By Helena Smrcek
CALEDONIA—A history lesson and the stories of her great-grandfather inspired Caledonia resident Madelyn Marcellin to create an award-winning Remembrance Day video.
Her work has since earned her first place in the Royal Canadian Legion’s senior-level video competition and an invitation to Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
For Madelyn, the project began with a new understanding of the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers during wartime.
“Before I took history in Grade 10, I didn’t really know anything about the war, and what really happened,” she explained. “I never understood the stories of my grandfather.”
As she studied the events of the Second World War, the experiences of soldiers and civilians became more personal.
“After learning the details from small to large, I realized that being in the war was a literal nightmare,” she said.
The lessons inspired her to create a video exploring why so many people endured unimaginable suffering and what their sacrifices mean to Canadians today.
“It made me realize that those people didn’t just go to war because they didn’t want to lose, or let another country take over – it was so we could be free.”
Her message resonated with the judges.
Madelyn received first place in the Royal Canadian Legion’s 2025 Remembrance Day Video Contest at the senior level. Her achievement was recognized with a certificate dated March 1, 2026, and a medal from the Legion’s Ontario Command.
Madelyn’s school, Hamilton District Christian High School, also received the Legion’s School Program Poppy Appreciation Award in recognition of its support for the Remembrance program.
For Madelyn, who hopes to continue sharing her creative work with others, the recognition carries special significance.
“The win actually means a lot to me,” Madelyn said. “As someone who wants to get my work out for people to see, it’s a really big win.”
She explained that the award has given her confidence that her creative efforts can communicate something meaningful.
“It brings so much encouragement to keep going.”
Her achievement took her to the nation’s capital for two special Remembrance Day events this week.
On Tuesday, November 10, Madelyn was invited to attend the Silver Cross Mother’s Luncheon, hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion at the Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa.
The following day, November 11, she was invited to attend a luncheon with the Silver Cross Mother at Rideau Hall, hosted by Canada’s Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour.
The invitations represented an opportunity for Madelyn to participate in Canada’s Remembrance Day observances and reflect further on the sacrifices that inspired her project.
“I am looking forward to being able to represent the youth honouring those who have given their lives for our country,” Madelyn said prior to attending these events. “I am excited to visit the capital and learn more about the freedoms that those soldiers fought to preserve.”
What began as a classroom lesson has become an opportunity to carry the message of remembrance beyond her school and into the national spotlight.
Through her video, Madelyn is helping ensure that the sacrifices of previous generations are understood and remembered by the next. See the full video at qrco.de/bfsZTC.
