Field of Crosses Sunrise Ceremony - Indigenous Veterans Day

Sunrise is at 7:41am.

Today's Sunrise Flag Raising Ceremony is dedicated to honouring Indigenous Veterans at The Field of Crosses. Indigenous participation in Canada's military efforts has been remarkable over the years, even though precise statistics are challenging to determine. During the First World War, many Indigenous men provided valuable skills including patience, stealth and marksmanship, which made them exceptional snipers and reconnaissance scouts. Indigenous military personnel have earned over 50 decorations for bravery, with Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis man from Alberta, standing out as one of the most renowned snipers in the Canadian Corps. His sacrifice is commemorated annually at the Field of Crosses. The stories of Indigenous military service highlight their resilience, bravery and significant contributions to Canada's military history, having served their country with distinction.

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)

4032970555

www.fieldofcrosses.com