News

Marking 35 Years Since the End of the Gulf War

nmccarthy — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:03:59 +0000

Marking 35 Years Since the End of the Gulf War nmccarthy Wed, 03/04/2026 - 07:03:AM

On March 3, 2026, the National Military Cemetery of Canada at Beechwood Cemetery served as the national gathering place to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War.

Thirty-five years earlier, on March 3, 1991, a ceasefire came into effect, bringing an end to active combat operations. For Canada, that moment represented more than the conclusion of a conflict. It marked a defining chapter in our modern military history, one that demonstrated the strength, professionalism, and capability of the Canadian Armed Forces on the world stage.

More than 4,000 Canadians served during the Gulf War under Operations FRICTION, SCIMITAR, and SCALPEL. Canada contributed naval forces in the Persian Gulf, CF-18 fighter aircraft, and highly respected medical teams. Our service members operated within a multinational coalition to liberate Kuwait and uphold international law.

The anniversary ceremony brought together veterans of that conflict, serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, representatives of Veterans Affairs Canada, members of the diplomatic corps, including the Embassy of Kuwait, and families whose lives were shaped by the deployment.

The morning began with an acknowledgment that Beechwood stands on the unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. Remembrance in Canada is grounded in place, and place carries history.

The sound of the Last Post echoed across the cemetery grounds as flags were lowered. Two minutes of silence followed — a pause that allowed reflection to take precedence over protocol. The Rouse signalled renewal, and the Lament carried the emotional weight of the moment. Wreaths were laid on behalf of Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans Affairs Canada, the State of Kuwait, coalition allies, and the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada. Each wreath represented service, partnership, and sacrifice.

The Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, offered remarks recognizing the service of Gulf War veterans and the continued importance of supporting them and their families.

She was followed by Harold Davis, Master Corporal (Retired), CD, President of the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada, who spoke from personal experience - reminding those present that beyond operations and timelines are individuals whose lives were permanently shaped by their service. The Act of Remembrance, read by Mike McGlennon, Warrant Officer (Retired), CD, Vice President of the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada reinforced the solemn purpose of the gathering.

The Gulf War marked a modern turning point for the Canadian Armed Forces. It reaffirmed Canada’s ability to operate effectively within complex multinational coalitions. It strengthened defence relationships. It influenced how Canada would approach future international operations. But beyond strategy and doctrine, this anniversary was about people. It was about those who deployed far from home in defence of collective security. It was about families who carried the uncertainty of service. It was about veterans who continue to live with the experience of that conflict 35 years later.

At Beechwood, remembrance is not symbolic. It is sustained. It is structured. It is intentional.

To those who served - we thank you.
To families - we recognize your sacrifice.
To those no longer with us - we remember.

Thirty-five years later, the commitment remains unchanged: To Honour. To Remember. To Never Forget.

News

March 4, 2026

No Stone Left Alone: Beechwood’s act of remembrance aimed at our nation’s youth - Cloned

Daniel — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:59:21 +0000

No Stone Left Alone: Beechwood’s act of remembrance aimed at our nation’s youth - Cloned Daniel Tue, 03/03/2026 - 06:59:AM

In ones and twos, with envelopes of poppies in hand, the schoolchildren from l’École élémentaire catholique Saint-François-d’Assise in Hintonburg fan out across the grounds of the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood Cemetery. The Grade 5 and 6 students, effusive and chatty on any other day, are silent now as they approach the graves of Canada’s military dead. They have a sombre duty to perform, and are taking their responsibility very seriously.

News

November 9, 2019

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Beechwood Cemetery joins the Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation (CFTC) and the Let’s get growing! campaign

nmccarthy — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:52:29 +0000

Beechwood Cemetery joins the Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation (CFTC) and the Let’s get growing! campaign nmccarthy Mon, 02/09/2026 - 07:52:AM

Beechwood Cemetery is partnering with Ottawa-based Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation (CFTC) and the City of Ottawa to help plant and protect trees in Ottawa as part of the Let’s get growing! campaign.

Learn more about our impact here: https://oursmartforest.com/lgg

More about the Let’s get growing! campaign

Together, the City of Ottawa, Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation (CFTC) and Cool Climate Club (CCC) have launched a campaign to support the city’s tree planting programs. The first of its kind for any municipality, this sponsorship supports Ottawa's climate action strategy by rallying businesses, leaders and residents to support the growth of Ottawa’s tree canopy and ensure a healthier environment for generations to come.

News

February 9, 2026

Planned Power Outage Notice - Avis d’interruption de courant planifiée

nmccarthy — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 17:12:05 +0000

Planned Power Outage Notice - Avis d’interruption de courant planifiée nmccarthy Fri, 02/06/2026 - 12:12:PM

Please be advised that Hydro Ottawa has scheduled an electrical equipment replacement that will require a temporary power outage affecting Beechwood Cemetery.

Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Affected areas: Beechwood Avenue, Garneau Street, and Lavergne Street

All Beechwood buildings will be fully closed for the day.
Access to the grounds will remain open; however, services and on-site operations will be unavailable during the outage.

This work is being coordinated to minimize disruption. Thank you for your understanding.

Veuillez noter qu’Hydro Ottawa procédera au remplacement d’équipement électrique, ce qui entraînera une interruption de courant temporaire touchant le Cimetière Beechwood.

Date : dimanche 22 février 2026
Heure : de 8 h à 16 h
Secteurs touchés : avenue Beechwood, rue Garneau et rue Lavergne

Tous les bâtiments de Beechwood seront entièrement fermés pour la journée.
L’accès aux terrains demeurera possible; toutefois, les services et les opérations sur place ne seront pas offerts durant l’interruption.

Ces travaux sont coordonnés afin de réduire au minimum les répercussions. Merci de votre compréhension.

News

February 6, 2026

A Heartfelt Evening of Light and Reflection: Beechwood’s 31st Annual Christmas Candlelight Service

nmccarthy — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:07:15 +0000

A Heartfelt Evening of Light and Reflection: Beechwood’s 31st Annual Christmas Candlelight Service nmccarthy Tue, 12/09/2025 - 07:07:AM

Beechwood’s 31st Annual Christmas Candlelight Service welcomed families, friends, and community members for an evening of quiet reflection, shared remembrance, and seasonal hope. As the soft glow of candlelight filled the National Memorial Centre, the event once again demonstrated why this cherished tradition remains one of Beechwood’s most meaningful gatherings each year.

The evening opened with greetings from Nick McCarthy, Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach, who set the tone with a message of gratitude and unity. The service brought together spiritual leaders Captain Rev. Michael Perreault, Monsignor Gilles Lavergne, and Chaplain Barbara Helms, each offering thoughtful guidance throughout the ceremony.

This year’s service was elevated by the beautiful presence of Director Dominique Lapointe and the University of Ottawa Choir, whose carols created a deeply resonant backdrop. The audience was also treated to a moving solo performance by Katy Unruh, whose rendition of O Holy Night (or Minuit, Chrétiens) brought a moment of profound stillness and reflection.

Once again, attendees demonstrated their generosity by contributing non-perishable food items supporting the Partage Vanier Food Bank. The illuminated collection bin, positioned by the entrance, served as a symbolic reminder of the community spirit that defines the holiday season.

The traditional structure of the Candlelight Service guided the evening’s flow, beginning with the Blessing of the Fire and followed by alternating moments of carols, readings, and prayer. The gentle rhythm of music and spoken word invited attendees to honour loved ones, reflect on cherished memories, and find solace in shared experience.

The candlelighting moment, always a highlight, cast a serene glow across the room as participants united in stillness and remembrance.

The ceremony concluded outdoors with the beloved Tree-Lighting. Guests joined in a festive countdown from ten, their voices rising together before the tree illuminated the night, an uplifting symbol of hope, resilience, and togetherness as the holiday season begins.

Our annual Christmas Candlelight Service remains a cornerstone of Beechwood’s commitment to honouring memory, supporting community, and providing meaningful spaces for reflection. We are grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to this year’s service.

From all of us at Beechwood:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

News

December 9, 2025

Honouring Service and Heritage: The Second Annual Lebanese-Canadian Military Remembrance Ceremony

nmccarthy — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:02:26 +0000

Honouring Service and Heritage: The Second Annual Lebanese-Canadian Military Remembrance Ceremony nmccarthy Tue, 11/25/2025 - 07:02:AM

Beechwood Cemetery’s National Military Cemetery of Canada hosted the Second Annual Lebanese-Canadian Military Remembrance Ceremony on November 23, 2025, an observance that reaffirmed the enduring contributions of Canadians of Lebanese heritage to the Canadian Armed Forces. The gathering brought together military leaders, diplomats, families, and community members in a powerful act of remembrance rooted in shared values of service, resilience, and belonging.

The program opened with a formal assembly at the National Military Cemetery’s central monument, followed by ceremonial music and the arrival of dignitaries. Master of Ceremonies Nick McCarthy welcomed attendees and set the tone for the morning: a recognition of the sacrifices and stories that connect two homelands.

The Lebanese and Canadian national anthems, the Last Post, two minutes of silence, the Rouse, and a traditional lament on the bagpipes created a powerful sequence of honour.

In his opening remarks, McCarthy highlighted the life of Trooper Marc Hani Diab, a Lebanese-born Canadian soldier whose service in Afghanistan and sacrifice in 2009 continue to resonate deeply across Canadian and Lebanese communities. Diab’s legacy framed the ceremony as a moment to honour all who embodied courage, loyalty, and devotion to Canada.

The ceremony featured thoughtful reflections from senior Canadian Armed Forces leadership and diplomatic representatives. Commodore Sam Sader, a distinguished Royal Canadian Navy officer of Lebanese heritage, spoke on behalf of the Canadian Armed Forces. His remarks underscored the strength and pride that Lebanese-Canadian members have brought to Canada’s military history, reminding attendees that service is enriched by cultural identity and community bonds.

His Excellency Ali Dirani, Consul of Lebanon to Canada, offered a moving tribute in both English and French, paying respect to the generations of Lebanese immigrants who embraced service to their adopted homeland. He highlighted the ceremony’s poignant proximity to Lebanese Independence Day, reinforcing the deep historical and emotional connections between the two countries. His remarks also included a powerful passage honouring the journey of Lebanese immigrants, carrying their heritage across oceans while building a shared future in Canada.

Honorary Colonel Omar Abou-Zahr of the Governor General’s Foot Guards added further reflection on the importance of preserving the stories of Lebanese-Canadian service members. His leadership within the Lebanese-Canadian Military Remembrance Committee has been instrumental in ensuring these contributions receive the recognition they deserve.

Following the speakers, Leading Cadet Ryan Abouzaher delivered the Act of Remembrance, grounding the ceremony in its solemn purpose. A prayer by Chaplain Captain Kennedy Matande added a spiritual dimension to the reflection, and Mrs. Jana Salameh offered a stirring performance of Watani, honouring Lebanese heritage through music.

A Collective Tribute A central moment of the ceremony was the wreath-laying, carried out by representatives from across the diplomatic, military, and community landscape:

Government of Canada - Hon. Mona Fortier
Embassy of Lebanon - Consul Ali Dirani
Canadian Armed Forces - Commodore Sam Sader
Lebanese-Canadian Military Remembrance Committee - HCol Omar Abou-Zahr

Families carried their memories forward with deeply personal tributes, including the Diab family, honouring the memory of Trooper Marc Diab. Members of the Lebanese community, as well as representatives from related remembrance groups, including the Latin American Soldiers Committee and Amicitia, joined in the collective act of homage.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks reflecting on the vital role Lebanese-Canadian service members play in Canada’s military story. Their contributions, shaped by dual heritage and a profound sense of purpose, continue to enrich Canada’s national narrative. As the vigil party departed, attendees were invited to gather at the Beechwood main building, creating space for dialogue, memories, and community connection.

Strengthening the Bridge Between Heritage and Service

This year’s ceremony demonstrated the strength of remembrance when it is shared across cultures, generations, and institutions. It reinforced a simple truth: the stories of Canadians of Lebanese heritage are integral to the story of Canada itself.

Their service, sacrifice, and leadership stand as a testament to the values both nations uphold - freedom, dignity, and unity. Beechwood Cemetery is honoured to stand alongside the Lebanese-Canadian community and the Canadian Armed Forces in preserving these stories for all who seek to understand and honour Canada’s past, present, and future.

News

November 25, 2025

Honouring Australia’s Fallen at the National Military Cemetery

nmccarthy — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:05:26 +0000

Honouring Australia’s Fallen at the National Military Cemetery nmccarthy Thu, 11/13/2025 - 10:05:AM

Wreath Laying and Remembrance Service

Earlier today, representatives of the Australian High Commission gathered at the National Military Cemetery of Canada for a solemn act of remembrance, honouring two young Royal Australian Air Force trainees who lost their lives while serving and training in Ottawa during the Second World War.

Commander Andy Duff, Royal Australian Navy, served as Master of Ceremonies, joined by High Commissioner Kate Logan and Captain Emma Gaudry, RAN, Australia’s Defence Advisor to Canada and members of the Defence Team. Together, they laid a wreath in tribute to Aircraftman Douglas Mervyn Lord and Leading Aircraftman Harry William Long, reinforcing the enduring bond between Australia and Canada, nations long united in service, sacrifice, and shared history.

Shared History Through the Empire Air Training Scheme

During the Second World War, Australia and Canada were central contributors to the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP) - known in Australia as the Empire Air Training Scheme. Canada became the world’s largest training ground for Allied aircrew, offering immense airspace, safety from enemy attack, and a climate suited to year-round flying.

More than 10,000 Australians crossed the Pacific to train in Canada. These young men strengthened Allied air capabilities across the European, North African, and Pacific theatres, forming one of the most significant international training movements of the war.

Aircraftman Douglas Mervyn Lord, born in Melbourne in 1919, was among those who came to Ottawa for pilot training. On 6 May 1941, his aircraft crashed near Uplands Airport, killing both Lord and Flying Officer Bennett L. Duffey. Lord was 22 years old.

Leading Aircraftman Harry William Long, born in 1921, also trained under this program. He died at 20 years old when his Harvard trainer crashed at Black Rapids on 15 August 1941.

Their deaths remind us that training itself carried extraordinary risk—risk accepted willingly in service to a world in crisis.

A Partnership Forged Across Generations

Australia and Canada have stood together across decades of global conflict and peace operations: Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, multinational maritime missions, and intelligence and security partnerships that continue today. The sacrifice of Lord and Long speaks to the deep, ongoing ties between our nations, ties born of shared purpose and shaped by generations of service members who stood for the same values.

A Moment of Reflection: The Full Reading of For the Fallen

One of the most powerful moments of today’s ceremony came with Commander Duff’s full reading of Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen.

It is rare for the entire poem to be read during a remembrance service. Hearing every verse offered a deeper, more solemn reflection on loss, courage, and the enduring responsibility to remember. The full reading connected those gathered not only to the famous Ode of Remembrance, but to the broader themes of sacrifice and hope that Binyon intended, a profound tribute to these young Australian airmen who never returned home.

At the National Military Cemetery, we remain committed to honouring the men and women who served under the Empire Air Training Scheme and all who answered the call of duty. The stories of Douglas Mervyn Lord and Harry William Long live on through our shared commitment to remembrance and through the enduring partnership between Australia and Canada.

We will remember them.

News

November 13, 2025

No Stone Left Alone: Youth in Action at the National Military Cemetery

nmccarthy — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:22:29 +0000

No Stone Left Alone: Youth in Action at the National Military Cemetery nmccarthy Thu, 11/06/2025 - 07:22:AM

On November 4, 2025, the National Military Cemetery of Canada once again became a place of reflection, remembrance, and education. The No Stone Left Alone – National Capital Region Girl Guides Ceremony brought together hundreds of young Canadians, their leaders, and members of the community for a moving act of remembrance.

Gathered under the autumn sky, participants assembled near the central monument as the flags were prepared and the vigil party—members of the 76 Communications Regiment—took their positions.

Students shared powerful literary and poetic reflections, honouring the sacrifices of those who served in the air, on land, and at sea. The bilingual readings of In Flanders Fields, The Naval Hymn, and When I Think of Famous Men (air force) served as reminders that remembrance transcends language, culture, and generation. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces stood alongside the students, reinforcing the living connection between past and present service.

The Act of Remembrance, read in both official languages by members of the 76 Communications Regiment, was followed by the Last Post, two minutes of silence, the Rouse, and a solemn lament on the bagpipes. Each moment reflected the dignity and unity that define remembrance in Canada.

Wreaths were laid by representatives of the Canadian Government, Canada’s Armed Forces, and the students.

As the ceremony concluded, participants were invited to place poppies on the headstones of fallen service members—a symbolic promise that no soldier’s name, nor their sacrifice, will ever be forgotten. Across the National Military Cemetery of Canada, hundreds of red poppies stood out against the grey stones, a vivid tableau of memory and gratitude created by the hands of youth.

Special thanks to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) for sharing photographs that captured these poignant moments of remembrance.

News

November 6, 2025

Wreaths Across Canada 2025 is cancelled

ewagner — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:35:19 +0000

Wreaths Across Canada 2025 is cancelled ewagner Wed, 10/29/2025 - 11:35:AM

The Wreaths Across Canada Board is sad to share that, due to some unexpected life events, we will not be able to host the 2025 wreath event.

Serving our Veteran community is deeply important to our Board, which makes this decision even more difficult. We never step back lightly—especially when it involves an event meant to honour and support those who have served.

Hope you can understand and thank you for your compassion; patience, and unwavering commitment to our Veterans.

We plan to meet in January to set up for a successful ceremony/celebration in December 2026.

On behalf of the Wreaths Across Canada Board, we wish All a safe and happy holiday season!!!

Cyndi Mills

Wreaths Across Canada President

News

October 30, 2025

Remembrance in Action: Merivale High School’s Annual Visit to the National Military Cemetery

nmccarthy — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 14:20:57 +0000

Remembrance in Action: Merivale High School’s Annual Visit to the National Military Cemetery nmccarthy Wed, 10/29/2025 - 10:20:AM

Each year, students from Merivale High School take part in a profound act of remembrance at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood. Guided by their history teacher, Christine Sabourin, the students embark on an educational journey that brings Canada’s military history to life.

The visit begins with a guided tour led by Beechwood, where students learn about Canada’s role in wars, international conflicts, and humanitarian missions. Through the stories of those who served, from the World Wars to modern peacekeeping operations, students gain a deeper understanding of the courage, resilience, and global impact of Canada’s military members.

As part of this experience, each student adopts the story of a fallen Canadian Armed Forces member buried within the cemetery. They research the individual’s life and service, then stand beside that soldier’s headstone to present their story aloud, ensuring that their name and legacy are remembered where they rest.

This is Remembrance in Action, a living connection between generations. It transforms history from something learned in a classroom to something felt and understood through personal reflection.

Through the dedication of Christine Sabourin and the partnership with Beechwood, Merivale High School continues to inspire students to honour the past, engage with remembrance, and carry these lessons forward for the future.

News

October 29, 2025

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