June 1, 2023

LOUD, PROUD DRUMHEAD PARADE, SERVICE SUNDAY NOON IN MACTIER HONOURS VETERANS PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE

MACTIER — A military battlefield tradition dating back to the 1700s takes place Sunday noon here in west Muskoka.

A “Drumhead Service” — adopted by Canadian forces a century later — is a solemn celebration to “pay homage to comrades who offered their lives in defence of our country,” says Bruce Henn, the Royal Canadian Legion president.

But it will be loud and proud as drummers, pipers, veterans and legion family members march a couple blocks uphill, from the arena in the Georgian Bay community, to the upgraded cenotaph at Branch 507.

Henn says they will form up at 12:30 p.m. and arrive for the 1 p.m. ceremony, where drums will be piled as a centrepiece for the service.

He says there will be a special indigenous presentation as part of the event.

It will also be joyous, with remarks and lunch to follow.

All are welcome.