Tofield World War II veterans honoured in ceremony
World War ll veterans in the Tofield area were honoured on Saturday, Aug. 22 in a ceremony at the Tofield Legion recognizing their service to their country. Outgoing MP Leon Benoit (Vegreville-Wainwright) was present for the presentation of commemorative pins and certificates signed by the prime minister and minister of veterans’ affairs.
“It was 75 years ago that Canada entered the Second World War on its own accord,” said Benoit in his address. “In that moment, at home and abroad, in the air, on land and at sea, people across this nation rallied together in extraordinary ways to defend the right of all people to live in peace and freedom.
“Today, it is with great pride that we come together in our community to remember and honour the brave and courageous men and women living among us who selflessly served and sacrificed to defend our cherished way of life,” said Benoit.
The list of local veterans included in this honour are Hans Christensen (Air Force), Margaret Dickson (Army), Gordon Kyle (Army), Gage Pendleton (Air Force), Alban Race (Army), W. Arnold Swift (LAC Air Force), John Warner (Air Force) and John Williams (Royal Air Force).
However, only Christensen and Gage were able to attend the ceremony at the Legion.
Benoit has been distributing the 75th anniversary pins and certificates to many veterans, calling it “a true honour to be involved and to do this presentation. As a proud and grateful nation, it is our responsibility to remember all those who served our country during the Second World War – including the more than 45,000 Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice for our shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
The tribute began last Sept. 10 on the anniversary of Canada entering the Second World War as a symbol of the country’s enduring pride and gratitude to all those who served during the conflict.
Attending the ceremony were other members of the Tofield Legion. “I sincerely hope you will wear the pin with pride,” Benoit said.
“And display your certificate in a place of prominence as a daily reminder of our profound respect and gratitude.”
Patricia Harcourt
Editor
