Dear Editor:
A glance at the calendar tells us that Nov. 11 – Remembrance Day – will soon be upon us. This is the one day a year where we unite as a nation in honouring our veterans both past and present.
In Britain during the time of the Second World War, Vera Lynn was the Taylor Swift of her era. Hugely popular, the “Forces Sweetheart” sang such iconic songs as “We’ll Meet Again” and “The White Cliffs of Dover.”
These songs and many others maintained the morale of troops and civilians alike through those dark days of war. These were songs that spoke of hope, and a new world that awaited the end of war.
“The shepherd will tend his sheep. The valley will bloom again. And Jimmy will go to sleep in his own little room again.” (That’s a reference to “Jimmy’s” confinement in an air-raid shelter as his world was pulverized by enemy bombers.)
Canadians, likewise wanting an end to war, stood staunchly, shoulder to shoulder with their Allies, united against tyranny and oppression. As Remembrance Day approaches, in reference to their answering the bugle’s call, once again the eternal message is “Lest We Forget.”
Look to the contemporary wars in the Middle East and Ukraine to realize the fragility of peace. Recognize the service and sacrifice that Canadian veterans gave – and continue to give – that we may live in peace and freedom in our wonderful land.
Please show your appreciation at the poppy trays and by attending a Remembrance Day service at one of the war memorials around our communities. And why not honour a family veteran by placing flowers at the memorial of your choice too?
Mick Webb
North Vancouver
