GLACE BAY, N.S. — Whether old or young, those who gathered in Glace Bay and New Waterford on Monday for annual Remembrance Day services were all there for the same reason.
“It’s important to remember those who fought to bring peace,” said eight-year-old Molly O’Keefe, in explaining the importance of the day.
O’Keefe and her family were among the several hundred people who attended the service in Glace Bay including her dad, Matt, a member of the 36 Canadian Brigade Group that is based in Sydney.
“It’s an important day for veterans to be recognized for their contributions,” said Sonny Blackmore, who was among the flag bearers representing branch 003, John Bernard Croak, Royal Canadian Legion, Glace Bay.
Blackmore, who served with the Royal Canadian Artillery, said while the significance of the day is certainly not lost on those who have served in the military and their families, he said there is always more others could do to ensure the remembrance of service is never lost or forgotten.
Military service runs deep in the Blackmore family as his twin sons, John and Jan, spent 32 years and 20 years respectively in the army and air force.
Maj. Jason Doyle, operations officer with the Cape Breton Highlanders, said for him the day is a simple tribute to those who served and a remembrance for the rest of us not to forget their sacrifices.
“I think there is always more we can do to honour our veterans,” said Doyle, who also served as the parade commander for Monday’s service.
He said that by attending such events, people are letting veterans know they have not been forgotten especially when Canadian military services are still being deployed in regions around the globe.
Master Warrant Officer Jason MacNeil of the 36 Signal Regiment based in Glace Bay, was also on hand in Glace Bay for Monday’s event.
He said society needs to ensure that all future generations are educated about the service of all veterans and such education needs to begin at an early age.
Having spent 22 years in the regular force and 11 years as a militia member, MacNeil said it has been a sense of family that keeps him involved with the military.
RELATED:
VIDEO: Serving those who served on the Northside
VIDEO: Membertou man remembers sacrifice made by his grandfather
VIDEO: Northside East Bay teen stands for the ones who can’t
