A sombre gathering outside Tecumseh Town Hall on Saturday morning paid tribute to those who have served. More than 100 people surrounded the Tecumseh Cenotaph to listen to the annual Remembrance Day ceremony as the sounds of bagpipes and trumpets echoed down the street. The service saw veterans from various conflicts and wars mark the occasion and pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate price. Darrin Drouillard, Chair of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 26, said people often associate veterans with the World Wars, but Canadian military service extends much further. “What we have to understand is… This service to the country through our veterans continued through Korea, through Afghanistan, and even in peacekeeping times,” Drouillard said. Throughout remarks, dignitaries and officials referenced the ongoing sacrifices Canadian military members continue to make. Most recently, four Canadian Armed Forces members at CFB Wainwright in Alberta were killed in a fire, and dozens of other members were injured. Among them was Daniel Thrasher, who grew up in Tecumseh. “So, I think it hits close to home when you see some local soldiers and some local people that are involved currently,” Drouillard said. Organizers noted Saturday’s ceremony saw a larger turnout compared to recent years. In the crowd of people were about 60 cadets and dozens more local scouts. “So, I think it’s vitally important that we have so many young people that come out to these services, as it’s important to share those traditions and extend that to the youth,” Drouillard said. Tecumseh holds its ceremonies ahead of Nov. 11 to allow residents and legion members to attend the service in Windsor.
