When the clock strikes the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, people all over Canada pause for two minutes of silence to honour those who have died in service to their country.
This year thoughts of soldiers who have died as a result of Canada's military involvement in Afghanistan will be foremost in the minds of those close to them.
Canadian soldiers have seen more combat in the last six months in Afghanistan than in the last half-century. To date, 42 Canadian soldiers have died, the largest combat death toll since the Korean War.
These soldiers and the sacrifice they and their families made will be honoured this year, along with those who died in the First World War, Second World War, the Korean War and during peacekeeping missions.
Canadians proudly wear poppies during the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day. Donations from the distribution of millions of replica poppies provide funds for the Royal Canadian Legion that go toward helping ex-servicemen and women.Remembering our veterans serves another purpose as well. Keeping memories alive and continuing to honour those who served their countries are two of the best ways to avoid war in the future.
So on Saturday, take a few moments to remember those who fought and died for our freedom. Take in a Remembrance Day service in Pender Harbour, Sechelt, Roberts Creek or Gibsons and pay tribute to our servicemen and women.
RestructureWe asked for your opinions, and boy, did we get them.Pages A11 and A12 contain many differing views on restructure - the pros and the cons and opinions from some who will be voting yes and others who will be voting no. We received so many letters we couldn't print them all. As a result, Coast Reporter will present more restructure letters next week. For those readers who sent in letters about something other than restructure, we haven't forgotten you. Those letters will also be considered for publication next week.
Coast Reporter has been invited by CKAY-FM to take part in a two-hour program on restructure at their studios next Wednesday, Nov. 15. The program runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Be sure to tune in and engage in the discussion.- Ian Jacques with files fromLaura Walz, Powell River Peak
