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New recruits to the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) were often given a send-off ceremony by members of their community. The fanfare usually included a parade led by the local citizens’ band. Patriotic and “upbeat” marching songs were used to keep up morale and ease loved one’s goodbyes.
Parades would lead soldiers to the train station where they would depart for training.
When a battalion or regiment was called up for overseas service, soldiers would depart by ship.
Reportedly, the entire population of Shelburne gathered at the train station to see the six volunteers off to Toronto. The Shelburne Citizens’ Band played several “patriotic airs” as they led parade. Museum of Dufferin Collection, P-0353.
THINK ABOUT IT...
How did the departure of young men and women for overseas service affect families and communities?
What push factors would motivate young people to enlist for overseas service? How were young people sometimes treated who did not volunteer for service?
Which WWI songs would you choose to play at a send-off parade?
Select a song to explore...
'Till We Meet Again
(1918)
MoD Collection, MUS-0412
Good-Bye-EEE!
(1917)
MoD Collection, MUS-0805
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