November 11 was Remembrance Day and towns across the Valley commemorated the occasion, showing their support for those who have been lost fighting in the Canadian military. Though Remembrance Day originated to remember those lost in the first World War, it is now defined much more broadly to commemorate fallen soldiers from any wars Canada has fought in since WWI.
This year, 2025, marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War. The weather was bleak for the occasion, with cold temperatures and a surprising amount of snow. Nevertheless, there was still an admirable number of people who showed up to stand in solidarity and honour those who have served.
In Ormstown there was a parade on November 9 from McDougall Hall to the cenotaph. This was followed by a ceremony and then a march to the Legion. In Hemmingford, there was also a parade on November 9. Federal MP Nathalie Provost was present for this, along with some soldiers and a piper. On November 11, there was a wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph as well.
The Huntingdon Legion also had a few events in honour of Remembrance Day. On November 8 there was the annual Armistice Dinner, followed by a Remembrance Day service on Sunday, November 9. The ecumenical service took place at the Legion, followed by a wreath laying ceremony at Prince-Arthur Park.
Chris Taylor of the Hemmingford Legion says that this is a community event. “Our community totally supports us every year, and they turn out, come rain, snow, or sunshine. We also have children from both our English and French Schools in attendance. And, of course, a small contingent of serving soldiers for our colour party and escorts for the wreath-laying ceremony.”
The president of the Ormstown Legion, Eric Varin, explains, “It’s important to honour those who have served in the military, commemorate their sacrifices for peace and freedom and encourage reflection on the history of conflicts to prevent future wars.” Ronald Critchley, the president of the Huntingdon Legion, reminds people that this day is a time to reflect on Canada’s desire to stand up against tyranny and fascism. He says, “Every man or woman who died in the struggle had friends; so, it really was a sacrifice.”
One of the best ways to support the Legions and Veterans is to buy a poppy. Varin says, “The poppy fund helps veterans, and it’s a sign to the other members of the public that you care. If you can make it to a ceremony, that’s fantastic, but the simple gesture of putting a coin in a box and wearing [a poppy] on your lapel means so much.” The money from poppy sales goes to the Legion’s Poppy Trust Fund, which offers support to Canadian Veterans and their families.