On Wednesday, Canadians all over the country took time to remember the soldiers and veterans who fought in wars around the globe. In Lethbridge, a series of Remembrance Day services and events were held to mark the day. Hundreds gathered at the Lethbridge cenotaph for an annual Remembrance Day service. Members of the 20th Independent Field Battery took part in the ceremony and stood vigil at the cenotaph. “Seeing the numbers rise over the years is very encouraging,” said Jonathan Fawcett, 20th Independent Field Battery bombardier. “It gives a lot of the practice we put in throughout the year more meaning to actually have the civilian population come out and actually represent our country and then be able to watch us as we perform and stand on parade for Remembrance Day.” Closer to noon, hundreds more gathered at the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre for an indoor service. The strong attendance across both events didn’t go unnoticed. “It’s great to see the people of southern Alberta come out and support the veterans and remember those who never returned,” said Les Androkovich, Royal Canadian Legion Lethbridge executive. “It’s fantastic to see the crowds today. Absolutely amazing. You gave us the freedoms and the privileges that we now have, so I feel privileged to be taking part of the ceremony.” Those organizing and taking part in these services see it as a duty and an honour. They see it as doing their part to make sure the legacies of those who served aren’t forgotten. “I feel like, nowadays, it’s something that’s easy to forget, and one day often isn’t enough to really, really give due to the veterans before us,” Fawcett said. Attendees across the events each had their own reasons for being there. Some may have served or have family who did. Others simply wanted to honour the sacrifices that have been made. “My father was in World War II with the Royal Canadian Engineers, and I was a militia member for two years, enlisted in the 20th Battery,” one person said. “It’s nice to see the community coming together and celebrating and honouring those who serve,” said another. The General Stewart Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, is slated to be open until 9 p.m. on Remembrance Day, with discounted food and drinks.
