Remembrance Day 2015, another emotional day to reflect and remember. This year I volunteered with my son’s grade one class and visited the local Cenotaph.
It was the biggest turnout they’ve ever had. The Veteran who facilitated the ceremony was wonderful. He explained the ceremony to the kids and kept the mood upbeat while maintaining the respect and attention a Remembrance Day ceremony deserves. 
I spoke with the facilitator after the ceremony and he told me, he thinks the kids today really “get it” more than most of the adults.
We agreed the communication has to be there. War is not a comfortable topic but if we don’t talk about it with our kids and engage them in the conversation, it is pointless to expect attention and respect on such an important day.
Take the time to talk to your kids and explain that Remembrance Day is not just about the fallen soldiers. It’s also about the ones who’ve survived. Remembrance Day is about the families who sacrifice so much to share their loved ones. Remembrance Day is about the Veterans who suffer with memories and trauma of war. Remembrance Day is about honouring every person who has ever served.
Over 50 wreathes were laid at the cenotaph
Cathy Bulger is an amazing woman, and one of many we remember on Remembrance Day She laid the first wreath. Her son Cpl Nick Bulger died in 2009 while serving in Afghanistan.
Something I learned this Remembrance Day was to place your poppy in the wreaths or around the cenotaph. It is not good practice to wear the poppy after Remembrance Day ceremonies. I think it’s important to ask questions. Every Veteran I know is happy to answer them. I think many people are intimidated to ask protocol or etiquette questions because they think they should just know. I did not grow up in a military home and when I started working with the Canadian Forces as a broadcaster, I quickly learned they are approachable and eager to answer questions.
The concept of war can be a tricky one to talk to kids about. Talking to them about how soldiers leave their families for a long time and work really hard to keep our country awesome is a good start. Here is a quick little vlog of the grade ones and the Remembrance Day ceremony. They may wanna work on their lyrics to O’Canada 😉
Thank you. I will not forget and I will not let my children forget to remember you.
MF
Hey Michelle. I learning to use (yes finally) the computor. Great story of your visit to the Remembrance Day Service. Hugs from Kathy BULGER. Xxxx