THUNDER BAY -- The Fort William First Nation community paused Friday morning in honour of Canada’s fallen soldiers who died in the line of duty.
Chief Peter Collins joined dozens of community members as they stood together for a moment of silence in memory of friends and family who were lost at war.
Each Remembrance Day, Collins takes a minute to remember his uncle, Frank Banning, who kept the spirit and the commitment of the war veterans alive on Mount McKay for 21 years, even though he has gone onto the spirit world.
“I think about the war veterans that went to war to keep out country safe and keep our communities healthy,” Collins said.
“We can’t thank them enough and a little bit of a timeout in the elements, it doesn’t hurt to stand here and pay recognition to those men and women that went to war.”
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler and Deputy Grand Chief Derek Fox were the first to place wreaths at the Mount McKay cenotaph, followed by many other friends, families and business.
“I think it’s a very exciting time for our community,” Collins said. “Keeping the spirit and the memories of the men and women that went to war to keep our country safe.”
Collins said he’s proud to see the momentum constantly growing, “it’s getting larger and larger every year.”
“The gratitude from all the community members, wherever they come from, recognizing the commitment the men and women made in the world wars. It’s great.”
He added that Banning couldn’t be prouder seeing the many folks continue to come to the mountain and celebrate the veterans.
