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2017 Comox Valley Record Remembrance Day special section

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
220 views16 pages

Remembrance Day Pages Reduced

2017 Comox Valley Record Remembrance Day special section

Uploaded by

CVRecord
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Remembrance Day

2017

With deep respect


and lasting gratitude,
we reflect upon the deeds
of those who served.
Let us provide
our nation’s truest heroes
with the recognition
they have earned
and so richly deserve.

LEST WE FORGET
On this day we honour our Veterans and all members of our
Armed Forces who have given so much in service of our country.
Comox Military Family Resource Centre
Confident, capable and resilient families
building a supportive 19 Wing Community
1575 Military Row • 250-339-8290 • www.cafconnection.ca
www.familyforce.ca
Comox MFRC is a registered non-profit society
2 www.comoxvalleyecho.com
B2 Thursday,
FRINovember 9, 2017
DAY.COURTENAY,BC NOVEMBER 11, 2016 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

219 WING
www.comoxvalleyecho.com
COMMANDER Col. Mike Atkins
FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC NOVEMBER 11, 2016

As Wing Commander, it’s my privilege again to address you,


the residents of the Comox Valley, on behalf of the Defence
Team at 19 Wing Comox.
2017 is a milestone year as we celebrate Canada’s 150th year
since Confederation.
This year also marked the 100th anniversary of the battle
of Vimy Ridge, a turning point in the war and a defining
moment in the history of Canada. The formal ceremony,
attended by thousands of Canadians, both young and old,
commemorated the sacrifices made by those young men on
the battlefields of France.
For those from the Comox Valley that had the honour of

The service of my parents


attending, they speak of a deeply moving ceremony that
will not soon be forgotten. A special moment during that

The service of my parents


ceremony was a flyby of six replica World War 1 aircraft
known as Vimy Flight, a project conceived and realized here
in the Comox Valley. It was a sight to see them flying
By Timover the Vimy Memorial as they flew over
McKinnon the march from the armory to the ceno- always the same. Opening remarks,
our own Comox airfield in the year prior to the event. Through
Special them, the history of those brave,
to the Echo taph and so we were on our own. somebody would read a poem, often “In
young airmen lives on! At the cenotaph there was always a Flanders Fields”, and then “The Act of
By Tim McKinnon the march from the armory to the ceno- always the same. Opening remarks,
My mother and father served overseas taph crowd but it was unusually quiet, almost Remembrance”:
The theme of Remembrance this year is, “In Service to Canada”,
Special to the Echoand is meant to honour those
during World War Two so Remembrance church-like.
and so we were on our own. somebody would read a poem, often “In
They shall grow not old,
Canadians that have served in our military, and those thata signifi
still wear At the cenotaph there was always a Flanders Fields”, and then “The Act of
Day was cantthedayuniform today.
in our family. People stood apart in their own as we that are left grow old:
My mother and father served overseas crowd but it was unusually quiet, almost Remembrance”:
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that 19 Wingduring
personnel
In my memory continue to
it was be deployed
always
World War Two so Remembrance
gray around the
thoughts.
and church-like. And then the troops would Age shall not weary them,
They shall grow not old,
cold,
globe, far away from their families and friends, inDayserviceoftenour
withgreat
a hint of snow in the start to arrive. The sounds still live so
notairdeployed nor the years condemn.
wasto a signifi cantnation.
day in Those
our family. People stood apart in their own as we that are left grow old:
and that seemed to match the mood in thoughts. strongly in my mind. At the going down of the sun
support round-the-clock operations; manning theour Wing’s emergency
In my memory
home at that time.
services,
it was alwayssupporting
gray and the And then the troops would
The shouted commands, the crunch
Age shall not weary them,
and in the morning
Wing’s airfield, or maintaining the Wing’s aircraftcold,
to often with
enable a hint of snow air start to arrive. The sounds still live so
in the their nor the years condemn.
There wasour air
never crews
much to conduct
discussion about search
of hard-soled leather boots on the cold We will remember them.
and that seemed to match the mood in strongly in my mind. At the going down of the sun
and rescue or long range patrol missions. the war. My parents tried to keep that pavement.
our home at that time.
Hundreds of feet moving as
The shouted commands, the crunch
A bugler would sound “The Last Post”
and in the morning
reality away from my sister and me.
Collectively, we are all proud to be in service to Canada. one. And the medals on the troops’ chests followed by two minutes of silence.
There was never much discussion about of hard-soled leather boots on the cold We will remember them.
When I was young, we lived in Peter- pavement. clinking against each other in matching My mother would hold my hand. I can
Annually, 19 Wing Comox personnel visit schools the and community
war. My parents organizations
tried to keepthroughout
borough, Ontario, and although we had a one.
that Hundreds of feet moving as
cadence with their footfalls.
A bugler would sound “The Last Post”
feel its warmth to this day.
the Comox Valley and North Island in support of reality
theand away from
Veterans Weekmy sister and
Speakers me.
Program. And the medals on the troops’ chests followed by two minutes of silence.
car there were buses on the morningThis The sound faint but gradually increas- After silence, “Reveille” and the crowd
When I was young, we lived in Peter- clinking against each other in matching My mother would hold my hand. I can
initiative provides an opportunity for our personnel of to share
November their experiences
11, we of
always walked service with
to the ing as they neared the cenotaph. A final would come to life again.
borough, Ontario, and although we had a cadence with their footfalls. feel its warmth to this day.
Canadians, and remind them of the service of those cenotaph. command and they stopped as one. Then People would lay wreaths, we’d sing
carwho
and have
theregone
were before
buses on us.the
This will culminate
morning The sound faint but gradually increas- After silence, “Reveille” and the crowd
It was just my mother, my sister and ing no sound, save maybe a bird or some- “God Save the Queen” and the crowd
on November 11 with annual services of remembrance in our communities.
of November 11, we always walked to the
me. My father was the ranking officer command
as they neared the cenotaph. A final would come to life again.
thing in the distance but among all those would disperse. We’d walk home, usually
On behalf of all the members of the 19 Wing Defence cenotaph.
Team, I encourage and they stopped as one. Then People would lay wreaths, we’d sing
at his workplace and you to attend
as such, he was a service of silence.
people, just by ourselves, which made it even
It was just my mother, my sister and no sound, save maybe a bird or some- “God Save the Queen” and the crowd
remembrance, to show your support to those thatme. haveMysacrificed
charged “In the
with mustering
father was service
the to Canada.”
veterans
ranking
for
officer thing in the Thedistance
Then the annual Remembrance
service would begin.DayIt ceremony
was more
but among all those in Comox
would takes place
special.
disperse. We’dalong
walkComox Avenue,
(Continued on
home,
page 3)
usually
Mary McKinnon – Colonel
at hisMike Atkins,and
workplace Commander,
as such, he 19 Wing
was Comox with the main wreath laying at the cairnjust
people, silence. between Augusta and
by ourselves, Churchmade
which streets.it even
charged with mustering the veterans for Then the service would begin. It was more special. (Continued on page 3)
Mary McKinnon

Thank you to our Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans, current members for your service to our great nation!
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record Thursday, November 9, 2017 B3

Comox Valley Community Church & Ministries


Giving Hope 1580 Fitzgerald Ave, Courtenay 250.338.8221 • www.cvsalarmy.ca
Today

Hunt for History: Remembering Denman


Islanders’ sacrifices
Judy Hagen
Special to The Record one of the forward trenches
and when he returned he stood
up and ran back instead of
During the Great War, 18 crawling in that trench, so he
men from Denman Island en- was visible and was shot”.
listed for service. Two men did The army records for the
not return: they were bachelors 102nd on that day read: “gen-
with no relatives in the area. eral resting and clean up. Foot
Their names are included on inspection; arrangements made
the memorial cairn at Dingwall for baths on the following two
Road and the Old Island High- days. Work party of 250 called
way. for the 17th. Voluntary service
Thomas Lefley and Stanley at Y.M.C.A at .30 pm.”
Milton are also honoured in The 102nd had been pulled
the book, ”Lest We Forget”, back from battle, but on that
compiled by Ruth Masters so day other Canadians were en-
future generations would know gaged in the Battle of Courcel-
something about the men who lette, remembered because it
are listed on our Sandwick Me- was the first time that tanks
morial. were used in battle. So, on 15th
“Without the great help given of September, Tom Lefley
for the country (England) by should have had an easy day
Canada and other friendly The Reninghelst New Military Cemetery in West-Vlaanderen, Belgium, where Thomas Lefley is buried.(Photo supplied) and a much needed rest.
countries we would not have It is rare to have insight into
survived and I shall always 1888, had arrived on Denman Beadnell property is today died Sept. 15, 1916, at St. Eloi the personal life of the men
be grateful to the thousands Island in 1914 after working Fillongley Park on the eastern Belgium and is buried at Re- who are listed on the Sandwick
of brave men who came from in other parts of Canada. He side of the island.) His niece ninghelst New Military Cem- cairn, but the letter from Tom’s
Canada to help us.” found employment with the said that he worked on his land etery, where victims of eight niece gives a poignant view of
From a portion of the letter Squamish Logging Co. but during the summer but in the countries were laid to rest. Re- a young life lost at war.
printed in “Lest We Forget” he also worked as a general logging camps in the winter. ninghelst was far enough from “We were all pleased when
sent by Mrs. G. M. South, Pt. labourer on the Pickles farm. On Dec. 18, 1915, he went the front line to provide a safe a letter came from Uncle
Lefley’s niece. He was able to purchase the to Comox and enlisted with station for field ambulances. Tom. Our geography lessons
Thomas Lefley, born in Ket- Markham Ball property near the 102nd Battalion who were Sam Watson told Ruth Mas- at school included a fairly de-
tleburgh England, June 10, the Beadnell Estate. (The training at “the Spit”. He ters, “Tom had gone up into Continued on Page B4

Royal Canadian Legion Honouring memories. Celebrating lives.


Branch No. 28
❖ Parade starts at
10:30 am, Dunsmuir Ave.
from the old post office to the Legion
From generation
❖ Join us at the Legion to generation
for luncheon and open house
may we always remember
❖ Entertainment on-going at the Legion those who served
Support for our vets and continue to serve.
“Take Time to and their families and community
Remember” Soup and Sandwich (bi weekly) • Hall Rental A part of the Comox Valley
Empire Days • C.C.S.S.(Cumberland Community School Society) for over 60 years!
B.M.X. • Meat draw (members and bona fide guests)
24 Hours A Day! 250-334-4464

2770 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland 250-336-2361 440 England Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 2N1
B4 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record
www.comoxvalleyecho.com
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com
FRIDAY.NOVEMBER 11, 2016 5
Hunt for History: Stanley Milton left Denman Island in October of 1915 to serve
Thank You
Continued from Page B3
and he stayed with my family with the passing of years came
sitting and talking until the to realize the innate kindness
tailed study of Canada which early hours of the morning. I of my Uncle. If he had lived he

for Your Sacrifice


added greatly to the interest we remember uncle saying how had hoped that my mother and
took in my Uncle Tom and his pleased he was to be able to her family would eventually
letters… He had spent his boy- come back and fight for the join him in Canada. This was
hood at Kettleburgh and at- old Country.” not mean to be for six weeks
tended the Board School with Tom did not leave a wife and after his visit to us my uncle
his brother and sister. I believe family, but his one visit to his was killed.”
it was very hard for them but aunt and cousins would always So often men listed on Cana- Dr. Phil Nasralla
they had fun occasionally. The be fondly remembered. dian memorials were “from the
highlight of their year was “Despite the pressure and Old Country” so there are no and his Staff would
a visit to Framingham Gala anxieties of 1916, my uncle letters or photos among local like to thank all of
when they all put on their best
clothes and enjoyed the fun of
remembered my eldest sister
and myself in a special way.
people to remind us of these
brave young men who willingly
the Canadian
military personnel
Comox
the fair and Museum openbrooch
other activities. Hetoday
brought with special display
each of us a lovely sacrificed their future to fight
“Tom came to see us in the in the form of a maple for king and country. for their continual
THE COMOX ARCHIVES AND1916.
MUSEUM is pleased to announce
Canada.thatWe we willde-
be open on other
Remem-
beginning
brance
of August leaf from were The Denman Island efforts to keep this
He onlyDay, hadfrom
24 11AM
hoursto 2PM. We invite
leave lightedthe by
public to lovely
these view our exhibit,
gifts and which is dedicated
recruit who would not return
to the brave men of the 102nd Battalion. The 102nd trained on Goose Spit andwas fought for us Milton
Stanley in who was country peaceful.
many of the important battles of WW1. Coffee tea and cake will be served. We wish to thank
born in Exeter Devon, Aug.
Quality Foods in Comox for their contribution towards the cake. We are located at 1729 Co-
30, 1890.
mox Avenue. For further information please contact us at 250-339-2285 or comoxmuseum.ca
He went to Vancouver on
Oct. 27, 1915, where he enlist-
We are always welcoming New Patients
The Lapugnoy Military Cemetery, in Pas de Calas, France, where Stanley Milton
is buried. (Photo supplied)
ed with the 67th Battalion, the Specialties
Your poppy donations at work Western Scots. He embarked
for France on April 1, 1916.
Just over a year later he was
ton. In April 1907, he had& family 1955
• General
arrived in Halifax• Neuromuscular
S.S.. Dahome a small
on board the dentistry
60-pas- 101.
and Alfred
dentistry livedsurgery
• Dental
other 40 years, dying
for an-
at age
• Dental implants
• Cosmetic dentistry • Root canals
Last year, your $2,771,313.28 in gener- Military Skills Conversion transferred
Programto at the 102nd and senger vessel that sailed from In 1976, Winnie Isbister
ous donations in British Columbia went BCIT died on May 20, 1917, from Liverpool. The YOUR COMFORT
ship manifest IS OUR
wrote TOPFolk,”
“My Ain PRIORITY
a histo-
to: Youth programs such as Cadets
wounds and in action. He
received recorded that he was going ry of Denman Island, which
Supporting those serving or who have student bursaries had fought at Vimy Ridge, but to Moose Jaw. Eventually he lists the men from Denman
honourably served in the Canadian Forc- Medical training, research and of
the date appli-
his injuries is not found work on the McMillan Island who had left their farms
es or RCMP and their dependents ances for geriatric support and care
known. of
His body was at first Farm on Denman Island and to serve in the Great War. She
Accommodation and care facilities for Veterans buried in the Canadian section when he enlisted he was en- also noted those who after
Veterans, elderly or disabled persons and The Service Dog Program of the Givenchy Road Neville gaged to the McMillan daugh- 1918, came out west to start
their dependents
St. Vaast but then removed to ter Mabel. a new life on Denman Island,
Legion Veterans’ Transition Programs For more information on the Legion
This circa 1910
Relief and photo showsprogram
recovery Stanley Milton (sitting, lower
for trau- or toright)
make asaa young the Lapugnoy Military Cem-
donation, please visi www.
In June 1914,4-1841
MabelComox
wouldAvenue | www.DrPhilTheDentist.com
just as Thomas Lefley and
man. (Photo supplied)
ma-related stress. legionbcyukon.ca etery.
Little is known of Stan Mil-
marry Alfred Randall. They
had no children. She died in 250-339-2252
Stanley Milton had done be-
fore the war.

They shall ON
grow not11old
THE TH HOUR,
as we who are
OF left
THEgrow
11TH old.
DAY,
Age shall not weary
OF THE them
11TH MONTH,
nor theWE SHALL
years REMEMBER THEM.
condemn.
Lest we forget.
At the going down of the sun,
and in the morning,
We will remember them.
888 (Komox) Wing RCAFA
1298 Military Row
Comox, BC

www.CrownIsle.com
Toll Free: 888-338-8439 250-703-5000 |
Courtenay • Comox • Cumberland www.888wingrcaf.com399 Clubhouse250-339-0888
Drive, Courtenay, BC
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record Thursday, November 9, 2017 B5

COURTENAY MAYOR Larry Jangula The staff, management & real estate agents at

Once a year, our country pauses


to remember those who sacrificed
their health, time with their loved
ones, or even their lives. We remem- salute and remember
ber their courage, and suffering those who “protect & serve.”
through miserable conditions, often
in lands very far away.
ON 11 NOVEMBER ESPECIALLY, we recognise those who have
The rest of us, the beneficiaries of served in war zones, those who have served overseas in
this priceless gift, are duty-bound peacekeeping duties, and those who serve at home.
not to forget what these brave men We also acknowledge our enormous debt of gratitude to
and women did for us. those who have given their lives in service to their country.
In the Comox Valley, we have a close
connection to the military. Many of us PLEASE TAKE TIME TO REMEMBER ON 11 NOVEMBER
have family, friends and neighbours
serving at CFB Comox. Their dedica- “LEST WE FORGET.”
tion, both domestically and overseas,
helps keep us safe.
On this Remembrance Day, let us offer our thanks to those who have served our

Honouring
country, both past and present, and vow that their sacrifices shall not have been
in vain.
–Mayor Larry Jangula City of Courtenay

“We Will Remember Them” our



The Royal Canadian Legion,
Please arrive early to ensure a seat. Space for 250.
Branch 17, Courtenay
Breakfast served at 9:00 am SHARP upstairs in the George Swift Memorial Hall.

Parade forms up at 10:30 am in front of the Courtenay Legion.


Veterans
❖ Beginning at 10:50, a Service of Remembrance will be conducted, followed by
a fly-past, the laying of wreaths assisted by cadets, and a musical program by
Comox Valley Children’s Choir.
❖ Open House at the Legion after the parade. Refreshments. Entertainment by Gord
Kruger and the Amigos from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Please join us for an afternoon
reminiscing with new friends and old!
367 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay www.courtenaylegion.ca 250-334-4322
B6 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

COMOX MAYOR Paul Ives CUMBERLAND MAYOR Leslie Baird


Since the first commemoration in 1919, Since the First World War, close to two million Canadians
each November 11th, Canadians pay have fought for freedom in wars around the world.
tribute to those members of the Armed More than 100,000 Canadians have lost their lives. Each
Forces and of civilians who have sacri- of those people was a daughter or son, neighbour, friend,
ficed and lost their lives in times of war. and loved one. They volunteered to serve from communities
On behalf of myself, members of all over Canada, including Cumberland and the Comox
council and residents of the Town of Valley. Each year we remember that sacrifice, and what
Comox we wish to express our deep- they fought for: our commitment to peaceful democracy.
est gratitude to our veterans and all Remembrance Day is our day to remember and honour
the members of our Armed Forces who all veterans. Canadian soldiers and peacekeepers fight to
have sacrificed so much in service for protect our rights and freedoms, and those of people all
our country. over the world. The war in Afghanistan involved Canadian
troops from 2001 to 2014, and Canadian citizens continue
– Mayor Paul Ives to serve in conflicts around the globe. Remembrance Day
has been observed for almost 100 years, and fighting for
freedom and democracy continues today.
On Remembrance Day, we reflect on the
We Honour
We Will
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remember them.
Remembering -Mayor Leslie Baird
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our Veterans Sports and fashions
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Your Comox Valley MPs and MLAs join you in honouring


the sacrifices so many have made for our country

Ronna-Rae Leonard Scott Fraser Gord Johns Rachel Blaney


MLA for Courtenay - Comox MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim MP for Courtenay-Alberni MP for North Island-Powell River
Ronna-Rae.Leonard.MLA@leg.bc.ca Scott.Fraser.MLA@leg.bc.ca Gord.Johns@parl.gc.ca Rachel.Blaney@parl.gc.ca
250.703.2410 1-866-870-4190 1-844-620-9924 1-800-667-8404
GordJohns.ca RachelBlaney.ndp.ca
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record
www.comoxvalleyecho.com
FRIDAY.NOVEMBER 11, 20169, 2017 B7
Thursday, November
7
(Continued from page 6) ed. Grants from the City of Courtenay through

REGIONAL DISTRICT BOARD CHAIR Bruce Jolliffe the Partners in the Parks Capital Funding, the
Once the foundation had been built, a dedica- Courtenay Legion and the Department of Veter- MLA Ronna-Rae Leonard
tion ceremony held on November 7, 1921. (Ar- ans Affairs provided the money to refurbish the
mistice Day had not yet been set as November Cairn. In October the Cairn ws rededicated in a
Today
11.) The is a day to honour
cornerstone was laid thebymanyMayor men and women
Charles who made
ceremoney led thethe Courtenay
ultimate Legion.
THANK YOU TO OUR On the 11th hour
of the 11th day of the
sacrifice
Simms and
on
lostthe
for our
challenges
two
freedom.
Mrs. Alexander
enduredand
sons, Malcolm
It is aBeaton,
by the
day to reflect
John, families
who had
a third
not onlyInonthetheir
andson,
lovedmorials
ones who
Comoxsacrifice
werepeople
where
butarealso
Valley
left behind.
gather
VETERANS OF PAST,
many Cairns and Me-
It on Rememberance 11th month, we share
two minutes of silence
isAngus,
our
a daycame home
to reflect onantheamputee.
values that our Armed Forces
On the day of the dedication more families in War.
rights, our liberty, our peace, our governance. These
Day defended
to honourthen the and
sacrifi
were integral to creating PRESENT AND FUTURE
ce of those who died
now:
to honour the courage
brought stones to be worked into the pyramid. Unfortunately the Sandwick Cairn is now and selflessness of our
the
Ericfreedoms
Duncan and security
brought stones we enjoy
from as theCanadians
Duncan today.
considered unsuitable due to its location, yet
As the veterans and those Ca-
farm to board
honour chair
his for
onlytheson,
Comox Valley Comox
Charles. Regional District,
it is a veryI extend
unique mymemorial,
heartfelt possibly the only
appreciation,
entrepreneur,support
J.B. Holmes and brought
gratefulness.a stone Within
from theone Comox
Canada Valley
madewe arethe
from veryrocks gathered from nadians who continue
the familytohomestead
fortunate have 19 Wing at Nob Comox Hill.asHe ourhad lost the as
neighbours, farms
welland gardens
as many of those who died in the
military to serve in our Armed
his only
retirees, son, William. Even elderly
adding poignancy to our remembrance. Reverend “war to end all wars” . Forces and Merchant
Willemar brought his quota. Marines.
Lest
The we
Cairnforget:
was Wear your through
to be built poppy close the to your heart, and honour those who
winter
protected, Their willingness to
months. served and provided us the country we live in today. As well, honour
those
Thewhostonearemasons,
presentlyAndrewserving Smithour country,and Jake defending our rights and ensuring serve and to sacrifice is
Thompson
our children worked
grow up Wednesday
in a safe world. and Saturday the ultimate guaran-
so that volunteers could provide –Comox help. The fi
Valley nal
Regional District board chair Jolliffe tee of the fundamental
cost was $500, half the estimated budget since rights and values we hold so dear, and for that
so many offered to work on the project which we all owe a tremendous debt of gratitude.
united the community in homage to all those
who had served.
Remembrance Day is also a reminder of
We remember… our duty to be of service to those who have
It was agreed that only the names of the 41
dead would recorded; there would be no ref-
Remembering Those who sacrificed so much for us.
erence to the rank or honour
OPEN SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 except for Sgt. those who gave their lives Join me on November 11 in honouring those
T.O.L. Wilkinson,
have fallen.
12:00who
- 5:30had
PM posthumously been
who have served.
awarded a Victoria Cross. in defense of family, –Ronna-Rae Leonard
After 1945, a second memorial board was
placed on the west side of the Cairn to honour country and freedom.
the 82 valley men who had died in World War II.
Later, plaques were added reconize those who
had served in the Korean conflict, the Peace West Coast
Keepers and Mrs. Dingwall for her donation of MORTGAGES
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778-225-0010
778-225-0010

IN REMEMBRANCE of the men and women who participated in many


For those who have given and those ways to defend our country and the world against tyranny. And on this day
we acknowledge the ongoing efforts of the many Canadians who still and
who continue to give, We thank you for will demonstrate their commitment to freedom.

your Service and Sacriϐice In Loving Memory of


IAN DOE L/CPL Eugene J Doe
Above the Crowd Agent POW
250.897.5628 (Mobile) Dieppe Raid
250.334.9900 (Office Courtenay)
iandoe@remax.net
www.iandoe.ca

Ocean Pacific Realty


www.iandoe.ca
Ocean Pacific Realty Courtenay Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
My Rangers.
Wales mother, Mary She knew
coming in fromdad could
France. woH
Campbell,
My from a promi-
mother, Mary have She been one of
knew those
dad ca-
could ny
wo
nent
Campbell, Vancouver from a family, promi- sualties.
have been one of those ca- hav
ny
B8 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com
was a nurse.
nent Vancouver family, sualties. In August, my father me
ha
wasIna nurse.
RIFLES 1942
ON DISPLAY she left her was In badly
August, wounded near
my father Remembrance Day service pro
me
job at
Sicily Taylor, St.
Grade 7Paul’s
In reads1942
Robb Road hospital
she Falaise and was airlifted An
Elementary, the story of herleft her was badly wounded near and show in Union Bay pro
and joined the
job at St. Paul’s hospital Falaise
great-great grandfather army.
Captain Her back to Britain.
and was Heairlifted
ended for
An
parents
Maxwell
andRifles were
Malalue
joined of the
the proud
King’s army. of her
Her up backin tothat Canadian
Britain. Hos-
He ended They’re back! Rosie and her “Riveting pals” invite wo
for
Royal
but didn’tduring the First
understand World why pital where his ward nurse you to the Remembrance Day service and show in T
parents
War, which is onwere
permanent prouddisplay of her up in that Canadian Hos- Union Bay on Nov. 11.
wo
she
but
at did
didn’t
the HMCS this.
Alberni understand
Museum and why just pitalhappened
where histo be Sister
ward nurse twoT
The service will be held at the cairn by the old
sheHer
Memorial
did reason
(HAMM).
this. was simple. Mary
The Malalue
just Campbell.to be Sister
happened schoolhouse, or in the community hall if the weath- Wh
tw
collection is just part of the many
She Her was
individual
a nurse
reason
memorial displayswas andsimple.
there TheyCampbell.
Mary were married er is uncooperative.
Wh
The show is entitled ‘Sentimental Journey’ and
was
Sheawas
portraying war aon.
stories theIt
ofnurse was
Canadianandwhere
there there They in 1945.were married features the Just For Joy Singers or the Jumping
she
militaryshould
wasHAMM
covering more
a war be. than 100 I always made an ef- For Joy Singers if you like. We promise warm and
years. will beon.
openIt was where there
extended in 1945.
sheInonshould
hours 1942, be.
Remembrance right
Day from out of fort to be with
I always mademyanpar- ef-
sweet memories, hearty laughs, and lots and lots
of songs you love.
RMC,
9 a.m.
In- 4 p.m.myHAMMfather
1942, rightinhe
is located outwas of ents fort on to November
be with my 11 and
par- TIMES:
its new facility
sent as at Brigade
625 Cliffe Ave. Intelli- if I couldn’t, I’d call, and Remembrance Day service -10:40 (refreshments
RMC,
(Tulio’s Plaza).my
Admissionfatheris by he was ents on November 11 and in the hall immediately following the service).
gence
sent as
donation. OffiBrigade
cer to Victoria Intelli- thank them. I’d call, and
if I couldn’t, ‘Sentimental Journey’ – noon.
to moveOffi
gence with certhe to Brigade
Victoria thank In the them. sixties they Admission by donation.
to Gerry McKinnon
toPrince
move George. with the Brigade moved In from the Peterborough
sixties they
On the
to Prince George. way he devel- to my mother’s
moved from Peterborough beloved Gerry McKinnon
oped pneumonia, ending
On the way he devel- to my mother’s beloved Vancouver, then after re- We Proudly Support the
up
in
oped in pneumonia,
the army hospital
Nanaimo where
ending tirement
REMEMBER
he
up in the army hospital tirement moved to Quali-
Vancouver,
cum Beach,
moved
then toafter
then well
Quali-re-
into SOLDIER ON FUND
Thank you veterans
Mo
un
M
met and fell in where
in Nanaimo love with he their cum eighties
Beach, then moved welltointo
be Thank
for your you service veterans co
un
ametbeautiful
Sister,
a beautiful Mary
young
young Campbell, those who
Nursing
Nursing in
closer
and fell in love with their eighties moved to be
Comox,
closer
to my
to my
wife
onwife
and
Vancouver
and me
me
for your
and
The mission of the fund is to provide resources and
support. service
opportunities for serving and retired Canadian Forces
co
personnel with a permanent or chronic illness or injury
from
Sister, Vancouver.
Mary Campbell, Island.
fought for ourin Comox, on Vancouver and support. to actively participate in physical,
My Vancouver.
from mother’s unit was Here, every year I’d go
Island. recreational or sporting
sent
and
Mytomother’s
my
England unit
father
in 1944
transferred
sent to England in 1944 with them to the ceno-
Freedom
was with Here,
taph.
them
The
everyto year
sounds
the I’d
were
ceno-go
the
activities.

toand the myBritish


father Army transferredas a same. taph. The Thesounds
same bootswere theon 2355 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay
Canloan Offi cer.
to the British Army as a same. The same boots on hard pavement, the same 250-334-4500
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www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record
12 www.comoxvalleyecho.com
FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC NOVEMBER 11, 2016
Thursday, November 9, 2017 B9

y s Re m e m b
Al w
a er
Thank You To All
Everything
we value in
Our Men & Women
life, they put
on the line. For Your Service.
Honouring Veterans is our duty.
Anyone can become a member. Join today.

#OurDuty Courtenay: 2937 Kilpatrick Ave. • 250.871.6074


Courtenaylegion.ca
legion.ca www.la-z-boyvi.com

Thank You!
Comox Recreation 10
250-339-2255 | comox.ca/recreation | info@comox.ca 1. R
was fir
throug
Comm
It w
“Armis
Photo: Gisele Leblanc-Turner
memo
agreem
The Canadian Military Wives Choirs – Comox First W
would like to thank the many local businesses, day, N
individual donors and supporters who gave 11 a.m
so generously
LET throughout our
US REMEMBER hour o
2017 Invictus travel fundraising campaign. of the
AT THE ELEVENTH HOUR, 2. F
It was a OF
heartwarming
THE ELEVENTHexperience shared with
DAY, Armist
nine other Military Wives Choirs from across Canada the Mo
OF THE ELEVENTH MONTH,
and we are grateful to have been in Toronto which
WITH
to support TWO MINUTES
the competitors OFfamilies.
and their SILENCE. 261-FIFTH STREET | DOWNTOWN COURTENAY | 250·334·4523 In
Memb
for C
troduc

We Salute A lways & F


Always orever
Forever
Armist
vembe
Pass

You! W
We
pre
e tthank
hank our h
esent w
present ho
who
eroes past and
heroes
o serve
e our co
d
ountry
country
for the FR
FREEDOMS
Comm
change
memb
Please take the time many of us take for granted first R
this year to remember was ob
our military and their ber 11,
families. We appreciate each an every
Service Man and Woman
for their commitment and
dedication to our country.

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B10 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

War as seen through the eyes of a child


By Norm Blondel totem poles of war.
Special to The Record In Weymouth, we overnight-
ed in a converted gymnasium
In 1939 I was living with my and boarded a train in the
aunt and uncle on a farm near morning. It steamed north,
to Guernsey airport, in the endlessly it seemed, stopping
Channel Islands. frequently to avoid the bomb-
I was an orphan, six years ing. Eventually, our group
old. On Sept. 3, I remember arrived in a small town called
a group of very tall adults Neston in the Wirral penin-
standing and listening to the sular. It was a few miles from
radio as Neville Chamberlain Birkenhead, a city across the
declared war on Germany. Mersey river from the great
The following May, it was de- port of Liverpool, which was
cided that all schoolchildren a prime target for the German
and their teachers would be Luftwaffe.
evacuated to Great Britain for Every night we could see the
our safety, as the Islands were Norm Blondel relives his experi- glow of fires over Liverpool
about to be invaded by Nazi ence as a child during the Second and listen to the sound of ex- Tynwald passes the wreck of her Steam Packet sister, King Orry, as she
Germany. World War. ploding bombs and the crack approaches Dunkirk. The King Orry was one of the ships destroyed in the
In June of 1940, just after of anti-aircraft batteries. It was Dunkirk onslaught. (Photo via Wikipedia)
Dunkirk, hundreds of us were I remember that day in hard to sleep.
assembled on the Saint Peter June, 1940, when we sailed One morning I found out bit further away. The stick of water. The water came to with-
port harbour front and were for Weymouth on England’s just how “safe” I was when bombs had missed us.( I am in a foot of the surface, even-
tallied and had labels tied to south coast. The sea was very I looked out of the upstairs the seventh son of a seventh tually. When the sirens went we
our collars, bearing our name, still, like glass. After a few window and saw a row of son; I guess this was my first all huddled under the stairs.
school and teacher. Parents, hours we encountered a very bomb craters, directly in line lucky break). I was a witness to the Battle
aunts and uncles and some strange sight: Upside down with my house. The RAF had Each household was issued of Britain. And I was almost a
older children were left behind in the water were dozens of chased the bombers away from an “Anderson” shelter – a col- target. As we observe Remem-
to face the Occupation. We ships. Some were small, some Liverpool and they jettisoned lection of curved and straight brance Day and pay tribute
sailed away on a cross-Chan- quite large, some with bows their bombs live, anywhere. corrugated iron sheets. We had to the men and women of our
nel ferry, the last boat to leave submerged, and others down One of the bombs had hit a to place the assembled shelter armed forces who made the
the islands. Shortly afterward, by the stern. This was the nearby house, demolishing it in a deep, rectangular hole and ultimate sacrifice, let us also re-
the German army occupied aftermath of Dunkirk: the and killing the people inside. pile sod on the top and around member those who died under
Guernsey, Jersey, Alderney, ships that didn’t survive the The next created a crater in a it. There were wooden benches the bombs.
Sark and Herm, to begin a onslaught. We sailed through field, about 100 yards from our inside it to sleep on. We dug This article is co-published
five-year ordeal for the Island- this eerie group for an hour, house. I ran to a back window away at the hole, but, after alongside the CFB Comox
ers. steering around these ghastly and saw a wrecked barn, a three feet, it started to fill with Totem Times.

“Let us not
forget”

In Memory of
Corporal Colville Charles
GRAHAM
In Remembrance Princess Patricia’s Canadian
Light Infantry, R.C.I.C.
Who died aged 41
in Bari, Italy
on September 23, 1943

In Memory of
Andrew R.
SMITH
of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles.
Who died August 12, 1944

J•E•W•E•L•L•E•R•S A family tradition for over 40 years.

261 Fifth St., Downtown Courtenay | 250-334-4523


www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record Thursday, November 9, 2017 B11

Hunt For History: The birth of the Nov. 11 Legion breakfast


Judy Hagen In 1947, a group of veterans
Special to The Record who had joined the Courte-
nay branch, decided to hold a
The Legion has been around breakfast before the cenotaph
for 90 years, but as the veter- ceremonies. It began with an
ans from the Second World idea from Gordon Wagner,
War pass away, not only is who had the previous year
the membership declining but been in Vancouver for Remem-
some of the stories from the brance Day. Over there, the
“good old days” are lost. Air Force held a “dawn patrol”
Sometimes though, there are breakfast. Gordon thought
traditions that continue… and that maybe a breakfast would
there are few alive who know encourage more veterans to at-
the story behind the event… tend the cenotaph ceremonies
but there are rumours that are which were then held at the
legendary! memorial at the corner of the
Each new group of veterans Island Highway and Dingwall
would bring their spirit to the Road. If a breakfast were held
organization. Since the end of they would later get the men to
the Great War of 1914-18, the parade up the hill.
Legion, under many names Wagner was designated chair-
has always first and foremost man for this ad hoc committee
represented the “returned ser- and he intended to have it
viceman.” catered… but he soon found
They lobby the government that no one in Courtenay had
to keep their promises to those ever catered a breakfast. He
who sign up to fight for their decided the group could do it
king and country, and now for themselves.
The committee for the original Remembrance Day breakfast. Photo courtesy Courtenay and District Museum 999.174.16. The Breakfast Committee
their queen and country.
In 1927 there were 14 differ- included Sandy Strachan,
ent national associations, with Veterans and the Canadian Le- League, with two Legions; and their families, they also or- Mashie Carwithen, Arnie
names such as the Army and gion of Ex-Servicemen. Cumberland Branch #28 and ganize Remembrance Day cer- Williams, Buck Pedersen, Jack
Navy Veterans, Imperial Vet- Locally there was the Mer- Courtenay Branch #17, which emonies and hold fund raising Southern, Bob Gray and Dick
erans of Canada, the Grand ville Soldiers Settlement As- the Merville Settlement men and social activities through- Griffith-Cochrane.
Army of United Veterans, the sociation and a branch of the would join. A third branch, out the year. It is a place for The menu was to be sausages,
Tuberculosis Veterans, Naval Great War Veterans Associa- #160, would later be formed in veterans to have a beer with eggs, buns, coffee and a ration
Veterans, South African Veter- tion. They would unite into the Comox. friends and always a place of of rum.
ans, Royal North West Police, new national Canadian Legion While the work of the Legion camaraderie, especially around
Canadian Pensions, Disabled of the British Empire Services is centred on helping veterans Nov. 11. Continued on Page B12

COURAGE
REMEMBERED
IN HONOUR
OF THOSE
WHO
SERVED.

14 YEARS of PROUD
MILITARY SERVICE!
Thank you to all Military Personnel,
NNE
WI OF THE R

2016
readers’
choice
past and present, and your families, TF
for your service to our country.
S Thanking the
E Y
O
F

T L
L

H E
C O M O X VA

Canadian Forces for


serving our country
and their fight for peace
Toneff and justice.
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B12 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Hunt for History: ‘Murphy’s Laws went in to full force’ during first Legion breakfast
Continued from Page B11 not been enough room in the confessed years later that at
Legion refrigerator for the that moment he feared that
Sid Dauncey, butcher, vol- sausages so they had been the whole building would go
unteered to make 25 pounds stored in the Legion garage up in flames. Alf ran for the
of sausage, the Comox and “something” whether fire extinguisher; the kitchen
Creamery provided 24 dog, cat or ‘coon had eaten a filled with smoke because
dozen eggs, the Courtenay few pounds. they decided to clean up the
Bakery agreed to baked hot No one had thought to spilled grease by burning it
rolls that morning and Jack check out what equipment off the stove. The smoke was
Southern was to make sure was available in the lower so thick Sandy Strachan said
there was enough rum. hall kitchen and now they you could cut it with a knife.
They rented the lower realized there was only a The eggs were, to say the
Native Sons hall; the man- small cast iron pan, a few least, not cooked to perfec-
ager, Alf Smith was to open inches deep and rusty. tion.
at 6 a.m. All the food for Someone found steel wool With the tables set and
the breakfast was stored in and began scouring it out. ready and a ration of rum at
the Legion hall, where the Someone else went upstairs each place, someone asked
committee met the evening and found two cake pans left where’s the salt and pepper?
before to make sure they from a banquet. They would and they realized the Native
would be prepared. Years fry the eggs in these three Sons did not supply them.
later, Wagner confessed that pans. So a “raiding party” scoured
they may have decided to To make coffee, they had local eateries namely the
test the potency of the rum to use the stove upstairs, Riverside Hotel, the Glacier
during their night’s prepara- which had a 15 gallon gran- Café and Hobby’s.
tion. For sure, about 2 a.m. ite pot. The cooks were by The event was remembered
they had a trial run of mak- then working on “what the by the committee as orga-
ing bacon and eggs. Four heck” system, so they boiled nized confusion. Yet they
hours later they went over to the water and dumped in successfully served about
the Native Sons only to find packets of coffee which they 100 people before everyone
it locked. boiled for a good long time. paraded up to the Cairn.
Wagner said “Murphy’s Later they lugged the whole The breakfast must have
Laws went in to full force.” thing downstairs. been a success because it is a
No one had thought to Cooking the sausages tradition that has continued
light the kitchen stove, didn’t seem to be any trou- for 70 years, but now they
which burned coal, so Alf ble, so now they tried to fig- serve hard boiled eggs!
Smith cut up kindling wood, ure out how to fry the eggs Sandy Strachan, the cook
but all of this delayed get- in the small pans they had at that infamous first break-
ting the temperature to start scrounged, but the grease fast, would continue to cook
the coal. Then there was spilled over onto the stove at the November 11th break- A wreath is laid at the Courtenay cenotaph during the 2015 Remembrance Day service.
another problem. There had and caught fire. Wagner fast for the next 60 years.

By remembering history,
we honour the past
as we build toward
a peaceful future.
CHRISTIAAN
HORSFALL BRANDON
P.R.E.C. GUILE Follow Us On:
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Phone: 250-339-2021
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www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record Thursday, November 9, 2017 B13

Songs from war years with Serendipity Jazz


The popular music from the time of the audience is, of course, welcome to sing Jacqueline Lambreth
Second World War still evokes powerful along. (vocals) and Ken
emotions for many Canadians even as the Jacqueline and Ken have performed Newman (piano) of
number of surviving veterans gradually together on Vancouver Island for several Serendipity Jazz will
dwindles away. years. Jacqueline is a well-established, be joined by Bruce
As a gesture of thanks to the Comox classically trained vocalist in the Comox Macara (bass) and
Valley Veterans of all campaigns — be Valley whose genres range from opera to Tracy Canil (Flute) for
they conflict or peace-keeping — and for Celtic, from musical theatre, to lyrical the Comox Legion
their families and friends, the Comox Le- vocal jazz. Her love of singing extends to show, Nov. 12.
gion in conjunction with Serendipity Jazz her vibrant vocal studio where she teaches
(Jacqueline Lambeth - vocals, Ken New- students of all ages and ranges of ability.
man – piano, Bruce Macara – bass, Tracy Ken acts as accompanist during her
Canil - Flute), are once again delighted voice lessons. His background could not
to be presenting a special Remembrance be more different as a university teacher
Day Performance. and chemistry researcher.
The show will feature favourites from However, together they both share a
the First and Second World Wars. The similar love of music.

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B14 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Ominous date didn’t bother Comox resident


Scott Stanfield
out, but number 12 sat down in off him,” she said.
Record staff
the doorway, with Taylor directly Albert was placed in a Stryker
behind. bed, which would be turned
Albert Taylor had never been “I hooked my legs under his hourly. Each day, a nurse would
superstitious. armpits,” Taylor recalled. “His prick his toes with a needle, but
So it didn’t bother him when chute opens, and mine opens, but he felt nothing. This went on for
he was told his unit, Princess Pa- collapses. He stole air from my about three months, but one day
tricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, chute. That knocks me (under the he winced and felt the prick of
would be parachuting on Friday plane) over to the other door.” the needle.
the 13th in October 1954 in Oko- With his chute still not open, “She (nurse) said, ‘Corporal,
toks, Alta. near Calgary. Taylor landed on top of anoth- you’re going to walk again’,” said
That morning, Albert’s wife er parachute and slid down the Taylor, who had weights on his
Wanda had asked him: ‘Aren’t nylon rope. From there, he slid feet during those 90 days. “Those
you superstitious?’ off the chute. Using the cords, weights brought my height back
‘No,’ he replied. he slid further and grabbed his (to 5’11).”
He was one of 20 men who fellow jumper. Wearing a body cast, Taylor
would jump that day from a dou- “We held onto each other. Be- underwent rehab for six months,
ble-door C119 aircraft. Taylor fore hitting the ground, I said, after which his military duties
was issued parachute number 13. ‘OK?’ and he said, ‘OK, corporal.’ Albert and Wanda Taylor at home in Comox. Albert was injured while parachut- were limited.
“It was my 13th jump with that “We had a hard landing. I ing on Friday the 13th in October of 1954. Before the accident, Albert had
unit,” the now 88-year-old Comox bounced with the ground, stood served in the Korean War. After
resident said. “I was 13, 13 and up and fell down again. I could the accident, he and Wanda spent
13. I was 13th in the stick.” feel nothing. He lay on the suffered a broken leg. Taylor frac- years ago. Wanda recalls Albert a couple years in Germany on
When the plane approached the ground, groaning as well.” tured his back in two places. He had said he would phone when a posting. Later, they lived in
jump zone, a red light came on. Medics immediately arrived, recalls staff measuring him at 5 he got in from the jump. When he Victoria, Whitehorse, Edmon-
Everyone lined up with the first loaded both men into ambulance feet, 9 1/2” — before the accident, didn’t call, she decided to phone ton and Chilliwack. After he was
jumper in the door. The routine and took them to the military hos- he stood 5’11. him. To her distress, the voice on discharged, the couple moved
was to call out their number in pital in Calgary. “I was two inches shorter be- the other end of the phone said, to Edmonton with their family.
descending order. The red light “They took the chute off but cause of the jump.” ‘Corporal Taylor’s in the hospital They have lived in Comox since
switched to green when the pilot left the packboard on me for sup- Taylor was also paralyzed. with a broken back.’ Her boss 1989.
flew over the target about 1,200 port,” Taylor said. He and Wanda were newlyweds drove her to the hospital. To this day, Taylor says he is still
feet below. Everyone started piling X-rays determined his friend on the day of the accident 63 “I see his uniform has been cut not superstitious.

We must
never forget
those who 250.339.4525
made the Dr. Leo Johnson DDS, Dr. Leo C. Johnson Inc. 1842 A Comox Ave.
Dr. Frank Lo BDS, and staff Comox
ultimate FA M I LY D E N T I S T RY

sacrifice.

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Saluting veterans.
Wear a poppy.
our Canadian
heroes.
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com Comox Valley Record Thursday, November 9, 2017 B15

Island Voices offering Remembrance Day performance


The Island Voices Cham- people as they cope with
ber Choir, celebrating its the extraordinary circum-
20th anniversary season, stances of war.
presents the first of three “As I read through let-
concerts, Voices in Remem- ters, diaries and other
brance: In Their Words on source material I feel a
Nov. 11 in Courtenay and greater connection to my
Campbell River. community and a deeper
The performance weaves appreciation of the person-
together songs and read- al sacrifices that were made
ings fostering a rever- on our behalf,” she notes.
ent atmosphere in which The Remembrance Day
to honour the men and concert continues the tra-
women who have served dition established in 2005
our country during times by the late Francis Keen,
of war, and contemplate founding musical direc-
our responsibility to work tor and guiding spirit of
for the peace they fought Island Voices Chamber
hard to achieve. Choir. Her rich legacy
Island Voices will share has endured for 20 years,
the stage with the Cana- as they strive to sing “ex-
dian Military Wives Choir cellent music, excellently.”
in Courtenay and the Voices in Remembrance:
Campbell River Children’s In Their Words will take
Choir in Campbell River. place at 2 p.m. at St.
These diverse groups have George’s United Church
a common aspiration to in Courtenay and at 7:30
sing from the heart and to p.m. at St. Patrick’s Cath-
touch people emotionally. olic Church in Campbell
The musical directors, River.
Jenn Forsland, Wendy Island Voices will share the stage with the Canadian Military Wives Choir in Courtenay and the Campbell River Children’s Choir in Admission is by dona-
Nixon Stothert and Jen- Campbell River. tion. For information call
nifer Abbott have selected Island Voices musical di- The repertoire acknowl- on Remembrance Day, the musical director of Island 250-898-4773 (Comox
an evocative program of rector. edges the raw emotional musicians and the audience Voices, has assembled the Valley) or 250-923-0303
songs. “The program must themes associated with are afforded a reflective, readings from local sourc- (Campbell River). To learn
“Selecting songs for a Re- reflect a myriad of emo- war including anticipation, cathartic and healing ex- es. more about the choir and
membrance Day program tions and experiences that fear, despair, hope and ulti- perience.” It has been a rewarding its upcoming concerts, visit
is always a thoughtful pro- respectfully honour the mately peace. It is my hope Jo-Anne Preston, found- experience for her, peering its website at IslandVoices-
cess,” says Jenn Forsland, magnitude of the occasion. that in sharing this music ing member and former into the lives of ordinary ChamberChoir.bc.ca.

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B16 Thursday, November 9, 2017 Comox Valley Record www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox resident was the original Red Knight


Scott Stanfield
Record staff

Joyce Hallowell was pleasantly sur-


prised to see herself quoted inside the
cover of The Red Knight, a recently re-
leased book that chronicles the history of
the Canadian Air Force solo jet-aerobat-
ics program that ran from 1957 to 1970.
Her late husband, Robert Hallowell,
was a big part of the program.
“He was fortunate to spend his life
doing what he loved,” said Joyce, a
Comox resident. “Flying was his love.”
Hallowell was the RCAF’s first ‘official’ Robert Hallowell pictured in the cockpit.
Red Knight. Though selected as Roy
Windover’s backup in 1959, Hallowell
assumed the role when Windover was Egypt, after which he became Base Op- Joyce retired from her job at the court-
posted overseas. He flew a red T-33 jet erations Officer at CFB Comox. house.
fighter and trainer in aerobatic perfor- He retired in 1980 — 20 years before “He was the best house husband in the
mances across Canada from 1959 to Valley,” she said.
1961. Bob spent a couple of his early retire-
The plane was decorated with his de- ment years bush flying. He and Joyce,
sign of a helmeted figure of a knight in who married in 1983, were both involved
armour on the nose. with 888 RCAF Wing, of which Bob
Born in Brantford, Ont. in 1930, Hal- was a founding member. He also edited
lowell worked in the woods, did some the Wing magazine Contrails, and was
firefighting and returned to school for a a copy editor at the CFB Comox Totem
year before embarking on a flying career Times.
in 1950. Wing Commander (Retd.) Hallowell
After training as a pilot in Gimli, Man., passed away at age 84 in 2014. His Cel-
he flew Vampire jets in Chatham N.B. ebration of Life at 888 Wing filled the
His instructors included Comox Valley building to capacity.
legends Stocky Edwards, Duke Warren The Red Knight was written by aviation
and Irish Ireland. His Vampire 11031 enthusiast John Corrigan, who invested
is on display at the Comox Air Force about 25 years researching and interview-
Robert Hallowell was the RCAF’s first ‘official’ Red Museum. ing people, Joyce among them. Another
The late Robert Hallowell is a subject in the
Knight. Hallowell was posted to Europe in was Terry Hallett of Powell River, who
newly released book, The Red Knight.
1961. He was later posted to Ismailia, was a Red Knight.

All Quality Foods Stores are closed November 11,


to allow all of our people the opportunity to
observe Remembrance Day with their Family,
friends and neighbours.

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