On November 11, Canadians across the country pause to honour our veterans and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom and peace today.
Remembrance Day was first observed in 1919, originally called Armistice Day, to mark the armistice agreement that ended the First World War on November 11, 1918 — the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. More than a century later, the day continues to hold deep meaning for Canadians everywhere.
A Time to Remember and Be Grateful
While we are no longer involved in a major war, Remembrance Day remains a solemn and meaningful reminder of the cost of peace. The freedoms we enjoy today were hard won through the courage and sacrifice of those who served.
More than 118,000 Canadians have died in military service, from the First and Second World Wars to more recent conflicts and peacekeeping missions. Today, Remembrance Day also gives us the chance to thank all veterans — those who served and continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCMP. It’s a time to reflect, to learn from history, and to teach younger generations about the value of peace, democracy, and freedom.
Supporting Veterans Close to Home
Here in Slave Lake, the Royal Canadian Legion continues its proud tradition of service to veterans and their families. Each year, the Legion runs its Poppy Campaign, raising funds to support those who served our country. From the last Friday in October until November 11, Canadians across the nation — and right here in northern Alberta — wear a poppy as a visible pledge to remember.
You can pick up a poppy from local businesses or directly from the Slave Lake Legion Branch, located at 400 Main Street. The branch is open from 4 to 8 p.m. daily until November 10, with traditional poppies and other items available for purchase.
Community Effort: Sponsor a Cross
Over the past four years, the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Arts Council has led an initiative, involving students, seniors, and community volunteers, to decorate and display crosses along Main Street. This year, the Slave Lake Cadets proudly installed the crosses, continuing a heartfelt act of remembrance.
If you’d like to sponsor a cross or make a donation to support local veterans, please contact the Slave Lake Legion at sllegion@outlook.com.
A Nation’s Ongoing Commitment
Today, more than 90,000 Canadians serve in the Canadian Armed Forces as members of the Regular and Primary Reserve Forces, and another 461,240 Canadians are veterans. In total, more than 2.3 million Canadians have served our country — and more than 118,000 gave their lives defending the values that define Canada.
Across the nation, we continue traditions such as the two-minute silence, a quiet moment of reflection for those lost to war, and the wearing of the red poppy, a symbol of remembrance and peace.
Looking Forward with Gratitude
For the Vanderwell family, whose history in northern Alberta stretches back to the Second World War — a time when many of our family members also served — Remembrance Day carries special meaning. It is a day not only to honour the past, but also to look forward with hope.
We remember with gratitude, we honour with respect, and we continue to work toward a peaceful and better future for all Canadians.
