As snow drifted across Ottawa on the morning of November 11, 2025, Canadians stood shoulder to shoulder in quiet unity at the National War Memorial. Bells tolled, poppies glowed red against coats, and two minutes of silence bound a nation in remembrance.
This year’s ceremony carried special weight—80 years since the end of World War II and 25 years since the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was laid to rest in the capital.
Ceremony Highlights
The national service began at 10:45 a.m., attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Chief of Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan, and Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight.
Chief Justice Richard Wagner, representing Governor General Mary Simon, delivered remarks on her behalf as she recovered from illness. Veterans, active-duty members, and the Silver Cross Mother—representing families who lost loved ones—stood at the heart of the event.
At 11:00 a.m., Canadians nationwide observed two minutes of silence, marking the precise moment when the First World War ended in 1918. The ceremony continued with the Last Post, a 21-gun salute, and wreath-layings from leaders across the country.
Symbolic Moments
A powerful flypast of vintage aircraft painted in tribute to Canadian veterans honoured the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
As the service concluded, attendees gently removed their poppies and placed them atop the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, transforming it into a red sea of remembrance and gratitude.
Parallel ceremonies unfolded across Canada—from Toronto’s Prospect Cemetery to small-town cenotaphs each reflecting the nation’s collective memory and respect.
Messages to Canadians
Prime Minister Mark Carney reminded Canadians that remembrance is not only reflection but vigilance:
“Today, we honour the service of those who answered the call. They protected freedoms at great cost—and still do. In an uncertain world, remembrance is vigilance.”
He acknowledged the modern role of the Canadian Armed Forces in disaster relief, peacekeeping, and national defense, saying Canadians “see hope when they see the maple leaf.”
Governor General Mary Simon, in her written message, expressed deep gratitude:
“We honour those who gave everything to protect the peace and freedoms we cherish today. In a time of global uncertainty, our service members continue to defend our sovereignty and strive for peace. Lest we forget.”
A Nation’s Promise
As Canada navigates new global and domestic challenges, Remembrance Day endures as a moral compass, a moment to remember the cost of peace and the courage that sustains it.
Across provinces, generations, and cultures, Canadians stood united in reflection, gratitude, and resolve. The snow fell softly, poppies brightened the grey, and one timeless truth echoed once more through the silence:
Lest we forget.
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