Wreaths are laid during a Remembrance Day ceremony. (CREDIT: Skye Bryden-Blom)

Nova Scotians will be able to observe a sombre moment to mark Remembrance Day without pandemic restrictions this year.

The coordinator of the provincial ceremony at Grand Parade in Halifax tells our newsroom the event will look like it did prior to COVID-19. The only exception is the parade down Barrington Street will not be held this year.

Glen Leduc says they’re expecting a big crowd to honour veterans.

“We will have various invited dignitaries come to lay wreathes, the military will have troops in the parade square, the Stadacona Band will be there playing, the Legion will provide a flag party and we invite all the public to come. There will be no restrictions for wearing facial coverings or regarding personal space,” Leduc explains. “But if people wish to wear their face mask, by all means, please do.”

The Lieutenant Governor will represent the sovereign. Army and navy commanders will attend along with government officials and representatives of several allied nations and from the Second World War.

Leduc says Remembrance Day serves as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made for our freedoms.

“It’s very important that we do observe this date, first of all, to thank the veterans, both living and dead, for what they have given us,” Leduc explains.

“Also it is to remember the horrors of war. Many of our school children will study the First World War, the Second World War, perhaps Korea or Afghanistan, and begin to understand that there’s nothing to be gained by war. November the 11th is not something to celebrate war, but it’s to remember what the effects are, and how much we never wish to go back to that state.”

Leduc adds legions can always use an extra set of hands to help us remember and to carry out the 2022 Poppy Campaign.

“We have enough volunteers to do what we need,” Leduc says. “But we are always willing to have more people who would like to help us.”

Funds raised through the poppy campaign help veterans, their families and communities, as well as promote remembrance.

The poppy campaign runs until November 11th.