Iqaluit observes Remembrance Day at cadet hall

The cadet hall in Iqaluit was overflowing with about 300 people during the Royal Legion’s Remembrance Day ceremony Wednesday morning.

The annual event began around 11 a.m. in both English and Inuktitut.

“Canada as a nation owes an everlasting debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served and continue to serve their country, in times of war and peace,” said legion Branch 168 president John Graham,  the master of ceremonies.

The day began with a march that included police, veterans and community members. It began at the RCMP building on Sivumugiaq Street and ended at the hall.

RCMP chaplain Paul Hitz spoke about sharing gratitude for those who served.

“It is also a day to express our gratitude to those who serve today, the members of our Canadian Armed Forces, including our Canadian Rangers who stand guard over the ideals we as Canadians cherish,” he said. “Lest we forget.”

Hitz also acknowledged the youth who joined the ceremony and highlighted the significance of their presence.

Remembrance Day wreaths were laid at the cadet hall in Iqaluit on Wednesday during the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual Remembrance Day ceremony. (Photo by Lilli Akpaleepaik)

“To the youth among us, many of whom cannot yet imagine the realities of war, this day matters too. May your hearts and minds be stirred by what we place before you today,” he said.

Nunavut’s deputy Commissioner Lew Philip and RCMP Staff Sgt. Abdelmalek Mezdour laid the first wreath. Nunavut MP Lori Idlout and Premier John Main followed.

Iqalummiut laid wreaths for loved ones who served. Cadets placed wreaths purchased by Canadian North, Arctic Survival Store, Baffin Building Systems and Nunavut Animal Rescue.

Just before Graham’s closing remarks, David Hoyt, an Iqaluit cadet flight sergeant, recited Lt.-Col. John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields.