Newspaper Article, 12 November 1941
Just over 20 years separated the end of the First World War in 1918 and the start of the Second World War in 1939. For many Canadians, the trauma from the first conflict was still fresh as a new generation went off to fight.
This newspaper article notes that Remembrance Day ceremonies in Canada and around the world were more subdued than usual in November 1941, given the ongoing hostilities. For many, Remembrance Day is not just about remembering the past. It is also about recognizing the contributions of those presently serving in the military.
Historical Overview
Document
Armistice of 1918 Quietly Recalled Throughout World
By The Canadian Press
The Armistice of 23 years ago was recalled quietly yesterday by a world again at war. In Canada, the United States and Australia, Armistice Day was observed with ceremonies retaining something of the impressiveness of past years, but in London and other cities close to the theater of hostilities, the anniversary was subordinated to the more pressing problems of the war.
In the Empire’s Capital there was a brief service at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Westminster Abbey. A few hundred Londoners visited the Cenotaph in Whitehall and with heads bowed observed the two minutes silence at 11 o’clock. But there were none of the ceremonies that marked the anniversary in the years of peace.
Prime Minister Mackenzie King attended the chief Canadian celebration of Remembrance Day at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.