We will remember them: Essex pauses on Remembrance Day to reflect on cost of freedom

by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative

Essex residents, and those employed in the area, took the time to show their respects for “those who left never to return,” as part of the local Remembrance Day parade and service at the Essex Centre cenotaph on the morning of November 11.

  They were able to think of loved ones who served, as well as strangers, who united to defend their country in the name of peace, during the quiet moment of reflection.

  “We are here for those who have returned, but are never the same. We are here for their families to reflect our gratitude and sincere appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy as a result of their sacrifice. We are here to ensure that their legacy will forever be recognized, Erroll Caza, Past President of the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201), said.  

Remembrance Day provides an opportunity to distinguish the men and women who fought and died to battle human atrocities and discrimination.

  Caza noted “there is a saying which in this orator’s view is pertinent, ‘the more you distinguish, the more you discriminate.’ Taken to the extreme, its meaning forms the basis and root causes of major conflicts of war and battles the world has faced.”

  Every year, the Essex Legion hosts the Remembrance Day ceremony as an outlet to reflect. This year’s ceremony attracted another great turnout, with many – including local students – taking the time to participate in the ceremony and remember the cost of freedom and thank those who came before and paid that price, sometimes resulting in the ultimate sacrifice.

  Caza said this year’s Essex Remembrance Day ceremony has the largest turnout he has seen, even compared to ones taking part in Windsor.

  Caza spoke of how Essex and Essex County are both microcosms of every small town, village, and major city in Canada.

  Essex has always been a community that has taken the opportunity to show its appreciation to Veterans, Fallen Soldiers, and current service men and women.

  There are monuments surrounding the cenotaph that are inscribed with the names of the “fallen of our fellow citizens who in many cases paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy.”

   He also spoke of the “Salute Our Veterans” street banners program. As part of the initiative, which now adorns the street posts along Talbot Street in Essex Centre, the banners depict a fallen soldier, Veteran, or current service personnel who served, with a photo.

  “Many thanks to those that coordinated this project as another endeavor to ensure that we are forever thankful to the contributions and sacrifices of our Veterans,” Caza Said.

  “Essex can be proud for their efforts and contributions in keeping alive the memories of those we have lost."

  He took the time to recognize who is believed to be the oldest living WW2 Veteran in Canada from Niagara, Burd Sisler, who celebrated his 110th birthday this past April.