WWII Vets Rapidly Vanishing

“To you, from failing hands, we throw The torch: be yours to hold it high”

In Flanders Fields – written by John McCrae at the battlefront May 3, 1915 Ypres, Belgium

Proud Canadians are once again wearing poppies this November to commemorate Veterans’ Week and will take a moment of silence November 11 to honor those who sacrificed their lives to preserve our way of life.

September 2014 marked the 75th anniversary of World War II and as the veterans of this conflict age and pass on at an increasing rapid rate, it is important for the next generation to understand their history.   Most WWII vets are in their 90’s, and according to the U.S. Veterans Administration numbers, they are dying at a rate of 492 a day. It is estimated that by 2036, there will be no living veterans of the great conflict alive.

For these reasons, it’s more important than ever to preserve history and pass on the stories for our children and their children.  More than 700,000 Canadians served in the Canadian Army between 1939 and 1947.  To access a database of those who died in service, visit the Canadian Library and Archives at: http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/second-world-war/second-world-war-dead-1939-1947/Pages/files-second-war-dead.aspx.

To learn more about Canada’s military history and for a list of Veteran’s Week events visit http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance .  Take time this week to talk with a vet and let them know how much they are valued.