POPPY CEREMONY Students Honour 450 Military Veterans
New Westminster : On Thurs, Nov. 4, 2021, over 350 Grade 2 – 5 students from Skwo:wech and Ecole Herbert Spencer braved the elements to place poppies on 450 military graves in Fraser Cemetery at the 5th Annual No Stone Left Alone Ceremony.
“Since starting No Stone Left Alone in Fraser Cemetery, our ceremony has grown exponentially from a handful in 2017 to over 350 students. It was overwhelming and emotional to witness so many children entering the cemetery on such a cold and miserable rainy day.” stated Baker-MacGrotty, Chair of No Stone Left Alone – New Westminster.
At the headstone, students read the name aloud, study details on the stones and thank the veterans for their service. Later, students talk about their experience, draw a picture, or write a letter of reflection to capture personal thoughts. Baker-MacGrotty asked students to discuss their feelings with family and encourages elders to share family stories about the difficult war years, family service or help received from Canadian military in their home countries. “Learning about our past helps shape the future. It helps the next generation understand the importance of remembrance. We must never forget” stated Baker-MacGrotty,
“The simple act of placing a poppy on the headstone combined with the reflection experience, has a profound impact on our youth. Through this hands-on educational initiative, students realize first-hand the service and sacrifices of our fallen and veterans. Reflecting and personally thanking the individual, many who’s lives and dreams were extinguished prematurely, has a powerful impact on the students. It an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives.”.
No Stone Left Alone initiative differs from traditional wreath laying at cenotaphs or indoor services in public buildings on Remembrance Day, in school gyms or auditoriums during class time, or even virtually this year. “From every crisis comes opportunity! Covid-19 presented and opportunity to expand to more classes to conduct the act of remembrance outdoors and at the same time, leverage the hands-on experience into the learning curriculum. We look forward to additional student participation next year!”
“Our veterans enabled us to have dreams, to live happy lives, to be tolerant and value our differences, to be inclusive, and to stand up for what is right. and yes, to go to school. As times change, we must continue to honour those who gave so much for our freedom and liberties, and more than ever, hold on to our Canadian values. That is why those who lie in the graves gave their service and so many paid the ultimate sacrifice. Their dedication and personal contributions allow us to live in peace and freedom in Canada today!,”stated Baker-MacGrotty.
Students were joined by Canadian Armed Forces members and cadets of The Royal Westminster Regiment, reps from Royal Canadian Legion and community organizations including Rotary Club, Hyack Festival Association and Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral.
Senator Yonah Martin spoke about the service of Canadian veterans during the Korean war, Greg Kennelly, 81, former RCAF reservist recited High Flight, The Venerable Dr Richard Leggett, Archdeacon of Westminster offered a Prayer of Remembrance, an army cadet read In Flanders Fields and 9 students read the Commitment to Remember” in both English and French. Following the formal program, students proceeded to headstones to conduct the poppy laying ceremony.
“No Stone Left Alone” is an initiative that honours and recognizes the sacrifice our fallen and veterans have made serving Canada. Every November, at “No Stone Left Alone” ceremonies across the nation participants place poppies on military headstones in Canadian fields of honour. In 2021, nationwide, over 5,000 students at 85 cemeteries will honour over 60,000 Canadian Armed Forces members. www.nostoneleftalone.ca
By Karen Baker-MacGrotty,
