Remembrance Day Message from IVP Shewchuk

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Remembrance Day was first observed throughout the British Commonwealth in 1919.  It was held to pay tribute to the end of the First World War through the signing of the Armistice Agreement on November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m.

It is because of the brave men and women who have served our great nation that we enjoy the peace and freedoms we have today.  This year, on Saturday, November 11 at 11 a.m., Canadians will again pause for two minutes of silence to remember all those who have fought and continue to fight for this country. 

Brothers and Sisters, we must all remember and involve ourselves on Remembrance Day so that the courage and selflessness of these women and men is not lost to future generations; we must never forget because through their sacrifices we have the right to participate and reap the benefits of our Union. 

There are many ways that you and your local union can participate in an Act of Remembrance:

1.            Participate in local Remembrance Day ceremonies hosted by Royal Canadian Legion branches in communities and Cenotaphs across Canada.

2.            Watch the National Remembrance Day Ceremony live on television.

3.            Observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. on November 11 to honour, remember and thank all who served and sacrificed.

4.            Post about Remembrance Day activities on your website and social media.

I encourage all IBEW Local Unions, union officers and members to take part in local events in your area to pay tribute to all of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.

In addition, IBEW Canada is also a proud partner of Helmets to Hardhats Canada, which provides career transition opportunities to Canadian Forces veterans looking to start a second career in the trades.  Accordingly, I strongly encourage Local Unions to find ways to help our veterans make the transition into good IBEW jobs where their skills, dedication and drive can help make our union stronger.

In solidarity,

Russ Shewchuk,
International Vice President, IBEW Canada