Remembrance Day in Orillia is going to look a lot different this year.
Officials are still working on the details for the Nov. 11 ceremony at the cenotaph at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, but one thing is certain, said Rick Purcell: “It’s going to be a much-scaled-down version.”
Purcell, vice-president of the Royal Canadian Legion in Orillia, noted the City of Orillia and the hospital are “tentatively on board if we can give them a game plan that is safe.”
The ceremony usually draws hundreds of people to the cenotaph, but limits on gatherings mean there can be no more than 100.
The ceremony will be by invitation only. Those who are invited will gather near the cenotaph. Members of the public who choose to attend will have to stay in the parking lot area, wear masks and practise physical distancing.
Purcell expects 50 to 60 people will be invited, including Legion members, representatives of the Army Navy and Air Force Veterans, dignitaries, hospital officials and this year’s Silver Cross Mother.
Because of Department of National Defence rules, cadets and members of the military will not be in attendance.
“That’s a big loss,” Purcell said. “It’s important for us to let the cadets know what Remembrance Day means.”
There will still be a chance for people to watch the ceremony, as it will be aired live on Rogers TV. Purcell will be contacting area schools to encourage them to show the service to students.
Another big loss is the parade, which will not happen this year.
“The parade really is important to the citizens of Orillia,” he said.
Planning a Remembrance Day service during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge, he said, but added it’s important to hold the event and to do so in person.
“We’ve got to be there for veterans. It’s about respect for the veterans and what they’ve gone through,” he said.
Plans for the ceremony could change if there's a change in guidelines as a result of the pandemic.
Anyone with questions about this year’s ceremony can call the Orillia Legion at 705-325-8442.
