With boots shined and roles well-practiced, Hope’s Cadets will guard the cenotaph in Memorial Park as veterans and community members come to lay wreaths and observe a moment of silence Sunday.
Some have deep military history within their own families, which draws them to the cadets, some came for the training and for something to occupy their time with. Their interests within the Cadets range from the physical training, to learning to navigate in the wild, some speak fondly of camps they have attended across Canada and the friends they’ve made there.
“It definitely has a huge range for everyone. If you’re more of a physical person then we have lots of physical things like physical training at the end of the night or if you like to do drill, then we have drill, if you like to be more of a speaker you get to high ranks and you get to be more of a leader. And that’s what the ranks are getting you up to, is to be a better leader,” said Lance Cpl. Avalyn Berlinguette, 12, who has been in Cadets for a year.
“That’s what makes it a great opportunity. No matter who you are, you can always fit in here,” Cpl. Daniel Barnes added. Barnes, 14, has been in Cadets for a year and two months.
Hope will commemorate Remembrance Day with a parade from the Legion to Memorial Park departing at 10:30 a.m., followed by wreaths at the cenotaph in the park and a moment of silence.
A meal will be served after the official ceremony is over at the Legion, at 344 Fort St.