Today, on November 11, we will honour our nation’s veterans for the great sacrifices they made in service. Although services will be different again this year, it’s important to find ways to recognize the daily scarifies and heroism of our Canadian veterans and those currently serving.

Throughout history, Canadian soldiers have bravely protected our rights and freedoms. Their efforts have helped protect civilians around the world and they ensured freedom and security for Canadians at home. On Remembrance Day, we remember these soldiers and all those who gave their lives in the World Wars, Korean War and War in Afghanistan, as well as in ongoing peacekeeping missions and exercises. This year, we also recognize 75 years since the end of World War II and remember the sacrifices made during that time. Today, current members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) continue to bring aid to areas in conflict, in addition to providing support during times of crisis at home, including essential supports during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2021 also marks the 100th anniversary of the remembrance poppy in Canada. The tradition of wearing a poppy on Remembrance Day began with Madame Anna Guérin who was inspired by John McCrae's "In Flanders Fields" to adopt the distribution of the poppy as a way to raise money for Veterans' needs and to remember those who had given their lives during the First World War. In July of 1921, the Great War Veterans Association (which in 1925 would unify with other Veteran groups to form the Canadian Legion) adopted the poppy as the flower of Remembrance. Since then, the Legion and its members have upheld this tradition of Remembrance.

I encourage you to wear your poppy with pride today to honour the bravery of Canada’s Armed Forces, both past and present. By wearing your poppy, you honour and recognize the service of Canada’s veterans. To find a location that’s selling poppies, or to purchase other items from the Royal Canadian Legion’s online Poppy Store in support of Canada’s veterans, please visit legion.ca.

Thank you to our veterans and soldiers for helping keep Halton a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire.