Almost a century after the First World War, which ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, we continue to use Nov. 11 as the special day set aside to remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our country.
Today, we remember the freedoms we enjoy here in Canada are not free at all – that many brave men and women have given their lives to protect our rights and freedoms.
Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association, and the freedom to vote are all things that we may, caught up in our daily lives, forget to be thankful for.
But, there are many parts of the world where people are denied these freedoms, and we are lucky to have Canadians willing to defend them.
Whenever our country and our way of life have been threatened, there have been selfless men and women who have taken up the call.
Remembrance Day is the time when the price paid by these men and women is foremost in our thoughts.
Please join me on Nov. 11 in paying our respects and remembering their sacrifice.
I will be participating in the parade and giving a brief speech at the cenotaph. I hope to see many of you there.
Donna Barnett
Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA