Huge crowd honor Veterans at Remembrance Day Ceremonies in the Region

A huge crowd gathered on Tuesday in both Merritt and Lower Nicola to remember those who served Canada in past armed conflicts and to honor those who are still serving.

Temperatures reached 11 °C on Remembrance Day in Merritt as nearly 60 wreaths were laid at the cenotaph near the Merritt Civic Centre.

“The weather couldn’t have been more cooperative today,” said Alphonse L’Abbe, President of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 096. “It was a terrific turnout, and we are happy that many people turned out to honor those who fought around the world and remember those who didn’t make it home.”

Following the cenotaph service, everyone was invited to the Legion for lunch and fellowship.

In Lower Nicola, the Nicola Valley First Nations Veterans hosted their annual Remembrance Day ceremony in Shulus on Tuesday.

According to government statistics, there are some 23,000 Indigenous Veterans, and more than 2,700 Indigenous members currently serving in Canada’s military forces.