Remembrance Day is a time for us to come together as a community to honour those who served and sacrificed for our freedoms. This year’s observances carried special meaning as 2025 marked the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War – a milestone that reminds us why remembrance matters.
In the days leading up to November 11, York Cemetery hosted two traditional military services with our long-standing regimental partners. On November 8, the 32 Service Engineers held their annual ceremony, welcoming about 200 military personnel and community members. The following day, the 32 Service Battalion gathered for their service, also drawing close to 200 attendees. Both events featured solemn processions, the recitation of In Flanders Fields, and the singing of God Save the King.
On November 11, York Cemetery hosted a public Remembrance Day Ceremony with the Governor General’s Horse Guards, the 32 Service Battalion and the City of Toronto. More than 1,000 people attended – a powerful reflection of our community’s commitment to honouring Canada’s military history. The ceremony included moving performances of The Last Post and The Lament by the Governor General’s Horse Guards, reflections from City Councillor Lily Cheng and a poignant reading of In Flanders Fields. Wreaths were laid by regiments, dignitaries and members of the public, and the service concluded with a Benediction from Captain Monique Roumy.
These gatherings united veterans, families and community members in shared reflection. York Cemetery continues to be a place where remembrance thrives – where we honour the past and reaffirm our commitment to protecting the freedoms secured by those who served.
