This last weekend we went over to Ottawa, Ontario, to attend the funeral of Jo-Anne's mom, Helen (Purvis) Martin (Private, Canadian Women's Army Corps). As a WWII veteran she was eligible to be buried in the Canadian National Military Cemetery (like Arlington) with full military honors. It was a really moving ceremony starting with the procession past the flags to the burial site.

At the site first the bugler played the Canadian version of Taps and then the piper played the Canadian National Anthem.

Then an Honor Guard NCO placed the urn in the ground. You will notice the spacing of the headstones as this plot is reserved for cremated remains only.

Then Brigadier General Fred Lewis pays his respects. General Lewis is a long time family friend and we attended the funeral of his father Lt Col Ed Lewis. Ed was Bill Martin's best friend in the Army and for many years later and we attended his funeral at the same place on Saturday.

Jo-Anne and her brother Rick at the grave site after the ceremony.

Major William Martin (ret), Jo's Dad in the Beechwood Chapel.






And finally a moment of reflection after both ceremonies and a long weekend of remembrance.

The National Military Cemetery is a gorgeous setting in Ottawa and fully reflects the sacrifice of the Canadian service veterans and the Honor Guard and everyone else associated with the cemetery are highly professional. A unique and memorable experience that I was proud to be part of.