McLennan Legion’s oldest members Vianney Limoges, (left) age 91, and Loren Hick , 84, lay wreath for Canadians at the cenotaph.

Emotions of war were replayed during Remembrance Day ceremonies Nov. 11 as over 200 people packed the Elks Hall in McLennan to pay tribute to loved ones and other Canadians who lost their lives during world wars. Veteran remembers war experiences “This planet has been given to us to either develop it or to ruin it,” says special guest speaker Paul Maisonneuve, 89, a former longtime resident of the Guy and McLennan area who served in World War 2 in Europe. He shared his vivid memories and sad experiences of war, which included participating in a Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa several years ago. “People were shaking our hands and thanking us,” says Maisonneuve, now of Edmonton. “It was very satisfying.” Remembering those who fought in World War 2 is very important, since few veterans will remain living in about five years, says Legion poppy chair Don Fish, who was master of ceremonies. “If you know any war veterans, now is the time to remember them,” says Fish. Those words were echoed by guest speaker, Hector Goudreau, Dunvegan – Central Peace MLA. He reflected on the valuable contributions of those individuals who have served in the wars. “We remember those who have fallen, and think of those who continue to put their lives at risk, protecting Canadian values and freedom,” says Goudreau. “In remembrance, we offer a moment of silence.” “Even though the silence lasts but two minutes, the eerie stillness presents a surreal atmosphere in which to reflect on our memories and thoughts.” “For those with memories of war, the silence may seem to last an eternity.” “Though horrific, accounts of war can remind us why we did or did not fight.” “We fight for those values we hold so dear.” “We fight for freedom – freedom to think, to move, to speak, to worship, to have a say in the election of governments, to be afforded the proper privileges of our legal system, to won and dispose of property, to raise a family, and to educate our children.” “Today, we acknowledge this selfless sense of duty a soldier offers.” “A duty that gratitude can never entirely repay.” “A duty that reinforces our hope.” “And a duty which compels us to savour all which we have been offered here in Canada – knowing that our freedoms have not come without a heavy price.” About 20 wreaths were laid to conclude the service inside the hall before the Legion colour party led the parade to the Legion hall where the Legion’s oldest members Vianney Limoges, 91, and Loren Hick, 84, laid a wreath at the outdoor cenotaph. Noella Charest of Falher, whose husband, Gaston, fought in World War 2, laid the wreath to represent the Silver Cross Mothers. For local municipalities, wreaths were laid by Municipal District of Smoky River Reeve Donald Dumont, Town of Falher Mayor Margaret Tardif, Town of McLennan Mayor Don Regier, Village of Girouxville Councillor Pauline Chouinard, and Village of Donnelly Mayor Charly Doyle. Northern Lights Choir sang two songs under the direction of D.J. (Donna Jean) Hicks. Several new framed tributes to local people who died in wars were also unveiled at the Legion hall.