The Alberta-NWT Command of the Royal Canadian Legion has decided not to host any large, indoor Remembrance Day ceremonies this year.
But Red Deer’s Legion will still be hosting a ceremony.
As Remembrance Day approaches, Alberta continues to be in a state of public health emergency and Albertans, including our veterans, continue to deal with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, the Alberta-NWT Command said in a recent press release.
Large, indoor gatherings simply pose too great a risk to the health and safety of our veterans and to the public at this point, the release added.
“Albertans have always been supportive of Canada’s veterans and one of the ways that they demonstrate this is by participating in public Remembrance Day activities,” said John Mahon, president, Alberta-NWT Command, The Royal Canadian Legion.
“This year, we are asking Albertans to take the two minutes, at 11 o’clock on Nov. 11, to remember the sacrifices that Canada’s veterans have made on their behalf, but to do so at home, or wherever they might be.”
Individual Royal Canadian Legion branches in the province may hold small, outdoor ceremonies on Remembrance Day in compliance with any restrictions.
The Red Deer Legion will host a Nov. 11 Remembrance Service at Servus Arena at 10:30 a.m. Proof of vaccination will be required at the event.
Meanwhile, the Red Deer Legion’s poppy campaign is underway as well. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/reddeerlegion.
Tammy Wheeler, Alberta-NWT Command executive director, said while there won’t be large gatherings, “it is no less important to take the time to remember.”
“This is an opportunity for us all to remember, with our loved ones, at home while helping to ensure that we continue to keep our veterans and our neighbours safe,” said Wheeler.
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