Hundreds of residents bundled up against cool gusty north winds at Sarnia's Veterans Park at the 11th hour Friday morning to honour the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
Despite the overcast and damp conditions, the annual Remembrance Day service at the cenotaph was well attended including elementary and high school students.
Deacon Chuck Stevens gave the address.
"For decades we've been gathering as a community and as a country to mark this bitter sweet observation," says Stevens. "Bitter, because we mourn the loss of thousands and thousands who paid the ultimate sacrifice, so that we could enjoy the freedoms we enjoy today. Sweet, because our grief is mingled with gratitude for those who sacrificed."
He says often times people will wonder what would motivate anyone to sacrifice themselves for their country.
Stevens believes there are three motivating factors, repeated each generation.
"A sense of duty and taking responsibility for establishing and maintaining a just and peaceful society," he says. "The idea of love. Love of country, love of family and hope. Hope for a future, their own and future generations and a hope for peace."
Corporal Brent Poland's mother laid the first wreath at today's service in honour of her son and all those who lost their lives fighting for our freedoms.
The 37-year-old was killed in Afghanistan in 2007.
Mayor Mike Bradley, MP Marilyn Gladu, MPP Bob Bailey were among the dignitaries in attendance.
