This week, Coquitlam College joined Canadians across the nation in observing Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honor the sacrifices of those who have served in times of war and conflict.

In the college library, a thoughtfully curated display shared the history of Remembrance Day. Students and staff learned about its origins, which date back to the end of World War I. On November 11, 1918, at 11:00 a.m., the armistice was signed, bringing an end to the fighting on the Western Front. The day has since become a moment to remember and reflect, with the poppy standing as a poignant symbol of remembrance and hope.

The library also provided a space for personal reflection. On a dedicated board, students wrote heartfelt messages on sticky notes, thanking soldiers for their bravery and ultimate sacrifice. These notes served as a touching reminder of the gratitude we feel for those who have given their lives for peace and freedom.

At the heart of Remembrance Day lies a poem that has touched countless lives: “In Flanders Fields” by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. Written during the First World War, it captures the beauty of the poppies that grew amidst the graves of fallen soldiers and inspires us to carry forward their legacy.

“In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.”

We are grateful to our library team for creating such a meaningful and interactive display and to all who participated in honoring the memory of those who served.

Let us continue to reflect on the importance of peace and the sacrifices made to achieve it—not just on November 11 but every day.

To learn more about Remembrance Day, visit the resources belows:

Remembrance Day & Veterans’ Week – Veterans Affairs Canada
Royal Canadian Legion | Remembrance Day