Editorial: Remembrance Day's past, present and future

Editorial: Remembrance Day's Past, Present and Future

Your presence at Tuesday's ceremonies matters because remembrance is an active participation, not a passive act.

As Remembrance Day approaches in Prince George, it is important to make sure there are no empty seats at the Civic Centre. Remembrance is not just about reflecting on the past—it is about being present in the moment.

Though Canadian troops have not been in active combat zones for several years, the military still plays a crucial role in ensuring global peace, security, and stability. The uniformed men and women who serve, from the Rocky Mountain Rangers to those deployed overseas, deserve ongoing recognition and support beyond just November 11.

In the past, thousands would fill the Civic Centre and its surrounding streets for the ceremonies. Craig Douglass, who served as the emcee for six years at Prince George’s Remembrance Day events and remains an executive member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, noted a steady decline in crowd size.

This change began with the pandemic, when public gatherings were replaced by pre-recorded and live-streamed ceremonies. Although local TV coverage allows people to watch from home, Douglass believes that the experience is not the same.

“There’s something about being there and that moment of silence where there’s a thousand people around you and it’s just dead quiet,” he said.

Participation in Remembrance Day ceremonies keeps the memory of service alive and honors those who continue to protect peace around the world.

Author's summary: Remembrance Day requires active community involvement to honor military service and maintain the meaningful tradition amid changing participation patterns.

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Prince George Citizen Prince George Citizen — 2025-11-07

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