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Fallen Comrades Honoured: Remembrance Day ceremony links different cultures
The Chronicle/Journal - November 12, 1995
by Phil Andrews

Wind-swept and snow-covered, Mount McKay's summit was still a radiant place Saturday morning at 11 a.m.

High above the Fort William First Nation more than 50 people, veterans, war-widows, children - people of all ages - gathered on the rock to celebrate the Natives and non-Natives who have fought for Canada since 1914.

"Some would say this is a sad occasion in that many veterans are not with us today," said Rev. Bill Maurice, after leading prayers at the service.

"But its a happy occasion because we're united in spirit".

He said Saturday's unique Remembrance ceremony was "terrific" because it linked the heritages and contributions of different Canadians on a sacred pilgrimage site for the area's Natives.

The service featured wreath laying, prayers in English and Ojibway and an honour guard made up of three Lake Superior Regiment (Motor) veterans who also fought in the Second World War.

"It was cold. But it was neat. And it was worth it to remember and to show respect," said Thunder Bay's Dawn Losier-Banning, 13.

"My grandfather fought in the (Second World) war."

So did Nipigon's Lawrence Martin, who served in Germany and Holland and later fought in the Korean War.

He said it was nice to get together to remember with the non-Native LSR vets.

"We went through something as a combined operation and we'll never forget it," said Martin. "We all just went over as Canadians."

The LSR's Roy Barnes said probably one-quarter of his regiment were Natives from the area.

"They are veterans," said Barnes. "This just congratulates the Native people for a job well done."

However, both men said it was a day of mixed emotions for them.

"Memories, memories... Things flash in your mind about the guys who made it and the guys who didn't," said Barnes. Martin wondered whether the significance of the veterans' sacrifices was appreciated by the children at the event.

"We tried to make it good for the kids coming up," said Martin. "This should be brought up in the schools. Maybe twice a year - to let people know what happened and what we fought for." The grandchildren of the services organizer, Second World War veteran Frank Banning were affected by Saturday's ceremony and its meaning.

"It was kind of scary because it makes you think about if there will ever be another war for Canada," said Losier-Banning, her sister and two cousins listening and nodding beside her.

Losier-Banning was one of several who attended the service who expressed regret. Frank Banning couldn't attend the function. He was recently hospitalized.

The Mount McKay ceremony was one of three held in the immediate Thunder Bay area Saturday. Remembrance Day gatherings were also held at the Waverley Park Cenotaph and at Thunder Bay City Hall.