As of Monday, you may begin to see videos on the City of Windsor's social media highlighting local veterans.
There will be a Remembrance Day Ceremony this year at the Cenotaph in downtown Windsor, but over the next ten days, the city will share their stories as it kicks off its Remembrance Day program.
The Windsor Historical Society, through its Veterans Memories Project, produced the videos.
On November 9, Mayor Drew Dilkens will again highlight their stories, the impact of a life of service, and the importance of Remembrance Day in a virtual chat with local veterans.
That event will be broadcast on Facebook Live starting at 1 p.m.
The Windsor Classic Chorale invites the public to view their virtual concert, "Lest We Forget," on its YouTube Channel. The presentation was recorded last year and includes "Armistice 1918" by Carnahan, "Requiem" by Hella Johnson, "In Remembrance" by Daley, and "After the War" arranged for choir by Mark Sirrett. Readings will also commemorate the sacrifice of fallen soldiers.
Hundreds gather at Windsor's cenotaph during a Remembrance Day ceremony on November 9, 2014. (Photo by Jason Viau)
As it is every year, the Remembrance Day Ceremony starts at 11 a.m. on November 11. Minor adjustments to adhere to public health guidelines have been made to the program.
"I am pleased to be able to gather together again this year to pay our respects, pause to reflect, and say, 'thank you,' to the selfless women and men who fought to leave our world safer and better than they found it," said Dilkens. "We would not enjoy the freedoms we have today if not for their bravery and sacrifice."
Representatives from the Windsor Veterans Memorial Services Committee, pre-registered wreath bearers, and government officials will join veterans at the Cenotaph. The public is invited to attend in person but should wear masks and social distance.
"On November 11, as we should every day, we remember those who volunteered, sacrificed, served, fought, and died for our freedom," said Paul Lauzon, President of the Windsor Veterans Memorial Services Committee. "We will remember. We will never forget."
Those who are not comfortable attending the service but still want to participate can watch the ceremony live on YourTV and the City of Windsor's Facebook page. It will be rebroadcast on YourTV again that day at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Those who wish to register to lay a wreath can contact Bonnie Burian by phone at 519-973-4057 or emailing bburian@cogeco.ca.