Honouring Legacy and Kindness: A Tribute at the National Military Cemetery

On a bright autumn morning, the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood stood as a solemn and powerful reminder of Canada’s unwavering respect for its military heroes. On this day, we gathered not just to remember the past but to look towards a future built on the values of kindness, sacrifice, and service, inspired by the enduring legacy of Rabbi Reuven Bulka.

The ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to veterans, active service members, and community leaders who have left a lasting impact on Canada. The event also marked the official unveiling of a plaque dedicated to Rabbi Bulka’s life and work, celebrating his commitment to kindness and peace. The announcement of the Rabbi Bulka Kindness Project by Dr. Jon Mitzmacher was a highlight, ensuring that his vision of a better, kinder Canada lives on through tangible actions and initiatives.

Colonel Lisa M. Pacarynuk, Director, Chaplaincy Services, Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, delivered a moving speech, reflecting on the importance of remembrance, community, and the enduring spirit of our veterans. Her words resonated deeply with the crowd, urging us to continue carrying the torch of peace and responsibility. The significance of the day was deepened by the participation of local students, who brought a youthful perspective to the solemn proceedings.

A Grade 6 student read the Commitment to Remember: "They were young, as we are young, They served, giving freely of themselves. To them, we pledge, amid the winds of time, To carry their torch and never forget. We will remember them."

This collective act of remembrance was a poignant reminder that the sacrifices made by our military must never be forgotten, and it is up to future generations to carry forward their legacy.

A Grade 7 student’s recitation of In Flanders Fields added a touch of history and reflection, reminding us of the cost of war and the importance of remembrance. The words of Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, written during World War I, continue to hold a powerful place in Canadian history, connecting us to the soldiers who fought bravely in past conflicts.

The ceremony concluded with a Grade 8 student delivering Rabbi Bulka’s final Remembrance Day message, a call to ensure that the Canada our veterans fought for remains worthy of their sacrifices. His words are a reminder to all of us to strive for a nation built on values of peace, kindness, and inclusion:

"Let us continue to make Canada worthy of our veterans’ ongoing dedication and sacrifice, a country defined by respect, harmony, inclusion, responsibility, and kindness to all. God bless our veterans. God bless our troops. God bless all those who stand on guard, all champions of peace, safety, security, and tranquility. God bless Canada."

As the ceremony concluded with the playing of God Save the King, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and reflection among those in attendance. The students were invited to explore the military cemetery, taking in the stories and history that define this sacred space.

In these moments of reflection and remembrance, we are reminded of the enduring responsibility we all carry—to honor the past, engage with the present, and shape a future grounded in the values of kindness, respect, and service.

It is through events like this that we ensure the sacrifices of our military heroes will never be forgotten and that their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Let us all continue to work towards a Canada defined by the virtues Rabbi Bulka cherished, ensuring that our veterans’ dedication and sacrifices are never in vain.