Every year we pause on this day to give thanks and pay tribute to the men and women who made a sacrifice for our freedom.

Despite the pandemic, today is no exception.

The way we celebrate our veterans is different this year but not the reason.

The Royal Canadian Legion Branches in Zone A-3 will be hosting private events this year, by invitation only to allow for social distancing.

“Out of respect for our members and the general public, we are asking residents not attend the ceremonies at local Cenotaphs,” said Zone A-3 Commander Len Maynard. “We are encouraging residents to stay at home and view the pre-recorded session that takes place at the John D. Bradley Convention Centre.”

The Chatham ceremony will be broadcast on Your TV.

Residents are invited to visit Cenotaphs in communities across Chatham-Kent after this morning’s ceremonies while observing social distancing.

Officials with the Legion Branch 185 in Blenheim say with so many veterans and other older people expected to be in attendance, they made the difficult decision to cancel today’s service.

The service planned at the Veterans Garden in Erieau has also been cancelled.

Here at CKXS we will be hosting our annual ceremony and musical tribute beginning shortly before 11 am.

There is also a great video available celebrating our veterans at www.remebrancedayck.com.

And wherever you are at 11 am, please stop what you’re doing and remember the men and women who sacrificed for our country.