History professor helps community remember for Nov. 11

Leading up to Nov. 11 Remembrance Day ceremonies, History Professor Howard Hisdal was able to share his knowledge of history as an educator and a captain (now retired) of the Canadian Army. 

He talked about Canada’s wars at the Rotary Club Luncheon at the Capri Hotel, and then the next day, he presented a lecture on Canada and the war in Afghanistan at the Regency Northwood Retirement home. On the Thursday before the statutory holiday, Hisdal attended as the veteran at the Kelowna Secondary School Remembrance Day assembly. 

“I was amazed at how attentive the students were, and how respectful. They sang O Canada and God Save the King.  I have not heard the Royal Anthem at a school assembly since the 1960s.”

Later that Thursday evening in City Park, Hisdal of the Board of Directors of the Kelowna Museums said a few words at the Sunset Candle Lighting Ceremony at the Field of Crosses. The event is hosted by the Kelowna Museums Society, for which he serves as the board of directors president.  Finally, on Friday, Nov. 11,  Hisdal attended the Okanagan Indian Band Remembrance Day ceremony at Head of the Lake monument near Vernon at the invitation of Chief Byron Louis and Band Administrator Sherry Louis.

“It was the nicest Remembrance Day ceremony that I have ever been to," he said.