On Monday, Nov. 11, at cenotaphs across the country, Canadians will observe Remembrance Day.

The day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of those who served in armed military conflicts, and those who continue to serve.
International turmoils and conflicts have taken their toll in this country. 

In the South African War, the First World War, the Second World War, the Korean War, the First Gulf War, the conflict in Afghanistan and peacekeeping efforts around the world, nearly 1.8 million Canadians served. More than half of that number was during the Second World War alone.

More than 100,000 Canadians have died in the various wars in which Canada has participated. Their names are listed on Canadian cenotaphs. 

Many more were taken prisoner of war, or returned home wounded after their military service. 

These sacrifices and this level of service need to be respected.

The effects of any war extend far beyond those who served. Families, friends and communities were affected during and after a war. 

As a result, Remembrance Day should be seen as a time of solemn reflection, a time to pay tribute to those who served and a time to mourn those who died in military action.

Honouring those who served, especially those who died in service, involves making a commitment to peace and to ensuring another significant war does not happen.

The day is not a time for flag-waving or nationalism. It is not a time to encourage young people to enlist in military service, nor is it a time for stories of battlefield heroics. Displays of patriotism have no part in the day, nor do political messages.

Rather, Remembrance Day is and must remain a sombre time of reflection.

Taking time to honour those who served, and especially those who lost their lives during times of war, may encourage efforts to creating peace.

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