Manitoulin’s Decoration Day continues its century-old tradition

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Manitoulin’s Decoration Day continues its century-old tradition

On June 7, the historic Decoration Day ceremony was held at the Manitoulin District Cenotaph in Spring Bay, bringing together Legion branches, dignitaries, and families to honor fallen veterans.

Tom Sasvari

Jun 13, 2026 - 5 min read

Members of the Sergeant Charles Golden Silver Star Rifle Team take part in a 21-gun salute during the Decoration Day ceremonies.

Manitoulin’s Decoration Day continues its century-old tradition — Members of the Sergeant Charles Golden Silver Star Rifle Team take part in a 21-gun salute during the Decoration Day ceremonies.

SPRING BAY—Decoration Day ceremonies, which have been held on Manitoulin Island at Monument Corner in Spring Bay for well over 100 years, saw that tradition continued this past Sunday, June 7 at the Manitoulin District Cenotaph.

“I would like to welcome everyone here today for the Decoration Day ceremony,” stated Duane Deschamps, president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #177 in Little Current. He read the land acknowledgement that the ceremonies were being held on land owned by Anishinaabe people.

“I am honoured to facilitate today’s service on behalf of Branch #177 and Gore Bay RCL branch #514,” said Mr. Deschamps. “Decoration Day ceremonies have been held on Manitoulin Island since 1921, with veterans and Manitoulin citizens coming from all over the Island to take part. They would stop at veteran’s gravesites and honour veterans at communities around the Island.”