Staff and Students congregated in the school gymnasium to acknowledge local Indigenous Veterans and those who served Canada in pursuit of freedom and peace.
Filing in grade by grade, assembling uniformly and respectfully, to pay tribute to the countless men and women who served during war times, and to remember them through song, prayer, drumming and reflection.
The gym was decorated with artwork hand-made by the students–creative depictions of what they feel represents war, peace, poppies, and people who have stood up against oppression and who have fought with courage and bravery for their dearly held beliefs of peace and the freedom to self-govern. There were pictures of indigenous soldiers – local men and family names – archiving in history some of the members of Sagamok who had served during various conflicts.
Students were invited to submit their art creations to further their understanding of history, to decorate the school, and to be voted on by students and teachers to determine the favoured piece. Zebulon Bennett, a Grade 6 student, won first place for his black and white poster design.
Mr. James’ class led everyone in singing the classic “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” song written by folk singer-songwriter Pete Seegerin 1955. It was a beautiful rendition that filled the room with a peaceful, reflective vibe that tugged at your heart strings imploring anyone present to “remember them” and to cast away our quarrels and differences within this time and space. Two Grade 8 students shared “In Flanders Fields”, the iconic poem by John McCrae. Haven performed a drum solo – uniquely his gift to share - with fellow students and honoured representatives from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 432,who were present to witness the procession of the flag bearers and laying of the wreath at the foot of the four flags displayed front and centre.
Upon concluding the service, Legion members handed out small wallet cards inscribed with the poem In Flanders Field and expressed their gratitude and appreciative remarks about the uniqueness of this first Remembrance Day service at the new Biidaaban; not one to be forgotten.
