Cold weather, warm weather.

No matter which, you can be assured of a large crowd gathering to honour those who have fought for our freedom.

Yesterday, the crowd overflowed onto the streets and parking lots surrounding the community cenotaph for the second part of the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Previous to that, the Cochrane High gym was packed. Emceed by Darla Gullons, a past president of the Royal Canadian Legion Men of Vision Br. 15, it included prayers and messages.

Uniforms of many colours marched down the 4th Ave. hill, accompanied by the Cochrane Piper Band.

At the cenotaph, they were greeted by a sea of people adorning the symbolic red poppies.

Legion president Karen Bruens was pleased with the turnout, especially in light of the cold weather.

"The turnout was amazing," says Bruens. "I think there were more this year than last year, and there were a lot that walked down with the parade."

Bruens expressed appreciation to all.

"I'd like to thank all the cadets that stood up and help us and help the wreath layers and the people in the community who contributed."

The local Legion branch was packed following the ceremony.

She believes the Poppy Campaign that lead up to Remembrance Day was highly successful. By mid-week, the Legion should have a better idea of the amount raised. Last year, they received over $50,000 in donations for poppies and wreaths.