While all major Canadian cities held their own Remembrance Day ceremonies on Nov. 11, the one held in Ottawa is the country’s showcase tribute to those who’ve served in times of war. Many Ottawa-based military units from all branches of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as RCMP, participated in the sombre parade through downtown streets to the commemorative ceremony at the National War Memorial. The colourful Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa was one of the most recognizable units during this year’s commemorations. Capital Current reporter/photographer Dennis Kovtun joined the Camerons on their big day, capturing their preparations to honour Canada’s war dead and the many veterans who did their duty for the nation in times of conflict and peace.

Members of the unit arriving at the Cartier Square Drill Hall at close to 8 a.m. on Nov. 11
The unit arrives at the Cartier Square Drill Hall, where the Camerons are based, at about 8 a.m., Nov. 11. They had been issued their ceremonial uniforms earlier in the week. Unit members continued to arrive at the drill hall, located just east of Ottawa’s city hall, as the time marched toward the 11 a.m. Remembrance Day ceremony at the National War Memorial. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
As time went on, more members came in. The Camerons' formal uniforms are complicated and their design is deeply rooted in tradition, reflecting the unit's long history, which in its current shape dates back to 1881, and its designation as one of Canada's "Scottish regiments."
The Camerons’ formal uniforms are complex and their design is deeply rooted in tradition, reflecting the unit’s long history — which dates back to 1881 and its designation as one of Canada’s “Scottish regiments.” The kilts are patterned from the now-defunct British unit, the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders formed by Sir Allen Cameron of Erracht in 1793 and disbanded in 1961. It takes about 20 minutes for each member to don the complicated dress. The scarlet doublets are worn on formal occasions such as the Remembrance Day. The green doublets are worn by members of the pipes and drums band. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
The parade's participants being arranged by height.
The parade’s participants were arranged by height. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
The unit's crest.
A piper carries the regimental colours of the Cameron Highlanders — the cherished flag symbolizing the unit. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Pipes and drums is a distinct part of the unit. Before one can become a part of the pipes and drums band, they must pass the audition process, and many start playing music quite young, arriving in the unit as skilled and experienced musicians. Pictured is one of the band's members.
Pipes and drums are a distinct part of the unit. Before anyone can join the band, they have to audition. Many start playing music quite young, arriving in the unit as skilled and experienced musicians. They are the public face of the regiment. The music the band performed during the Remembrance Day events was perfected through countless hours of practice and preparation. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Members of the unit conversing and encouraging each other before the parade.
Pipes and drums were set up and ready before the members who would be participating in the main parade. While most of the musicians were making their final preparations outside, other members were still inside the Cartier Drill Hall, putting the final touches on their dress uniforms. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Member of the unit putting on his gloves.
Scarlet doublet, white belts and white gloves have a long history in the Canadian military, going all the way back to the Canadian Militia. One of the last things parade participants did before going outside was pulling their gloves on. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa marching down the Elgin Street.
Camerons are seen here on parade on Elgin Street, in kilts, scarlet tunics and feather bonnets, behind the Governor General’s Foot Guards (in grey greatcoats). The RCMP follow behind the Camerons. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Pipes and drums band of the unit.
The pipes and drums band marched separately from the main group. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Unit members returning to the Cartier Square Drill Hall.
After marching across the Laurier Avenue Bridge, the group went back to the Cartier Square Drill Hall. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Members mingling together in a more relaxed atmosphere after the parade.
After the parade, there was a short debrief for members. When that was done, they finished the formal part of the day with the unit’s cry — “Camerons … Advance!” Afterwards, the atmosphere became more relaxed. Relatives of some members of the Camerons came along to support and encourage them. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Member of the unit taking his feather bonnet off.
The feather bonnet weighs about 15 pounds or nearly seven kilograms. The members removed their bonnets rather quickly after the Remembrance Day ceremony. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]
Members of the unit's association - the past members of the unit, many of them are of venerable age.
Past members of the unit also participated in the commemorations. These men are members of the Regimental Association. [Photo © Dennis Kovtun]

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