The somber sound of the Last Post rang out over Waterloo Region as people paused to honour the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Remembrance Day ceremonies were held throughout the country Tuesday for those who served our country and those who died in battle. A large crowd gathered at the Waterloo cenotaph as active members of the Canadian Armed Forces and veterans marched along Regina Street. “I think we should all reflect on what Remembrance Day actually is to us,” attendee Matthew Palmer said. “I know for me, it really hits home because I miss my grandpa that was in the army, in the Armed Forces. Seeing all these veterans, it’s amazing.” Despite the grey skies overhead, and the lingering snow on the ground, people stood silently to pay their respects, recognizing that members of the Armed Forces and veterans endured far worse conditions in the pursuit of freedom. “I think it was a beautiful ceremony and certainly one of the largest turnouts that I’ve seen,” Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe said. “It’s always really moving to see really young children to the very oldest and the veterans here. And I think Waterloo really showed up in a big way this morning.” Ron Ormson, a former reserve acting commander and recipient of the Canadian Forces’ Decoration, went to the cenotaph. “My daughter is in Latvia with the army right now,” he explained. Latvia is home to Canada’s largest overseas military deployment, according to the Government of Canada. Canada leads the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia under Operation REASSURANCE. Canadian Armed Forces members are contributing to deterrence and defence measures in Central and Eastern Europe. “That was really important as we go forward to remember our past but know that the future is before us too, and we have to really be vigilant,” Ormson said. “It’s important for Canadians to recognize the fact that we need a strong military going forward.” McCabe acknowledged the current unrest around the world and the important sacrifice people are willing to make for their country. “We are living in uncertain times. I think maybe there’s perhaps a bit more of a real reality around just how important it is to make sure that our communities and our country are safe and secure,” she said.
