Inuvik (Nov 08/04) - As Remembrance Day approaches, recalling those lost in battle is often painful for their friends and family left behind.

Fred Church of Inuvik is one of many ex-servicemen with such memories.

"We've all lost somebody, but sometimes we keep those thoughts to ourselves because it hurts too much," Church said.

But despite the pain of loss, Church, like many others in the community, will wear his poppy proudly on Nov.11, as he remembers those who served and died for their country.

Church has a long history of involvement with the military, including a grandfather who served in the Boer War.

Before moving to Inuvik in January 1970 "for six months," Church, originally from Winnipeg, started his career in peace time, "just after the Korean War and before the Gulf War."

He served as an instructor with The King's Own Calgary Regiment (Royal Canadian Armoured Corp.) "I'm proud I was able to serve as a peace time soldier."

Church did not leave his service life behind upon moving North, however.

Between 1976 and 1990 he was a training officer for the cadet corp in Inuvik.

He was also president of the Royal Canadian Legion, McInnes branch 220 for a total of nine years.

Currently, he is serving his second four-year term as zone commander for the Legion.

Church takes his role in the Legion seriously. There are those, he said, who question why Nov. 11 is observed year after year. But he doesn't mind answering their questions if it keeps the legacy of the soldiers alive for the next generation.

"It is our job as Legion members and ex-service people to make sure our civilian personnel stop and think what our predecessors have done," he said.

"We've all lost a friend somewhere along the line."