Remembrance leads to a special ceremony, recognition

Sept. 29, 1972 was a dark day indeed.

Canada lost a future leader and the Bowie family of West River, Antigonish County, suffered a great shock.

Anthony Daniel Bowie, a graduate of Antigonish Regional High School, was a young officer cadet at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont. who drowned on the obstacle course; his body was not discovered until two days later. Anthony had plans to become a pilot and study engineering and was to graduate in 1976. The college has four main components its students must pass in order to graduate: academics, sports, military and bilingualism.

The 50th anniversary of that fateful day was recently recognized. Members of the graduating class of 1976, in their determination, resolved to have Anthony remembered in a very special way. So as not to have the memory of their classmate forgotten, their class took its place within the Old Brigade on the 50th anniversary of his death.

Brian Kroeker, Anthony’s partner in the obstacle race of 1972, wanted to ensure what the transformational impact his unfortunate death had on the design, philosophy and conduct of future recruit obstacle courses.

On the weekend of Sept. 23 and 24, seven of Anthony’s siblings travelled to Kingston to join his classmates in this honour. They had the opportunity

to watch the obstacle course at the college in person and to witness the positive safety-oriented changes that were put into place.

They were escorted by two of his classmates, Doug Cargo and Paul Allen (his roommate), and by two officer cadets from the same #4 squadron as Anthony, Brittany Macdonald and Andrew Gallant; fellow Nova Scotians.

In Anthony’s memory, an Olympic-sized medallion was created to be presented each year to the first-year student who shows enthusiasm and genuine concern for the welfare of others in a team environment. The first recipient of this medallion was Eric Moreau of Penetanguishene, Ont., which was presented by Anthony’s brother, Jim Bowie

of Grande Prairie, Alta.

In addition, a stone has been installed with others by the Memorial Arch at the entrance to the college, and Anthony’s name is on a plaque in the same location. You will also find his picture on the Memorial Staircase, Mackenzie Building, on the campus of RMC.

Furthermore, Anthony’s name has been added to the Seventh Book of Remembrance in the Memorial Chamber of Canada’s Parliament Buildings, which commemorates those who have died during military operations. At 11 a.m. each day, there is a ceremony to turn the page. His page was turned on Sept. 17, 2022 and the next time it turns to his page is March 17, 2023.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Fifty years after Anthony Daniel Bowie tragically died while training at the Royal Military College in Ontario, he is still remembered. His loved ones continue to share his story. Front, from left, Mary Connolly, Elaine Bowie, Allan Bowie and John Bowie. Back row, Doug Cargo, Jim Bowie, Gordon Bowie, Paul Allen, Philip Bowie.

In Anthony Daniel Bowie’s memory, a medallion was created to be presented each year to a first-year student at the Royal Military College who shows enthusiasm and genuine concern for the welfare of others in a team environment.