Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Remembrance Day ceremonies across the country were scaled back or cancelled due to restrictions around large gatherings.
However, one of Edmonton’s historically best-attended ceremonies went ahead, but with several restrictions in place.
This year marks the 100th Remembrance Day at the Beverly Memorial Cenotaph. The ceremony, which usually includes a church ceremony and parade, was held by invitation only.
The small ceremony was held at the cenotaph and included about 100 people. The church service and parade were cancelled. Masks were worn and physical distancing was urged.
“This has certainly been a different kind of year,” said Joe Luce, who hosted the ceremony.
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He specifically addressed all the people watching at home online who couldn’t attend in person.
“We know this is tough for all of you. For the greater good, for all of you to stay safe, we’re hoping we can get back to normal next year if we can get our numbers down.”
Luce said it was important that people could observe Remembrance Day together even if they couldn’t be together in person.
Several wreaths were laid at the cenotaph, including a special one on behalf of all those Edmontonians who couldn’t be there in person this year.
The Remembrance Day ceremony also included solo performances of O Canada and God Save the Queen as well as the Last Post and Réveille.
There was a prayer read by Capt. Helen Bennett of 15 Field Ambulance, For the Fallen was read by Hon. Lt-Col. Gord Steinke and In Flanders Fields was read by MWO Kris Porlier with 15 Field Ambulance.
Two minutes of silence was observed before a flyover by RCAF 408 Squadron CH-146 Griffon Helicopters.