The University of Saskatchewan marked a solemn tradition on November 11, 2025, as the campus community gathered for the 97th annual Remembrance Day ceremony at the historic Memorial Gates. This long-standing tradition brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members to honor Canadian service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
A Century-Long Tradition Continues
The Memorial Gates, which have stood as a campus landmark for nearly a century, served as the poignant backdrop for this year's ceremony. The November 11th observance represents one of the university's most enduring traditions, dating back to the original dedication of the gates in 1928 to honor University of Saskatchewan students and alumni who served in the First World War.
This year's ceremony maintained the solemn dignity that has characterized the event for generations. Attendees gathered in the crisp November air, many wearing poppies and displaying other symbols of remembrance. The timing of the event at 6:24 PM EST allowed both daytime and evening students to participate in the commemoration.
Memorial Gates: A Living Tribute
The Memorial Gates have served as the university's primary war memorial since their construction. The gates bear the names of 67 students and alumni who died in the First World War, creating a permanent physical connection between the campus community and those who served.
Over the decades, the ceremony has evolved while maintaining its core purpose of honoring sacrifice. What began as a simple gathering has grown into an institution-wide event that involves multiple campus organizations and draws participants from across Saskatoon and beyond.
Community Reflection and Commitment
The 97th annual ceremony provided an opportunity for reflection on the meaning of service and sacrifice. As one of Saskatchewan's premier educational institutions, the University of Saskatchewan recognizes its responsibility to preserve the memory of those who served and to educate new generations about the costs of freedom.
The continuity of this tradition through nearly a century demonstrates the university's ongoing commitment to remembrance. Each year, the ceremony adapts to include contemporary conflicts and peacekeeping missions while maintaining reverence for historical sacrifices.
This year's observance took place amid numerous other Remembrance Day ceremonies across Canada, from Toronto to Vancouver, creating a national tapestry of remembrance that connected communities from coast to coast.
