain and 80 kilometre winds.
The service was condensed as organizers were unable to set up the sound system without fear of the equipment toppling and being destroyed.
The Remembrance ceremony was also attended by a few notable figures including, Fort William First Nation Chief Peter Collins, Thunder Bay Mayor Bill Mauro, Anishinabek Nation Regional Deputy Grand Council Chief Melvin Hardy, and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Derek Fox who carried the NAN Veterans Eagle staff.
“Throughout the years, hundreds of our members have stepped forward in defense of Canada and its interests during two World Wars and conflicts around the globe. We must always remember and be thankful for the great sacrifice of those who have fallen and those who continue to serve today,” said Fox in a release,
“This week we honour all of our fallen warriors and our many members who continue this proud tradition of service in the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Rangers, and police services across our Nations. While there may still be restrictions on public gatherings due to COVID-19, we encourage everyone to take time to honour veterans, and those who continue to serve, by keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.”
The ceremony was shortened but still featured a prayer song followed by the Canadian National anthem and then The Last Post, two minutes of silence followed by the Rouse, and finally the wreaths were laid at the Mount McKay cenotaph.
