A Guide to Commemorative Services

Introduction

This package contains information that may be of assistance when planning a commemorative ceremony. Holding ceremonies, and passing on the traditions of remembrance, is one of the important ways we have of showing our appreciation to the Veterans of Canada, and their families, for the losses and sacrifices they have endured. This booklet covers the basic steps of a ceremony, however, organizers should decide what to include to best meet their needs.

Organizers may wish to include vigil sentries. The vigil sentries are in place before the "March on the Colours" and stand sentry at the four corners of the cenotaph or memorial. These sentries take post prior to the commencement of the Commemorative Service and remain in position until dismissed, after the Colours are marched off.

The vigil sentries usually represent the three services and the RCMP. If Regular or Reserve Force Service personnel are not available, the positions may be filled by Sea, Army and Air Cadets. In some instances, unarmed scouts and guides may serve as vigil sentries. In all instances, however, each sentry must be dressed in full uniform appropriate to their service of organization and medals are worn.

If the National Flag is flown from a flag pole at the cenotaph or memorial, it is lowered to the half-mast position, during the playing of the Last Post. Then, it is smartly returned to the erect position during the playing of the Reveille.

A ceremony generally begins with an address or opening remarks. This is then followed by Prayers and the *Act of Remembrance. Following the Act of Remembrance a bugler will sound the "Last Post", this will be followed by two minutes of silence and the sounding of the Reveille. Once the Reveille has been sounded a piper will play the Lament, (this is generally played to commemorate highland regiments). Following the Lament the Wreath laying takes place. Once the wreath laying is concluded it is then followed by a Blessing which is then followed by the playing of the National Anthem(s)

* The Act of Remembrance is a stanza from a poem written by Laurence Binyon, Entitled For the Fallen.

A Suggested Service of Remembrance

• Opening Remarks
• Poems
• Prayer
• Act of Remembrance
• Last Post (Bugler)
• Silence (Two minutes)
• Reveille (Bugler)
• Lament (Piper)
• Wreath Laying (as an option, a hymn can be performed during the wreath laying)
• Blessing
• National Anthem(s)

Helpful Information

• National Anthem: O Canada
• God Save the Queen
• Appendix A: Remembrance Day Facts
• Appendix B: Poppy Facts

Commemmoration Guide - PDF Version