World War II Veterans honoured

May 21, 2015 · 0 Comments

This Wednesday David Tilson, MP was at the Shelburne Legion to celebrate the outstanding service of local World War II Veterans.
Recently, the federal government announced a new national tribute to mark the 75th Anniversary of Canada’s involvement in the Second World War; a limited-edition commemorative lapel pin and personal certificate of recognition available for Veterans of World War II.
Canadians who served at least one day with the Canadian Forces or with other allied forces. Including the Canadian or British Merchant Navy, either at home or abroad, during the Second World War and were living on September 10th, 2014 are eligible to receive this special tribute pin and certificate.
The design of the commemorative pin and the illustration on the certificate are based on the original “Victory Nickel” which features a flaming torch and a large ‘V’ standing both for victory and the coin’s denomination. The coin was originally in circulation from 1943–1945, and was re-issued in 2005 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
For 2014 – 2020, Canada is marking the 75th Anniversary of the many substantial milestones in the Second World War and will be proudly recognizing all who bravely served and sacrificed their lives on our behalf.
The Second World War lasted six long and terrible years and left a legacy of loss and devastation. Although it was not only confined to soldiers on battlefields, for new technology and weapons of destruction made war possible in the air, in water and on land. For example, the Royal Canadian Air Force took a significant share in the air offences against the Nazi forces and through the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan helped to train large numbers of airmen from other nations of the Commonwealth. The Royal Canadian Navy played a vital role in protecting Allied convoys from Nazi submarines that lurked beneath the Atlantic and was ultimately entrusted with the bulk of the convoy work.
In the six long years of conflict, Canada had enlisted more than 1 million men and women in the Armed Forces. Unfortunately, out of these a total of 45,400 sacrificed their lives in the cause of freedom and peace for us all.
For a young nation it was an outstanding achievement to be serving in the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Canadian Air Force and all other Allied Forces. Thousands of young Canadians fought hard and strong from 1939–1945 on the violent battlefronts of the world. By 1950, 28 per cent of all males 18 years of age and older were World War II Veterans. These incredible soldiers were there to protect us when it appeared that the Nazi invasion was imminent.
Every individual, young and old, in this outstanding defence force played their part in two great campaigns: they fought for twenty months in Italy, and were in the front lines when the Allies returned to Continental Europe on D-Day in 1944.
The many Canadians, who served during this time selflessly, came together in incredible ways to defend the rights of all people to live in freedom and peace. It is thanks to all of their extremely brave service that the struggle against tyranny and oppression was won. Canada will never forget your valiant wartime service and your life-long dedication to our great country. You have brought honour and a new-found respect to our country
On behalf of a grateful nation, David Tilson, MP presented certificates of recognition and commemorative lapel pins for their extremely brave service during the Second World War. Lest we forget.

By Michelle Austen

The newest and oldest member of the Shelburne Legion, Branch 220 being initiated, 94 year old Steve Chamula being congratulated by Legion President Lesa Peat.