Lest We Forget

By Eun Bin Moon

On Remembrance Day, the 11th hour marks the end of hostilities during the First World War and gives Canadians the opportunity to remember and honour all those who fought for the freedom that people have today. To show their respect and support for Canadian troops, many people wear poppies before and on Remembrance Day.

On November 9, Alpha held two assemblies in the large gym that recognized Remembrance Day to accommodate the number of students. In second block, the teachers at Alpha gave students a poppy to wear before going to the assembly. Students were also reminded to remove their headwear and to refrain from clapping after the performances as it was a solemn assembly. The Remembrance Day assembly began with RCMP Constable’s and Canadian Armed Forces Corporal’s entrance to the gym.

The assembly featured performances from the Senior Concert Band, the Choir, the Dance Company, and a digital presentation that included the services made by Canadian men and women during wartime. The Senior Concert Band, conducted by Mr. White, played a number of pieces which included a rendition of “O Canada” that accompanied the singing of the national anthem. Withal, the Choir sang “Homeward Bound”, a profound song by Marta Keen and, the Dance Company performed a dance on the theme of Remembrance Day.

Furthermore, a moment of silence with the playing of the Last Post took place to show respect for those who served in the nation’s defence and a recitation of In Flanders Fields was given in both French and English by Aiden Guld and Kaylee Nguyen, respectively.
Overall, Alpha’s Remembrance Day assembly was solemn yet reflective of all the men and women who fought for our freedom and, gave the students and staff the opportunity to respect, honour, and remember them. Lest we forget.