Remembrance Day 2011

Their Excellencies observed one minute of silience during the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

Each year on November 11, Canadians participate in the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial, in Ottawa, to pay homage to those who have served their country.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was created to honour the more than 116,000 Canadians who sacrificed their lives in the cause of peace and freedom. Furthermore, the Unknown Soldier represents all Canadians, whether they be navy, army, air force or merchant marine, who died or may die for their country in all conflicts - past, present, and future.

During the ceremony, the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada wore the flag/general officer unifom with special flag/general sleeve braid, embellished with the governor general's badge, and a large embroidered governor general's badge on the shoulder straps or boards.

Their Excellencies laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknow Soldier, on behalf of the people of Canada.

This year's Silver Cross Mother, Mrs. Patricia Elaine Braun, laid a wreath on behalf of the mothers of Canada.

The Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada saluted the members of the Canadian Forces as they marched past during the parade.

Their Excellencies hosted a luncheon at Rideau Hall to pay tribute to this year’s National Silver Cross Mother, Mrs. Patricia (Patty) Elaine Braun (right of the Governor General), whose son, Corporal David Robert William Braun, was killed by a suicide bomber in a vehicle attack while on patrol in Kandahar, Afghanistan, on August 22, 2006. Each year, the Silver Cross Mother is chosen by the Royal Canadian Legion to attend the National Remembrance Day Ceremony on behalf of all Canadian mothers who have lost children in the service to their country. Mrs. Braun's daughter Katie (left of Her Excellency) also attended the luncheon.