Remembrance Day

As in Australia, Canada recognises Remembrance Day every November 11. Though, it appears to be much more significant day here than in Australia, where Anzac Day is the more significant day. In fact, I'd say that Remembrance Day is Canada's 'Anzac Day'; with marches, wreath laying ceremonies and a public holiday. This year, the public holiday is on Monday the 13th as the 11th falls on a Saturday. In the days leading up to and including Remembrance Day, Veterans and volunteers alike give out pin-on poppies (the cost is a donation of any value) and pretty much everyone wears them. They are traditionally worn on the left over your heart.

The following poem: In Flanders Fields, by John McCrae is synonymous with Remembrance day for Canadians.

In Flanders Fields
By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae
Canadian Army

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.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.