Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day is on November 11 in Canada and the UK. The day marks the end of the First World War and is dedicated to remembering and honoring all those who died during the conflict. The armistice between the Allies and Germany took place on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.

History

The First World War was a four-year conflict that caused catastrophic damage, until Germany asked for a halt to hostilities and agreed to terms of unconditional surrender. On November 11, 1918, the armistice was declared, and the first anniversary of the event was held in London in 1919. At this time, Australian journalist Edward Honey proposed a two-minute silence to remember and honor those who had died in the war, an idea which was widely accepted. Since then, Remembrance Day has been in Canada with national ceremonies held in Confederation Square near the National War Memorial.

Interesting Facts

• 82% of Canadians consider Remembrance Day to be the most important day of the year.
• 91% of Canadians feel that the government is not doing enough for war veterans.
• Over 800,000 British soldiers died during the First World War.
• Canadians observe a minute of silence in honor of Remembrance Day, wherever they are.
• Over 2.3 million Canadians have served to keep the peace throughout history.

How to Take Part

Remembering and learning from history is the best way to prevent further hostilities. Families who have relatives that served in conflicts often gather together on Remembrance Day to remember and share stories of heroic acts. The poppy is a universal symbol of remembrance and is often seen on monuments and memorials on this day.

When is Remembrance Day in 2024?

Remembrance Day is observed on November 11 each year.

Observations