Celebrating 25 years of remembrance at the National Military Cemetery

July 14, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 1:53

This June, the National Military Cemetery (NMC) at Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, Ontario, marked 25 years of remembrance, honouring the service, sacrifice, and lives of Canadian Armed Forces members (CAF) and their families.

Since its dedication on June 28, 2001, the NMC has served as Canada’s national military resting place for members of the CAF, Veterans, and their families.

Over the past 25 years, it has become a place of reflection, remembrance, and national tribute.

2026 commemorative ceremony

A formal commemoration brought together CAF leadership, the Ceremonial Guard, families, and guests at the NMC.

The morning began with the arrival of visitors and VIPs, followed by the Ceremonial Guard taking position at the monument. The Guard rendered a general salute before O Canada was performed by the military band, accompanied by vocalist Sophie Grenier.

Remarks were delivered by senior leaders, including the Chief of the Defence Staff, the CAF Chief Warrant Officer, and representatives from Beechwood Cemetery, along with a reflection from the Chaplain General.

A CH-147 Chinook helicopter flypast provided a moment of tribute overhead.

National flag raising

To mark this milestone anniversary, the CAF flag was raised and flown at Ottawa City Hall from June 25 to June 28, recognizing the 25th anniversary of the NMC and honouring those who served. It highlighted the continued connection between the CAF and the communities they serve.

A national place of service and memory

The NMC began in the late 1990s, through a partnership between Beechwood Cemetery, the Canadian War Museum, and the Department of National Defence. This led to a Memorandum of Understanding signed on March 2, 2001.

The cemetery was officially dedicated on June 28, 2001, in a national ceremony attended by senior leaders, including the Governor General of Canada, the Minister of National Defence, and the Chief of the Defence Staff. The ceremony included a 21-gun salute and a CF-18 flypast.

A place that continues to serve

Today, the NMC remains a place of dignity and remembrance, serving all members of the CAF, past and present.

It continues to welcome families and visitors who come to honour service and reflect on sacrifice.

Continuing inclusive remembrance

The NMC continues to evolve as a place of inclusive remembrance. For example, on May 19, 2026, Beechwood, the CAF, and Indigenous partners unveiled the Inuit Sacred Spiritual Symbol (Qulliq) symbolizing light, warmth, and continuity; reflecting shared values of service and resilience.

Looking forward

This 25th anniversary is both a milestone and a reminder of the importance of remembrance, reaffirming those who served are honoured with dignity, respect, and care.