Each autumn, a powerful transformation occurs along Calgary's Memorial Drive as thousands of white crosses emerge along the banks of the Bow River. The Field of Crosses, now in its fifteenth year, stands as one of Alberta's most poignant tributes to military sacrifice.
From a simple idea has grown a profound community tradition. What began with 128 crosses in 2009 has now expanded to 3,600 markers, each representing an Alberta soldier who never returned home from conflict. The installation spans from October 29th through November 11th, creating a stunning visual reminder of the price paid for Canadian freedom.
The Heart Behind the Memorial
Local businessman and philanthropist Murray McCann envisioned this tribute after learning about a similar display in Colorado. "I thought, we should do this in Calgary," McCann recalls. "We should remember our own."
His vision has become a sacred space where Calgarians gather to remember, reflect, and honor. Each cross bears a soldier's name, rank, age, and date of death—personal details that transform abstract numbers into individual stories of courage.
A Community United in Remembrance
The installation requires remarkable coordination. Volunteers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans work alongside community members to place each cross with precision and care. At night, the crosses remain illuminated, creating a breathtaking scene that draws visitors throughout the day and evening.
"People come here and they're overwhelmed," McCann observes. "They see the sheer number and realize each one represents a life cut short."
More Than Just Crosses
The memorial has evolved into a comprehensive tribute featuring:
- Daily flag-raising and lowering ceremonies at sunrise and sunset
- School visits that educate younger generations about sacrifice
- Personal momentos left by family members at specific crosses
- A growing digital archive of soldier stories and photographs
For many families, the Field of Crosses provides a tangible connection to loved ones they only know through stories. Great-grandchildren trace names of ancestors who fell in World Wars, while older generations find comfort in seeing their family's sacrifice acknowledged publicly.
A Legacy of Learning
Perhaps the most heartening development has been the memorial's impact on youth. School groups regularly visit, with students often adopting a cross to research the soldier's story. This hands-on history lesson makes abstract concepts of service and sacrifice painfully real.
As McCann notes, "When children see 3,600 crosses, they begin to understand what 3,600 lives mean. It's a lesson no textbook can adequately convey."
The Field of Crosses stands not as a celebration of war, but as a powerful testament to peace—and the terrible cost required to protect it. As Remembrance Day approaches, this riverside memorial serves as Calgary's most eloquent reminder to never forget those who gave everything for Canada.
