Massey Remembers
On November 11th, 2014, students and staff
at Vincent Massey Secondary School gathered in honour of those who have served,
and those who continue to serve, Canada in the name of freedom. In commemoration of those whose lives have
been lost in order to uphold peace and liberty throughout the world and at home,
Massey’s annual Remembrance Day Assembly was held.
Thanks to the hard work of Ms.
Plourde and Mr. Trudell , themes of unity, solidarity, and gratitude swayed throughout
the gymnasium as students and staff were treated to poignant singing, speeches,
and poetry by Massey’s own. A video
outlining Canada’s role in international missions throughout the world
followed.
Afterwards, several Massey students, along with Mr.
Garlick, attended the memorial at the Cenotaph Park in LaSalle. Massey
student Jessie McGinnis had the opportunity to give a speech before the
hundreds gathered in honour of Canada’s heroes, and Sarah Lewis laid a wreath
on behalf of Massey Secondary. During
her speech, Jessie spoke of the poignant Canadian Battlefield Tour through
Europe during March of 2014. It was there,
through their visits to Juno Beach, Dieppe--- and the many Canadian cemeteries
where those who never had the chance to return home are buried--- that the
students were given a real sense of how valiantly Canada fought to preserve
freedom around the world and at home.
Throughout this heartfelt day, it was once more
revealed how freedom and harmony are gifts afforded to us by those willing to
defend our values of justice and liberty.
Each and every sacrifice has served as stepping stone in achieving and
maintaining the peace under which we live, breathe and feel every day, but
frequently take for granted. This should
be remembered not just on November 11th, but honoured by our
everyday conduct through upholding ideals of solidarity, respect, kindness, and
fairness. In continuing to maintain and
preserve these principles which so many have died for, we remember.