The lights were dimmed, it became very quiet and all eyes were piercing at the projector screen. The faces of fallen Canadian troops slid across the screen as students, teachers and others remained in silence in honour of their work. Everyone had a poppy pinned above their heart, it was apparent they remembered.
The staff and students at Gordon F. Kells High School held their Remembrance Day service in the school's gymnasium on Friday, Nov. 8. The ceremony which started at 11:00 a.m. was led by students, Hanah Coffey, Halle Doty and Carlie Standingready. The students of the Gordon F. Kells band played "O' Canada" and "Abide with Me" which struck a chord with many who attended the event. Principal of the school,Maurice Saltel explained that some students were very nervous before they spoke and performed but said the practice they put into public speaking and playing the national anthem paid off.
"They did a really good job, public speaking comes with practice and this is really good for them," Saltel said.
The principal also said the video and many other items used for the ceremony was provided by veteran services and commended the organization for the work it does with schools and the help they offer in preparation for ceremonies. Saltel also shared his thoughts on what the day means to him and its relevance in schools.
"[It means] recognition, on behalf of all the kids, the 10 schools in Carlyle and the surrounding area - this is important. People have made sacrifices in the past and continue to make sacrifices even today for the safety of all Canadians," he said.
"The world has changed since 9-11 and those people we rely on for our safety - we have to remember them, always, and all the sacrifices they make."
The laying of the wreaths involved representatives from various organizations including Jennifer Sedor, representing the town of Carlyle as well as officers from the local RCMP detachment. Ethan Shepard a student at the school also layed a wreath and his involvement also had some significance as his grandfather served during WWII. Shepard spoke of stories he heard from his father involving a WWII relic and explained the meaning Remembrance Day has for him.
"I think it's about remembering those who have been lost and forgotten, those who fought and died. I remember him telling me about this lantern. It's at our house right now. It's very old," he said trying to remember details of the story about the lantern which he said was used during the Second World War.
Principal Saltel said each year the high school alternates with the Carlyle Elementary School in hosting the event and indicated that the ceremony has become a routine for both schools.
