The Titans Remember

By: Kristyn Farrell
Photo Credit: Taryn Bratz and Maddi McNevitts

Staff and students of Holy Trinity gathered together in the school gym Tuesday morning for the annual Remembrance Day service. Many bore poppies to pay tribute to the soldiers who died protecting our country. Following an introductory speech about Remembrance Day and its origin and history, everyone was asked to stand for the singing of O Canada, played by the senior concert band. Members of the audience were then called to silently pay their respects to the fallen Canadian soldiers, Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo, who were killed on Canadian soil this October. After a brief explanation of the history and symbolism of poppies, Mrs. Borsellino’s drama class performed a short, symbolic presentation called “The Missing Mantle.” Members processed in bearing a wreath, a white cross, and two flags.

Following the drama class' presentation, the day's guest of honour, Corporal Brad Mullen, was introduced and proceeded with a captivating speech. Cpl. Mullen spoke of the importance of peace, the great diversity of our country, and the significance of our national anthem. His words, which moved some students to tears, focused on the importance of service towards one another and his regiment's motto: "I serve".

Following the talk, grade eleven student and Oakville Sea Cadet, Master Seaman Cleyton Calilung laid the wreath on the cross. Bearing the words "lest we forget", the wreath was a sign of the day's importance and the thanks we owe to Canadian servicemen and women for their courage and sacrifice. 

MS Calilung stood on guard in front of the cross as a moment of silence was observed and the Last Post was played by Mr. Harkin. Throughout the ceremony, the concert band and choir provided musical enhancement for this reverent assembly.

The closing prayer, which impressed a final gesture of thanks to God for how fortunate we are in Canada, was met with the response, "Lord grant us peace". Fittingly, grade twelve student Mariana DaSilva says, “I feel that it’s important to commemorate those who fought for us, together as one Catholic family.”

Thank you to all those- standing or fallen, who have sacrificed for our freedom.

Lest we forget.