A salute to all uniformed service people.
A salute to all uniformed service people
Earlier this year in July, I saw Dunkirk in theatres. From the opening scene until the credits rolled, I was glued to my seat.
My agape gaze never once left the screen, but my mind filled with thoughts.
Many of those thoughts were hypothetical “what-ifs” and questions of “what would I do if I were 17 or 18 years old in 1941?” Would I have signedup if I hadn’t already? Would I even have the guts to serve in the Forces?
I still cannot answer those questions, even for myself, but there is one thing I know. After experiencing Dunkirk, with its sensory-provoking action, my personal appreciation for our servicemen and service women rose to an all-time high that will never come down.
Dunkirk also reminded me of my late great-uncle, Lance Corporal Charles Gould, who proudly served in the Second World War, and returned a hero to his colleagues and our nation. It also reminded me of my late grandfather, Pius Marshall, who served during the Korean Conflict.
Today I lay wreaths for them at Membertou’s Remembrance Day ceremonies at St. Anne’s Church.
And guess what? You’re invited to join us starting at 10 a.m. for mass, wreathlaying, a parade with the Sydney Kiwanis Cadets, and a gathering at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre. Come join us!
When I think of our servicepeople in uniform, I also think about our brothers and sisters in blue (and red, and all uniforms). In the interest of time and spacing, I place focus on the members of the Cape Breton Regional Police Services Membertou Division.
For those who may not know, Membertou is one of two Indigenous communities that are policed by a regional or civic police force. Here’s another fun fact: the CBRPS-Membertou has now served our community for exactly 10 years.
In November 2007, I was a bright-eyed student at Mount Saint Vincent University, working my third co-operative education term with Membertou Corporate Division.
A major assignment at the time was planning the ‘change of the guard’ ceremony, working alongside my long-time mentor and friend, the one and only Ian McNeil.
Leading up to the swearing-in of the CBRPS, Membertou was serviced by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and before that it was the Unama’ki Tribal Police Force.
Membertou’s first sergeant was our good buddy, Barry Gordon, now leading the force in Glace Bay’s East Division. Stop by sometime, Barry! In 2011, Sgt. Scott Reeves joined us.
Both Barry and Scott ensured that they and fellow officers were visible in the community, hosting activities and programs, and creating genuine relationships with Membertonians. They became community members.
In January 2016, we all welcomed Sgt. Graham Smith, as Sgt. Reeves was transferred to Northern Division. Sgt. Smith and fellow officers still maintain the positive relationship in the community.
We are very fortunate in Membertou to have a police force that makes and keeps strong communal bonds and keeps our community feeling secure. I can certainly say that Membertou is thankful to have you here.
What I find astounding to say is that it has already been 10 years since the Cape Breton Regional Police Services became part of the Membertou family. Really – one full decade now!
I would like to take this last paragraph to personally thank all of the courageous men and women who donned the uniform to keep our communities and our nations safe. We as citizens owe each and every one of you our gratitude. Wela’lio’q!