OTTAWA - Canadians are gathering today to honor military members who sacrificed their lives for their country as Remembrance Day ceremonies take place nationwide. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the importance of this day, recognizing the bravery of those who “sacrificed years away from loved ones,” those who returned from combat forever changed, and those who did not return at all.

In the nation’s capital, family members of fallen soldiers arrived hours early to secure good spots for the ceremony at the National War Memorial, despite the chilly weather. Brian Revet traveled from Saskatoon, arriving at 8 a.m. to witness the ceremony he has watched on television since he was a teenager. He shared that he lost an uncle in World War II, who served as an aircraft gunner.

This year marks significant anniversaries: 80 years since the end of World War II and 25 years since the entombment of Canada’s Unknown Soldier, a First World War combatant. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa honors over 118,000 Canadians who lost their lives in military service.

As of this year, Veterans Affairs Canada estimates there are 3,691 surviving Canadian veterans from World War II, including 667 women and 3,024 men.

Prime Minister Carney arrived at the national ceremony alongside his wife, Diana Fox Carney. They were greeted by Berkley Lawrence, president of the Royal Canadian Legion. Nancy Payne, this year’s national Silver Cross mother, also attended. She will lay a wreath on behalf of Canadian mothers who lost their children in military service, including her son, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2006.

Earlier in the day, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre stated that Canadians across the country will “pause and reflect” on the sacrifices made by those who served in war. He described Canada’s military history as “as brilliant and storied as the country itself” and expressed gratitude to veterans.

Carney noted that in an increasingly dangerous and divided world, remembrance is an act of vigilance. He stated that sovereignty and security are not guaranteed, and Remembrance Day serves as a moment to honor the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who protect Canadians daily. He reminded Canadians that their rights and freedoms were “fought for and won by Canadians who answered the call.”

As the ceremony commenced, Chief Justice Richard Wagner presided in place of Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, who is recovering from a respiratory virus in the hospital. Dignitaries, including Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan and Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight, were also in attendance.

As people gathered near the National War Memorial, the atmosphere was filled with solemnity and respect, reflecting the significance of this day in honoring those who served and sacrificed for their country.