Field of Crosses Sunrise Ceremony - Youth Day

Sunrise is at 8:31.

Today's Sunrise Flag Raising 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:

School Choirs to participate in the sunrise ceremonies to sing the National and Royal Anthems. Buglers, mostly cadets and young adults, to play the Last Post. Pipers, mostly cadets, and also volunteer pipers from the piping community, to play the Lament after a minute of silence. Veterans, cadets, girl guides, boy scouts are a part of the sunrise ceremony in the raising of the flags. Uniformed members of the community, such as Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Services, EMS Alberta Sheriffs and Military Members, will participate. Other guests include Civic, Provincial, Federal Government officials, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Governor General of Canada, Consul Generals. Veterans, community leaders and members of the public.  

After the ceremony, members of the public are welcome to walk amongst the crosses all day long.

Susan Schalin (s.schalin@fieldofcrosses.com)

403-297-0555

www.fieldofcrosses.com