Remembrance Day 2024

Unit #379 of the Army and Air Forces Veterans in Canada, located in Maple Ridge, B.C., is planning a significant celebration to commemorate both the anniversary of September 11, 2001, and Remembrance Day on November 11th, 2024. This blended event will be a time for reflection, honor, and community engagement, paying tribute to veterans and the sacrifices made by military personnel in the aftermath of 9/11.

Remembrance Day 2024 - The Unknown Soldier
A woman places a poppy among hundreds of others alongside a makeshift memorial to the 42 Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier following Remembrance Day ceremonies in Ottawa Saturday, Nov. 11, 2006. (CP PHOTO/Tom Hanson) CANADA

Event Overview:

  1. Ceremonial Gathering: The celebration will commence with a formal ceremony at the Unit #379 hall or a local memorial site, featuring the laying of wreaths, flags at half-mast, and a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks and in subsequent military operations.
  2. Speeches and Testimonials: Local commanders and guest speakers, including veterans who served following 9/11, will share their experiences and insights. This will highlight the impact of these events on national security and the role Canada played in international peacekeeping efforts.
  3. Remembrance Tributes: The event will blend the remembrance of veterans who have fallen in all conflicts, with particular attention to those who have served since the 9/11 attacks. This may include the reading of names of the deceased and personal stories from families and comrades.
  4. Community Participation: Maple Ridge residents, local schools, and community organizations will be invited to participate, fostering a sense of unity. Activities may include parades or marches, encouraging community members to come together to support veterans and their families.
  5. Memorial Display: An exhibition might be created to showcase artifacts, photographs, and stories from the unit’s members, particularly those who served during key operations following 9/11, providing a historical context for the commemoration.
  6. Social Gathering: Following the formal activities, a social gathering may be organized to encourage fellowship among veterans and attendees. This would serve as an opportunity for networking, sharing stories, and building community ties.

In conclusion, the 9/11, 2024 celebration hosted by Unit #379 in Maple Ridge will be a heartfelt expression of gratitude and remembrance, uniting veterans, families, and the community. It will honor the sacrifices made over the years while keeping the spirit of remembrance alive for both the heroes of the past and those who serve today.

80th Anniversary of D-Day and Juno Beach

Juno Beach holds a profound significance in Canadian history as the site where Canadian forces played a crucial role in the Battle of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The 80th anniversary of this monumental event is a time to honor and remember the bravery and sacrifices of Army, Navy, and Air Force veterans, especially those from unit 379 in Maple Ridge, BC. On that fateful day, Canadian soldiers stormed Juno Beach, facing fierce resistance. Despite heavy casualties, they succeeded in their mission, securing a vital foothold that contributed to the Allied victory in World War II.

For unit 379, this anniversary is a poignant reminder of the courage and resilience demonstrated by their predecessors. The Army’s relentless advance, the Navy’s critical support in ensuring a successful landing, and the Air Force’s vital air cover were all pivotal in the success of Operation Overlord. As we commemorate this 80th anniversary, we pay tribute to the veterans’ enduring legacy, acknowledging their role in shaping the course of history and safeguarding our freedoms. Their valor and dedication continue to inspire future generations, and their stories of heroism remain etched in the fabric of Canadian heritage.