‘War has a cost’: Montrealers pay tribute to Canadian veterans on Remembrance Day

Poppy-wearing crowds gathered at the cenotaph in Place du Canada, downtown Montreal, to pay tribute to Canadian veterans on Remembrance Day.

Military personnel and veterans were joined by dignitaries such as Quebec Premier François Legault, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, Immigration Minister Marc Miller, and Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly.

Together, they laid wreaths to honor those who served during World War I and subsequent conflicts.

Legault, addressing reporters, stressed the importance of remembering past conflicts to avoid repeating mistakes. "For a while, it seemed there would be no more major wars," he remarked, wearing a poppy. "But when we look at what's happening in Ukraine and the Middle East, it's clear that, although unwanted, large-scale conflicts are still possible."

Ian Lafrenière, Quebec’s Minister Responsible for Relations with First Nations and the Inuit, highlighted the significant contributions of Indigenous people to Canada's military efforts.

"More than 12,000 Indigenous people have served in various conflicts," he noted. "In the First World War alone, 4,000 Indigenous men volunteered—about one in four men in some communities. It's a huge commitment that deserves recognition."

The ceremony began with a minute of silence and a cannon shot at the symbolic 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the Armistice that ended World War I in 1918.

Following this, the army orchestra played the national anthem, and a bagpiper performed "The Lament" to honor those who lost their lives, symbolizing the mourning of their families.

Tommy Xu, a Royal Canadian Air Force member, believes Remembrance Day is vital for preserving the memory of those who served. "It's a good way to keep alive the sacrifices made for Canada and for freedom," he said, emphasizing that war should not be taken lightly. Having served for six years, Xu makes an effort to attend the annual ceremonies.

Spectator Jacqueline McClure began attending the event 12 years ago when her daughter joined the Girl Guides, and it has since become a meaningful tradition for her.

"I hope Canadians take this day to remember the sacrifices made on their behalf," she said. "We must not take our freedom for granted and should foster a spirit of service and care for something beyond ourselves."

Onofrio Papasodaro, another attendee, emphasized the importance of passing this history on to younger generations. "It’s crucial that they understand what happened over the past century," he stated. "We need to bring people together to discuss, understand, and respect each other’s perspectives to prevent history from repeating."

Charles Courteau, a passerby who stumbled upon the ceremony, decided to stay and watch. "I've had family members who fought in the war, so this is personal," he shared. "In today’s polarized society, events like this bring people together, transcending differences in ideology and background."

For Montreal resident Matthew, Remembrance Day is a time to honor his grandfather, a World War I veteran. "My grandfather, who was from Prince Edward Island, fought in the war and returned home injured," he said. "I come here to remember his role in defending our freedom. This ceremony is particularly relevant now, given the threats to democracy both at home and abroad. It’s a reminder that, while we shouldn’t have to fight for it, democracy is worth defending."