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that we should do what the British have done since the last war and hold the ceremonies on the nearest Sunday to November 11 [which I regard as more appropriate for an annual tribute to those who died and general thanksgiving for our deliverance and freedom]. - Fewer people wear poppies and I doubt that John McCnae's poem In Flanders Fields" is still taught in the schools. There probably isn't a child in sight who could recite its immortal words. And how many of them would know they were written by a Canadian? That sort of stuff belongs to "the bad old days" of imperialism and intense national pride, now long out of fashion. - There are flaws in this argument, of course. Especially for older people. As the years reel away, the past becomes more vivid. Doug Collins should recognize that there are still a great many veterans (like himself) who intend to go on living and remembering for some years yet. When they are gone, their children and their children's children will still be around remembering as well, if the growing numbers of young people who not only watch but take an active part in the ceremonies in West Vancouver (and, I feel sure in other places too) are anything to go by. I have been impressed by the number and quality of T.V. programmes on Shaw Cable and on the Knowledge Network recently showing "thè real thing," coverage of battles in both Great Wars and emphasizing the scale of casualties which occurred in the achievement of final victory. These films covered operations by army, navy and airforce units, and will enable later generations to understand how their freedom was fought for and eventually achieved. If those who follow us can look upon Remembrance as a Tradition which exists in people's minds and hearts, an offering of thanks and respect, then we need not fear for the future. We have an outstanding example of dedication to Remembrance in the Dutch people, who I feel sure will NEVER cease their remembrance of the Canadian troops who liberated them in World War II. REMEMBRANCE DAY IN WEST VANCOUVER. 1995 This year the weather was overcast and threatened rain; shortly before the arrival of the parade, the drizzle began and it continued for a while; then part-way through the service, it quietly just stopped and did not start again, until the whole ceremony, including wreath-laying, was completed. Sighs of relief! The service was somewhat shorter than usual, and the parade marched off before the second part of the wreath-laying was complete, thus minimizing the effects of the dampness on the veterans and other units who marched and stood facing the War Memorial so impressively. There were good numbers of youth representatives on parade and they did very well. The crowds were as big as ever and in good voice for the hymns and national anthems. After the crowds had moved away, the Memorial Arch was in "full dress" - over 50 wreaths had been laid - 54 on behalf of governments, veterans, police, fire brigades, air cadets, churches, clubs, schools, scouts and girl guides, societies - the list is endless, not to mention private, personal tributes. The Library was packed; tea and coffee brought forth smiles and conversation so loud that at the west end you could not hear the music provided by the Ambleside Orchestra at the east end - they have grown both in numbers and in their repertoire since last year and they played an excellent programme of special arrangements of classical and other music, which was much enjoyed by those who were enjoying their hot drinks at the east end. .../3