Remembrance Day ceremony in New Ross steeped in military tradition

About 300 people gathered around Nova Scotia's oldest cenotaph on Remembrance Day to honor the men and women who served and lost their lives in military service. The ceremony, hosted by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 79, is a tradition the New Ross community holds in high regard. Ron Langevin, the legion's services officer, emphasized the town's strong military history, dating back to the Louis Riel uprising and the Boer War.

The original cenotaph was built in 1917 and dedicated to soldiers who served in World War I. Over the years, additional pieces were added to recognize veterans of World War II and beyond. The cenotaph was initially placed at the center of town in a roundabout, but due to vehicle damage, it was moved to its current location at the Legion. A group of World War II veterans, however, protested the relocation and took it upon themselves to drag the monument to its current site at the Legion.

Throughout the ceremony, community members laid wreaths at the cenotaph, paying tribute to the sacrifices made by those who served. A moment of silence was observed at 11 a.m., followed by an additional minute of silence in memory of the four soldiers killed during a training exercise at CFB Wainwright on October 17. Master of Ceremonies Keith Carter reminded attendees that these sacrifices are not limited to overseas conflicts, as Canadian forces members also train domestically to serve overseas duties.

Langevin reflected on the day, considering all aspects of the military community, from current veterans to the families of fallen service members. He emphasized the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices of all those who have served and continue to serve their country.