Silence fell upon Harbour Station at 11 a.m. Sunday as thousands gathered to honour those who have served in our nation’s defence.
This year’s Remembrance Day service marked the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War in 1918.
It was also special because two people born the same year the war ended were in attendance.
George Kelley, 100, served as the reviewing officer for this year’s ceremony in Saint John.
100-year-old George Kelley is the reviewing officer for this year’s service. He served as an air mechanic during the Second World War. pic.twitter.com/Q2OTKRFdri
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) November 11, 2018
Kelley, who was an Air Force mechanic during the Second World War, was asked why he decided to enlist.
“I had no great patriotic desire to go to war, but everyone else was going, so why not,” Kelley said.
Mary Richards, the other centenarian to take part, lost two brothers — Alvin and James — during the Second World War.
Also here today is 100-year-old Mary Richards. Four of brothers served in the Second World War; two never returned home. pic.twitter.com/PQXz3nhMds
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) November 11, 2018
“I remember them as two very athletic young men,” Richards said. “They were both into sports and, like young fellas today, enjoyed life.”
Bernard Cormier, the master of ceremonies, said having Richards and Kelley in attendance made the service even more special.
Cormier said even though all the First World War veterans have passed on, they left an important message: “War is terrible.”
A parade of veterans is now making its way onto the floor at Harbour Station. pic.twitter.com/QUy8voPudS
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) November 11, 2018
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Story by Brad Perry
Twitter: @BradMPerry
Email: perry.brad@radioabl.ca
(Photo: Brad Perry/Acadia News)
