Over 300 residents gathered at the Community Center on November 11 to honour those who sacrificed for Canada.
The Remembrance Day Ceremony featured representatives from every level of government, girl guides, relatives of those who have served and members of the Eckville Royal Canadian Legion laying wreaths in honour of those who payed the ultimate sacrifice so that we could live in freedom.
Legion member Janeil Humphrey was honoured to be able to part of the honour guard that lead the procession into the Community Center.
“It wasn’t really something that I anticipating being part of,” she said. “I always really looked up to the people that have been part of it so I am very thankful to stand up with everyone. They are people I respect and am lucky to have grown close too.”
Humphrey like many in attendance, was paying her personal tributes to her relatives that have served their country for her and her family.
“It is always an emotional day for me,” she said. “I have had family who have served including my great-uncles on my mom’s side. When I hear stories, it brings back to what they experienced. Just generally thinking about the sacrifices people have made for us - it has always made me feel very lucky.”
Sharing the stories of veterans is something that Humphreys feels is very important and is why she volunteers her time to help young people learn about the sacrifices Canadians have made.
“Kids today are so far removed from that, so it is crucial for them to hear the stories and appreciate what they have,” she said. “That is why I like to be involved with the poster and literary contest. It gives them the opportunity to think about why they are writing poems and drawing pictures. We are so lucky in Canada to have what we have.”
Humphrey was pleased to see the large attendance from the residents of Eckville and was thankful. for the people who participated in the ceremony.
“I really like to thank everyone who came and took part,” she said. “Thank you for the wreath layers and the delegates present. In a town to have 300 people attend is neat to see. It shows how important things like this are and a gathering like that shows me how lucky I am to be part of a community like this.”
reporter@eckvilleecho.com