To you from failing hands we throw the torch; be yours to hold it high.

It has been 100 years since Canadian soldier Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae wrote those both haunting and inspirational words during World War I and the Second Battle of Ypres as part of the poem In Flanders Fields. Today, most Canadians are familiar with the iconic poem and how the poppy has come to symbolize our remembrance for the sacrifices that many have made for the cause of peace and freedom. The poem itself was an act of remembrance, written by McCrae in May of 1915 to honour his friend who was killed during battle.

And this week, as the centennial anniversary of In Flanders Fields was marked in ceremonies across Canada, it was clear that the legacy of John McCrae’s poem is as strong as ever. While it was once feared that Remembrance Day ceremonies would become smaller in size as the number of veterans diminished, many ceremonies are actually growing as Canadians show an appreciation for the country that we have and those who have helped to preserve our freedoms.

This year not only was the 100th anniversary of In Flanders Fields commemorated, but also the 2nd Battle of Ypres in Belgium where it was penned. The sad legacy of that battle being that it is considered the first time in modern history that poisonous gas was used. As well this year, the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands during the Second World War was commemorated. Canadians played a significant role in the liberation and still today are remembered by the Dutch people with tremendous thanks and gratitude. However that effort, like many others during the Second World War, came with a great cost as thousands of Canadians lost their lives.

And still today, while the scale of the conflicts and duties are different than in years past, Canadian men and women serve both at home and abroad. Their efforts were remembered as well even as we pray that there may be the lasting peace in the world that has eluded it for so long.

While Remembrance Day is the day that is set aside to formally remember and give thanks to those that have served and those that do still today, it is symbolic of the thanks that Canadians feel throughout the year. The gratitude that we have to be able to live in one of the most free and secure countries in the world should not be contained to one day.

John McCrae, one hundred years ago, wrote a poem of honour and remembrance. He left a legacy through his words. Just as so many other Canadians have left a legacy through their bravery and their commitment. Lest We Forget.