Vermilion And Area Remembers On Remembrance Day

The ceremony at the Vermilion Cenotaph. Photo Lorna Hamilton.

Under a partly sunny sky and unusually warm November temperatures, a solemn gathering convened at the Vermilion Cenotaph on November 11 for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. In a powerful display of community solidarity, residents came together to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to honour those who continue to dedicate their lives to protecting the freedoms and democracy cherished by all.

The ceremony featured a traditional march that included representatives from federal, provincial, and municipal governments. The resonating notes of the National Anthem and Royal Anthem, the haunting tones of the Last Post and Lament, the uplifting sound of the Rouse, and a reflective two minutes of silence underscored the significance of the occasion. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 Chairman, Comrade Wayne Freestone, emceed the program. Comrade Darlene Carrier, also from Branch 11, led the Act of Remembrance, while Legion Chaplain Gordon Hill offered prayers and the benediction. The event concluded with the laying of wreaths, a symbolic gesture performed by dignitaries, community groups, and families. Special guests attended in recognition of those who have fallen and those who continue to serve.

In this solemn gathering, Vermilion stood united in gratitude, reaffirming the community’s commitment to ensuring that the memory of the sacrifices made by Canadian service members endures for generations to come.

Following the ceremony, attendees gathered at the Vermilion Royal Canadian Legion for a light lunch and additional ceremonial remarks. Throughout the week, the Royal Canadian Legion and the Vermilion Cadet Corps also held ceremonies at J.R. Robson School, St. Jerome’s School, and at the Vermilion & District Housing Foundation. The Legion further honoured the fallen by placing poppies and wreaths on their graves.

In an additional act of remembrance, the Lieutenant-Colonel W.C. Craig Armoury, in partnership with the Vermilion Archery Club, installed a shroud of poppies on each side of the Armoury’s front steps. The tribute commemorates the 194th Battalion, consisting of 936 soldiers, who boarded the RMS Olympic under the command of Lt. Col. W.C. Craig at Halifax Harbour on November 14, 1916, during the First World War. While not all soldiers were lost in the conflict, the veterans have since passed, and the display serves as a poignant reminder of their service. The shroud of poppies will remain in place until November 15, marking the day after the battalion’s departure.

The Armoury, Mannville Elks #395 and the Royal Purple Elks in Mannville on November 11 held a Remembrance Day march to the Cenotaph and then convened at the Mannville Elks Hall for a small service and lunch.