On this Remembrance Day, I take a moment to remember and honour my family members who bravely served for our country during times of war.
I fondly recall my grandmother, Pat, who selflessly served in the Army here in Alberta to contribute to the war effort in World War II. Another remarkable individual was my great uncle Bert, who joined the Army and served overseas. He endured a sniper's attack, being left for dead, until his companion, an ambulance driver, discovered him later. Additionally, their father served in both World Wars, as a sergeant major.
My grandmother used to share stories about her father, my great grandpa, and how his soon to be wife gave him a pocket watch to keep close to his heart during World War I. Astonishingly, On April 12, 1917 at 5:15 am as he entered Vimy Ridge, and the pocket watch saved his life when he was shot. To this day, our family keeps his pocket watch which is permanently open, bearing the indentation from the bullet.
As we pay tribute to our veterans this Remembrance Day, I am filled with gratitude for individuals like my grandmother and great uncle, who endured unimaginable sacrifices and hardships during war, ensuring that we have the peace and freedom we enjoy today. Their unwavering spirit of service and dedication to duty serves as an inspiration for me to contribute and serve my community in my own way.
I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on your own family history and the courageous individuals who answered the call of duty during times of conflict. Though the cost of their service was high, we continue to reap the benefits of their sacrifice each and every day.
With deep gratitude and remembrance,