Canadian Forces in Afghanistan
Surrey, BC (CHAKRA) – Sikhs gathered on the weekend after Remembrance Day at Dasmesh Darbar Sikh Temple in Surrey to honour the fallen soldiers in the Canadian Armed Forces.
This event was the first of its kind in a Sikh temple in British Columbia. Publisher of The Post Group of newspapers, Harbinder Singh Sewak, organized the event in hopes of showing respect to the armed forces of Canada.
Sewak stated that this was an opportunity for the Sikh community to support the sacrifices made by the Canadian military family. The turnout was exception as many Sikh supporters had shown up to pay their respects.
During the ceremony, Honourary Colonel Steven Millen from the 442 Squadron was presented with a “saropa” which is a symbolic ceremonial scarf, as well as with a ceremonial sword. The gifts were presented by the Sikh temple president, Gian Singh Gill.
In addition, contributions of the Sikh soldiers were highlighted during the congregating ceremony. Their contributions to World War I and II as well as their ongoing contribution to military service in Canada were brought up.
Military officials were donated $2500 by the officials of the Sikh Temple.
Spokesman for the National Defense Department, Kris Phillips, said that he was very pleased with the whole presentation and ceremony itself. He hopes that ties between the Sikh community and Canadian military will get stronger after this event.
The ceremony commenced with the Vancouver Regiment Irish Pipes and Drums Society marching into the prayer hall.
The temples langar hall was used after the ceremony ended to have a meal with the military representatives.
Babar Singh Tumber, a temple official stated that it was a simple and sincere way of showing the Sikh community’s gratitude to the brave men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces.
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