PREECEVILLE, Sask. — The annual Remembrance Day service held at the Preeceville Community Hall paid tribute to and honoured those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. The Preeceville legion hosted the service Nov. 11.
The service began with the entrance of the colour party and cadets, followed by the singing of O Canada.
Bill Lesko gave the opening and closing remarks, recited the names of local residents who perished in war and recited The Act of Remembrance.
“We gather not simply to observe a ceremony, but to remember people—real people who loved, hoped, worried, and dreamed of returning home to the families they left behind. We are here because our freedom was not free. It was protected by the courage and sacrifice of Canadians who answered the call to serve. Some came home carrying wounds that could be seen. Others returned with wounds hidden deep inside. Many never came home at all. Behind every name on a cenotaph was a life,” said Lesko.
Two war veterans, Clifford Crozier and William Harris, were also acknowledged.
Pastor Hein Bertram played Last Post and Reveille.
Hailey Spray recited Commitment to Remember, followed by Olivia Ivanochko, who recited the poem In Flanders Fields.
Rev. David Mugadzi offered prayers, the benediction and blessings.
Wreaths were laid by individuals on behalf of governments, businesses and organizations.
Nathan Karcha laid a wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada; Chris Balyski represented the office of Canora-Pelly MLA Sean Wilson; and Blaine Medlang laid a wreath on behalf of veterans.
Other wreaths were laid on behalf of the Town of Preeceville; Preeceville School; Shelly Scebenski and Donna Chalupika on behalf of Fred Lawson; Preeceville Hospital Auxiliary; Preeceville Museum; Village of Endeavour; Preeceville Lions Club; RM of Preeceville; Preeceville Personal Care Home; Paul's Drugs Store; Preeceville Fresh Mart; Autumn's Place; SunDog Consulting; Scheller Transport; Baileys Funeral Home; St. Patrick's CWL, Preeceville; St. John's Lutheran Church; Sturgis Council; Kevron Transport; Preeceville Co-op; Bev Forshner in memory of Dr. Reginald Forshner; Thirsty Dogs; Golden West Hotel; Pattison Agriculture; Endeavour Hotel; Taiga Technologies; OK Tire; Chris' Place; Preeceville EDC; and Preeceville Long Term.
The Crozier family laid wreaths on behalf of Norman Wall, Cliff Crozier and Jack Crozier.
At the conclusion of the service, lunch was provided by the cadet parent support group.
