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Remembrance Day was originally to commemorate the end of the First World War. Then came Hitler and the Second World War. And Korea, and Vietnam, and Afghanistan. We need to remember so that we can be prepared to stand up for our way of life.
Remembrance Day 2016
I was at services in downtown Barrie today. There were many people there ranging in age from infant to those who appeared to be in their 90’s. For some reason, this year is the first time I noticed such acknowledgement of emergency services in addition to traditional armed forces.
Our local MP Alex Nuttal, Leader of the Ontario Conservative Party Patrick Brown and Mayor of Barrie Jeff Lehman were all there and came to meet with people at the Royal Canadian Legion after the parade. There were many military personnel and veterans there to share in the camaraderie. I’m guessing there were other political representatives and influential people there but these are the ones I know or recognize. I’m so glad to see politics set aside on this day!
Why Do We Need to Remember?
We live in a free and democratic society in North America. That means we can speak reasonably without impunity. Do you have any idea how many people in this world can’t speak their mind for fear of their life?
My grandfathers were both involved in protecting our rights so that I wouldn’t have to. Admittedly, that gives me a pretty strong bias. I was lucky enough to have them survive to tell the stories. Ironically, they didn’t tell many. I remember asking my one grandfather why he didn’t like talking about the war. I thought all old soldiers did. He answered, “I was training boys to die, that’s not something to brag about”. What they did do is teach me to be proud of my country and our way of life, and be ready to defend her.
Sadly, there are many sons and daughters today having to do it again. If we choose to forget what has almost happened a few times now, we could lose our voices and rights before we even realized it was happening.
Lest We Forget
This is not just about the atrocities of The War to End All Wars. The problem is that war didn’t end it.
There have been many wars over the years and in most cases, for very similar reasons. To prevent some nut from forcing their ideals onto others. Just look at the actions of Daesh today. If they aren’t stopped, they will eventually take root in the western world.
Could you imagine if we took the position that it’s none of our business? The US almost made that mistake in the Second World War. Sadly, the bombing of Pearl Harbor was a blessing in disguise. If that hadn’t happened, our military might be doing the goose step today.
Be vigilant. Be involved.
Lest we forget.
Make it a great day,
Barry
P.S. What am I thankful for today? I’m thankful for my way of life. I’m thankful for those who went before me to protect it. I’m thankful for those who continue to give their lives and limbs to protect our country so my children and grandchildren will be safe and free.
What are you thankful for today?
Please share ...
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