Local residents came together at the Lacombe Memorial Centre to observe Remembrance Day during the annual service on Nov. 11.
“It was so good to see a turnout such as this after three years (of restrictions),” said Kathy Hobbs, past president of the executive of Royal Canadian Legion Lacombe Branch #79. “The tribute that we paid to our veterans was second to none,” she said. “It was a wonderful ceremony.”
The last time an indoor service was held was back in 2019, she added.
This year’s service included messages from several local dignitaries including Mayor Grant Creasey, County Reeve Barb Shepherd, MLA Ron Orr and a prayer of invocation from Legion Chaplain Doug Herbert who also led the singing of O Canada and God Save the King.
“Remembrance Day is that day when we choose to pause, reflect and formally recognize our brave citizens who have served. It’s truly inspiring to see all of you here today to do just that - to recognize our veterans,” said Creasey.
The Red Deer & District Pipe Band performed a stirring rendition of Lament, which was followed by Rouse/Reveille by Gerald Ganson on trumpet.
John Mellon, Pte. 17th Army Corp retired, delivered the Act of Remembrance followed by the Commitment to Remember which was recited by Cadet Zackery Chalmers.
The Roll Call of the Honoured Dead was also by read by Doug Herbert and Alex VanGeest.
Members of the public also had the opportunity to lay wreaths at the front of the auditorium.
It’s been a busy season in the build-up to Remembrance Day here in Lacombe, what with a special candlelight service hosted by the Legion in September at Fairview Cemetery where lit candles were placed on the graves of veterans in honour of their service.
Also last month, in a tribute to the sacrifices made by many, the Veterans Voices of Canada Flags of Remembrance ceremony was held at the Pentagon Farm Centre at Lacombe. That event was also hosted by the local Legion.
