For the first time since 2019, Taylor residents were able to gather in person for Remembrance Day services at their community hall.
The event, which has been done on a very small scale and live streamed the last two years, saw well over 200 people attend.
“For me, on a personal level, it has always been a time to reflect and remember the sacrifices made for us,” said mayor Brent Taillefer following the commemoration.
“It's a sombre day, but also a day for reflection. To me, a chance to pay respects to those who went before us and sacrificed for us.”
Taillefer recently found out that he had a grandparent who served in the First World War and is looking forward to finding out more about his family history.
Ex-Canadian Forces member Jamie Stuart knows all-too-well of his history, having grown up in a military family.
“As a grown-up, I now reflect on the lives of my grandfathers differently,” he shared with the audience.
“As a youngster I saw them as soldiers in combat, their uniforms, and their medals. Today, as a father, I marvel at their sacrifice. They left their parents, their new wives, and children and placed their personal hopes and dreams aside until the enemy was conquered.”
Stuart was active in the military, behind the scenes, for close to five years.
“I am grateful everyday,” he added, singling out his grandparents and parents for the values they raised him on.
As in years past, before the pandemic, the program included songs from the North Peace Community Choir and Northern Lights Youth choirs.
An added bonus to this year was the playing of the Last Post on bugle by Sabrina Brooks.
“I really missed it. It felt really good to be back,” said Brooks, participation limited the last two years by Covid.
“It's important to bring the community together and music is a good way to do that. It's really meaningful and was great to be asked back.”
A cenotaph service followed with the laying of the wreaths and a traditional lunch by volunteers with the community's curling club.
