It is hard to believe that it has been one year since we last celebrated Remembrance Day. I wonder how many Veterans we have lost in the past 12 months. Sadly it seems year after year the number of these brave men and woman attending the November 11 ceremonies is falling dramatically.

PHOTO CREDIT - GuyLauzon.ca

Cornwall - Nov. 2, 2011 - It is hard to believe that it has been one year since we last celebrated Remembrance Day. I wonder how many Veterans we have lost in the past 12 months. Sadly it seems year after year the number of these brave men and woman attending the November 11 ceremonies is falling dramatically. It never fails to move me emotionally when I observe the determination of these true Canadian heroes and heroines as they come to attention and salute as the National Anthem is played.

On a positive note, I have also noticed that the number of citizens attending Remembrance Day ceremonies throughout Stormont, Dundas & South Glengarry has increased in recent years. This is a very encouraging development. I believe this is an indication that the general public is realizing the tremendous sacrifices veterans and their families have made to protect our country and its citizens.

This year marks the end of Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan. We should pay special tribute to the current members of the Canadian Forces for the enormous contributions they have made during the past decade. We should also recognize and thank their families for their many sacrifices during the same period. And of course we owe a great debt of gratitude to all who continue to support Canada's non-combat missions throughout the world.

I encourage every constituent of SD&SG to make this Remembrance Day special.

There are many ways to actively honour and remember our Canadian Veterans. Wear a poppy above your heart. Attend the local Remembrance Day ceremony and vow to never let their memories die.

Probably the best way we can show the respect and gratitude our Veterans deserve is by spending time getting to know them and listening to their stories.

Lest We Forget!


Guy Lauzon
Member of Parliament
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry