A4

By BRENDA MACMINN
For The Daily Gleaner

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MCADAM - The Last Post's final notes were met by the sound of helicopters as three 403 Operational Training Squadron choppers from Canadian Forces Base Gagetown flew past at the Remembrance Day service in McAdam.

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Prior to the service, a large parade featured Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 7 veterans, ladies auxiliary, RCMP officers, 403 Squadron members, cadets from 2550 Cherry Mountain Armoured Cadet Corps and members of the Girl Guides movement from McAdam.

At the cenotaph service, Royden Messer presided over the laying of a dozen wreaths and crosses in memory of those who paid the supreme sacrifice in one of the world's conflicts or while on peacekeeping duties.

The service then moved next door to St. Paul's United Church, where about 50 more wreaths were placed.

Pastor Stephen Tomkins of the Voice of Pentecost Church in McAdam gave the memorial address.

"We must remember," said Tompkins. "Those who served in these wars endured extremely difficult situations beyond the capacity for those of us who have never been on the battlefield could imagine.

"Loss of comrades, extreme living conditions, intense training, fear, as well as mental, spiritual and physical hardships are just a sample of what these soldiers, sailors and airmen endured.

"I'm grateful for every effort and every measure that has been taken by our governments, veterans, legions and volunteers to help us remember the sacrifices which have been made by men and women who have given their lives for our nation of Canada."

Tompkins recalled the memory of Trooper Corey Hayes who died in Afghanistan in March. Tompkins was a pastor to Hayes during his boyhood years in Ripples.

Families in McAdam remembered their fallen soldiers as hundreds gathered for the cenotaph service.

Taking part in the service were Diedra LeBlanc with the prayer of invocation, Caitlin Gaines with Psalm 23, Brittany Young giving the closing prayer, Gordon McAllister as pianist and Rev. Ellen Beairsto.

A dinner was held to honour veterans at 5 p.m.