Residents of Portage and area are invited to attend the annual Remembrance Day service at Stride Place on Monday, November 11th.
It's an annual event in Portage honoring Canada’s veterans and fallen soldiers and in the past has drawn a significant crowd. Bob Oldford of the Royal Canadian Legion Portage Branch is one of the organizers and he recommends attendees arrive early to secure a seat.
“We’d like people to be seated by 10:30,” Oldford said. “That way, the march of current serving members and veterans can begin before 11 a.m. when the moment of silence will happen.”
Remembrance Day, observed since the end of World War I, holds deep significance as Canadians come together to remember the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. The tradition of a two-minute silence at 11:00 a.m., marked by the solemn “Last Post,” underscores the respect and gratitude felt for those who have served.
Portage la Prairie's history of strong attendance at Remembrance Day events is something that deeply resonates with veterans like Oldford.
“When you see all those people there, it means the community is remembering,” said Oldford, who attended a moving school service at Portage Collegiate Institute this past Tursday. He noted that other schools also hosted ceremonies, which shows a broad community commitment to honoring veterans.
No tickets are required for the Stride Place service, and all are welcome to attend. Oldford also highlighted the impact of poppy donations, which will continue to be counted after Remembrance Day. The funds raised contribute to veteran support initiatives within the community, reinforcing that every coin or bill donated goes back to the community.
If you would like to pay tribute to Canada’s heroes this Remembrance Day but cannot attend an event, CFRY, Mix 96 and Country 93 will all have short programs that begin just after 10:50 a.m. and end with the moment of silence and the playing of the Last Post as well.