Remembrance Day services in Red Deer were well attended again, which I am very glad to see.
Among us were those who lived through it all, then those of us who came along in the recovery era of those lives, and now many of the children who are blessed to learn about the freedom we have all known and loved because of the dedicated lives that were given for our country.
The Red Deer Arena was packed and many had standing room only. The Red Deer Royals and the Legion Pipe and Drum band were fantastic as always. The colour party was perfect, as was the Last Post trumpeter.
Many clubs and support groups of all ages were present along with our loved RCMP.
The program was well planned and printed.
What happened to the sound system? Why could my friends and I in the closest northwest corner not hear? We did not hear the presentation of the Silver Cross Mother, Cora Fedyk, at all nor the speech given by the padre in white or even his name.
Much of what the MC and chair said was lost and I do not have a hearing problem!
Why do they not use the sound system used at hockey games?
Our group then proceeded to the Legion, which was also packed. There we enjoyed sandwiches and coffee (or beer) and shared being together.
When the planned part of the program started, however, the same problem continued as those in the north half of the building were not able to hear the music or presentations.
There was obviously a lot of team work, effort and planning that went into all of the Remembrance Day and the importance it holds in our lives. However, it is very disappointing to make the effort to go there if you are not able to hear what is said.
The Legion is struggling to survive into the next generation. My prayer is that these observations can help to tweak these areas of need before the next 11/11/11.
Thanks you for listening.
Winnie Jackson
Red Deer