I heard pipers skirling so I followed the sounds behind the NAC. The lads were patiently waiting to be called. While the main ceremony was over, a sep (...)
The regiment proceeded up the ramp.
The drummers set the pace.
Smartly now, Lads!
Colourful uniforms, with each decorative piece filled with purpose, lore and meaning.
Pity the fools who tried anything on this day. Vigilance was everywhere.
Onward, up the ramp, and into the sunlight. I followed along.
They marched by the War Memorial to a spot on the right side for the private ceremony.
The soldier is holding one of the two wreaths while a piper quick marches by announcing the start of the ceremony.
A veteran watches the private ceremony.
The regiment finally marched away.
This child saluted and marched along as his Dad's regiment marched by. There was a lot of dust in the air, stirred up by those CF-18s.
As the crowd shared a silent moment with the families of the fallen soldiers, the flags of the provinces snapped smartly at half mast in the brisk win (...)
Security finally relented and opened the barriers so that people could go to the War Memorual and pay their own respects. Many brought flowers.
It was nice to see a Muslim gesture of respect by laying flowers at the tomb of the unknown soldier.
Security paid special attention to individuals from obvious visible minorities. Thankfully, the flowers were not checked for explosives.
"Old Stock" Canadians had no trouble with security.
Finally, the War Memorial was made acessible to the general public. In return, the public remained at a respectful distance from the memorial, except (...)
The guards just don't stand there. At specific times, they do a ritual walk. This breaks the monotony as well as providing relief to sore muscles.
I understand the soldiers compete strongly for duty at the War Memorial, considering it a great honour. Good on them!
Nature's Serene Beauty
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