MP Louis hosts second annual Poppy Flag raising on Parliament Hill
By Lee Griffi
Parliamentarians, veterans and community members gathered on Parliament Hill on Monday for the second annual Poppy Flag Raising Ceremony, marking the beginning of Poppy season on Parliament Hill and honouring the service and sacrifice of Canada’s veterans.
Hosted by Tim Louis, member of parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga, in partnership with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 532 in New Hamburg, the ceremony brought together parliamentarians, veterans and community representatives in a shared commitment to remembrance. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 in Orléans also participated by providing the Colour Guard.
“Raising the Poppy Flag on Parliament Hill is a reminder that we must never take the sacrifices of our veterans for granted,” said Louis. “I’m grateful to Donald Eenkooren for his initiative, and to Royal Canadian Legion Branch 532 in New Hamburg for helping bring this ceremony to Parliament Hill.”
The initiative was brought forward by retired Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Donald Eenkooren, whose determination and commitment to remembrance helped bring the ceremony to Parliament Hill.
“When a veteran sees that flag, they know what it means. It’s recognition. It’s remembrance. And every flagpole is an opportunity to remember,” said Eenkooren, who is also a member of the New Hamburg Legion.
This year’s gathering also took place in the shadow of the recent tragedy at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright. As Canadians reflect on the risks and sacrifices associated with military service, the ceremony provided an opportunity to honour those who have served, remember those who have lost their lives and stand in solidarity with serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families.
The Honourable Jill McKnight, minister of veterans affairs, joined members of parliament, senators, veterans and representatives of the Royal Canadian Legion for the ceremony.
“As we raise the Poppy Flag on Parliament Hill, we also mark the Royal Canadian Legion’s 100th year and its leadership in promoting the Poppy as Canada’s national symbol of remembrance,” McKnight said. “The Poppy calls us not only to remember, but to actively honour those who served. I encourage all Canadians to wear the Poppy, attend a local ceremony and make Remembrance a commitment that lives beyond Nov. 11 and one we carry forward 365 days a year.”
The Poppy Flag serves as a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of Canadians in service to our country. As the annual Poppy Campaign continues in the lead-up to Remembrance Day on Nov. 11, Canadians are encouraged to wear a poppy and support the Legion’s work on behalf of Veterans and their families.
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