More than 200 people gathered at the Bancroft Cenotaph on Wednesday for Remembrance Day ceremonies led by members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 181.
Families of veterans said paying tribute to the loved ones who served and being able to share the memories of their lives generations after their passing is vital for the community.
The sound of bagpipes filled the air as legion members, veterans, participating groups and attendees gathered near the legion building on Station Street before making their way to the Bancroft Cenotaph.
The crowd observed two minutes of silence followed by the traditional Lament, Rouse and the Act of Remembrance, the laying of wreaths, prayers and words of reflection.
The cenotaph in the heart downtown was built in 1956, dedicated to brave soldiers, nurses, pilots and medics.
Branch 181 formed at about the same time. They marked an important anniversary this year in conjunction with the national Royal Canadian Legion’s centennial.
The legion has worked with veterans and the broader community for generations.
Bancroft Legion President Stacy Talsma has noted that over the years, the legion has become a hub for people to come together, build friendships and help their community.
The community of veterans and their families goes back further than the establishment of the local legion.
Names and portraits of veterans can be found on large fabric banners placed on light posts lining streets they once walked.
One of the banners on Station Street is dedicated to John Robbins, who served during the First World War.
“We’re here because of him,” said Jessie Robbins, his great, great-granddaughter.
A few years ago, Dennis made a trip to northern France in honour of the great grandfather he never had the chance to meet.
“He was killed at Vimy Ridge and is buried over there,” explained Dennis Robbins, his great grandson.
In April 1917 some 3,598 Canadians were killed and another 7,000 wounded at the battle of Vimy Ridge.
In the years following the First World War, the French government ceded Vimy Ridge and the land surrounding it to Canada.
The Vimy Memorial holds the graves of 11,285 Canadian soldiers killed in battle in France.
Robbins said it’s important for veterans, families and their communities that ceremonies and acts of remembrance continue.
“They should be remembered,” said Robbins. “You can’t forget.”
