LETHBRIDGE, Alta. –

Canadians across the country spent Monday paying tribute to soldiers who fought and died in service to Canada.

Locally, two ceremonies were held to honor those who served.

For the second time, the agri-food hub and shopping center organized a Remembrance Day ceremony.

Hundreds of people came out to show their support for fallen soldiers and veterans.

“It means a lot, because we have to remember why we have the freedoms that we have here in Canada, in other democratic countries around the world, because people died so that we could live this way,” said Mike Duffy, Secretary of the RCMP. Veterans Association, Lethbridge Branch.

At the same time, another ceremony was taking place at the cenotaph outside the Yates Memorial Theater.

Remembrance Day Ceremony in Lethbridge, Monday, November 11, 2024

The Cenotaph was originally built to honor the 157 Lethbridge men who died during the First World War.

Later, the names of those who died in World War II and the Korean War were also added.

More than 1,000 people also gathered outside to pay their respects.

“This is a great date to remember the sacrifices those who came before us made for the way of life we ​​enjoy,” said Maj. Mitch Montminy, commander of the 20^th Independent field battery. “I made this country the best country in the world for everyone to live in. We still have great support here in Lethbridge,”

Large crowds attended two Remembrance Day events in Lethbridge on Monday. (Photo: Quinn Keenan, CTV News)

Many veterans attended one or other of the events in Lethbridge.

The message veterans took away is that the sacrifices they made have not been forgotten.

“Oh, that’s great. It’s hard to hold back tears there when people start clapping and marching and all that, it’s incredible. It’s the people. It’s truly incredible,” said Wesley Barnaby, who served in the Canadian Armed Forces for more than 30 years.

Veterans and those still in the army were also moved to see the strong participation in the two local ceremonies.

“It really means a lot to know that local people have honor and respect for veterans and those who have served and, you know, made the ultimate sacrifice,” Matthew Dallas said on the 20^th Independent field battery.

The military museum was also open on Monday with free entry to mark Remembrance Day.