Newsletter Issue 121 November 1998 IN FLANDERS FIELD 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 the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow. Loved, and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe; To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Fields. Lt. Col. John McCrae, MD 1872- 1918 This poem was published posthumously. It was discovered by a nurse amongst his effects after his death. Our Library was founded as a memorial to honour those of West Vancouver who gave their lives during the 1939-1945 War so that future generations would have the freedom to pursue knowledge without let or hindrance. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month - Remembrance Day -Wednesday, November 11, 1998 - West Vancouver stood in silence on a chilly but clear day to honour fellow members of our community who gave their lives in the great wars of this century. Following the Parade and Service, those gathered met in the Library to exchange reminiscences, to renew acquaintances and to view the Book of Remembrance which is open for viewing on this one day of the year. They enjoyed the reception hosted by the Friends of the West Vancouver Memorial Library at which coffee, tea, juice and cookies were served. It was a record attendance. Background music was provided by the Dundarave Players under the direction of Grace Tietz. LEST WE FORGET They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust, Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain, As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness, To the end, to the end, they remain. "For the Fallen" by Laurence Binyon 1869-1943 A large vote of thanks to all Friends involved in the organization and running of this event. Co-ordinating the volunteers; organizing the rental equipment; setting up the serving tables; serving the refreshments; looking after patrons and, of course, clearing up afterwards! This annual reception continues to play an important role in West Vancouver's community calendar as it has since our Library opened on Remembrance Day in 1950.