There is a tradition of Remembrance Day ceremonies in Whonnock, which are attended by many in the small rural community.
There is a plaque at the Whonnock Lake Centre that commemorates those who have served, and it is the community cenotaph. Each year, a service is held that sometimes drawing about 100 people.
“It’s more intimate, and there’s is a strong sense of community in Whonnock,” said Dan Olivieri, a past organizer of the ceremony.
He said local children often lay wreaths in a ceremony that he describes as moving, respectful, and a stronger emotional experience for many in Whonnock.
“It does honour those in the community who have fallen,” said Olivieri.
The ceremony will begin promptly at 11 a.m., and organizers advise those attending to be there by 10:30 a.m.. There will be opening remarks followed by the reading of the poem “In Flanders Fields,” written by Lt.-Col. John McCrae, followed by the act of remembrance.
“The Last Post” will be played and two minutes of silence will be observed. “The Lament” and the “Reveille/Rouse” will also be played.
And, the “Commitment to Remember” will be recited before the laying of the wreaths – one on behalf of the Whonnock Community and another on behalf of the children of Whonnock.