Remembrance Day at Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum Honours Those Who Served

The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum will mark Remembrance Day on Wednesday, November 11, with a special indoor ceremony honouring the Canadians who served and sacrificed for their country.

Surrounded by aircraft that help preserve Canada’s military aviation history, the annual service offers visitors an especially meaningful setting in which to remember generations of veterans while also recognizing the men and women serving in today’s Canadian Armed Forces.

Remembering Past and Present

The ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m. and continues through the traditional period of remembrance at 11 a.m.

This year’s guest speaker is Colin Keiver, MSM, CD, former Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Keiver served in that senior leadership role from May 2021 until July 2023. His participation provides a connection between the history represented throughout the museum and the Canadians who continue that tradition of military service today.

Lancaster Flyby Planned for 11:02 a.m.

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony could take place overhead.

Weather permitting, the museum’s Avro Lancaster is scheduled to conduct a flyby at approximately 11:02 a.m., shortly after the traditional moment of silence.

The sight and sound of the historic bomber above the museum should provide a powerful reminder of the thousands of Canadians who served with the Royal Canadian Air Force and Allied air forces during the Second World War. As the flyby is weather-dependent, visitors should be aware that it may be changed or cancelled if conditions do not permit the aircraft to fly.

Arrive Early for the Indoor Ceremony

The Remembrance Day service will take place indoors, but seating is limited. Additional standing room will be available, and the museum recommends that visitors arrive early.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be broadcast on CHCH-TV and available through CHCH’s online stream and YouTube.

Free Admission and a Chance to Give Back

Parking and museum admission are free throughout Remembrance Day, although donations to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum are appreciated.

Visitors are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for Hamilton Food Share, extending the spirit of remembrance into support for the local community.

For families, veterans, aviation enthusiasts and anyone wishing to pause and remember, the ceremony offers an opportunity to mark November 11 in a place where Canada’s military history remains very much present.