It was a beautiful fall day for the annual Remembrance Day parade in Bradford West Gwillimbury on Sunday afternoon.
Residents lined the streets with Thank You signs and flags as veterans, Legion members, Girl Guides, Scouts, Air Cadets, Ladies Auxiliary and area dignitaries marched along Holland Street through the downtown core to the Royal Canadian Legion on Back Street where a wreath-laying ceremony was held.
Dozens of families, businesses, groups and organizations sponsored wreaths this year, which were laid in front of the Legion's cenotaph by local dignitaries and members of the community.
Every year, Jim and Carol Collier attend the parade and wreath-laying ceremony, in memory of their son, Bradford's hometown hero, Sapper Brian Collier, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan, in 2010. He was only 24 years old.
Legion President Tammy Paglia read the poem 'In Flanders Field', followed by a prayer from Rev. Dana Dickson.
York-Simcoe MP and Bradford West Gwillimbury Mayor Rob Keffer spoke to the crowd of attendees.
"Today we reflect on the memories of those we have lost, especially to the families who have lost loved ones in Afghanistan and other conflicts, we pay respects to all the veterans and all we've lost," said Davidson.
Keffer thanked all the wreath sponsors and the community members in attendance, and all those who have served.
"On behalf of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, thank you to the Legion for having this Remembrance Day parade and this ceremony," he said.
Afterwards, guests were invited inside the Legion for some light refreshments and conversation.
The Bradford Legion will be hosting another smaller Remembrance Day ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
The Bradford Legion is located at 115 Back St.