Editor:
Well done to White Rock Canadian Legion for a well-organized Remembrance Day event in White Rock, especially to Gail and staff at the Legion office, as they treated our friend, 98-year-old Arne Bryan, with such respect at the cenotaph and at the legion on the day.
Arne was led by staff to a comfy seat the moment he got to the legion doors; and we were given free-drink coupons, and food was on offer on a donation basis –very generous! Great job by all, great special day!
Andrew King, White Rock
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Each year I’ve noticed more people lining the parade route and applauding, and even more at the White Rock cenotaph. It’s uplifting to us vets when we see the people, and even more when we notice more young Canadians attend. Each year the number of marching vets gets smaller, while the crowds get bigger.
While many took our pictures, the highlight was when a grandfather and his two young grandchildren asked to shake our hands; the grandfather took a picture. As an added gesture, one young lady gave us three vets a kiss.
Of course, seeing the fly-past of the four Harvard aircraft gave my fellow airman, Frank, and myself an added pleasure. Thanks to every one of you who attended, as it sure is very appreciated.
Bill Cameron (RCAF Retired), White Rock
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Although I’m happy to see youngsters out playing soccer and commend their coaches, referees and other officials, I’m saddened to see them in an organized tournament during the forenoon of Remembrance Day.
Arranging soccer or any other activity for the morning of Remembrance Day is a thoughtless denigration of a very special occasion. It says to the young soccer players that it’s OK to selfishly ignore the significance of past and present sacrifices which bought their freedom.
Could the organizers not at least wait until afternoon?
R. M. Strang, Surrey
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My friend and I attended a Remembrance service.
After standing in the cold, we thought we would go to the legion for a meat pie and drink. There was no room, so we carried on to IHOP to have some lunch.
As it was so crowded, we had a long wait and sat near the door. My friend took off his medals and put them in their case, before we finally got a table and had lunch.
I noticed a table of about five people looking our way. The people at the other table left, and our waitress came over and said “Is everything all right?”
We said, “Thank you, it was lovely.” She said, “Well your lunch has been paid for by the people at the next table.”
I have told my family and friends, and this story has impressed them all, young and old. There are still some great young people out there. Thanks so much.
Helen Gorrie, Surrey