Veterans Jim Davis, Alfred Beese and Jim MacPherson watch as Birch Cliff students pay tribute to Canada's veterans.
The students of Birch Cliff Public School and veterans came together yesterday for a solemn and heartwarming Remembrance Day ceremony at the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
As veterans looked on, the students read poems, displayed artwork and sang in tribute to the men and women who fought for our country in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and Afghanistan.
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The children were escorted to the Branch 13 Legion Hall by veterans who were delighted by the revival of this Birch Cliff tradition.
Traffic stopped in both directions and motorists honked in support as veterans guided the children across the street.
The students, who were all wearing poppies, watched quietly and respectfully as their classmates paid tribute to the veterans in their own words.
More than a few people had tears in their eyes as students from grades 2, 3 and 5 sang “One Day”, under the direction of teacher Amy Ribble.
Legion President Kelly Jackson led the students in a minute of silence and the playing of The Last Post.
As the veterans remembered the sacrifice of their fellow soldiers, the young boy in yellow shows his respect.
After the ceremony Alfred Beese, who served two years in northern Italy, is surrounded by children who wanted to hear details about his service.
To find our more about what the day meant to Mr. Beese, you can watch this news report by CITY TV’s Tom Hayes, who covered the Birch Cliff ceremony.
The children were escorted back by piper Bob Murdoch who later said he was grateful that every single child shook his hand before they entered the school.
Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held tomorrow at 11am at the Scarborough Cenotaph, in the green space where Kingston Road meets Danforth Avenue.
A wreath laying will also take place at the local legion at 1:30pm.
