In the crisp morning air at the National War Memorial, the skirl of bagpipes echoed across Confederation Square yesterday as the Sons of Scotland Pipe Band paid solemn tribute to the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The event drew several hundred onlookers despite the unseasonably cool weather.
“We play to remember those who served and sacrificed,” said Pipe Major Bethany Bisaillion, who has led the band for 23 years. “VE Day represents one of the most significant moments in our collective history.”
The Sons of Scotland, established in 1896, holds the distinction of being Ottawa’s oldest civilian pipe band. Their performance included traditional Scottish laments and wartime melodies that resonated deeply with veterans in attendance.
World War II veteran James McPherson, 99, watched from his wheelchair, occasionally wiping tears. “The pipes always bring me back,” he said quietly. “To hear them on this day, remembering when the war in Europe finally ended – it means everything.”
The commemoration marked Victory in Europe Day, when Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces on May 8, 1945, ending six years of devastating conflict in the European theater.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these traditions. “As the years pass and fewer veterans remain with us, these ceremonies become even more vital,” he noted. “They connect generations and ensure we never forget the price paid for our freedom.”
Several diplomatic representatives attended, including British High Commissioner Susannah Goshko. She highlighted the enduring alliance forged during those difficult years. “The bonds created during World War II between Canada and Britain remain unbreakable,” Goshko remarked. “Events like today’s remind us of our shared history and values.”
The Royal Canadian Legion was well represented, with members from branches across the National Capital Region participating. Bill Maxwell, Legion representative, noted the importance of such commemorations for younger generations.
“Many children here today are four or five generations removed from World War II,” Maxwell observed. “These ceremonies help make history tangible for them in ways textbooks cannot.”
Indeed, several local schools brought students to observe the ceremony. Twelve-year-old Emma Tremblay from Connaught Public School reflected on the experience. “Learning about VE Day in class was interesting, but being here made it feel real. The music was so powerful.”
The Department of Veterans Affairs Canada estimates fewer than 20,000 World War II veterans remain alive in Canada today, with an average age exceeding 97 years. This reality lends additional poignancy to each passing anniversary.
Historian and author Tim Cook from the Canadian War Museum provided context about Ottawa’s role during the war years. “This city transformed during World War II,” Cook explained. “From government operations to manufacturing to thousands of residents in uniform, Ottawa was deeply connected to the war effort.”
Following the ceremony, the National Arts Centre hosted a special exhibition of wartime photographs, documents, and memorabilia. The display included several items donated by local families, including victory celebration photographs from Sussex Drive and Sparks Street.
Catherine McKenna, former Ottawa Centre MP, attended with her father, who shared stories of his own father’s wartime service. “These personal connections make history come alive,” she said. “Every family has their own threads in this tapestry.”
The Sons of Scotland will continue their commemorative performances throughout the week, with appearances scheduled at long-term care facilities housing veterans and at several schools across the city.
“Music creates an emotional connection to history,” Bisaillion explained. “When we play for veterans, their reactions tell us how meaningful these tunes remain. And for younger people, it offers a window into understanding what those days felt like.”
As the ceremony concluded with “Amazing Grace,” many in attendance remained, seemingly reluctant to break the spell of remembrance. The
