Monday November 11, 2019 ~ LANGFORD
by Mary P Brooke ~ West Shore Voice News
The rain held off and the crowds came out. About 2,000 people attended the Remembrance Day ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park in Langford today November 11 in cool but bright weather.
Veterans, serving members, cadets and VIPs were joined by a large crowd that spilled over the from the paved square into the grassy and treed areas of the park.
The arrival of uniformed personnel was followed by two minutes of silence, two fly-past events (first a single plane and then a set of five) and the laying of wreaths.
This year Premier John Horgan (MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca) laid a wreath as did Langford Mayor Stew Young, Colwood Mayor Rob Martin and Colwood Councillor Gordie Logan, and Highlands Mayor Ken Williams.
Metchosin was represented by Councillor Kyra Kahakauwila and View Royal was represented by Councillor Ron Matson.
Wreaths were also laid by Sooke School District 62 Chair Ravi Parmar and Westshore Chamber of Commerce President Mike Kelley.
Premier Horgan issued a statement on Remembrance Day earlier in the day, in part: “For generations, Canadians have bravely risked their lives to protect ours. We must never forget their sacrifice. We must stand united against hate, violence and intolerance. And we must work together to build a more peaceful world.”
The gathering began with the singing of O Canada and ended with God Save the Queen.
The parade made its way from the park over to the Langford Legion Branch 91 building on Station Avenue where Premier Horgan and Mayor Young saluted the veterans.
Families and children were served hot chocolate at the Goldstream Masonic Hall and a luncheon mixer at the Langford Legion for dignitaries and guests was attended by hundreds of people. Premier Horgan took time to speak with many members of the public in small groups and one-on-one. A dance recital was performed by some school-age children.
