Students at Pinewood Elementary School were treated to a memorable assembly on Friday, September 26 as they became the first in Canada to witness the unveiling of this year’s Veterans’ Affairs poster. The event highlighted Veterans’ Week, which runs from November 5, until Remembrance Day on November 11.
Delta Mayor George V. Harvie opened the ceremony by urging students to take time this November to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans. Jill McKnight, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and MP for Delta, followed with a passionate address. She emphasized the vital role of Canada’s armed forces—not only in times of war but also during emergencies like wildfires and earthquakes. “Their service of kindness, bravery, and teamwork helps people all over the world,” she told the students.
Warrant Officer Lo shared stories from his 30-year military career, including a peacekeeping mission in Bosnia and logistical support during B.C.’s wildfire crises where he was responsible for ensuring food, transportation and equipment was available for firefighters on the ground. Major Wong shared his personal journey, recounting how the events of 9/11 inspired him to enlist after university.
Master Corporal Kuizema of the Canadian Rangers shared wisdom gained during a challenging hike and wrapped up the presentation with a powerful metaphor: “Knowledge is the best backpack you can carry in life—you can’t lose what you’ve learned.” She was inspired to join the Rangers as she was keen to build on her survival skills, so that she could be better prepared to explore and try more experiences.
Other guests hosted by Principal Reel and Vice Principal Lundie at the event included Delta Board of Education Trustee Ammen Dhillon, Superintendent Doug Sheppard and Assistant Superintendent Jane Gray.
After the assembly, Grade 7 students headed outdoors for a scavenger hunt, designed to reinforce the lessons of service and teamwork. They visited nine stations, each one contained skill building exercises or tasks, such as how to find north without a compass, learning how cedars are used as traditional medicine, and identifying search and rescue signals and markers that stand out in the environment.
To learn more about Remembrance in Canada, please visit: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance
