The charity Veterans Voices of Canada held its fourth annual Flags of Remembrance ceremony in Sylvan Lake on Saturday afternoon, unfurling 128 full-sized Canadian flags representing 128,000 Canadians killed or missing in military conflict since the Boer War, as well as emergency personnel.

For Allan Cameron, the group's executive director, the symbolism is personal. Multiple members of his family have served in the armed forces.

"I think of the veterans I've had in my family that I don't have anymore. I know that represents them and it hits home," Cameron said.

Many of the flagbearers were volunteers. Others more came to just watch.

"I'm really proud of all the support we got here - the volunteers and just the way it's ... it's growing," Cameron said. "I'm so happy with it. I can't ask for much more than this."

The ceremony in Sylvan Lake was one of 12 taking place in communities across Canada.

Once raised, the flags will fly until Remembrance Day.

Cameron hopes an event like this reminds people of the sacrifices made by those in uniform. Remembrance Day, should be every day, he said.

"I just hope everybody walks away with a better appreciation of all our service people and walk up to them, shake their hand, say 'thank you,' buy them a coffee if you get a chance," he said.