We are all nostalgic to a point, but over time, as we get on in years, sometimes our memory fades. We tend to romanticize, even fictionalize events. We don’t fully recollect some of the finer points as time’s eraser softens once solid lines into blurry remembrances. We therefore record events in photo and on video so that we can better recall the past. Previous generations did not have this opportunity to record as we do today. This is why hearing stories from grandparents and veterans is always so rewarding. But like that eraser, over time, we lose loved ones, and sadly we lose the rich history of stories from the days of old.
Canada no longer has any living WWI veterans. We no longer have firsthand personal recounting of the numerous battles of an era that not only defined Canada, but also put Canada fully onto the world stage. This year marks the commemoration of the 95th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. I am sure we have all heard about Vimy Ridge and the significance it played in turning the tide of stalemate that epitomized “The Great War.” We may have read about Vimy in social studies or perhaps watched a documentary on television. These give us a sense of the scale of destruction that the first truly mechanized war inflicted on humanity but now, almost a century later, some may have a hard time finding the relevance of some hill in France. What then, should Vimy Ridge or any past battle, mean to us today?
We are encouraged to make Remembrance Day more than a time for remembering and thinking about the tremendous sacrifices made by so many. In fact, current media ads challenge us to make Remembrance Day “something we do.” This is to say we are active in our remembrance and thankful in our hard won freedom. What does this look like? Is buying a poppy active? Is going to the local cenotaph or Legion an action that stirs the heart more profoundly? Is taking time every day to thank our veterans past and present for their service action enough?
Vimy Ridge, a battle planned, fought and won by Canadian troops, led by Canadian generals for the first time in our nation’s history, showed the world what type of actions were possible by Canadians. Vimy conjures words like tenacity, courage and valour, which are integral to who we are today and why Canadians are held in such high regard throughout the world. So, what will your ‘lived action’ be on November 11? You will make that choice because you are free to do so.
Consider an intrepid group of army cadets right here in St. Albert. Eighteen youth and two officers from 3069 Corps have been raising funds so that they can go to the 95th anniversary in Vimy. These young people wish to connect in a personal way with their history and heritage. They will visit the place that in many ways has made it possible for them to be inspired such that they too wear a uniform. These young folks have been working hard to create for themselves an opportunity to see firsthand the many battlefields where soldiers, not much older than them, died in the name of the freedom we so enjoy today. I commend these young St. Albertans for their efforts in planning and preparing for this trip, a trip that I wish all Canadians could one day realize.
The Friends of 3069 are hosting a March to Vimy dinner, dance and silent auction on Friday, Nov. 18 at the St. Albert Community Hall to help these young cadets fundraise for their trip that will enable them to see Vimy and many other Canadian battlegrounds including Normandy. Helping our youth connect with those who served our country all those years ago will generate stories that will be a blessing for generations to come.
I will support these youth in remembering our veterans and our fallen. Lest we forget!
Tim Cusack is a naval reserve officer who serves in HMCS Nonsuch.
