Pincher Creek and area Remembers 2014

Remembrance Day ceremony at Twin Butte cenotaph
C. Davis and T. Lucas photos/videos

Chris Davis and Toni Lucas

Remembrance ceremonies in the Pincher Creek area began with a visit by Alberta Lieutenant Governor Donald. S. Ethell at Pincher Creek's community hall on November 5.  Local legion members visited Livingstone and Canyon schools on November 6.  They also visited Crestview Lodge.  A visit to St. Michael's School was unexpectedly cut short by a power outage.  Community Remembrance Day ceremonies were held on November 11 at Twin Butte and Pincher Creek community halls.

Ceremonies at Pincher Creek Community Hall, Livingstone School, and Twin Butte

The visit by Lieutenant Governor Donald S. Ethell was an invitation-only event attended by St. Michael's, Piikani Nation, and Matthew Halton high school students.  Also in attendance were members of Pincher Creek Legion #43, cadets from Cadets from 859 Crowsnest Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (which includes Pincher Creek cadets), area dignitaries, RCMP members, and others. Royal Canadian Legion Provincial President Wayne Donner was a featured speaker, as was Lieutenant Governor Ethell and local veteran Sgt. Walker (click here for his presentation).

Lieutenant Governor Donald Ethell with wife Linda

The event began with opening remarks by the evening's Master of Ceremonies Susan Robinson of Matthew Halton School, followed by the bagpipes of local piper Hayden Varley, introducing the colour party flag bearers led by Pincher Creek Legion Sergeant at Arms Fred Asta White, as they escorted the Lieutenant Governor and his wife Linda to their seats on a dais adjacent to the stage which was set up for the attending dignitaries.

Royal Canadian Legion Provincial President Wayne Donner

In addition to the speeches, students presented the dignitaries and attending veterans with a rose.  Other student presentations, of which excerpts can be seen in the video below, included topical songs from Alexandra Morgan and Alexis Breckenridge, poems, a traditional Piikani dance, slideshows, and a theatrical recitation.

During his speech the Lieutenant Governor reminded those in attendance that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the Great War (World War 1) and the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of World War 2, and the 70th anniversary of the battle of Normandy.  “These milestones are reminders of the sacrifices of all those who served and of the terrible losses that have come with our pursuit for a more peaceful and just world,” he said.  He also disclosed that he once served in the First Battalion of the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada with Sgt. Norman Walker. "That was a million years ago Norm."  He said he served in 14 peacekeeping missions during his active career.

"Sadly, the ranks of our fallen soldiers now include the brave Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice just two weeks ago... who's deaths remind us that our peace and security are precious and special gifts that we must never take for granted."  - The Honourable Donald S. Ethell

His Honour, Col. (Ret'd) the

Honourable Donald S. Ethell,

OC OMM AOE MSC CD LLD

Lieutenant Governor of Alberta

“Far too many have fallen, and more still have returned home only to continue a battle against the physical and mental injuries they sustained. Our nation stands today on the shoulders of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and all those who served for the greater good.” - The Honourable Donald S. Ethell

"Pincher Creek sent 11 sons, brothers, and fathers to the front of the first world war, and some of those heroes now lie in fields of honour near where they fell," said Ethell.  "In Vimy, Ypres, Passchendaele. This town also did its part 25 years later in the second world war, and that includes the outstanding contributions of men like Hank Planger (who was in attendance) and comrades from the elite Devil's Brigade. How do you do sir."  Ethell also commented on one of Pincher Creek's most famous sons, second world war journalist Matthew Halton.

Students pinning poppies to wreath at Livingstone School

At Livingstone School the next day members of Pincher Creek Legion #43 attended as students recited poems and spoke of what the sacrifice of our veterans means to them.  Sgt. Norman Walker made his presentation, themed "Prayer".  The event concluded with the pinning of poppies to the wreath at the podium and a march out by the veterans.

Cal and Doris Wellman, Cathy Mitchell, and Mary Ann Marr at Twin Butte cenotaph

The community of Twin Butte held their Remembrance Day Service on November 11.  The bitter cold didn't seem to be a deterrent, as the event was well attended.  John Mitchell acted as Master of Ceremonies.  Kevin Fitzpatrick led those congregated in song, playing guitar and piano.  David Jenkins recited "In Flanders Fields.  After Kevin Fitpatrick sang "The Old Rugged Cross" the crowd left the warmth of the Twin Butte Community Hall in a procession to the Memorial Cenotaph behind it, where Cathy Mitchell and Ann Marr recited the Veteran's Roll Call.  A ceremonial laying of wreaths was presided over by Cal and Doris Wellman, following which a minute of silence was observed.  A Tea and Social followed.

Remembrance Day service in Pincher Creek

Royal Canadian Legion #43 held their annual Remembrance Day service on November 11 at the Pincher Creek Community Hall. The hall was full with people that came to pay their respects to those that have given their lives in the service of our country, and those that protect our freedoms today.

Jackie Therriault

Everyone stood as the Colour Guard marched in, starting the ceremony. Jackie Therriault played 'O, Canada' on the piano, joined by the voices of everyone who filled the hall. Therriault has been playing music for Remembrance Day Ceremonies in Pincher Creek for close to 60 years.

A prayer was said by Reverend Dave Goff before the two minutes of silence was observed. The hall was still while individuals had moments to reflect on thoughts of family, loved ones, freedom, peace and war.

Sheila Provost

The Silver Cross Mother wreath was represented by Sheila Provost who was honouring her Great Uncle Pete Provost Junior.  Lance Corporal Provost was killed in action August 16, 1918 in WWI and was laid  to rest in France.

Town of Pincher Creek councillors Doug Thornton, Mark Barber, Tammy Rubbelke and Mayor Don Anderberg (with wreath) present wreath to Pincher Creek Legion Service Officer Hal Sigurdson

MD of Pincher Creek No. 9 Reeve Brian Hammond presents wreath to Sgt. Norman Walker

One by one, others came to the front to show their respects from the Legion and Government. After that individual families were called to the front, then organizations and service groups, churches, schools, youth groups, businesses and unions.  Members of  859 Crowsnest Air Cadets and 2309 Fort Macleod Army Cadets acted as community representatives for those with a wreath or cross who were unable to attend by bringing them to the front.

Area Cadets

After all the wreaths were laid pianist Jackie Therriault performed 'Abide With Me' and 'God Save the Queen'. Groups were invited to join the March Off of the colours after the Colour party had made a half circuit of the room, making a solemn tribute to those that serve our country. After the ceremony many went to the Legion for a light lunch and to visit.

Related story: Sgt. Norm Walker on the power of prayer