Port Coquitlam to unveil “Lest We Forget” sidewalk mural on McAllister Avenue pathway

The City of Port Coquitlam will unveil a new sidewalk mural, “Lest We Forget,” on the McAllister Avenue Multi-Use Pathway beside Veterans Park on September 8.

The public is invited to a short unveiling ceremony at 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, with Mayor and Council and the Royal Canadian Legion, Port Coquitlam Branch #133. The mural honours the service and sacrifice of Canada’s veterans.

Mayor Brad West said the work will offer an everyday reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who served Canada for people walking, rolling or cycling on the pathway. Its location beside Veterans Park, where the community gathers each Remembrance Day, will keep that spirit of gratitude present throughout the year, he said.

Veterans Park hosts the City’s annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Completing the mural before November 11 extends remembrance into a space residents use every day, rather than limiting it to one day each year.

Sharon Martin, president of the Royal Canadian Legion, Port Coquitlam Branch #133, said the Legion is honoured to participate in the unveiling. She said the mural will carry the message of remembrance with community members whenever they use the pathway.

The City developed the mural’s bold graphic design and produced it with installation team Drip & Roll through its ongoing public art program. Local cadet Joseph Domingo originally brought the idea to Council, and the City and the Legion recognized his leadership in helping bring the project to fruition.