Remembrance Day

Fule for Thought

 

This part of November is a sombre time for many. It’s our chance to show respect and thanks for the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces. Whether or not they battled, they have made many sacrifices so that we can be safe. Whenever I go to the Remembrance Day services, I am always touched and saddened at the calling off of Strathmore’s lost soldiers from the wars. To think that these soldiers were not much older than my Grade 12’s, is very chilling. They went off young, brave, and innocent of what they were to face. I can’t imagine how terrible it must have been for them all. The men who fought in either of the World Wars represent a willingness to sacrifice for others. 

In fact, Tom Brokaw, the former news anchorman from the U.S. has described that earlier generation as “The Greatest Generation.” 

He states in his book that “they are the greatest generation any society has ever produced. Men and women fought not for fame and recognition, but because it was the right thing to do.” (Brokaw) 

The WWII soldiers would have grown up and faced the hardships of the Great Depression, only to go on and battle in a huge world war. It is humbling to think of all that my generation has had, and we have not had to endure what they did. We are the ones who benefitted from those who were willing to fight, and often die.  

So, we still have time to do a small thing that is still right for them. Buying poppies to wear is an act that can help financially struggling vets. There is still time this week to sacrifice some of our funds to help those who fought to help us. We can still make a difference in older vets’ lives. At the Co-Op this week, I saw a man who already wore a poppy, but put in a 10 dollar bill, obviously just to help. He inspired me to do the same with all my change, too. 

Having been to the Remembrance Day services in Strathmore, I am always impressed at the large crowd, and the fact that parents bring their children. It’s important to keep these past soldiers in our minds, and especially our hearts. They were someone’s child, sweetheart, or best friend … and often they never got a chance to return to these loved ones. Thank you to all who fought for us, and for those of you who have been in the military since WWII. I know that there are so many of us who really do appreciate all that you have done. We will remember.

(“Fule for Thought” is a slice of life humourous column that appears in the Strathmore Times, written by long-time resident, town councillor, high school teacher, coach, husband and father of two – Pat Fule. If you would like to get in touch with Pat, you can send him an e-mail at Pat.fule@shaw.ca)