WATCH: Thousands commemorate Remembrance Day in Vancouver

Thousands gathered in and around Victory Square in Vancouver for the city's annual Remembrance Day ceremony.

Young or old, newcomer or long-time resident — everyone paid their respects to those who secured the freedoms we're privileged to enjoy in Canada, and those who continue to protect them.

The event kicked off with the mounting of the Vigil Guard, followed by the singing of O Canada, and Goin' Home. After that, Grade 10 student Hansona Wang recited her poem, "Dear Papa." Then came the prayer of remembrance, and "Maple Leaf Forever."

Shortly before 11am, The Last Post was performed, and then on the hour, two minutes of silence were observed.

Following the ceremony, a parade made its way west along Hastings Street before circling the block and heading back to the square.

Along with members of the Canadian Armed Forces, cadets, and police, a number of politicians were in attendance — among them, Mayor Pete Fry.

"I've been coming to Remembrance Day services for probably close to 30 years here at Victory Square, and as we've seen the number of veterans from the Second World War and even the Korean War start to dwindle, it's inspiring to see folks still showing up," Fry told Sitka Media.

He thanked those in attendance for "making the effort to remember service and sacrifice."

"It's not just about veterans who fought in overseas conflict," Fry added, noting that the four men who lost their lives at CFB Wainwright and the countless others who sustained injuries in that tragic incident just weeks ago were on the minds of many. "It's about folks who have served, and folks who serve our country — and who are there in times of peace as well as in times of war."

Many Canadians choose to pay their respects by wearing a poppy. Sitka Media caught up with poppy tagger Leslie Benisz to hear what Remembrance Day means to him.

"I've seen so many people who are not wearing poppies, or ask 'what is it about,' or 'are poppies free,' to which I answer, 'freedom is never free'," Benisz said. "I think certainly we need to educate more people to realize why it's important."

He, like Fry, pointed out that it's not just about those who fought in past wars, but those who continue to keep Canadians safe every day at home and abroad.

"Wearing a poppy shows you remember their sacrifices," Benisz added. "Canada is a wonderful country. We have freedoms and rights that sometimes just don't exist for so many other people, and it's something I never ever take for granted."

The ceremony at Victory Square was just one of many taking place throughout the city, province, and country.