A somber reflection of harsh realities of war developed into celebration of courage as veterans, their families, dignitaries, and public gathered Friday to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.

 

The service at the Winnipeg Convention Centre, chaired by CD John Gillis, included hymns, prayers, Scripture readings, and Remembrance Day rituals by the Canadian Armed Forces, Cadets, and military clergy.

 

The audience was overcome by emotion.

 

A frail woman, grasping discoloured photos in one hand and three flags in the other, wept during the trumpet’s playing of Reveille, kissing the pictures while waving the flags.  A young woman gave her flowers.  Sniveling was heard throughout the crowd during the Last Post and Act of Remembrance.  Two veterans, clutching war documents and each other, trembled during the Piper’s Lament as war footage played on screen.

 

Veterans remembering fallen comrades and wartime experiences moved their weathered hands in rhythm, standing in silent salute during the Passing of the Torch, reciting of poems For the Fallen, and Laying of the Wreaths.

 

Beginning with Lt. Gov. John Harvard and Premier Gary Doer, representatives from all levels of government, police, and various organizations, placed over 35 wreaths at the foot of a cross. 

 

The crowd rose in ovation, as veterans and cadets carried over 50 national and regiment flags, during the final march.

 

Jason Friesen, a security guard at the Convention Centre, said attendance numbered over 4,400, up 400 from 2004.

 

Veteran Victor Kijanko, 84, was amazed by the crowd. 

 

“I’m deeply touched,” he said, clutching war documents to his chest.