Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Members of Napanee’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch 137 made a visit to The Riverine retirement home on Thursday to lead a special pre-Remembrance Day service.
Legion member Chris Ingersoll conducted the ceremony, which included a reading of In Flanders Field, a playing of The Last Post and a moment of silence.
“This year marks the 104th anniversary of the armistice of WWI,” said Ingersoll. “When the end of the four-year war was announced in Europe, Canada, the United States and churches all over rang their bells to celebrate. We have heard many stories of bravery and sacrifice from that war and other wars. We as a country have been a recipient of those who gave everything for their country. Men and women across this great land stepped forward to the horrible challenge by power hungry men who had taken away the freedom of everyone.”
Veteran James Soames. Photo by Adam Prudhomme.
Ingersoll read an excerpt of an autobiography written by his father, who served in WWI.
“We heard talk on the radio about what the enemy was doing in countries that had been taken over,” read Ingersoll. “I knew deep down inside of me that I had to do something. I could not explain that feeling. I had never lived away from home and had no idea what life in the army would be like. I did not want to leave my family. I did not want to leave home. I didn’t like the idea of training to kill, but I knew the freedom of our country was threatened.”
Veteran Robert See lays a wreath in memory of those who served. Photo by Adam Prudhomme.
Veteran Robert See, a resident at the home, was called on to lay a wreath in memory of those who served, followed by the singing of God Save The King.
Staff at The Riverine have created a special tribute to the residents and their family members who served in times of war. Photo by Adam Prudhomme.
At the entrance of The Riverine is a display containing photos and a write up of residents or their family members who have served in times of war, complete with a poppy beside each photo.