The St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB) is recognizing Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day by lowering flags at all schools and the Catholic Education Centre from the end of the day Friday, November 7, until the morning of Wednesday, November 12.
Indigenous Veterans Day, observed annually on November 8, honours the contributions of Indigenous peoples to Canada’s military service, particularly during the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. As November 8 falls on a Saturday this year, ceremonies will be held by Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Bkejwanong Territory (Walpole Island First Nation), Caldwell First Nation, Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation at Moraviantown), and Kettle and Stony Point First Nation on either Saturday, November 8 or Monday, November 10.
Remembrance Day ceremonies, which honour members of the armed forces in Canada and across allied countries who have died in the line of duty, will take place Tuesday, November 11.
“The lowering of our flags in recognition of these solemn and important national observances is a demonstration of the Board’s highest level of respect and gratitude for all armed services personnel who have served the cause of freedom,” said Lisa Demers, Director of Education. “We give thanks to God for their service to our country and their commitment to world peace, as we pray for His blessings of comfort for their families.”
The observance concluded with the traditional lines from For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon:
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”
