Remembrance Day is but two days hence. The media and the Internet are loaded with Videos, Images and thoughts of prayers for our War Dead. I would like to share this memory with you of my first year Remembrance Day in Canada 1951, a 7 year old immigrant from Scotland.
I was attending Brown St School in Toronto on that Remembrance Day 1951. I remember all the students and teachers being lined up in the hallways, around the central stairwell. I believe it was the Principal who outlined why Remembrance Services were being held. Another teacher or perhaps a grade 8 Student read aloud the words written by Lt Col John MacRea in ``Flanders Fields`` during WW! prior to his death.
A bugler then played TAPS and as we all stood to attention, the entire school was silent save for the Bugler. This was followed by a Minute of silence , before the Bugler then played reveille.
In the week or so prior to Remembrance day, we had cut out poppies,collected pennies and made drawings which festooned the hallways of the school. Since that time I have attended many Remembrance services around the globe. I stiil get teary when I hear the haunting buglers playing taps. I would like at this time to ask you all for a prayer or thought of Remembrance for our Invisible Army. The Mothers, FAthers, Wives, Husbands, Children, Siblings and friends. Who have a loved one serving overseas Land Sea or Air. They too need our prayers and thoughts. As well as those who have paid the ultimate price that a soldier may pay.
The memorial In Germany for Man's Inhumanity to man. They too must be Remembered.
The CDS has announced plans for the withdrawal of our troops in 2011. There is a lot of work to be done, and I pray for the safety of our troops and other Canadians serving currently in Afghanistan.
I would like to make amends for anyone who thought I was being rude in a previous Blog answer to a comment from a Gunner.
1. The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery has two mottos: Ubique (Everywhere) and Quo Fas et Gloria Ducunt (Whither Right and Glory Lead). These may be borne on regimental appointments. The first motto Ubique takes the place of all battle honours in recognition of the artillerys service in all battles and campaigns.
It was the second motto that I mentioned and meant no offence to anyone in fact it was a compliment to a retires Artilleryman.
Remember Everyone Deployed
Nil Sine labore
Robby
