Flag-waving politicians and community members celebrate National Flag Day and 60th birthday of our flag in New Toronto and across the country.
More than 100 flag-waving area residents braved the snow and cold to celebrate the 60th birthday of the Canadian National Flag in New Toronto.
The celebration at the Eighth Street flagpole was one of hundreds held across the country on February 15 to mark the birthday of the Canadian National Flag and show love for our country.
Those attending the noon-time event were treated to pieces of two birthday cakes, which had the Maple Leaf beautifully featured.
Members of the Royal Canadian Navy Band performed the national anthem and Maple Leaf Forever to an appreciative crowd. Staff photos.
There was much camaraderie, smiles and speeches about the love of our great country.
The Royal Canadian Navy Band performed the national anthem and Maple Leaf forever as 22 Division officers looked on. They both received loud applause by an appreciative crowd.
Local politicians MP James Maloney, MPP Christine Hogarth and NDP Etobicoke Lakeshore candidate Rozhen Asrani made the rounds shaking hands or handing out flags. Noticeably absent was Ward 3 Councillor Amber Morley.
National Flag Day supporters sign a banner to be sent to the National Archives in Ottawa.
Those at the celebration signed a large banner in honour of our country and birthday of our flag. The banner will be taken to the archives in Ottawa by Maloney.
Organizer Chris Korwin-Kuczynski reminded those gathered that the Maple Leaf became synonymous with Canadian courage during the Second World War.
“It was more than an emblem; it was a promise to protect freedom, to stand with our Allies and never waver in the face of tyranny,” he reminded.
MP James Maloney handing out Canadian flags to a patriotic and appreciative crowd on a cold day that did not hamper nationalistic spirit.
“Today, in cemeteries far from home, countless of our fallen lie under headstones marked with the Maple Leaf.”
Maloney said he still gets emotional when he sees the Canadian flag.
“It makes me proud when I see our flag waving,” he told the supportive crowd. “We are lucky to live in a great country and in this great community.”
Hogarth has family members in the military and said the flag reflects our proud heritage and history.
Flag day lovers and supporters were proud as a new Canadian flag was raised at the Eighth Street flagpole. Staff photos.
“I am proud to be here and represent this community,” she said. “We have a great history that we should be proud off.”
Asrani said she has been attending community events and trying to meet as many residents before the February 27 Ontario election.
“We live in a great community,” Asrani said.
The Canadian National Flag with the red Maple Leaf was raised for the first time on Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965.