LETHBRIDGE, Alta. –

Canadians across the country spent Monday paying tribute to the soldiers who fought and died while serving Canada.

Locally a couple of ceremonies were held to honor those who served.

For the second time, the agri-food center and Trade Center hosted a Remembrance Day ceremony.

Hundreds of people came to show their support for soldiers who died in combat and veterans.

“It means a lot, because we have to remember why we have the freedoms that we have here in Canada, in other democratic countries around the world, because people died so that we could live this way,” said Mike Duffy, secretary of the RCMP. Veterans Association Lethbridge Division.

At the same time another ceremony was taking place at the cenotaph in front of the Yates Memorial Theatre.

Remembrance Day Ceremony in Lethbridge on Monday, November 11, 2024

The cenotaph was originally built to honor the 157 Lethbridge men who died serving in the First World War.

Later the names of those who died in World War II and the Korean War were also added.

More than 1,000 people also gathered outside to pay tribute.

“It’s a great time to remember the sacrifices those before us made for the way of life we ​​enjoy,” said Maj. Mitch Montminy, commander of the 20th^th Independent field battery. “I made this the best country in the world for everyone to live in. We always have great support here in Lethbridge.”

Large crowds attended a pair of Remembrance Day events held in Lethbridge on Monday. (Photo: Quinn Keenan, CTV News)

Many veterans attended either event in Lethbridge.

The message the veterinarians took away was that the sacrifices they made have not been forgotten.

“Oh, that’s great. It’s hard to hold back the tears when people start clapping and marching and stuff like it’s amazing. It’s the people. It’s really amazing,” said Wesley Barnaby, who served in the Canadian Armed Forces for more than 30 years.

Veterans and those still in the military were also moved to see the strong turnout at both local ceremonies.

“It really means a lot to know that the local population has honor and respect for veterans and those who have served and, you know, made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Matthew Dallas, 20^th Independent field battery.

The military museum was also open with free admission on Monday to mark Remembrance Day.