November 5-11th is National Veterans’ Week. The Veterans' Week 2024 theme, “Canadian Armed Forces around the world,” reminds us to reflect on those laid to rest across the world, their memories forever intertwined with the history of our country.

Nov 8th is Indigenous Veterans' Day, observed in recognition of indigenous peoples' contributions to the Canadian military, in particular during the war of 1812, the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. First Nations, Metis, Inuit, and other Indigenous people were not conscripted in these wars because they weren’t considered Canadian citizens at the time. Despite that, it is estimated that more than 12,000 Indigenous men and women volunteered and served. We take this day to remember and honour the courage and strength of these service men and women.

Every year on November 11th, Canadians take a moment of silence to remember the individuals who have served and continue to serve our country in times of war, crisis, and peace. More than 1,500,000 Canadians have served this country, and over 100,000 have died in the process. They sacrificed their lives and futures so that we may live in peace.  

This year’s Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place on Friday, November 8th. 

School will start at 8:30am our ceremonies will be held during Block B.

Staff and students are asked to please dress respectfully and formally for this solemn occasion.

Poppies will be distributed during Block A 

McMath Poppy Fund Collection.  Staff and students are encouraged to make a small donation in their honour, with all proceeds going to the Canadian Veterans’ Society. Leadership students will visit classes on Tuesday and Wednesday. This donation will directly assist Veterans in financial distress, as well as fund medical equipment, medical research, home services, long term care facilities, etc.   Donations can also be made on School CashOnline.

Alternate Schedule for Nov 8th 

8:30 – 9:25 am: Block A (Poppy Distribution)

9:30 – 10:35 am: Block B1 (Remembrance Day Ceremony in the Gym) 

10:40 – 11:45 am: Block B2 (Remembrance Day Ceremony in the Gym)

11:45 – 11:55 am: Break

12:00 – 1:05 pm: Block C

1:05 – 1:50 pm: Lunch

1:55 – 3:00 pm: Block D

The McMath Library (LLC) has a wide range of resources to commemorate National Indigenous Veterans’ Day and Remembrance Day. 

Remembrance Day at Richmond City Hall on November 11th.  For those wishing to reflect and remember with the community, there will be an in-person Remembrance Day Ceremony on Friday, November 11 at the cenotaph located on the east side of Richmond City Hall, 6911 No. 3 Road.   Official ceremonies will begin at 10:40am. There will be two minutes of silence at 11:00am, followed by wreath laying.  For those unable to attend in person, Richmond’s Remembrance Day service will be recorded and streamed live. Go to: https://www.richmond.ca/culture/calendar/special-events/RemembranceDayCeremonies.htm