Sherwood Park News has reported:

As Canadians prepare to observe Remembrance Day this November, Strathcona County Coun. Corey-Ann Hartwick is asking residents to honour those who served and remember the families and communities who share in the cost of military service. She hopes people will attend a local ceremony, wear a poppy and take time to reflect.

Hartwick said the annual moment of silence is never long enough, but provides an opportunity to consider the sacrifices made by Canadians. The day remembers those who served, those who did not return, and the people who supported them at home.

For Hartwick, that remembrance is personal. Her nephew, Cpl. Zachery McCormack, was among the Canadians killed while serving in Kandahar, Afghanistan, in 2009. Other Canadians died alongside him, and their loss continues to be felt by the many people who knew and loved them.

This year’s observance also comes after a recent tragedy at CFB Wainwright, where four members of the Canadian Armed Forces died and dozens more were injured. Hartwick said thoughts remain with their loved ones and everyone affected. The incident, she said, shows that behind each uniform is a person, with family, friends and neighbours who share the sacrifices that service demands.

Hartwick urged residents to be mindful during November, particularly when differences can appear more visible than shared concerns. Standing shoulder to shoulder in remembrance, she said, has meaning across backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives. Canadians can recognize the courage, service and sacrifice that helped shape the country, she said.

She said Canadians’ ability to speak openly, take part in democracy and live safely comes from the service of fellow citizens. Peace, freedom and security should not be taken for granted, and those values need continuing commitment, respect and responsibility from every generation.

Hartwick also encouraged residents to make time to teach children and grandchildren about Remembrance Day, the sacrifices it represents and the real stories of the people behind it. She said she is honoured to remember those who served and renew a commitment to the peaceful, free and democratic country they helped protect, closing with the words: “With deep gratitude, lest we forget.”

Hartwick is a longtime Strathcona County resident, entrepreneur and community volunteer. Elected in 2021, she represents Ward 6, including both rural and urban residents. She can be contacted at Corey-Ann.Hartwick@strathcona.ca.