Communities across the Northwest Territories are preparing to mark Remembrance Day with ceremonies on November 11.
The annual observance falls on the anniversary of the 1918 armistice that brought the First World War to an end.
The day honours Canadians who have served in the armed forces, remembers those who have died in conflicts and recognizes those who continue to serve.
This year’s ceremonies carry added significance as the Royal Canadian Legion celebrates its 100th anniversary.
The organization plays a central role in remembering Canada’s veterans and supporting them and their families.
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In Inuvik, the local branch marked the milestone as it launched this year’s poppy campaign last month.
Indigenous Veterans Day was observed on Sunday, November 8. It recognized the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous people who served in Canada’s military, while acknowledging the discrimination and unequal treatment many experience during and after their service.
In Yellowknife, Remembrance Day commemoration begins with a cenotaph vigil on Tuesday, November 10.
A cadet contingent will march from the Joint Task Force North headquarters at 6pm, making its way to the cenotaph between City Hall and the RCMP building. A 10-minute ceremony will follow before an overnight vigil continues until 8am on Wednesday.
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On Remembrance Day, the annual parade will run from 9:55am to 10:20am. It will begin at City Hall on 49 Avenue, proceed along 49 Street and continue onto 51 Avenue, ending at 46 Street.
The Royal Canadian Legion’s Remembrance Day service will begin at 10:50am in the St Patrick and Weledeh school gyms. Members of the public are asked to be seated by 10:40am. The legion will open to the public following the service.
In Inuvik, Royal Canadian Legion McInnes Branch 220 will hold its Remembrance Day ceremony at the Midnight Sun Recreation Centre at 10:30am.
A bus will be available after the ceremony to take attendees to the cemetery cenotaph for the laying of wreaths.
Earlier this month, the branch also unveiled a plaque honouring Cpl Jordan Anderson, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2007. Anderson’s family lived in Inuvik.
In Fort Smith, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 239 will hold a Remembrance Day service at the Salt River First Nation Business and Conference Centre. Doors will open at 10am, with the ceremony beginning at 10:30am. The service will include a parade, two minutes of silence and wreath laying.
In Hay River, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 250 will hold a ceremony at the legion at 10:30am. All are welcome to attend.
In Norman Wells, Royal Canadian Legion Canol Branch 287 will hold a ceremony at 10:30am at the legion. The public is invited to attend and pay tribute to Canada’s veterans.
