Natural topics such as Afghanistan were discussed and dissected by the veterans of the RCASC (A) association. My friend Manny Raspberry , a strong powerful PTI of 30 plus years service, told me that as he retired to Trenton he has been at the majority of the repatriation ceremonies. He felt he may have missed 2. Manny told me while standing to attention the tears come to his eyes for our young heroes. This is the reaction of the majority of our veterans. I did not speak to one that did not say the same, if I was 20 years younger I would re enlist for Afghanistan. This to me says a lot about our Veterans.
Another topic of conversation that still exists today is the fact that their wives, served as well. Yes in the Invisible Army. While husbands were in the Congo, Egypt, Cyprus and the UN tours of the day. The wife was at home , raising the kids, and worrying if she was going to see her husband again. I was surprised at the apprenti that I met that have shared their lives with the same woman 40 years and counting with many in the thirty year range. This is statistic to be proud off.
As with all old soldiers we discussed the changes within the military, primarily equipment and kit, but also the fact that young soldiers of today still VOLUNTEER and many seem to have the same opinions as their predecessors when thinking of peace and democracy. Whether a Patricia, a Van Doo, Arty or logistics they all exhude the same confidence and professionalism that Canada's military is noted for.
The evening before our re union was to begin I spent a few hours happily speaking with young privates and Cpls. Some of which that had seen two tours of duty in Afghanistan. The humour and tone of these young men and women was uplifting to say the least. A group of Military Police had a stall outside the mess selling Hot Dogs Hamburgers etc. To earn money for a Blind Childrens charity. This in itself is not a duty but a voluntary privilege they said to assist those less fortunate.
Good show guys.
The newest members of our former corps now known as logistics, still povide all the Transport of ammo, fuel, rations and personnel in Afghanistan. As well providing the military cooks for the Forward posts, the admin clerks keep the paper machine moving efficiently despite the ththreat daily of rocket attacks and ied's, in addition the supply techs provide all the supplies for our truckers and movers to ship. Hence the name LOGISTICS.
Our corp flag made the journey to Afghanistan just over a year ago and it was signed by all the serving logistics personnel operational at that time.
In closing this issue I owe an apology to one of the wives, who has been a member of the Invisible Army since meeting and marrying her graduate apprentice. Denny Deneumoutier in the early 60's and still jofully wed. Here is the photo that I cropped a few Blogs ago.
May both of you enjoy many many more years of happiness. God Bless
I have just received this photo from my buddy Benny in Ottawa. This is a 1972 photo of Ernie Wentzell and his band in Lahr.
If anyone recognises the rest of the band please let me know.
Once again thank you to all who attended the reunion. memories are made of this.
So as we close this last long weekend of the summer. Please spare a thought for the guys and gals in theatre that will not be with their families nor loved ones, nor enjoying a late summer BBQ. Remember Everyone Deployed.
Nil Sine Labore
Robby
