On guard for thee 2026: a Remembrance Day poem

Opinion. The views expressed are the author’s own.

I stand on guard for thee, Canada,
because you’re there when we need you!
A nation that cares for its people is united and defined,
a country with freedom-loving passion, holy, divine.

Looking at each neighbour, newcomers and residents true,
we all bring a flavour into this Canadian brew.
True to our name, a Huron-Iroquois village, that’s our plan,
my Canada celebrates our warriors, true freedom fighters always in demand.

The loss of one Canadian is a crime against us all,
sorrowful challenges to one and to all.
A soldier defends us, fights for their comrades too,
we need to cheer loudly for the fallen, and those still with us, true blue.

I celebrate not war, but the courage and dedication of Canadians
who defend our borders, but more importantly each other,
a nation at peace in a time of global conflict so true.
We need to hug those who come back to us once more.

For those who have fallen, in the past and present day,
we pray for their memories and souls each day.
Hallelujah, God’s blessings to you all this day.
May Canadians awake to the sacrifices you paid.

Steven Kaszab lives in Bradford, Ontario.

Editor’s note: this poem has been lightly edited for spelling and punctuation.