This Sunday millions of people around the world will hopefully take a few moments to remember those lost in battles or who have fought and lived to tell of their war experiences.
Remembrance is becoming more meaningful in recent years with the never-ending conflicts around the globe. With these deaths there is a vivid reminder of how vigilant we must be to guard the gift of peace and stability we enjoy here at home.
When the world is a relatively calm place, Remembrance Day can be a difficult day for the younger set, not to mention many adults, to relate to. Services may be well attended but the realities of war and loss are hard to connect with in times of relative calm. Often young people have little to bridge themselves to the wars of the past.
Even young adults and ‘baby boomers’ can be estranged from what it felt like to witness the horrendous realities of war.
Ultimately we grieve for the lives recently lost and are reminded of the loss of thousands of young Canadians who gave their lives during the First and Second World Wars, the Korean conflict and the peace-keeping missions around the world.
Helping to keep their stories and memories alive is Central Albertan Allan Cameron. He has spearheaded a charitable organization called Veterans Voices of Canada. He travels across the country interviewing veterans from various conflicts to learn about their experiences. These interviews are videotaped so that they can not only be meaningful for the families of the veterans, but also for future generations. Watching the videos viewers hear a firsthand account of what it was like to live through those unimaginable times. What makes it even more special is that viewers can watch the mannerisms, see the emotion and hear the voices of these men and women.
Each production is expertly produced and includes footage from the war years and photos of the veterans in their younger days. The videos are also enhanced by music and it’s like having a one-on-one conversation with these amazing men and women.
On Remembrance Day we’re all united in a common cause to consider what has been given for us – both recently and in the years before many of us were even born. The relevance of the day must never be forgotten. The point is, it’s just not another day off, too much has been lost and too high a price has been paid for anyone to have careless attitudes about such an important day.
We encourage Red Deerians to attend the services this Sunday at the Red Deer Arena and Veterans’ Park. Show your appreciation for the sacrifices these men and women gave for us.
