Veteran presented key to the city
Ethel Wood, 97, recognized for her service during Second World War
Ethel Wood, a 97-year-old Niagara Falls resident and veteran of the Second World War, has been presented the key to the city.
During a ceremony Monday at Canadian Corps Unit 104 on Ferguson Street, Coun. Mike Strange presented Wood with the key, as well as a certificate recognizing her “dedication and commitment” through her service in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, which was the women’s branch of the British army during the war.
Representing city council, Strange described Wood as an “extraordinary woman” who was born into a military family.
“At the tender age of 18, you entered the service of God and country in England to do your part during World War II,” he said.
“I also heard a story that during your time in the service, you had the opportunity to meet then Princess Elizabeth over the hood of a jeep while you were both in service to your country.”
Strange said it was Canada’s “good fortune” that Wood “fell in love with a ‘good ole Canadian boy’” during her service and that he brought her across the pond to spend time in Montreal, the United States and later Niagara Falls.
“It would seem to me that you have had a very exciting and eventful life. You have put your stamp of life experiences on the hearts and minds of many people over your lifetime.”
He said it is “extremely” important that Wood’s legacy and life experiences are shared, especially with youth.
“Sharing the tales of women who have served their nation ensures that they are not erased from history.”
Wood was also presented with a framed certificate by Niagara Falls MP Rob Nicholson.
“It gives me great pleasure to extend to you my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your service as a WWII veteran,” reads the certificate.
“I wish you all the best on this special day and much health and happiness in the years to come.”
Wood said while in Britain during the war, she was with the military police and assisted Canadian military personnel get from one point to another.
“Getting the Canadians to the right place, where they should be, different barracks,” she said.
“Then, when they came from overseas (injured), I helped to bandage them up and get them ready to be flown to Canada. I was all up and down England. I was never still. We didn’t have much time to think, the bombs were going around and the girls, we just had to keep going, we couldn’t go and hide.”
Wood said Monday’s recognition was an “honour.”
“I started crying because … thinking ‘I’m getting this, what
about the other poor boys (who served in the war), they’re not here.’ I think more of them than myself because they fought to try and keep our country clear.”
Wood is a member of Canadian Corps Unit 104, which is a veterans club. She is also a longtime member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 479, where she continues to volunteer.
Wood said she still drives and, despite some knee issues, remains in good overall health.
Bill Stevens, first vice-president of Canadian Corps Unit 104, said Wood visits the club every week and “loves the company.”
“She’s friendly and fun — she’s also a spark, she calls a spade a spade, she isn’t scared to tell you where to go,” he said with a laugh.