A large contingent of Portage Collegiate grade 9 students took part in the No Stone Left Alone ceremony yesterday at the Hillside Cemetery cenotaph.

They laid crosses and poppies by the headstones of local soldiers. One was 13 year old Chase Fedak, who was part of the ceremony, and has a personal connection.

Chase Fedak"Because all my ancestors were part of the war," he says, "And it seems important to thank them for their service to our country, and make sure that they have a special place in everyone's hearts."

Magdalene Oleynick took part as well, and feels it's important for everyone to do so.

"I definitely have many people on my dad's side of the family, and my mom's side of the family that have served," she says, "And I find it really

Magdalene Oleynickimportant, and it's just honouring everybody here. It's just amazing."

Katja St. Lawrence shares her thoughts about participating in the ceremony.

Katja St. Lawrence

"All of the different people who had lives, and family, and loved ones before they had to go and fight," she says, "And I think about how important it is for us to remember all of those people."

Arisha Aggarwal sang the national anthem.

"It just makes me feel so happy to be part of a community where we're all united to remember and commemorate those people who sacrificed their lives for us."

Irvine FerrisPortage Mayor Irvine Ferris says it's important we remember the people who made the sacrifices.

"Not just as historical figures, but these were folks that live in Portage," he points out, "They were very close in age to the students that were out here this morning."

Portage Legion President Bob Oldford had a lot going through his mind during the ceremony.

"Here have a group of young people getting to learn the importance of recognizing those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for them," he says,

Legion President Bob Oldford "But it also warms my heart to see young people willing to come and spend the time to honour a veteran."

Here are more pictures.