UNITY — For the first time since 2019, an in-person community-wide service was held in Unity for Remembrance Day. More than 125 people were in attendance at St. Peter’s Church Nov. 11.
The ceremony began with the marching of the colours that included local Legion members and Unity RCMP members in their red serge joined by members from Unity 4-H Club.
Retired CAF padre and retired United Church minister George Ward led the service, and led the audience in O Canada, followed by a reading of “In Flanders Fields.”
A new addition to the 2022 event included a children’s time lesson led by Pastor Ron Rutley that engaged kids in matching past and present with respect to Remembrance Day.
Another tradition, read by Unity Legion member Theresa Keller, was the calling out of the names of the fallen from Unity and area, followed by Last Post, two minutes of silence and Reveille.
Those in attendance read together the “Pledge for Remembrance.” Retired Canadian naval Petty Officer Mike Ball then recounted his experience with the Canadian Forces.
Other parts of the formal portion of ceremony were led by seven clergy participants from Unity Ministerial Association.
The laying of the wreaths included representation from the Unity RCMP, town of Unity, RMs, Unity Fire Department and other individuals and groups from the community.
The close of the Remembrance Day observance represented the change of the monarchy in a rendition of God Save the King, which led to the marching out of the colours.
Organizers expressed their gratitude for the community’s clergy, along with numerous people who played a part in the musical portions of the service, as well as community members who attended.
Attendees were encouraged to view the lit candles that were erected in Unity Memorial Park and at cenotaph base by the Unity Kin Club.
The Legion also acknowledged their gratitude for St. Peter’s School, Unity Public School and Unity Composite High School for their organization of Remembrance Day services for staff, students and their families, as well as those students who participate in the annual Remembrance Day poster and literary contest.
