Back to SearchWasaga Beach Unveils Three New Veteran Banners, Launches Commemorative Mural Projects and Hosts Remembrance Service to Honour Those Who Have Served
“In Wasaga Beach, we take great pride in remembering and honouring the courageous men and women who have worn the uniform and stepped up to serve our country,” said Mayor Brian Smith. “On November 11, and every day, we honour their bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to preserving the freedoms we enjoy today.”
WASAGA BEACH –The Town of Wasaga Beach will unveil three new veteran banners, launch two commemorative mural projects, and host its annual Remembrance Day Service on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Remembrance Day Service
📅 Tuesday, November 11, 2025, 10:30 a.m.
📍Cenotaph at Town Hall, 30 Lewis Street
The Marching Contingent will depart from the O.P.P. parking lot at 10:25 a.m. and move along Glenwood Drive, stopping at the Cenotaph at Town Hall for the 10:30 a.m. ceremony. The service will include remarks from Mayor Smith and Royal Canadian Legion Branch #645 Past President Marc Seguin, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Following the service, a free shuttle bus will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. between Town Hall and the Legion, where refreshments will be available.
Banner Recognition Program
As part of the Town’s ongoing Veteran Banner Recognition Program, three new banners will be installed along River Road West to honour local veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces.
The 2025 honourees include:
- Irene Lewis – Royal Canadian Air Force, served in London and Leeds during World War II.
- Eric Saunders – Royal Marine Commando, served in Salerno and D-Day operations during World War II.
- Jason Crocco – Warrant Officer, Royal Canadian Artillery, currently a Master Instructor at the Canadian Forces Training Development Centre; completed two tours in Afghanistan, one deployment to the Philippines with the Disaster Assistance Relief Team and one deployment to Latvia.
Commemorative Mural Projects
Following a Call for Artist Submissions earlier this year, Town Council awarded contracts to artists Don Ward and Jessica Allen on October 23, 2025, to design a series of 12x12’ commemorative murals celebrating Canada’s military history and its deep roots in Wasaga Beach. The first three murals will be installed this fall on the exterior of 711 River Road West (Foodland), with an additional three scheduled for installation on the Wasaga Stars Arena in Spring 2026.
Additional Quotes
“The Royal Canadian Legion is deeply honoured to stand alongside the Town of Wasaga Beach in paying tribute to our veterans and active service members, said Royal Canadian Legion Branch #645 Past President, Marc Seguin. “These new banners and mural projects are more than just symbols - they are lasting reminders of the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who served and continue to serve Canada. Each name, each face, tells a story of commitment to country and community that we must never forget. As we gather on November 11, we do so in unity and gratitude, ensuring that the legacy of our heroes endures for generations to come.”
“It’s a real honour to be recognized by my community and to stand alongside those who served before me,” said Warrant Officer Jason Crocco, Royal Canadian Artillery. “Service has changed over the years, but the sense of duty, pride, and connection to one another never does. Seeing my banner beside veterans who gave so much is humbling - it reminds me why I chose to serve, and how proud I am to wear the uniform.”
“It means so much to our family to see my mother, Irene, recognized here in her hometown,” said Mike Lewis. “She was proud to serve, and I know she’d be equally proud to see that her grandchildren and great-grandchildren have continued that tradition of service in the Air Force and Army.”
“Our family is deeply proud to see Eric honoured in this way,” said Keith Saunders, speaking on behalf of the Saunders family. “Seeing his banner displayed is a reminder of the bravery of his generation.”
Quick Facts
- The Veteran Banner Recognition Program, launched in 2016, has honoured 30 veterans to date.
- The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #645 was established in 2024. The Branch operates from the Fernbrook Centre (1888 Klondike Park Road) and has over 280 members.
- The first set of three 12x12’ murals will be installed in Fall 2025 at 711 River Road West, with a second installation planned for Spring 2026 at the Wasaga Stars Arena.
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Media contact:
Sandra Watts
Director of Strategic Communications & Intergovernmental Affairs
sandra.watts@wasagabeach.com
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