Huntsville be honouring area veterans with a parade this Remembrance Day.
The event, hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Huntsville Branch 232, will kick off at the Cenotaph on Nov. 11 and make its way down Main St.
Betty Smith, immediate past president of the Legion, says It’s a time that the country gathers to remember and respect the past.
“We need to remember all the families that served, all the veterans, those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that we’re protected. And it’s imperative that we never forget the sacrifice that the veterans and their families made and those that were left behind,” says Smith.
Smith says Remembrance Day is essential for her because her grandfather and uncles fought in the Second World War.
Tony Evans, Sergeant Arms and Assistant Veterans Affairs Officer at the Legion, says Remembrance Day is a very poignant day for him.
“My grandfather was a World War One veteran of the British Army, and my father was in World War Two. He was in the Royal Air Force, and he, unfortunately, didn’t come home,” shares Evans.
Evans says they expect about 75 people to show up and support the parade.
Smith adds during the parade, they will take the salute in front of the town hall.
“The parade will have our coloured party, the members of the Legion and members of the public that just want to march to show their respect,” continues Smith. “There is a lunch after the parade for all Huntsville and surrounding area.”
She says they are excited as this is the largest fundraiser they have, adding lots of residents have supported them with their donations and wearing poppies. She also says a lot of people purchase wreaths to lay in memory of a family member, a group or a business.
“Without the town supporting us and all the donations we get at this time of year, we would not be able to support our veterans the way we’re able to,” says Smith.
