Remembrance Day, originally known as Armistice Day, was first observed in 1919 to commemorate the ending of the First World War. On November 11th 1931, Remembrance Day became a day to remember “the courage and sacrifice of those who served their country and acknowledge our responsibility to work for the peace they fought hard to achieve” (Veterans Affairs Canada).
A message from the Chief of Defense Staff stated that “each November, we honour the valour, duty, and tremendous sacrifices of those who came before us”. As we take time to reflect, we may be faced with the complex emotion known as grief. After losing something significant in your life, you may feel strong emotions such as sadness or numbness. This is why Remembrance Day can be particularly painful.
This year, with the added uncertainty of the global pandemic, you may notice new emotions coming up for you and your family. Here are some tips that may be helpful for you as we approach November 11th:
- Be gentle with yourself. The emotions you feel right now are okay.
- Know that grief and healing are not linear. There will be ups and downs, good days and bad days. Having a strong support system can help you through these patches.
- Have a conversation with those closest to you about the best way to support you during this time.
- Take time to remember the loss – write a letter to your lost one, remember the importance of the time you served in the CAF, go to a place that evokes positive emotions.
- Be aware of your capacity. Take time for yourself.
During this difficult time, know there are supports available to you:
- CFMAP (for members and their families): 1-800-268-7708
- Chaplains and Padres: Call local, press 0, ask for the Duty Chaplain
- Family Information Line (CAF members, Veterans, and their families): 1-800-866-4546
- VAC Assistance Service (Veterans, former RCMP members, their family members, or caregivers): 1-800-268-7708
- The Mental Health and Wellness Team at the Kingston Military Family Resource Centre provide professional counselling services to families of CAF members. Confidential Intake Line: 613-541-5010 x. 4811
- The Veteran Family Program Coordinator can support you as you transition to your life after service. For more information, call 613-541-5010 x. 4950
- Bereaved Families of Ontario – Kingston Chapter: http://bfo-kingston.ca/ | bfo@kingston.net | 613 634 1230
Article By:
Samantha Galati
Veteran Family Program Coordinator at the Kingston Military Family Resource Centre
References:
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. “What Is Grief? – Mayo Clinic.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 5 Dec. 2019,
http://mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/support-groups/what-is-grief
Veterans Affairs Canada. “Why Remember?” A Day of Remembrance – History – Remembrance – Veterans Affairs Canada, Veterans Affairs Canada, 11 July 2019,
http://veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/a-day-of-remembrance/why
Vance, J.H. “2020 National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program.” A Message From the Chief of Defense Staff, 29 Sept. 2020,
http://canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/defence/2020/09/2020-national-veterans-week-speakers-program.html
