In honour of the Queen of Canada, many Canadian’s took part in celebrations across the country to celebrate Queen Elizabeth massive achievement.
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, the Duke of Edinburgh leaving Toronto’s Royal York Hotel. Toronto, Ontario, Canada. July 6, 2010
Cities and towns alike held large and small events marking the day.
In Calgary, Alberta, The Naval Museum of Alberta held a ceremony of sailor’s delight that started off the with a tot of rum and toast made to the monarch. During the event, new additions were unveiled which are to be added to the museum’s collection including four ship models, including the last of three aircraft carriers in Canadian history.
Commander Janet McDougall, of HCMS Tecumseh, pointed out “When you look at the name of all of our ships, HMCS Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship, every one of our ships honours Her Majesty,”
Queen Elizabeth last visited Calgary in 2005 to mark Alberta’s centennial.
The Monarchist League of Canada wrote to municipalities across the nation reminding them of the approaching occasion with suggestions on how they could mark it.
Halton Hills, Ontario held a short and warm ceremony in the Helson Gallery at the Halton Hills Cultural Centre Library at noon to show their appreciation. Presided over by Acting Mayor Councillor Ted Brown, the event included music, a Royal historical display, Colour Parties from the Georgetown and Acton Royal Canadian Legions. Also joining the occasion were local leaders, as well as members of the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) from the Milton detachment.
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan opted for an even smaller affair with Mayor Deb Higgins speaking at council hall “During more than 63 years since our monarch, the Queen has united Canada by her example of inclusiveness, dedication and selfless service of which we are proud,”
Lt. Gov. Vaughn Solomon Schofield, the current Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan also released a statement.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip greeting RCMP officers. October 1957
“Throughout decades of astonishing change, our Queen has been a source of stability and inspiration through her unfailing adherence to the values that have marked her life: faith, duty, and service,”
“In her characteristically practical and humble way, Her Majesty has requested that this occasion not be marked by elaborate celebrations. Perhaps the best way we can commemorate this historical milestone and honour an individual who has given her life to service is through our own commitment to the greater good.”
All chapels belonging to the Canadian Forces and select churches across Canada rang their bells at noon in honour of Queen Elizabeth surpassing Queen Victoria to become the longest reigning sovereign.
“Every time the Queen has come to Canada she has said that Canada very much feels like a second home,” said Josh Traptow, of the Monarchist League of Alberta.
