By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
On Sept. 8, the Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans Association of Canada (ANAVETS) hosted a ceremonial parade and wreath-laying event as part of its 56th biennial Dominion Convention. The event took place at Parc des Vétérans in Lennoxville and drew over 200 attendees from across the country, along with several international guests, to honour the sacrifices and service of Canada’s military personnel.
This was the first time in over 50 years that the convention was held in Quebec, marking a significant moment for veterans and their families in the province. The wreath-laying event commenced with a solemn prayer by local Reverend Mead Baldwin, who reminded attendees of the ongoing struggles faced by those who have served. He honoured the memory of fallen soldiers and acknowledged the enduring scars, both physical and emotional, borne by veterans. His invocation echoed the broader theme of the event, which focused on gratitude, remembrance, and healing.
Following the prayers, the parade commander instructed the assembled veterans and participants to stand at ease, signaling the beginning of the wreath-laying ceremony. Dominion Vice Presidents Al Dunham and Linda Caron led the crowd in an act of remembrance, reciting the familiar words: “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.”
Representatives from the Government of Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces, and various ANAVETS provincial and national bodies laid wreaths at the veterans’ memorial. Attendees included the political attaché to the Minister of National Revenue and local MP Marie-Claude Bibeau, who represented the federal government, and the Commander of the 2nd Division of the Canadian Armed Forces, representing the military.
The wreath-laying concluded with a moment of silence, as attendees paid tribute to those who have lost their lives in service to Canada. The ceremony ended with a final prayer, asking for peace and unity for the future.
ANAVETS, Canada’s oldest veterans’ organization, was established in 1840 in Montreal and has continued its mission of supporting veterans and their families for over 180 years. The association’s biennial conventions are a forum to address the well-being of veterans, offering support and recognition to those who have dedicated their lives to serving the country.
This year’s convention was particularly significant, as it highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering unity, remembrance, and continued advocacy for veteran affairs. The next event in the ANAVETS calendar promises to build on this legacy, ensuring that the sacrifices of Canada’s military personnel are never forgotten.
For more information on ANAVETS and its ongoing efforts, visit: www.anavets.ca
