Portage Collegiate Institute students gathered Tuesday, November 10th, to recognize the sacrifices made by generations of service members, including former students who once walked the same hallways. Held in PCI's West Gym, the annual ceremony brought together students, veterans, dignitaries and community members for a morning of music, student presentations and reflection. The program also featured a message from former Royal Air Force helicopter pilot Josh Wilcock, who shared how his military experiences shaped his perspective on life, loss and the importance of peace. Recognizing those who served Students played an important role throughout the ceremony, with student Emma Clayburn reciting John McCrae's In Flanders Fields and participating in the honour roll reading. For Clayburn, participating in the ceremony was a meaningful way to recognize the experiences and sacrifices of those who came before her. "We're honouring the people that fought for us and fought for what we have right at this moment in life and just how much suffering they went through," she said. The school's In Memoriam section also recognized former soldiers who attended PCI and tragically lost their lives, giving the ceremony a personal connection to the school's history and the individuals being recognized. The program also featured Indigenous dancers, a drum group and members of the 575 Terrier Royal Canadian Air Cadets. Musical performances were provided by the PCI Concert Band, while students and guests also took part in the ceremonial proceedings. Related stories: Planning your day? Here's what's open in Portage on Remembrance Day Remembrance Day ceremonies planned throughout Central Manitoba Listen to this news story on the radio: Country 93 / Mix 96 / CFRY 920 Former pilot shares lessons from Afghanistan Honourary guest speaker Josh Wilcock, a former Royal Air Force helicopter pilot, shared his experiences serving in Afghanistan and the lessons he learned through military service. Wilcock began by reminding students that before he ever wore a uniform or deployed overseas, he was once sitting in a classroom just like them, worrying about exams, friendships and finding his place in the world. That perspective changed during his first deployment to Afghanistan, where he attended the funerals of seven British soldiers within his first five days. He explained how experiencing conflict and losing friends permanently changed the way he viewed life, helping him recognize how fragile it can be and the importance of appreciating everyday opportunities. Wilcock acknowledged that the challenges young people face today, including failed tests, broken relationships, family disagreements and online bullying, can feel overwhelming. While he said he would never minimize those experiences, he encouraged students to recognize that difficult periods in life do not last forever. He also drew comparisons between international conflict and disagreements closer to home, emphasizing that violence and retaliation only create further suffering. "True strength isn't found in the ability to cause pain," Wilcock told the audience. "True strength is found in restraint, in empathy, and the courage it takes to build peace, to deescalate, and to look at someone else's humanity, even when you are angry." A message about looking out for one another Beyond the losses associated with military service, Wilcock spoke about the challenges some veterans face after returning home. He explained that many service members carry invisible wounds from their experiences, and that the effects of conflict do not always end when someone leaves the battlefield. Sharing a personal perspective on loss and mental health, Wilcock reminded students that people around them may be facing difficult situations that are not immediately visible. He encouraged them to check in on friends, offer support when someone seems withdrawn and understand that asking for help is not something to be ashamed of. "If you're only taking one thing away from my words today, let it be this. Your life is profoundly important. You are completely irreplaceable," he said. "Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It's the ultimate act of courage". A moment of silence The ceremony concluded with the traditional Last Post, followed by two minutes of silence and Reveille, giving those in attendance time to reflect on the lives lost in service. With students taking an active role and former PCI students recognized, the annual gathering offered an opportunity to connect the school's history with the experiences of younger generations. As students learn more about those who served before them, the ceremony also reinforces the importance of appreciating the freedoms enjoyed today and carrying those lessons into the future.