Editor:
After two years of our community not being able to gather together for our regular Remembrance Day service, I was so looking forward to a real service in the school followed by time at the cenotaph as we have had for many years.
However, that did not happen and those of us who could, gathered at the cenotaph in very cold weather in a very abbreviated event to honor our veterans.
The weather in Canmore can always be a problem, so having a service inside before forming up at the Legion was an opportunity for those who for whatever reason would not be able to stand outside for a period of time.
The inclusion of music, a choir, participation by our cadets and young people and a fitting message from a local pastor all served to make this the meaningful event that Remembrance Day warrants.
In my opinion, to have this celebration reduced to simply a small gathering outside on a cold day shows a lack of respect on a day that should be one of the most important in the year.
This is not a criticism of our local Legion. I believe they do what they can with the resources they have. But all across the country, government dignitaries – federal, provincial or municipal – are directly involved in Remembrance Day services – why not ours?
Jean Samis,
Canmore
