This month, November, we take a moment to pause and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can have the freedoms we enjoy today. This Remembrance Day will look different from previous years. We will not be able to gather in large groups due to COVID, but we will still be able to remember, and we must do so.
Alberta has made major contributions to Canada’s fighting forces. During WW1 seven of the 16 battalions came from Western Canada. Canada’s military continues to hold a strong presence around the world helping to secure peace and democracy. Today, Alberta is home to six military bases, including the largest in the commonwealth – CFB Suffield.
I will have the great honour again this year to join in on a service at the Colonel Belcher Retirement Residence. This residence is home to 175 residents in which 75 per cent are veterans of WWII, the Korean War and others as members of the army, the air force and the United Nations.
2020 has hit Alberta hard with COVID-19, the global economic recession and the crash of oil prices. The Government of Alberta is working to help all Albertans through the Alberta Recovery Plan, investing in Alberta for Albertans, including our veterans. For those men and women who have sacrificed so much, I am reminded that we live in one of the freest jurisdictions in the world. For this I am thankful for the service of the men and women who have sacrificed so much.
As we reflect and honour our veterans, I am reminded that the Calgary Veterans Food Bank is there for them. So many groups have been affected this year by COVID-19, your support is needed now more than ever.
On this 11th month of the 11th day of the 11th hour no matter where you are, take a moment and pause. To those who served, lost their lives and to those who continue to stand guard, we will remember.
As always, if you need to get in touch with me on any provincial issue or have questions, please feel free to reach out to my office at Calgary.Varsity@assembly.ab.ca.
