Canadians gathered for Remembrance Day ceremonies across the country Wednesday to pay tribute to Canada's soldiers -- those who have fallen and those who have lived to tell their stories.

The main Remembrance Day ceremony in Montreal was not held at its traditional location at the cenotaph at Place du Canada, because the site is under construction.

Instead, the event took place on McGill University's campus.

Veterans and dignitaries gathered on McGill's lower field for a ceremony that included a 21-gun salute from four cannons in front of the Arts Building.

There was also a laying of wreaths and performances by military bands.

Aside from the veterans and their families, busloads of children witnessed the annual event.

"We're here to remember the people who died for us," said Casandra de Masi, a student at John F. Kennedy High School.

Veterans were heartened by the huge turnout the occasion.

"I'm a vet, and this is a wonderful display. I've been coming 40 or 50 years and it's the nicest ceremony I've seen so far," said Rex Batten.

Matthew Krisko said he felt it was important to take the time to pause and remember the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers.

"Our great grandfather was in World War I and he was shell shocked and he came home and was unable to continue and eventually died," Krisko said.

Betty Stockton echoed those sentiments.

"My brother was in the Second World War and he was in for six years and the day before he came back, he was hit by gunfire and lost half a leg ... so I always make sure I come here to remember him," Stockton said.

Navy Veteran Harold Turcot told CTV News he has has harrowing memories of his time overseas during the Second World War.

"I had that experience with one sailor, his legs were blown off and I was helping him as I could. And the big thing was that he kept asking me if he was dying bravely. That was very, very hard and it still is," said Turcot, his voice cracking.

Dorothy Perks, who served as a medic in World War II, is among the many veterans who say they are moved when people express their gratitude for their service to the country.

"They shake your hand, they thank you. They thank you for what you did."

Valcartier

The war dead were also remembered at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, near Quebec City.

The base is home to the Royal 22nd Regiment, also known as the Van Doos, which has lost a number of soldiers during the current conflict in Afghanistan.

Ottawa

In Ottawa, cannons could be heard over Parliament Hill as thousands of veterans and soldiers joined other Canadians at the National War Memorial.

Prince Charles and Gov.-Gen.Michaelle Jean were in full military uniform as they laid wreaths.

There were representatives from several wars of the 20th century, as well as the families of many soldiers killed in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan.