Field of Crosses

4 hours ago

🇨🇦 November 8 | Indigenous Veterans Day

Today, The Field of Crosses commemorates Indigenous Veterans Day, honouring the courage, service and sacrifice of First Nations, Métis and Inuit men and women who have made significant contributions to Canada's military history.

Throughout generations, Indigenous Canadians have served our country with distinction, demonstrating remarkable bravery, resilience and dedication, often while facing discrimination and barriers to equal recognition.

During the First World War, Indigenous soldiers brought valuable skills to the battlefield, including exceptional marksmanship, patience and reconnaissance abilities. Many served as snipers and scouts, making important contributions to Canada's military efforts.

Indigenous service members earned more than 50 decorations for bravery during the First World War. Among those remembered is Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis soldier from Alberta who became one of the most accomplished snipers in the Canadian Corps. His remarkable service and ultimate sacrifice remain an important part of Canada's military history and are commemorated annually at The Field of Crosses.

Today, we remember Norwest and the many Indigenous service members who answered the call to serve, including those who never returned home. Their stories deserve to be shared, their contributions recognized and their sacrifices never forgotten.

🌅 Sunrise Ceremony: 8:41 AM
🌇 Sunset Ceremony: 5:58 PM

Those planning to attend are kindly asked to arrive at least 10 minutes before each ceremony begins.

Lest We Forget. 🇨🇦

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Field of Crosses

1 day ago

🇨🇦 November 7 | Youth Day

Today, The Field of Crosses commemorates Youth Day, honouring the remarkable contributions and sacrifices of young Canadians who played important roles in supporting our nation's military efforts, both at home and overseas.

Throughout Canada's wartime history, countless young people demonstrated extraordinary courage and determination. During the First and Second World Wars, teenage boys, some as young as 13, attempted to enlist by lying about their age. Those who appeared old enough were sometimes accepted into military service, while others who were turned away found ways to contribute through the Merchant Navy, helping transport troops and essential supplies overseas.

Many young Canadians also stepped forward on the home front, taking on important responsibilities and filling the roles left behind by those who had departed for military service.

Today, we remember the young men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, including those whose names are commemorated among the thousands of white crosses standing along Memorial Drive.

Youth Day also serves as an important reminder of our responsibility to educate future generations about Canada's military history and the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today. By sharing these stories, we help preserve their legacy while inspiring young Canadians to help shape a brighter future.

🌅 Sunrise Ceremony: 8:39 AM
🌇 Sunset Ceremony: 5:59 PM

Those planning to attend are kindly asked to arrive at least 10 minutes before each ceremony begins.

Lest We Forget. 🇨🇦

www.fieldofcrosses.com/ ... See MoreSee Less