Field of Crosses Sunset Ceremony - Youth Day

Sunset is at 18:07.

Today's Sunset Flag Lowering Ceremony is dedicated to honoring the vital contributions of youth during Canada's war efforts. The Field of Crosses recognizes the crucial roles that youth played in supporting the Canadian Military here at home and overseas. Teenage boys, some as young as 13, would lie about their age in an attempt to enlist in the military. Those who looked old enough were accepted, while those who were rejected often went on to serve in the Merchant Navy to transport troops and materials overseas or filled the gaps left in Canadian society by the able-bodied men who left to join the Armed Forces. Today, we remember the youth who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms and are commemorated at The Field of Crosses. It is an important reminder of the significance of educating Canada’s younger generations about the sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms, while recognizing their potential to shape a bright and open-minded future for our country.

Participants and invited guests:

Each evening cadets, scouts, guides, etc. are invited and scheduled to perform the flag lowering detail. The sunset ceremonies also include choirs, buglers, pipers, flag detail, uniformed members of the community, including Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Services, EMS, Alberta Sheriffs and Military Members. Invited guests include civic, provincial, federal government officials, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Governor General of Canada, Consul Generals, uniformed members of the community, Veterans, community leaders and members of the public.

After the ceremony, members of the public are welcome to walk amongst the crosses all night long and into the morning dawn.

Susan Schalin (s.schalin@fieldofcrosses.com)

403-297-0555

www.fieldofcrosses.com