Remembrance Day

Today is Remembrance Day (originally known as Armistice Day, and to a lesser extent, Poppy Day) in Canada. Today is the 90th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice with Germany. We reflect on the sacrifice made by thousands of soldiers (and civilians), specifically Canadians, fighting in armed conflicts, specifically since the First World War. Although this day was first designed to commemerate those who fought in the First World War, it has been expanded to recognize those who served in World War 2, the Korean War, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and more recently Iraq and Afghanistan. However, I'm more of a purist and believe that it should be used to observe what it was designed for - moreso observing those who served in the World Wars, not necessarily those presently serving in Afghanistan.

Don't get me wrong, I mean no disrespect to those serving in the armed forces now. They are invaluable to our country. What I am getting at is that we wouldn't be where we are without those who fought to get us here. The soldiers of World War 1 and 2 fought to preserve our freedom to ensure we live in a democratic society, free from oppression and tyranny. The soldiers fighting presently in Afghanistan are not really fighting for our freedom per se, but to help those who live in that country.

So, to all of those who fought in the Great War and subsequent wars, thank you for your sacrifice.

This is the World War 1 Vimy Ridge memorial near Vimy, France

This is the war memorial at the Lancaster Museum in Nanton, Alberta, Canada