Remembering Ancestors

By Lookout Production on Nov 07, 2024 with Comments 0

Paul Dagonese,
Lookout Writer

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“The history of Latin American Canadians in the Canadian military is both rich and remarkable. They served with distinction in both World Wars, overcoming many challenges and the financial burden of paying their own way to Canada to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. These courageous individuals volunteered to serve, and in doing so showed their adaptability, dedication and resilience in their commitment to Canada.” – Canada.ca

In a solemn yet joyous gathering at Veterans Cemetery, God’s Acre, the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) Latin American community held its 3rd Annual Remembrance Ceremony. Soldiers, families, and friends came together on Oct. 6 to commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of Latin American service members to Canadian freedom.

The ceremony began with a call to “Remember our ancestors,” followed by the playing of the Canadian national anthem.

This year, Peru was named the Host Nation, continuing a tradition of honouring a different Latin American country each year for its military contributions. Sailor Third Class Anna Ortiz Ruis, the event’s organizer, highlighted how the tradition started in Ottawa and recognizes families with ties to soldiers from the First and Second World Wars.

Padre Anthony Divinagracia officiated the eulogy and emphasized the importance of diversity in Remembrance.

“May our diversity, far from being a source of division, make us stronger together,” he said, acknowledging the challenges faced by Latin American military members, including language barriers and separation from family, as they serve Canada. “Lest we forget,” he closed.

In Flanders Field was read, both in Spanish and English, followed by a moment of silence. To close the ceremony, wreaths were laid to mark the sacred ground and Remembrance of soldiers now deceased.

At the National Military Cemetery in Ottawa, the Latin American community also marked their 3rd Annual Remembrance Ceremony. Both events took place in October, which is recognized as Latin Heritage Month.