‘We should be thankful every day’: Tecumseh honours Canada’s fallen heroes

Residents gathered outside town hall Saturday morning to honour Canada’s fallen soldiers during the Town of Tecumseh’s annual Remembrance Day service.

The ceremony began at 11 a.m. at the Tecumseh Cenotaph following a parade of veterans, local officials, first responders and community members.

Wreaths were laid, The Last Post echoed through the crowd, and a moment of silence was observed in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Mayor Gary McNamara said it’s important for Canadians to reflect on their freedom not only once a year, but every day.

“We’re here today, obviously in remembrance for the fallen soldiers, those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to keep us as a free country,” McNamara said.

“Our responsibility is more than doing this on November 11th. We should be thankful every day — in particular with what’s transpiring around the world today.”

He added that Remembrance Day is also about recognizing the contributions of those currently serving and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

“It is a tribute to the fallen, but also a tribute to those who are here and those that follow,” McNamara said.

“It’s heartwarming to see the youth that are here today and many others supporting the important lessons we need to continue to relay.”

Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti, who also serves as Essex County’s deputy warden, praised the local Legion branch for organizing the service.

“Legion Branch 261 here in Tecumseh has traditionally always had a cenotaph service right at town hall,” Bachetti said.

“I want to thank all the people and different groups that came out today.”

He noted several Remembrance Day ceremonies are taking place across the region throughout the weekend and on Nov. 11.

“It’s not just the one day,” Bachetti said. “We need to recognize all the veterans that gave the supreme sacrifice for our freedom.”

Bachetti added that schools play an important role in ensuring younger generations understand the meaning of Remembrance Day.

“We need to educate our youth,” he said. “That’s why schools are open on November 11th — so they can do many activities to honour and acknowledge the veterans and keep the memories alive.”

Following Saturday’s service, an open house was held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 261, offering refreshments and fellowship.

In recognition of Veterans’ Week, Tecumseh Town Hall has been illuminated in red from Nov. 7 to 11.

Poppies are available at various locations across the community, including Legion Branch 261 on Lesperance Road.