Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day is observed in Canada (and other Commonwealth nations, which include 53 member states, nearly all of them former territories of the British Empire) on November 11. It carries much of the same meaning as America’s Veterans Day. Celebrated since the end of WWI, Remembrance Day actually marks Armistice Day — the day on which the hostilities between the Allies and Germany ceased on the Western Front.

History:

At 11 A.M. on November 11, 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare.  The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month attained a special significance in the post-war years.  Remembrance Day in Canada, known as “Jour du Souvenir”.

Canada has declared that the date is of “remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace,” particularly the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and all conflicts since then in which members of the Canadian Armed Forces have participated.