‘We are remembering everyone.’ Students lay poppies to remember Halifax’s fallen

HALIFAX – They may be gone, but thanks to a growing initiative focused on youth, Canadian veterans will never be forgotten.

The ‘No Stone Left Alone’ campaign aims to recognize the sacrifice of Canadian men and women who lost their lives in their service, while educating students about all of the conflicts the country has been involved in and the sacrifices made.

Over 100 students from Gorsebrook Jr. High each placed a poppy at the foot of every military headstone in Fort Massey Cemetery in Halifax on Tuesday.

“It’s a good idea. And I think it’s good that we are remembering everyone,” said Saorla Miller.

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Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) John McEachern, who is involved with the No Stone Left Alone, said its a way to remember every fallen solider while also keeping the memory of their sacrifices alive among the youth of today.

“If they can come out, take part in a ceremony like this and actually see the names on the people on the grave sites, of people that actually died so they can live free. It means a lot to me and I think it will mean a lot to the children as well,” he said.

The No Stone Left Alone campaign started in Edmonton in 2011. This is the first time a ceremony was held in Halifax.

“I think it’s an amazing opportunity to have our school invited to take part in this. It’s such an amazing way that students can keep in mind those that have served,” said David LeBlanc, principal of Gorsebrook Jr. High.

Students who participated said they appreciated the experience.

“I think this is quite important because it engages youth and gives us a chance to remember,” said Sohun Pinto.

The campaign will have invited 5,400 students to lay 23,000 poppies in 83 cemeteries across the country by Remembrance Day.