It was a cold day, but Eckville still same out to honour the veterans of the First and Second World Wars, and those of the conflicts since.
The small, invitation-only service was live streamed by the Eckville Legion so everyone in the town could take part, while still keeping to their cohorts and physical distancing in the world of COVID-19.
To ensure physical distancing was in place, the service, which was about a half an hour in length, was held outside at the cenotaph at the Legion.
While the service had a smaller attendance than normal, the message of Remembrance was felt by all those who watched from home or in person.
A member of the Eckville Legion conducted the Remembrance of the Fallen, and also marked Nov. 11, 2020 as the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
He recited a speech from a school board in Ontario, one the Legion member said was fitting for the day.
“I have not sacrificed anything for my freedom, it was given to me by those who came before me and sacrificed so much,” he said.
“So, now it is my responsibility to remember the service and sacrifices of more than one and a half million Canadian soldiers, sailors, air crew and merchant sea men. They died so that I could have freedom… I am forever in their debt.”
The Reverend spoke a prayer of thanks, remembrance and hope.
“We commit ourselves to work in penitence of faith for reconciliation between the nations, that all people may together live in freedom, justice and peace,” said Rev. Sandra Franklin-Law.
“We remember with gratitude those who’s lives have been given in sacrifice and taken away in terror.”
A small number wreaths were laid before the cenotaph at the end of the ceremony, and each person took a moment to reflect and remember those who have been lost.