Ontario Premier Doug Ford used Remembrance Day to urge Canadians to reflect on the sacrifices of military members past and present, issuing a statement that underscored the country’s long-standing commitment to democratic values and the global respect earned by its veterans.
In a written statement released Tuesday, Ford emphasized the role of Canadian service members in shaping the nation’s identity and defending the freedoms that underpin its social and economic prosperity. His remarks come during a milestone year that marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a conflict in which Canada’s military contributions helped cement its international standing and laid the foundation for decades of postwar growth.
“November 11 is a day when our nation comes together to express our collective appreciation for the courageous men and women in uniform who gave their all to defend the values and freedoms that make Canada the best country in the world,” Ford said.
This year’s anniversary has drawn heightened attention from institutions, historians and veterans’ organizations reflecting on the scale of Canada’s wartime commitment. More than one million Canadians served in the Second World War, a significant deployment for a country of 11 million at the time, and the economic mobilization that followed transformed manufacturing, trade and employment across the country. Ford noted that the service of Canadian troops continues to be recognized internationally.
“The actions of the Canadian Armed Forces in defence of democracy against tyranny aren’t just remembered here, but in nations across the world where our veterans and flag are welcomed with open arms,” he said.
Businesses and public institutions across Ontario paused operations at 11 a.m. to observe two minutes of silence, a tradition that remains one of the most widely recognized civic observances in Canada. The premier emphasized the importance of that moment in acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by military families, both historically and today. Many employers marked the occasion with internal ceremonies or by encouraging employees to attend local Remembrance Day events, reinforcing the date’s significance in corporate and public life.
“This Remembrance Day, as we observe a moment of silence, I urge the people of Ontario to reflect on the bravery of our Canadian Armed Forces, who left and continue to leave the comforts of home and family to put their lives on the line to protect our country and defend freedom abroad,” Ford said. “We remember the more than 120,000 brave soldiers throughout our history who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our country and we think of their families and loved ones.”
The premier’s message aligns with broader efforts across the province to highlight the economic and social contributions of veterans. Many organizations have expanded support programs in recent years, including career-transition services, mental-health initiatives and housing supports. The Royal Canadian Legion’s annual poppy campaign—funded through public donations—remains a primary source of assistance for veterans and their families.
Ford encouraged Ontarians to consider the deeper meaning behind the symbols commonly associated with Remembrance Day, including poppies and wreaths, which are seen in workplaces, retail environments and public buildings throughout the first half of November.
“As we wear poppies and lay our wreaths, I encourage everyone to think of the individual acts of courage and selflessness that these powerful symbols represent,” he said. “And to every veteran, service person and military family in our province — thank you.”
“Lest we forget.”
The province’s observances this year took place amid ongoing global conflicts and geopolitical uncertainty, prompting renewed discussion about Canada’s defence capabilities and the country’s role in international alliances. While Ford’s statement did not address defence policy directly, his remarks situate Remembrance Day within a broader narrative of national resilience and shared responsibility.
For many businesses and communities, the day served not only as a moment of remembrance but also as a reminder of the long-term influence of veterans on Canada’s workforce and economy. From postwar industrial growth to the development of modern public institutions, the legacy of military service continues to shape the province’s economic landscape.
As ceremonies concluded across Ontario, Ford’s message echoed a sentiment that remains central to the country’s identity: remembrance as a collective civic duty, and recognition of the individuals whose service has helped define Canada’s place in the world.
