Lest we forget; we will remember them
SUMMERSIDE — This past year we have lost so many honoured veterans in our Island communities. As the numbers are rapidly decreasing, we should all step to the plate and offer support in their remaining years.
Many veteran organizations and individuals have already answered the call to make a difference in the lives of veterans. But it is troubling to watch the act of remembrance being carried out mostly by the aging veterans themselves. Volunteers are growing old and burning out. Many are passing away or are in manors or nursing homes.
It is now time that the younger generation families should try to pick up the torch of remembrance and ensure that the sacrifices are forever remembered. Volunteering in any capacity to honour veterans can be a most rewarding experience. What is given to our veterans will come back to you in spades. Veterans are always ready to express their gratitude and appreciation and are quick to offer a simple “thank you”.
One can often reflect on what our deceased veterans would think if they could return to earth and see what their sacrifices have meant to those for whom they fought and died. Honestly, in many ways we have let them down. The value of democracy has eroded in many situations and far too often we find our governments and public organizations embroiled in petty little “wars.”
This past year I have had a heavy heart over the loss of veteran friends Clarence Pineau from Bloomfield and Cecil Stewart from Mount Pleasant. Clarence and Cecil were fiercely proud of serving their country both in war time and the years that followed. They were both also dedicated to family.
At the young age of 17, Clarence Pineau joined the Air Force and completed 42 missions as a mid- upper gunner in a Halifax bomber.
Cecil Stewart was injured in Italy where he served with distinction. He often joked about the fact he fathered 17 children and had about 50 grandchildren. He was proud to have helped populate West Prince. Visiting Cecil’s home in Mount Pleasant was a treasured memory I shall never forget.
The Union Jack, the flag he fought under, flew proudly on his front lawn. His house and barn were painted red, white, and blue and his chesterfield cover was a Union Jack. Even his fridge displayed a Union Jack. Cecil’s living room was his pride. Pictures of his wife and 17 children were prominently displayed. Each year he placed artificial flowers on his wife’s grave. Later he would take them home and place them next to her picture. When I visited him there were at least 20 bouquets. His china cabinet prominently displayed his service medals and war memorabilia. In a corner his uniform proudly hung.
When I asked him about the uniform he answered with a big grin that it was all ready for the undertaker and he had a Union Jack to cover his remains. A month ago Cecil passed away and I had the honour of paying my last respects. He was lying there in uniform with his beloved flag draping the coffin. On his face was that little smile which seemed to be saying, “I told you so.”
I shall never forget this proud veteran. He and all our veterans will not be forgotten.