Since 1931, today, in Canada, has been a statutory holiday named Remembrance Day. Previously it had been known as Thanksgiving Day in Canada by the Armistice Day Act of June 4, 1921. The day commemorated the ending of the Great War of 1914-1918 when at 5 a.m. on November 11, 1918, a document was signed by the combatants bringing hostilities to an end as of 11:00 a.m. that day. Today we remember not only World War I and World War II but also other conflicts, such as the Korean War, the war in Afghanistan, and many United Nations Peace Keeping expeditions, in which Canadians have served in order that all people may live in freedom and peace.
Let us remember those who died and those who returned safely; those who suffer physical wounds and those who suffer mental wounds such as PTSD.
O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision risked much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Source: High Days and Holidays in Canada, Annie H. Foster and Anne Grierson, 1956, page 71 The Book of Common Prayer of the Episcopal Church,1979, page 839