Sprucedale students honour Canada’s fallen on Remembrance Day

Junior students at Sprucedale Public School shared their reflections on Remembrance Day. Grade 3 student Lila wrote, “We will remember soldiers because they saved our world.” Gary West photo

By Gary West

Remembrance Day is a time for reflection and gratitude – and at Sprucedale Public School in Shakespeare, students, staff and families came together this week to honour those who served and sacrificed for Canada.

On Monday, Nov. 10, the day before Remembrance Day, students gathered in the school gymnasium to welcome Cpl. Mitchell Hart of the 4th Infantry, Royal Canadian Regiment, based in London. Hart spoke to the students about the role of the Canadian Armed Forces both at home and abroad, helping to protect Canada’s allies and support peacekeeping efforts around the world.

He fielded many thoughtful questions from students, including one Grade 3 student who proudly shared that her great-grandfather had fought in both World War I and World War II. Other questions – such as “Why do we have wars?” and “Why do we wear a poppy?” – gave Hart the chance to explain the importance of remembrance in words the children could understand.

Hart also shared the story of Lt.-Col. John McCrae from Guelph, author of “In Flanders Fields,” and spoke about the ongoing symbolism of the poppy as a tribute to those who gave their lives.

On Tuesday, Nov. 11, Sprucedale welcomed parents and grandparents to join the students for a moving Remembrance Day service. The assembly featured student readings of “In Flanders Fields,” a wreath-laying ceremony and the playing of “The Last Post,” followed by two minutes of silence and “Reveille.”

As the ceremony concluded, teacher Mrs. Brisbois performed a heartfelt violin solo, her music providing a fitting close to the solemn event.

The poppies worn by students and guests were generously provided by Tavistock’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch 518.