Both of my parents are Dutch, and all of my ancestors are Dutch. So, the involvement of the Canadian Armed Forces in liberating the Netherlands in World War II is something for which my ENTIRE family is very thankful. Where would I be today...if they hadn't succeeded? Where would any of us be?
Today recognizes that one act and all of our acts towards peace - and the sacrifices made getting there.
When I was in London, I went every year to the cenotaph at the corner of Victoria Park. The first year I went, I was brought there by my aunt and uncle. It was great to share that with them. And, it was really great to tell them how much I value and honour Remembrance Day each year, when they had assumed I wouldn't have noticed or cared since I'm of a totally different era and I don't have the same memories or know all the stories that they do of those around them - parents, aunts, uncles, friends. It felt good to let them know the respect for Canadian Armed Forces has been passed down.
Last year, I got to share the ceremony with my sister. That was really sweet too. She has always had this fascination for World War II Jewish internment stories - it started with Anne Frank in high school, and she still has a keen interest when it comes to books or movies on the topic. So, it has an extra layer of interest for her - to remember all these people she has read about, mixed with our family connection.
This year, I did my research, asked some people for their favourite service and I planned on attending the "Winnipeg" service at the Convention Centre (there were several across the city for different troops, wars, etc). However, at the last minute I decided to attend the outdoor ceremony at the Legislature. This had been listed as a gun salute ceremony. And just in case you're planning on attending in the future - it really is *just* a gun salute.
I'm not going to lie, I was disappointed. I like the pomp and circumstance: the prayers, the songs, the veterans, the laying of wreaths... This was an "experience" though. And one that will stay with me.
They had three stationary, large shell guns lined up on the East side of the Legislature (between the Golden Boy and work, but not directed at work...). And, after walking around issuing several warnings about how loud it would be, they fired the first gun.
The gust of air from the firing moved my pants. The sound was HUGE. And it shook all of us. Everyone moved. Even those operating the machinery.
It was incredible to stand about 8 feet back from this gun and feel such a strong effect - and then to imagine it being amplified by several guns going off at the same time, or right after each other - and with the added fear of retaliation/attack. You can't read that sound in a book. You can't even imagine that sound in a conversation. You could see it in a movie - but it's not going to make your pants move.
After the guns had been fired 21 times, it was over. There hadn't been an announcement for silence at the start, nor was there a prayer or a moment of thanksgiving at the end. Just guns.
I took my time afterwards walking around a World War I monument that I see every morning, and then walking down Memorial Ave to stop and say thank you at each of the statues that have been erected - for the women, for the pilots and flight staff, for the peacekeepers, for World War II and Korea.
It was cold, and my feet were freezing, but the choice was mine.
Thank you for the freedom.
And thank you Manitoba for keeping Remembrance Day a holiday. I spent it wisely.
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