Acts of Remembrance

INTRODUCTION
Honouring the memory of those who died in war and peace operations is central to the sacred mandate of The Royal Canadian Legion (RCL). Canadians associate the Legion with Remembrance and this cherished community responsibility is woven into the fabric of our society. With solemn reverence, the Legion within BC/Yukon Command takes great care to preserve the tradition of Remembrance and perpetuate the memory of those who gave their lives for peace and freedom.

CANADIAN MEMORIAL PEACEKEEPING DAY
August 9th is designated as Peacekeeping Memorial Day in British Columbia. It is a day when Canadians come together in brotherhood and share in Acts of Remembrance, honouring the men and women of the Canadian Forces. August 9th was chosen as a symbolic tribute to the Fallen. On August 9th, 1974 nine Canadian airmen were shot down in their Buffalo aircraft while on a mission with the United Nations Emergency Force in Syria, Egypt. At this time this was the single largest loss of Canadian life in one mission. Provincial Remembrance Services are held on the grounds of the British Columbia Legislature. As well, communities throughout BC and the Yukon plan commemorative services and family activities.

THE SEVENTH BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE “In the Service of Canada”

On November 11th, 2005 the 7th Book of Remembrance was unveiled, in honour of the valiant men and women in the Canadian Forces who served Canada since 1947. At the time of unveiling there were 1,300 names of the Canadian Fallen entered into the 7th Book of Remembrance. As names of the Canadian Fallen continue to be added, we are reminded of the War in Afghanistan. Since 2002, one hundred and fourty military personnel, one diplomat and one journalist and ywo aide workers have given their lives so that others have hope for peaceful co-existence.

                                                “WE WILL REMEMBER THEM”