In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

Today we remember and thank all those who fought for their sacrifice and bravery. And there are many.

The war in Afghanistan and several other military missions ensured the ranks of Canadian veterans have been refreshed. Several current and past MoveUP members have served or serve still in our armed forces. Today, we honour not only the sacrifices written in history books, but of the recent past and present.

Remembrance Day, while aptly named, should call ask of us a deeper commitment than simply honoring our veterans in our memory. We must also think deeply about the horror and human cost of the wars that took so many from us.

“Lest we forget” is a phrase that not only calls us to remember our veterans for their sacrifice. It exhorts us to avoid repeating history’s tragedies.

This Remembrance Day we offer our gratitude. We also recommit to justice, peace and understanding in hopes that none will be called to make this sacrifice again.