As the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), we take immense pride in our long-standing tradition of service, not only to our members but to the broader communities we serve. One of our most valued endeavors in Canada is the Canadian War Memorial Committee, a powerful example of our commitment to remembrance, honor, and the values of freedom we hold dear. For over five decades, this committee has brought us together to pay tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed so much, ensuring their legacy endures in the hearts of all Canadians.

A Legacy Born of Respect

Our journey with the Canadian War Memorial began in 1969, sparked by a call from the Sovereign Grand Lodge to create a Ceremony of Remembrance akin to the one held annually at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, since 1934. We sought to establish a parallel tradition on Canadian soil, a way to honor those who served in the name of peace and liberty. After securing permission from the Canadian government, we held our inaugural ceremony on June 7, 1970, at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. That first wreath-laying, led by Sovereign Grand Master Donald R. Smith from California and Sister Lois K., marked the beginning of an annual tradition we’ve upheld every first Sunday in June since.

The government’s approval came with a clear directive: our ceremony must never overshadow the solemn respect due to the war dead, nor serve as a platform to promote our Order. We embraced this wholeheartedly, ensuring that our focus remains on the heroes we commemorate—those who fought tyranny, endured unimaginable hardships, and gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today.

A Sacred Duty at the National War Memorial

The National War Memorial itself is a powerful symbol of Canada’s resolve, unveiled in 1939 to honor “The Response”—the nation’s stand against oppression in World War I. Designed by Vernon March of Kent, England, and completed by his siblings after his passing, the monument captures the spirit of sacrifice that resonates deeply with our Order’s values. On May 28, 2000, the site became even more hallowed when the remains of an unidentified soldier from Vimy Ridge were laid to rest in a sarcophagus before the memorial. This Unknown Soldier represents all who fell, and we’ve since sought to bestow upon him the Grand Decoration of Chivalry, a gesture of our profound respect, pending government approval.

Each year, our Canadian War Memorial Committee organizes the wreath-laying ceremony with meticulous care. It’s a moment for us to gather—officers, members, and friends—to reflect on the cost of freedom. As Sovereign Grand Master Cupp eloquently stated in a recent address, “We are reminded that freedom is not free. We see its high cost in the memorials to those who died so that we can be free.” These words echo through our ranks, reinforcing why we return to this sacred place annually.

A Tradition of Unity and Remembrance

For us, the Odd Fellows, this ceremony is more than a ritual—it’s a living expression of our principles of friendship, love, and truth. We assemble in an open society, free to practice our rites without interference, a liberty won by those we honor. The event unites us with distinguished guests and the public, fostering a shared appreciation for the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans, particularly those who endured the trenches of the Great War. Their courage in the face of stalemate and suffering remains a beacon for us all.

Our committee ensures that the ceremony remains a dignified tribute, aligning with the memorial’s purpose to express the Canadian people’s gratitude. From the laying of wreaths to the quiet moments of reflection, we strive to keep their memory alive, not just for our members but for future generations. It’s a duty we carry with pride, knowing that our efforts help preserve the stories of valor and loss that shaped our nation.

Looking Forward with Gratitude

As we mark over 50 years of this tradition, we remain steadfast in our mission. The Canadian War Memorial Committee is a cornerstone of our work in Canada, a way to give back to a country that has allowed our Order to thrive since our first Canidian lodge, Prince of Wales No. 1, was chartered in Montreal in 1843. We invite all who share our reverence for these heroes to join us each June, to stand with us as we lay wreaths and renew our pledge to remember.

In the words we live by, we are here to “relieve the distressed” and honor the fallen. The Canadian War Memorial Committee is our way of ensuring that the sacrifices of the past continue to inspire the good we do today. Together, as Odd Fellows, we keep their flame burning bright.