My mother, Doreen Barron passed away three years ago on Nov/10/2006. My wife, Irene and I visited the grave at Barrie Union Cemetery earlier this week and we planted four tulips at the foot of the headstone. We left a poppy on the flower bed because my father (Edwin Barron), a World War Two veteran, is also buried there.

The above links have more information on my parents and the cemetery.

The was the first time that I've seen the Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa. It was truly an international multicultural event. Prince Charles was there in a Canadian uniform. Canadian natives and visitors from other countries placed their own wreaths at the cenotaph. None of the commentators spoke during the half hour service. It was very moving with the planes flying overhead, the cannons going off and the children's choir singing in the background. Check it out on YouTube when it gets there.

While there are many who are victims of war, there are also those who are victims of disease, famine and ignorance.  In remembrance of these "other wars", I placed this prayer on Prayway.com:

"On this day, I not only remember those who have given their lives for their country during wartime, but the many victims of disease, famine and ignorance.

We have fought and are fighting many wars against the evils of mankind on many fronts. I ask you to help physical and spiritual warriors who are attempting to end the scourges on humanity.

In particular, I would like to see advances against cancer that would lead to its eradication.

I would like to see job growth in the U.S. and other countries and meaningful advances in using green technology.

I would like to see the rich assist those less fortunate themselves with educational grants, green start up companies and needed health and food products."