The Shawnigan community gathered for a rich and poignant Remembrance Day service on Friday, Nov. 11.
Featuring moving musical performances and sombre words, the ceremony encouraged students, staff and guests to reflect on soldiers and peacekeepers, including 44 Shawnigan alumni, who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace and freedom.
Col. John Conrad's strong and passionate address touched on the horrifying conditions of Canada's early wartime contributions. He also spoke about the character of the young people who volunteered to serve, saying that they shared the same dreams and pressures as students of today. He suggested that their true fear is being forgotten, and that "By honouring them, we never let them fall from our grasp." Col. Conrad told the audience that everyone still has a role to play in sticking up for what's right and good. "It's a team sport," he said. "We cannot give up the world to darkness."
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.