Annual French Remembrance Ceremony: A Solemn Tribute to Sacrifice and Unity

By Capt. Rey GARCIA-SALAS. -Under the somber skies of Ottawa, on November 5th, 2023, the Beechwood National Cemetery stood witness to a poignant tribute – the Annual French Remembrance Ceremony, meticulously organized by French Souvenir in Canada. Amidst the cool autumn breeze, attendees gathered beneath the shadow of the Monument Amicitia France-Canada, uniting in a shared purpose – to honor the sacrifice of soldiers who gave their lives in the pursuit of peace, freedom, and the defense of their homelands. Guided by the steadfast hand of Master of Ceremonies, Colonel Marie-Claire Ouellet, the ceremony echoed with profound respect and heartfelt gratitude.

A century and five years ago, the tolling bells across France’s towns and villages marked the end of a harrowing tragedy – the First World War, a conflict that endured for 52 months. In its wake, France was adorned with war memorials, each bearing the names of brave sons and daughters who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their homeland.

Colonel Ouellet, in her poignant address, reminded attendees of the unwavering heroism displayed by soldiers, both past and present. She emphasized the enduring solidarity forged in the trenches and across the nation, urging all to learn from the lessons of history. In the present day, as the specter of war looms over Europe and regional stability in the Middle East teeters on the edge, unity and collective action have become paramount.

In 2023, the world mourned four brave French soldiers – Chief Warrant Officer Nicolas Latourte, Chief Warrant Baptiste Gauchot, Corporal Dorian Damelincourt, and Chief Warrant Officer Guy Barcarel, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to France and the Republic. Their names now echo among those who have fallen, a stark reminder of the ongoing sacrifices made for the greater good.

Esteemed guests, including MP Honorable Marie France Lalonde Parliamentary Secretary to Minister of National Defence and Lieutenant-General Frances Allen, Vice Chief of Defence Staff of the Canadian Armed Forces, took the podium to reflect on the soldiers’ contributions and the enduring friendship between Canada and France. Colonel Bruno Heluin, the French Military Attaché to Canada, highlighted the enduring bond between the nations, while Wilson Lo, municipal councillor, spoke on behalf of Ottawa Municipality, acknowledging the ceremony’s significance for the city. Students from Jean de Brébeuf School in Gatineau and Claudel High School paid homage through readings, invoking the solemnity of war and remembrance.

As attendees observed two minutes of silence, wreaths were laid to honor the fallen soldiers. Representatives from various organizations, including the Government of Canada, the French Embassy, and the City of Ottawa, paid their respects. Notably, for the first time, the Latin American Soldiers Committee in Canada, represented by Captain Rey Garcia-Salas, laid a wreath honoring all Latin Americans who had fallen defending France during the First and Second World Wars. This poignant act symbolized a collective commitment to never forget the sacrifices made for the cause of freedom and peace.

The ceremony reached its crescendo with the strains of the French and Canadian national anthems, reverberating through the air, a testament to the enduring spirit of unity. Following the formal proceedings, participants gathered in front of the monument for a group photo, capturing the shared reverence and determination to preserve the memory of the fallen.

In this annual ceremony, taking place every year on the 1st Sunday just before 11 November in the past five years ago, with a second annual ceremony for the WWII soldiers every May around 8 May, attendees stood united in their commitment to honor the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who have shaped the course of nations. As the world grapples with the challenges of the present, the Annual French Remembrance Ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, unity, and the pursuit of lasting peace.