Canada’s tomb of the Unknown soldier Marks 25th Anniversary
Ottawa, Canada – Twenty-five years ago, Canada enshrined a powerful symbol of remembrance. The Tomb of the Unknown soldier, located at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, commemorated its 25th anniversary on May 28th. This solemn site serves as a focal point for honoring the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers,particularly those whose remains are unidentified. The anniversary highlights its enduring legacy.
A Quarter-Century of remembrance
The anniversary event, held on May 28th, mirrored the same day in the year 2000 when the Unknown Soldier was first interred at the site. dignitaries present reflected on the tomb’s significance as a place of solemn reflection. It is indeed also a place where thousands of students and visitors pay their respects annually.
Did You Know? In 2023, over 1 million people visited the National War Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, according to Parks Canada data.
Key Figures Reflect on Collaboration and Meaning
Vice-Admiral (Ret’d) Larry Murray, Legion Grand President and former Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), lauded the collaborative spirit that brought the memorial to fruition. He recalled the thoughtful deliberations and teamwork involved in the project’s planning and readiness phases.
Brigadier-General (Ret’d) Duane Daly,former Legion dominion Secretary and the tomb’s project director,emphasized the initial challenges and the overwhelming government and community support that led to the tomb’s accomplished completion.
Daly noted that the tomb’s design was inspired by the altar at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France. Following a period of lying in state at Parliament, a ceremonial parade escorted the soldier to their final resting place.
| Figure | Role | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Vice-Admiral (Ret’d) Larry Murray | Legion Grand president, Former Deputy Minister of VAC | Spoke on behalf of the Legion, emphasizing collaboration. |
| Brigadier-General (Ret’d) Duane Daly | Former Legion Dominion Secretary, Project Director | Oversaw the tomb’s creation and recounted its history. |
| The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson | Former Governor General of Canada | Participated in the morning event. |
| Her Excellency Governor General mary Simon | Current Governor General of Canada | Took part in the 25th anniversary event, laid a wreath. |
| The Honourable Jill McKnight | Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of national Defense | Laid a Poppy at the tomb and spoke of its significance. |
Commemoration Ceremony Highlights
Her excellency Governor General Mary Simon participated in the 25th anniversary event and shared her reflections. She placed a wreath at the site, followed by the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs, who laid a Poppy at the tomb.
Former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson also attended. During the commemoration, students from Glebe Collegiate Institute shared letters from a soldier of the First World War whose grave remains unknown. The event also included the placing of a Remembrance torch and a fly-past of a CH-147F Chinook helicopter.
Minister McKnight stated, “As we mark 25 years since Canada’s Unknown Soldier was laid to rest at the National War Memorial, I am deeply grateful to all canadians who have served and sacrificed for peace and freedom… Today and always, we honor them.”
BGen (Ret’d) Daly concluded by thanking VAC for recognizing the milestone. He also spoke about the enduring legacy of Remembrance at the site. “This tomb will forever stand as the focus of Remembrance for all those who have gone before us, for all those who serve today, and for all those who might potentially be called upon again in the future,” he stated.
Pro Tip: Consider visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during off-peak hours for a more intimate and reflective experience. Weekday mornings are often less crowded.
Expanding the Circle of Remembrance
A second unknown soldier was recently laid to rest in Newfoundland, a project also led by the Legion and supported by the government. In May 2024, a delegation traveled to France to receive the remains of an unknown First World War soldier from Newfoundland who served at Beaumont-Hamel.
On July 1st, the soldier was interred at the refurbished Newfoundland National War Memorial, which was rededicated to mark its 100th anniversary.
For more on the history of the tomb in St. John’s, visit: Tomb in St.John’s.
For more on the history of the tomb in Ottawa, visit: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Context & Evergreen Insights
the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is not merely a monument; it is a living symbol of Canada’s collective memory. It is a place where national identity intersects with personal grief and national pride. The act of placing poppies on the tomb, such as, has become a powerful visual representation of remembrance.
Beyond the annual ceremonies, the tomb serves as an educational site. School groups regularly visit to learn about Canadian military history and the sacrifices made by those who served.It reinforces values of peace, freedom, and the importance of honoring those who defend them.
In an era marked by increasing social division, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier provides a unifying symbol. It transcends political and social boundaries. It serves as a reminder of the shared values and experiences that bind Canadians together.
the recent interment of a second unknown soldier in Newfoundland underscores the ongoing commitment to remembrance.These efforts demonstrate the importance of preserving the memory of those who served,even when their identities remain a mystery.
Did you know? A 2024 study by the Canadian war Museum found that over 80% of Canadians believe it is important to continue honoring veterans through memorials like the Tomb of the Unknown soldier.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier significant?
The Tomb serves as a national symbol of remembrance, honoring all Canadian soldiers who have served and sacrificed, especially those whose remains are unidentified.
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When was Canada’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier established?
The Tomb was established on May 28, 2000, marking the day when the Unknown Soldier was interred at the National War Memorial in ottawa.
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Where is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located?
The Tomb is located at the base of the national War Memorial in Ottawa, Canada.
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Who was involved in the creation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Key figures included Legion Grand President Vice-Admiral (ret’d) Larry Murray, Brigadier-General (Ret’d) Duane Daly, and past Dominion President the late Chuck Murphy, along with support from various government and community organizations.
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What is the significance of the Poppies of Remembrance at the Tomb?
Attendees at Canada’s National remembrance Day Ceremony often place their lapel poppies of Remembrance on the Tomb as a sign of respect and remembrance.
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Are there other memorials similar to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Canada?
Yes, a second unknown soldier was recently laid to rest in Newfoundland at the refurbished Newfoundland National War Memorial, which was rededicated on its 100th anniversary.
What does the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier mean to you? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below.
