Remembrance Day will have a much different feel this year.
With the public discouraged from attending events at local cenotaphs, many of the traditional elements that make one pause while reflecting on the selfless sacrifices extended by some will not occur.
Instead, members of the public are encouraged to remember those who served or continue to serve the country in their own way.
The threat of massive fines due to COVID-19 enforcement protocols led to the Royal Canadian Legion branch 68 in Penetanguishene opting not to have a formal cenotaph service this year.
Branch president Paul Howe, who is also a veteran, said that since the maximum allowed at the cenotaph is 25, if a 26th person showed up, the Legion could be liable for a possible fine of $10,000 as well as fines levied of $750 per person.
“We’ve been on the phone every week with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit,” Howe said, noting the town actually owns the cenotaph.
“We’re playing it cool. All the wreaths that are purchased are going to be prelaid that morning and then we’ll be coming back to the Legion for a shot of rhum.”
Howe said that current pandemic has also affected the annual poppy campaign, but that some area establishments have poppy boxes and online donations are also being encouraged.
"Selling poppies is really difficult because we can't put any taggers out," Howe, who is also a veteran, said referring to the veterans and Legion members who are often found in front of stores and other establishments with poppies and donation boxes throughout the days leading up to Remembrance Day.
But some branches are going ahead with the ceremony, although often with major changes from their traditional offerings.
In Victoria Harbour, a service is planned at the village’s cenotaph for 11 a.m. Saturday that's limited to invitation only. However, there will be no parade and a reception afterwards will be limited to wreath layers and Legion members to ensure COVID-19 restrictions are respected.
The Royal Canadian Legion branch 80 in Midland will have a Remembrance Day ceremony on Wednesday at the town’s cenotaph, “but we insist” that only invited guests participate in person.
“Although it’s discouraged to visit the cenotaph this Remembrance Day, we invite you to take a step outside your door at 11 a.m. and observe two minutes of silence,” branch president Ron Adair said.
The Midland event will be televised, however and available from 10.30am on Rogers Television (cable 53 and online).
Tiny Township, meanwhile, announced that as a result of public health guidelines and COVID-19, the municipality’s regular commemorative services, programs and activities have pivoted.
Over the next week, the community is invited to commemorate in innovative ways by listening to specific calls to action prepared by the mayor and council.
“On November 11, we pause for two minutes of silent tribute, we attend commemorative ceremonies, either virtually or in-person, to show respect in memory of our fallen heroes,” Mayor George Cornell said.
To view Cornell’s and council members’ of Council’s call to action, visit the township’s website.
