Field of Crosses ~ Lest We Forget

In remembrance of the soldiers from Southern Alberta that made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom, the Field of Crosses Memorial returns for its 11^th year. Many volunteers help set up the over 3600 crosses along Memorial Drive west of Centre Street Bridge.

As a great way for young people to get involved in history organizers of the Field of Crosses had student volunteers from Crescent Heights High School football team participate in setting up the crosses. This was done in memory of William "Willie" McKnight a former Crescent Heights quarterback who was killed in action on January 12, 1941, for which McKnight Blvd. was named after.

This year in a new section, an additional 120 new Canada120 Crosses are added to the memorial Each cross represents 1,000 Canadian soldiers who perished during conflict thus honouring over 120,000 fallen heroes. People can help to continue the legacy of remembrance by adopting Canada120 crosses for $120 and individual hero crosses for $250.

There are sunrise and sunset ceremonies held at the Field of Crosses up until November 11^th in honour of our fallen local heroes and the public is welcome to attend to participate. Last year this traditional Remembrance Day ceremony had over 5000 Calgarians join in.  

During this period of remembrance don’t forget about our veterans. Many who return experience difficulty returning to civilian life. They may have been radically injured or acquired post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and have issues finding help. Resources, such as the Veteran’s Food Bank, are struggling to help our veterans. Donate a larger amount for your poppy or donate your time or money to an organization that helps our veterans.

Let us not forget those that sacrificed their lives, and our living veterans, for our freedom. Visit this great seasonal memorial and discover those by name that made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The Field of Crosses' mission is to create awareness that our freedom did not come without a price. Join in to honour the sacrifice of those Southern Albertans who died for our freedom today.