Nov. 11: save the date to remember, Thunder Bay veteran says

A World War II veteran from Thunder Bay says he has mixed feelings about making Remembrance Day a mandatory holiday for schools and workplaces.

Right now it's a holiday for federal workers and for some provinces and territories, but not Ontario.

The past president of Thunder Bay Legion Branch 5 says it's a good idea if people use the day to attend Remembrance ceremonies.

“But if it's going to mean a holiday for an individual that's going to go fishing or do other things, then I'm kind of against it,” Roy Lamore said.

“This is something that all Canadians have to remember, and it has to be done on Nov. 11.”

Lamore said it's also important that school-aged children continue to attend services and be taught the importance of Remembrance Day and to reflect on the reality of "what war is all about ... it's not fun and games."

He noted that, if a nationwide holiday is declared, but kids don't show up for Remembrance Day after a couple of years, then the holiday should be revoked. 

"If they spend some time at a cenotaph or any place where there are Remembrance Day services, then it will be a good thing,” Lamore continued.

“Maybe we can draw more people out to services."

Thunder Bay Remembrance Day services

North core

Cenotaph

• 9:45 a.m. Buses leave Port Arthur Legion Branch No.5
• 10:10 a.m. Vigil guard mounted at cenotaph
• 10:20 a.m. March on the Colours and parade (Old Guard and New Guard), singing of O Canada, wreath laying
• 10:59 a.m. Fly past (weather permitting). L.S.S.R. Firing Party
• 11:00 a.m. Two minutes of silence
• 11:15 a.m. Parade will move south to St. Paul’s Church for a memorial service. Ceremonies will conclude at the end of the church service.

Anyone wishing to return to the Royal Canadian Legion Port Arthur Branch No.5 will be bused from the church

South core

Fort William Gardens

• 10:15 a.m. Individuals laying wreaths will gather in the lobby
• 10:30 a.m. Spectators should be seated
• 10:40 a.m. Parade will begin on Vickers Street sidewalk and march into Gardens
• Program will include invocation, firing of volleys, prayers, laying of wreaths, guest speaker, prayers and song.

Mt. McKay

The service at the Fort William First Nation cenotaph begins at 10:15 a.m., followed by a luncheon in the community centre. 

How will you remember?

Take a photo or make a short video that shows Canadians how you plan to pay your respects this year?  You can share it with us on social media, using the hashtag #HowIRemember. We will be watching for submissions on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Vine. You can also email us at [email protected].