Windsorites Remember

by Jimmy LeBlanc

With the number of World War I and II veterans remaining dwindling, schools and organizations are making a bigger effort to create awareness about Remembrance Day.

James Zavitz, 17, has been serving in the armed forces as a member of the HMCS Navy Reserve for five months.

“I joined the Navy because I’m a very proud Canadian, and I wanted to serve this great country,” said Zavit. “My friends and family are very proud that I joined the Navy, and decided to be a part of the armed forces.”

Zavitz had the opportunity to participate in his school’s Remembrance Day ceremony.

“Getting to participate in the assembly is a great experience, it’s very good to see to see the teachers and students give respect to the veterans who served this country, and to the current members of the military.”

Gale Gagnier, 70, has been serving the Canadian Historical society for 11 years as a volunteer.

“I feel people involved directly give Remembrance Day a lot of respect, and I also feel students are very aware of what the veterans did for us,” said Gagnier. “I think there’s always room for improvement, I would like to see more awareness for people who are out of school because veterans often do presentations for students and are very well received.”

According to Gagnier there’s not enough appreciation that can be given to the veterans and current members of the Canadian Military.

“When I’m at a Remembrance Day ceremony, I just think about what the veterans did for us.”