As we mark the centennial of Canada’s involvement in the First World War, let us pause and reflect upon the sacrifice made by the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who served and the 65,000 who lost their lives in the conflict.

Those who rest in foreign fields left behind families and loved ones, who along with those who returned, helped to build the country we know and love today.

As the transit point for many members of the Canadian Expeditionary Force who served overseas and a place scarred by the horrific Halifax Explosion of 1917, our province was profoundly shaped by the events of 1914-1918.

Over the next four years, across Canada and around the world, commemorations will be taking place to honour the sacrifice and bravery of those who fought in the Great War.  It is an opportunity to educate our fellow citizens about the tremendous contribution made by Canadians during the War, and to commemorate those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice.

As Her Majesty’s representative in Nova Scotia, I call upon my fellow Nova Scotians to find some way, at the local level, to help remember the service rendered by those who served in the Great War – overseas and on the home front.

      
Brigadier-General The Hon. J.J. Grant, CMM, ONS, CD (Ret’d)
Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia