When our children were 10 and 12 years old we spent a wonderful 3 weeks in Normandy, France. As their grandfather and great grandfathers had both fought in the the wars, we visited the Canadian, American and other military cemeteries and the war memorial in Rouen. On an overcast and damp day we walked the rows and shed silent tears as we viewed names and ages of so many who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was heartbreaking to see how many of them were not much older than our children. It was a defining moment for us as a family and for our children. They gained an appreciation and gratitude for the rights and freedoms we are so blessed to have.

The combined casualties for World Wars I and II is estimated at over 100 million. Statistics vary for Vietnam but most estimates are over 1 million in total. 15,000 North American troops reside in Afghanistan and thousands of lives have been lost.

This week, in North America and Europe, we stand silent and in remembrance. We have not forgotten. We will not forget. We thank you. We honour you.

If you found this beneficial, click here for more ideas.