SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — Parkside Elementary School students had poppies on their minds Monday at the annual Remembrance Day assembly.
It’s one of the staff’s favourite events, said music teacher Alexandra Arsenault.
“I just think it’s so important for our kids to know and understand the Canada we have today - the world they’re living in today - is safe and they’re free because of the sacrifice of so many. I just never want them to forget that. We really place a lot of importance on this assembly so that message is shared, and they really take that home with them.”
As the gym filled with the students, some carried wreaths of various sizes and colours. Poppies covered all of them and students spoke of Flanders Fields and the medic who wrote the poem.
Each class had worked together to create the wreaths, which were laid at the temporary cenotaph in the school gymnasium.
The 40-minute ceremony also included a flag party from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #5 and Air Force 200 Wing, both in Summerside.
Dressed in navy blue blazers and grey pants, the guards each wore white leather gloves and a white sash to hold the flag.
“Every year, the ceremonies are better than the year before. It’s really good to see,” said Dolphe Mazerolle.
Irving Arsenault agreed. He’s been in the colour party for the last 25 years, and the sergeant-at-arms for 19.
He says he’s retiring on Nov. 12, but his wife laughs and says, “Sure, until next year.”
