Ponoka Secondary Campus held their traditional Remembrance Day assembly on Nov. 9, with all of the due ceremony the school is known for.
Organized and hosted by teacher Ron Labrie and the Broncs World Tour class, it was the first time in two years the school was able to hold the assembly with all their staff, students and the public in their gymnasium.
Cadets escorted veterans and special guests to their seats before opening remarks were given.
Special guests included Wolf Creek Public Schools superintendent Tim De Ruyck, Mayor Kevin Ferguson, RCMP Const. Lennie Webb, Warrant Officer Steve Ferry, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, and guest speaker Katherine O’Neill.
Elise Resler did the reading of the lists and a poem was read by Ryland Mendoza.
A special recognition was given to the late MCpl. Byron Greff of Lacombe.
Greff was killed in Afghanistan in 2011 — the last Canadian to die in the conflict.
His mother, Candy Greff, was recently named this year’s Silver Cross Mother by the Royal Canadian Legion.
READ MORE: Lacombe mom named Silver Cross Mother
This year’s Hall of Valour inductee, Earl Huscroft, was presented by Kianna Green.
There were a few video presentations throughout the assembly, a reading of Flanders Fields and a musical tribute on violin by Mr. Hinton and Ella Johnson.
The Pledge of Remembrance was given by Drayden Ramage.
The candle lighting began during the singing of Amazing Grace by teacher Melissa Jacobson.
After the playing of the Last Post and a moment of silence broke by Reveille, the candle bearers blew out their flames and were seated.
An update on the school’s Hall of Valour was given by Marissa Cunnington.
After closing remarks, the cadets and veterans exited to bagpipe music.
Those who wished placed a poppy on the school’s cross of sacrifice as they left.
