Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and members of the Royal Canadian Legion affix the first poppies to the City of Vaughan Poppy Wall.
Every November, Canadians remember the men and women who have served in our armed forces to preserve our country's freedom and independence. The City of Vaughan is once again honouring their contribution and sacrifice by inviting visitors and staff to write a personal message on paper poppies that will be displayed on the poppy wall in the atrium of Vaughan City Hall until Nov. 12.
Today, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Members of Council, joined by local veterans and citizens, placed the first poppies on the wall during a special ceremony. The Atrium also features a display that honours the dedication and service of Vaughan veterans, as part of the commemoration of the centenary end of the First World War.
"This year, as we mark 100 years since the end of the First World War, we remember the strong, resilient and brave soldiers who protected Canada with unwavering courage. During this annual event, and on Remembrance Day each year, we recognize and reflect on the sacrifices of the men and women who serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. We must never forget that the prosperity and opportunities we enjoy each day have come at tremendous and unthinkable costs.
"The freedoms Canadians enjoy today are owed to the sacrifices made by our brave armed forces, who contribute to the cause of freedom throughout the world. From Vimy Ridge and Juno Beach, to the Korean War and Afghanistan, as well as in peacekeeping missions around the world, Canadian peacekeepers have worked to protect our values. There are approximately 600,300 Canadian Armed forced veterans alive today, including approximately 50,300 Canadian Second World War veterans and 7,700 Korean War veterans.
"Remembrance Day is a reminder to pause, reflect and show gratitude to everyone who served, to the people who continue to serve, and to give special recognition and thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our community and our nation.
"The poppy is a symbol of honour that we wear to give thanks and show respect to those who fought, those who lost their lives and those who still defend our country today. The City of Vaughan, with the help of the community, is once again proud to create a poppy mural to commemorate those who have given so much for Canada. I invite everyone to write a message on a poppy and pay tribute to the service people who have safeguarded the liberties we cherish.