Commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Italian campaign, Veterans Affairs organized a delegation to visit the Moro River Canadian Cemetery. Amongst them were 28 veterans of the Second World War. Canadian College Italy had the honour to participate in the candlelight ceremony on November 26th, and to meet those who fought in Italy.
During the highly emotional ceremony, our students were given the tremendous opportunity to deliver readings to the delegation.
Before the ceremony took place we witnessed veterans, many of who fought in the horrific Battle of Ortona, visit the graves of the fallen, graves of their friends. We also had the incredible opportunity to meet and speak with these soldiers of war.
As dusk approached, each veteran passed a candle of remembrance to one of our students - from one generation to the next. Our students then circled the cenotaph before placing the candles upon it.
Touching speeches were delivered from Canadian Ambassador to Italy Peter McGovern, and Mayor of Ortona Vincenzo D'Ottavio, and particularly moving words from Julian Fantino, Minister of Veteran Affairs. Afterward, wreaths were laid upon the cenotaph.
They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.
We will remember them.