By Matt Weingarden
Residents, veterans, and dignitaries gathered outside town hall on Nov. 8 to honour Canada’s fallen soldiers during the Town of Tecumseh’s annual Remembrance Day service. The ceremony began at 11 a.m. at the Tecumseh Cenotaph.
Wreaths were laid, The Last Post echoed through the crowd, and a moment of silence was observed in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Mayor Gary McNamara shared that Canadians need to reflect on their freedom not only once a year, but every day. “We’re here today, obviously in remembrance of the fallen soldiers, those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to keep us as a free country,” McNamara said. “Our responsibility is more than doing this on November 11th. We should be thankful every day — in particular with what’s transpiring around the world today.”
He also mentioned that Remembrance Day is about honouring those currently serving and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. “It is a tribute to the fallen, but also a tribute to those who are here and those that follow,” McNamara said. “It’s heartwarming to see the youth that are here today and many others supporting the important lessons we need to continue to relay.”
Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti, who also serves as Essex County’s deputy warden, praised the local Legion branch for organizing the service. “Legion Branch 261 here in Tecumseh has traditionally always had a cenotaph service right at town hall,” Bachetti said. “I want to thank all the people and different groups that came out today.”
He noted several Remembrance Day ceremonies were taking place across the region throughout the weekend and on Nov. 11. “It’s not just the one day,” Bachetti said. “We need to recognize all the veterans that gave the supreme sacrifice for our freedom.” Bachetti added that schools play an important role in ensuring younger generations understand the meaning of Remembrance Day. “We need to educate our youth,” he said. “That’s why schools are open on November 11th — so they can do many activities to honour and acknowledge the veterans and keep the memories alive.”
Following Saturday’s service, an open house was held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 261, offering refreshments and fellowship. In recognition of Veterans’ Week, Tecumseh Town Hall was illuminated in red from Nov. 7 to 11.