Rounds of applause from family, friends and Legion members filled the Fonthill legion hall Sunday.
More than 30 Second World War veterans received lapel pins and certificates of appreciation from the Canadian government as part of a program highlighting the anniversaries of Second World War events.
Conservative MP Dean Allison for Niagara West-Glanbrook said the government will commemorate historic events from 2014 through 2020 including the Second World War.
Each veteran, including those who did make it to the reception, drew applause as their names were announced.
For Allison, the gathering of more than 30 veterans, who were more or less 90 years old, was one of the largest ones in his riding.
He praised them for stepping up to serve more than 70 years ago.
Canada, he said, lost more than 45,000 in the war while another 55,000 were wounded.
The nation of 11 million in 1939 had 1 million men and women volunteer for service.
Mayor Dave Augustyn on behalf of town council similarly praised the men and women who received the pins.
“Council is extremely thankful for your sacrifice and commitment,” he said.
During the ceremony, legion branch president Rick Hatt called for a moment of silence in memory of those who did not return from the war.
