As November 11th approaches, the Village at Griesbach is preparing to honour Remembrance Day. This significant day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by our military and is also a chance to appreciate the rich military heritage that shapes our vibrant community. Built on the grounds of the former Canadian Forces Base (CFB), The Village at Griesbach stands as a living tribute to those who served our country, with thoughtful details and spaces dedicated to honoring the Canadian military.

The Village at Griesbach on Remembrance Day

The Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) will be hosting a special Remembrance Day ceremony, where they will honour Canada’s military heroes at the Patricia Park Memorial in the Village at Griesbach on November 11 at 10:30am. The ceremony will begin at 10:45am and will end around 11:30am, and will include:

• A Veterans’ parade
• Laying of wreaths
• Special remarks
• A moment of silence

In addition to the ceremony, families attending can look forward to a tented area with warm drinks (coffee & hot chocolate), and a family-friendly colouring station for kids that highlight the military heroes and monuments found throughout Griesbach.

We encourage everyone to participate, whether through attending the ceremony, learning about the sacrifices our military has made, or sharing personal stories about their connections to military service.

Disclaimer: By attending the Remembrance Day ceremony, you acknowledge and consent to the possibility of being photographed or recorded. If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform the organizers upon arrival.

Understanding Remembrance Day

Originally established as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I, Remembrance Day (as we now know it) has evolved into a National Day of Reflection where we honor all Canadians who have served in the military. The date and time is significant because it highlights when the Armistice agreement was signed in Paris between Germany and the Allied Forces – “on Monday, 11 November 1918 at 0500 hours. The ceasefire went into effect at 1100 hours the same morning. The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month”.  The first Armistice Day was observed in 1919, and Remembrance Day became the official federal holiday in 1931. The poppy, an international symbol of remembrance, is worn as a tribute to the sacrifices made by Canadians who lost their lives in service.

On this day, we pause at 11 a.m. to observe a moment of silence, a practice that serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and peace. Communities across Canada hold ceremonies featuring veterans, military representatives, and local leaders, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude.

Griesbach’s Military Legacy

At the heart of our community’s identity is Major-General William Antrobus Griesbach, a figure of immense historical significance. He played a key role in establishing a militia cavalry unit based out of Edmonton, The Loyal Edmonton Regiment. His leadership and dedication earned him a promotion to Major-General, and he retired with honor. Beyond his military career, Major-General Griesbach was a lawyer and served as Edmonton’s mayor, member of parliament and senate. His legacy extends beyond the battlefield and politics, instilling values of service and community pride that continue to resonate in Griesbach today.

The transition from CFB Edmonton to the Village at Griesbach represents a unique blending of military history and community spirit. The development has preserved the essence of its military past while creating a dynamic residential area that pays homage to those who served.

Commemorative Sites in Griesbach

Griesbach is home to several noteworthy sites that honor military service, each with its own story, including:

Patricia Lake & Park: This park is dedicated to the PPCLI, one of Canada’s most accomplished regiments. The park honors the nearly 2,000 soldiers from PPCLI who have given their lives in service over the past century. It’s a place for reflection, surrounded by nature and steeped in history, where visitors can pay their respects and learn about the regiment’s remarkable contributions.

WWII Bailey Bridge: A remarkable engineering feat developed during World War II, Bailey bridges were designed for rapid deployment and reconstruction in wartime conditions. The Royal Canadian Engineers constructed some of the longest and most significant bridges, enabling Allied forces to advance against Nazi positions. This bridge serves as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, reminding us of the critical support provided by military engineers.

Bedford Basin: Located in the heart of our community, the replica ship dedicated to the Royal Canadian Navy is a striking reminder of Canada’s maritime heritage. The original Bedford Basin in Nova Scotia served as a crucial anchorage for battleships during both World Wars. You’ll find a Kisbie Ring at the entrance to the Griesbach Navy Plaza further that pays tribute to Canada’s naval services.

Flanders Field Park: This beautifully designed park commemorates the 100th anniversary of the iconic poem “In Flanders Fields” written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. It features a serene seating area surrounded by vibrant red poppies. This park stands as a year-round tribute to the 100,000 Canadians who died and the 225,000 who were wounded in World War I and succeeding conflicts.

Roundel Lake and Ad Astra: The Ad Astra monument, representing the Royal Canadian Air Force, captures the spirit of aviation and military excellence. Its starburst design reflects the aerobatic maneuvers of legendary aircraft, while Roundel Lake pays homage to the roundels used on the wings of Canadian military planes. Together, they celebrate the contributions of airmen and women who have served our country.

Continuing the Legacy of Remembrance

As we honour our past, it’s essential to educate ourselves and future generations about military history. Initiatives in our community can promote awareness, ensuring that the legacy of those who served lives on. Remembrance Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity in the Country and within the Village at Griesbach. Together, we can uphold the spirit of remembrance and encourage a sense of belonging that honours the past and looks toward the future.