Field of Crosses Sunrise Ceremony - USA Tribute

Sunrise is at 7:43am.

Today's Sunrise Flag Raising Ceremony is dedicated to honouring the American military personnel who are commemorated in The Field of Crosses, highlighting their significant role in the First and Second World Wars. Prior to the United States officially entering the First World War in 1917, tens of thousands of Americans traveled to Canada to enlist in service. Approximately 40,000 US citizens served in the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) during the First World War. The Field of Crosses commemorates 24 US military personnel who enlisted in Southern Alberta, with 17 being lost in the First World War and seven lost in the Second World War. These crosses are adorned by the United States flag.

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