Plans for Lacombe's annual Remembrance Day services are taking shape under the direction of the Royal Canadian Legion Lacombe Branch #79.
The annual poppy campaign is also well underway, having started up in late October, said Kathy Hobbs, president of the executive of the Lacombe branch.
"I start to organize it at the end of September, and the ceremony as well," she said, adding that volunteer turn-out has been exceptional across the board. The Legion has expanded poppy distribution to Blackfalds this year via the local food stores as well.
Volunteers are also collecting donations and distributing poppies at the Co-op and No Frills in Lacombe, among other locations across the community.
"So many young men and women in this area went off to war, and many of their descendants are still here. All you have to do is look at the cenotaph at the Lacombe Memorial Centre and see all of the names that are there," she said.
Funds raised always go to support a range of causes, including purchases of medical equipment for local care centres that will also be utilized by veterans and/or their spouses. Some scholarships and bursaries are also available.
Meanwhile, prior to the service on Remembrance Day, there will be a pancake breakfast starting at 8 a.m. at the Legion. Donations can be made at the door, said Hobbs.
As for the service, she recommends that folks arrive by 10:15 a.m. to get a seat.
"Remembrance Day is so important, because it brings to attention the sacrifices that were made by so many men and women. And sacrifices continue to be made," she said. "We also recognize the dedication of those who have join the forces for Canada.
"It's something we should never, ever forget."
At the service, Hobbs will offer the welcome, and several dignitaries will also give brief messages. The Last Post will be performed by Gerald Ganson, followed by two minutes of silence. Ganson will also perform Lament and Rouse.
Other service highlights include the Act of Remembrance, the Commitment to Prayer, and a recitation of In Flanders Fields by the Girl Guides.
The benediction will be led by Rev. David Holmes from St. Andrew's United Church, and the laying of wreaths will be accompanied by music from the Lions Community Band.
Following the service, veterans and the public are welcome to head to the Legion for a time of socialization.
For Hobbs, Remembrance Day is all the more special on a personal level as both of her parents were veterans.
“I will always be an advocate for what the Legion stands for — its purpose and its objectives — to keep alive the remembrances of the sacrifices that were made,” she said, adding she also loves to see that sense of camaraderie among veterans, their families and friends.
For more about Remembrance Day services or the local Legion in general, call 403-782-6441.
