THUNDER BAY -- Every Remembrance Day ceremony means a lot to Elmer Auld but he said this year carries special significance.
The Second World War veteran said the recent killings of uniformed military members Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, 24, and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, 52, cast a solemn shadow as people from coast to coast stop and recognize the contributions of the nation's armed forces.
“It’s a sad thing, these two young fellows who got killed in the past month. Just terrible,” Auld said Tuesday following the annual Remembrance Day ceremony at the Fort William Gardens.
“I think it opens people’s eyes to see what the heck happened years ago…It really hits your heart.”
At least 2,000 people filled the stands at the Gardens for the ceremony, which saluted all of Canada’s contributions to global conflict and recognized the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Auld, who was one of about 12 surviving Second World War veterans able to participate, still has vivid memories from his time served.
“These ceremonies are all tough,” Auld said. “You think of all your buddies in the Second World War. I was a Navy man and I can still see them all in the water.”
The ceremony consisted of traditional elements such as laying of wreaths, playing of The Last Post, recitation of In Flanders Fields and a moment of silence at 11 a.m.
The veterans entered and exited the arena to salutes and standing ovations.
Navy veteran and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 past president Roy Lamore said even years later the recognition from the public still touches those who served.
“Seeing as many people out as this makes the veterans feel proud,” Lamore said. “We’ve got a real good country and we’re proud of it. We’re proud of Canada.”
Organizers of the ceremony also recognized the sacrifices made by Cirillo, who was gunned down at the National War Memorial in Ottawa on Oct. 22, and Vincent, who was struck by a vehicle in Quebec on Oct. 20.
Delbert Kangas, Post Commander of the Richard I Brong American Legion 435 in Superior, Wisc., attended the Thunder Bay ceremony for the fourth time.
He said the events commanded a “significant” amount of attention.
“I think this helps us all come back and feel proud of our service,” Kangas said. “It’s terrible that just because you wear a uniform some homegrown terrorist comes up and kills you. We have to support everyone in uniform.”
