Approximately 25 members of the 598 Sabre Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets took part in a solemn vigil at the Cenotaph in Victoria Park on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, paying tribute to the men and women who served and sacrificed for their country.
The cadets stood watch from approximately 6 p.m. until 11 p.m., taking turns at their positions around the Cenotaph in advance of Remembrance Day.
For the squadron, the annual vigil is a longstanding tradition that has been taking place for well over 15 years.
Commanding Officer Matt Slade said the squadron remains committed to ensuring its cadets are present each year to honour those who served.
“We used to do an overnight 24-hour vigil before COVID. We’ve been slow to kick that back up, but we do our part to make sure we’re here every year,” Slade said.
With approximately 25 cadets participating this year, the squadron organized the vigil in 15-minute intervals, allowing the young members to take their turns standing guard.
Slade said the experience provides an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by previous generations, particularly those who were not much older than the cadets themselves when they went overseas to serve.
“As we have the cadets go up on the Cenotaph and get into their positions, we usually go around and have conversations with them,” he explained.
“It’s cold out right now. It can be uncomfortable for the cadets. So, we’re having a conversation with them and saying, think about those who served before us and who have given their lives to be able for us to do this.”
Slade said he encourages the cadets to consider the ages of those who went overseas and fought during wartime.
“They were 16, 17-year-olds – your age right now – and went overseas and fought for you to be here today.”
He described the vigil as a particularly meaningful experience for the young participants.
“It’s a really solemn experience where they get this knowledge out here tonight,” Slade said.
The vigil also served as an important lead-up to Wednesday’s Remembrance Day ceremonies, with many cadets looking forward to participating in the annual parade and service.
For some, it will be their first time taking part in a Remembrance Day service.
He added that the enthusiasm among the cadets goes beyond simply having a day away from school.
“They’re really looking forward to it. Because of what it has and what it’s all about.”
Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland was also at the Cenotaph, taking the opportunity to thank the cadets for their participation and for continuing the tradition of honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
As the evening progressed, the young cadets maintained their vigil in the heart of Victoria Park, a visible reminder that remembrance is not simply about one day on the calendar.
For the members of 598 Sabre Squadron, it is about understanding the sacrifices of those who came before them and ensuring their service and memory are never forgotten.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
