Last Post’s power continues to overwhelm
RE: Lloyd Maxwell died alone but not unnoticed, Aug. 9
I was the bugler in the RCMP Cemetery that you referred to in Thursday’s article. I can assure you that as I stand among the headstones I am praying for every one of them.
Of course, I was there for particular family and friends, but the Last Post is to be shared by all those who can hear and those that lie in silence. I have played in Canadian Cemeteries in Holland and Hong Kong and the sadness is palpable as you look at the rows of young soldiers. My mind goes back over my family members that have served and to those who never come home.
The Last Post was for Lloyd Maxwell just as much as it was that RCMP family who had just lost a father, grandfather and colleague.
I am a member of the RCMP Pipe Band in Ottawa. We are almost all volunteers from the community who play for nothing more than making music and supporting the RCMP in Canada and around the world. I have the additional privilege of playing bugle and trumpet calls as needed.
To read your story today brought tears to my eyes as I learned that my “call” reached out to another Canadian that served.
Bless them all.
Charles Armstrong, Ottawa
Young Chef’s Actions Speak volumes
Re: Acclaimed chef to close Beechwood Gastropub
This article clearly depicted the journey and reality of “much respected young chef/owner Harriet Clunie.”
The quoted 13 words “I learned a lot. It’s only going to make me a stronger chef,” clearly depicted her positive attitude. The article also shares some of the lessons learned.
It is a shame that she had to withdraw from this fall’s Gold Medal Plates competition, a prestigious invitation she earned.
It is commendable that Chef Clunie is donating whatever food is left to Ottawa-area shelters. Giving to those in need during a personal hardship speaks volumes. (Although in reality, it is perplexing that the restaurant has “perpetually been shortstaffed.”)
Steve Georgopoulos, Orleans