Greetings:
Originally called “Armistice Day”, Remembrance Day was first observed throughout the British Commonwealth in 1919. It was held to pay tribute to the end of the First World War through the signing of the Armistice Agreement on November 11, 1918 at 11 am. Armistice Day was held on the Monday during the week in which November 11th fell until 1931 when it was renamed “Remembrance Day” and was to take place solely on November 11th.
Today, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Canadians pause for a moment of silence to remember all those who have fought and continue to fight for this country. It is because of the brave men and women who have served this great nation that we enjoy the peace and freedoms we have today.
IBEW Canada is also a proud partner of Helmets to Hardhats Canada, which provides career transition opportunities to Canadian Forces veterans looking to start a second career in the trades.
Sisters and Brothers, we must remember and involve ourselves on Remembrance Day, November 11th, so that the courage and selflessness of these women and men is not lost to future generations; we remember because through their sacrifices we have the right to participate and reap the benefits of our Union. I encourage our Local Unions, officers and members to take part in local events in your area to pay tribute to all of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.
In solidarity,
IVP Tom Reid