In 2020 during the pandemic a group of Bouchie Lake – Milburn Lake residents came together to host a Remembrance Day Ceremony at the historic Six Mile Corner at the junction of the Blackwater Road – Nazko Road (Bouchie – Milburn Community Park).. The catalyst for this event was the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 94 not hosting a Remembrance Day Ceremony in Quesnel due to the pandemic. The theme for our ceremony was “Six Feet Apart” so as to meet the Public Health Orders. It was decided by those facilitating that the ceremony would be community led, held in a circle, and be participatory. Those in attendance led us in the singing of O Canada and “God Save the Queen”, shared stories and readings, pipes were played,a bell was rung for 2 minutes of silence, and a wreath laid at the base of a blank cairn that had been onsite since the park was formed in 2007. In 2020, perhaps 20 people joined us on a snowy November day. Since then, a community led Remembrance Day Ceremony has been held at this site every year. In 2021 we were unsure if we could continue but it came at the request of the community. While there is some structure, the event is very informal in that residents can participate any way they choose. We are joined by both civilians and some veterans and family members of veterans who are serving or have served. The ceremony is very moving and clearly meets the needs of those present. In 2024, the Friends of Bouchie – Milburn Society took a more active role in the ceremony by fundraising for a Remembrance Day Plaque to be added to the cairn. Donations were also received and a sponsorship program developed. Go to the Bouchie Lake Century Family Recognition Project to learn how you too can contribute. In 2024, close to 70 people gathered at Six Mile Corner to participate in the act of remembrance. The gathering was joined by the Quesnel Flying Club with a fly-over just past 11 am.

Our community led Remembrance Ceremony is clearly valued by the community. Gatherings such as this at the community level are so important. It brings people together, results in people connecting at the neighbourhood / community level, and ultimately supports and results in connected and engaged communities. With the plans now to raise the cairn, incorporate flags, and a sponsorship plaque we have heard nothing but positive comments. It will further raise awareness of the importance of remembering and recognising those who have served and continue to serve.

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2020