If Ye Break Faith With Us Who Die

 Today in Canada is Remembrance Day; the date of the end of the First World War. It goes by other names in the world, but is a common day of commemoration for war dead and those who served. I have some pictures today first featured at my photoblog over the last few years. Some years ago in April I paid a visit to the historic Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, where two large sections have been set aside as a national military cemetery.

The National War Memorial occupies the heart of Confederation Square, and is the subject of regular photographs by me. It was dedicated in the months before World War Two, and has since been re-dedicated in memory of those who fought and died in Canada's other wars and military service.

The Memorial is the heart of Canada's national Remembrance Day services, with all that you'd expect out of the occasion- including a march past of the veterans.

This photo, taken at night on April 8th, 2017, was during an evening vigil to mark the centennial of one of the most momentous battles of Canadian history. From April 9th-12th, 1917, Canadian soldiers fought to take Vimy Ridge, achieving victory in doing so, something no other Allied force had been able to do. It is one of the most consequential moments in the country's history.

A soldier who fought at Vimy has his final resting place here. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the most sacred spot in the country since its installation in 2000. Each Remembrance Day since, citizens place poppies on the tomb. This was taken late one Remembrance Day some years ago.

I finish today with this remarkable painting that was on exhibit as part of a special exhibit several years ago at the Canadian War Museum. Byam Shaw painted The Flag in 1918, and the anguish of those left behind by the dead of war is its subject.