Hatters pay tribute to those who served during annual Remembrance Day ceremonies

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A large crowd gathered at Veterans Memorial Park in Medicine Hat during a Remembrance Day Ceremony on Wednesday. (Image Credit: Cam Clark/Pattison Media)

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Medicine Hat-Cardston-Warner MP Glen Motz attended and offered a statement on social media.

“On this beautiful but solemn day in Medicine Hat, many gathered to honour the brave men and women who served and sacrificed for our country, and to remember those who never came home. We owe an enduring debt of gratitude to our veterans, serving members, and all those who have defended the freedoms and values we hold dear. Lest we forget. #CanadaRemembers,” the statement from Motz read.

Scott Schall, a retired Master Warrant Officer and Past President of Robertson Memorial Branch #17, now working as a civilian employee with the Medicine Hat Police Service, spoke to CHAT News Today before the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Schall said he has great respect for families and community members who take the time to lay wreaths in memory of loved ones who served.

“I have nothing but time, respect and gratitude for those people,” Schall said.

Schall recognizes the day can also be difficult for some veterans, who may choose to avoid ceremonies because of the memories they bring back.

He also hopes younger generations will feel comfortable approaching veterans with questions about their experiences, saying those conversations can help build a better understanding of military service.

“I’m always excited about question-and-answer period when it comes to schools because it shows what those people are interested in; it shows what those people are curious about as part of service,” Schall said.

Schall said even questions about a veteran’s medals can lead to meaningful conversations and a greater appreciation of more recent military history.

“It’s a little bit of a healing for me because you can explain where you’ve been and what you’ve done,” he said.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also released a Remembrance Day statement.

“Each Remembrance Day, we pause to honour the generations of Canadians who have served our country in times of war, conflict and peace. We remember those who gave their lives, those who returned home forever changed and those who continue to answer the call to serve.

Canada is one of the safest and most prosperous countries in the world, but we must never take that for granted. The freedoms, rights and way of life we cherish came at a profound cost. For generations, Canadian soldiers, sailors and aviators have put themselves in harm’s way to defend our country and the values we hold dear. Their courage and service have shaped our nation and secured the peace and opportunities we enjoy today. We have a duty to remember what they endured, why they served and what they sacrificed for future generations.

This year, our thoughts are especially with the families, loved ones and fellow members of the Canadian Armed Forces mourning the tragic loss of four soldiers at CFB Wainwright. Sergeant Morgan Wong of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding and Private Hayden Lykkemark of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Their loss is a heartbreaking reminder of the extraordinary commitment of those who serve, whether in times of peace or conflict, and the debt of gratitude we owe them as Canadians. We join together to wish those who were injured strength and healing as they recover. Our thoughts are also with their families and loved ones as they face the difficult road ahead. May they find comfort in the love of their families and the support of Albertans across our province.

I invite all Albertans to pause in silent reflection and gratitude today for our veterans, those who serve and the families who stand beside them. We will forever honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served to keep our country strong and free.”

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READ: Medicine Hat veteran encourages residents to take part in Remembrance Day services (Nov. 10, 2026)

— With files from Jett Schwaier