Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 IN THIS ISSUE Legion to honour long-time · Legion to honour long-time members; Member for nearly 70 years, B.C. members; Member for nearly man heading home for Branch 25 ceremony 70 years, B.C. man heading · Canadian soldier found dead at Kandahar base home for Branch 25 · Laura Secord is bringing the flavours of springtime to members of Canadian ceremony Forces stationed in Kandahar · Last French World War I veteran dies at 110 · Fifth estate takes cameras into battlefield hospitals · In-House Pool League Standings · New headstone to mark grave · Man, woman marry after nearly 50-year split Frank Correy calls himself the family · Weird, but interesting! historian. · Remembering the struggle of Ortona · Minister Of Veteran Affairs, Speach before the Senate Sub-Committee on Next month, the former Sault Ste. Veterans Affairs Marie resident will be honoured for his · Bomber Command deserves a medal role in Royal Canadian Legion Branch · Our veterans deserve better 25's history. · War widow: PM broke promise The British Columbia man has held his · Three Nova Scotia soldiers awarded medals for work in Afghanistan branch membership for nearly 70 · Unexpected Heros... you learn something new every day !!!! years. · Injured soldier praises decision to stay in Afghanistan · Military, RCMP vets decry tax clawbacks Correy joined Branch 25 in 1939 when · We can do more for our troops he was just 15. His active status · Our aging veterans deserve better continues to this day even though he · Push for nursing home heats up left the city in 1952 and moved to · Remembering Korean Legend, Ken Barwise Grimsby. "I would have done it anyway, but my brother Jack always pays my legion membership for my birthday present," said Correy in a telephone interview from his winter home in Cave Creek, Arizona, north of Phoenix. Now in his 69th year as an ordinary member, Correy will be recognized when Branch 25 holds its 80th anniversary gala at Marconi Hall on April 5. Correy will be the event's patron. The honour is a "reward for his loyalty and longevity in staying with the branch," said president Walter Wallace. "To me, it's pretty impressive." Wallace can't confirm Correy is Branch 25's all-time longest serving member, but he'd be surprised if anyone else has more years' service. The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 1 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 More 'BRANCH 25' - A2 up the first flag on the legion's building military police. The organization must on Queen Street East and took it look into all incidents involving "I'm rather doubtful that there's down for the last time in 1964. Canadian military personnel or anybody who has more years than property at home or abroad. him," he said. Branch 25's current location on Great Northern Road was built in 1967. The Ouellet, born in Matane, Que, had Correy, a retired assistant land, building and furnishings cost just arrived at the base within the past two superintendent of the utilities over $400,000. weeks. department for the Steel Company of Canada, is cutting short his vacation in Monday, March 10, 2008 "Our thoughts are with the family and the Grand Canyon state so he can Brian Kelly friends of Bombardier Ouellet," said attend the dinner and an April 12 Section: RCL Laroche. "Our primary focus at this lunch honouring 84 legionnaires with time is to provide the best possible 50-plus years membership at Branch support to his family and colleagues." 25. Canadian soldier found dead at Kandahar base More than 10,000 soldiers operating in "I think it speaks very highly of their Afghanistan as part of the loyalty and their dedication to the International Security Assistance organization," said Wallace. Force reside in Kandahar Air Field. Until recently, Correy would return It's the centre of Canadian operations, each summer to the Sault and the but also home to troops from the U.S., local branch. He reads Branch 25's Britain and the Netherlands. monthly newsletter, Dispatch, to keep The last incident in which a Canadian in touch with Sault news. soldier died on the base was in March Since legion members can belong to 2007, when Corp. Kevin Megeney, 25, only one branch, Correy is the was shot in the chest. Officials are still "permanent visiting guest" of Branch investigating. 107 in Chase, B.C. Correy and his According to The Canadian Press, wife, Dorothy, moved out west after only one soldier has committed selling their Grimsby home in 2004. suicide while on duty in Afghanistan. Correy, 83, spent most of the Second Soldiers speak with a psychiatrist, World War serving in Canada social worker and mental-health nurse including a stint as a heavy mortar and before being deployed to Afghanistan. anti-tank artillery instructor in British They can visit with those same Columbia. professionals at Kandahar Air Field. Military officials are investigating the "The hook came out," he said of his death of a 22-year-old soldier, whose Canada has now lost 80 military attempts to get overseas when war body was found Tuesday in an personnel in the war-torn country was declared in 1939. accommodation room in Kandahar Air since 2002, along with one diplomat "There were quite a number of us that Field. and a civilian aid worker. weren't even very close to 18 years The soldier has been identified as The latest death comes as the old." Bombardier Jeremie Ouellet, of the 1st Canadian government prepares to The Marconi was chosen for the event Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse decide whether to extend the mission because it can hold 300 compared to Artillery, based in Shilo, Man. until 2011, in a House of Commons Branch 25's capacity of 200. vote expected Thursday. Brig.-Gen. Guy Laroche told reporters Since the legion's Ladies Auxiliary that the soldier was found at 2:15 p.m. With files from The Canadian Press usually caters hall events, Wallace Tuesday and that his death "is not wanted them to be able to attend the related to combat." Tuesday, March 11, 2008 gala instead of having to work. CTV.ca News Staff But he could not specify how Ouellet Section: Afghanistan Jack Frost, national president of the died. Royal Canadian Legion of Canada, is "The Canadian Forces National the guest speaker. Investigation Service has initiated an A unit of the Great War Veterans' investigation to establish the details Association was organized in the Sault and circumstances of this tragic on Queen Street East in 1918. incident," he said. "As a result, no other details can be provided at this The GWVA was absorbed by the time." Canadian Legion on April 12, 1928. The CFNIS is the major crimes Fifteen names appear on Branch 25's investigative unit of the Canadian charter, including Fred Sutton. He put Page 2 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Laura Secord is bringing the part of Laura Secord's heritage as one plan the ultimate Easter egg hunt. flavours of springtime to of Canada's premier chocolatiers. For These pastel blue coated eggs with a 95 years, Laura Secord has been creamy members of Canadian Forces making memories sweeter, using the caramel chocolate centre are just $8 stationed in Kandahar finest (160g). Or, spoil your friends and ingredients for the freshest family chocolates. For more than 80 of those with the new Easter Hostess Box, a years, unique keepsake box filled with rich Laura Secord's famous Easter cream truffles, milk chocolate foil eggs and eggs have become known as true delicious Robin's egg caramels. It's harbingers perfect to enjoy with your guests at of spring. Easter brunch ($35.00, available at The Secord Easter Cream Egg was select Laura Secord stores). introduced in the 1920's as a sweet About Laura Secord treat for Easter, and has since become a Founded in 1913, Laura Secord is Canadian tradition for families. This Canada's largest chocolate retailer. egg With more than 400 products, 2,500 famous Secord Eggs are en with its fresh, mouthwatering including premium chocolates, ice route to Afghanistan in time for Easter buttercream centre, enrobed in dark cream and MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 11 / chocolate, candies, Laura Secord still follows the CNW/ - Thousands of men and has become so popular that guarded time-honoured recipes and women of the customers simply refer to it as the dedication to quality and excellent Canadian Forces serving in Secord Egg. customer service as when the Afghanistan are getting a special Four sizes are available; a 20g mini company first delivery from Secord Egg to satisfy the impulsive started. Laura Secord has 1,600 Laura Secord as the Canadian snacker, 100g & 200g eggs for loyal employees and operates 142 retail chocolate maker today announced traditionalists, and a 300g egg for the shops, and that it has true connoisseur. Prices range from distributes its products in more than donated 2,500 of its famous Secord 75 cents to $10. 2,000 third-party retail outlets across Easter Cream Eggs to soldiers Originally the cream eggs were Canada. For more information about stationed in produced for the Easter season, but Laura Secord, visit Kandahar. their www.laurasecord.ca. "Laura Secord is proud of the popularity demanded that the eggs be For further information: Katarina important contribution and brave made available to customers much Markovinovic, Andrea Farnell, Porter efforts earlier. Novelli Canada, (416) 422-7187, (416) being made by members of the Production on Laura Secord Cream 422-7162, Canadian Forces and our hope is to Eggs starts as early as January to [email protected] deliver a meet the om, [email protected]; small but traditional taste of Easter to demand and still provide the Laura For the Canadian personnel serving in Secord tradition of uncompromising more information on the Canadian Afghanistan," said company President high Forces Personnel Support Agency Jamie Ardrey. quality and guaranteed freshness. visit: The Canadian Forces Personnel Canadians take pleasure in how www.cfpsa.com/supportourtroops, or Support Agency (CFPSA) welcomed they eat the Secord Egg and sharing contact CFPSA Public Affairs at: (613) the special the 996-6204 delivery by Laura Secord. experience with friends and family is "Receiving these Laura Secord the best part. Some chill it or slice it Tuesday, March 11, 2008 Easter treats is great for the morale of before enjoying. Others scoop out and CNW Telbec our troops," says Canadian Forces eat the creamy, yellow centre first, Section: Afghanistan Personnel Support Agency Manager, like a soft-boiled egg. Deployed The same famous Secord Egg Operations, Gordon Wells. "A touch of being sent to troops overseas is now home around the holiday season available means a in Laura Secord retail stores across great deal to all deployed Canadian Canada, along with a wide selection of Forces members who are away from Easter treats - from solid and hollow their chocolate bunnies and lambs to solid families." foil eggs in caramel, peanut butter and A celebration of renewal and the mint flavours. promise of spring has been an Also available are Laura Secord's important new Robin's Egg Caramels for you to The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 3 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 Last French World War I Louis de Cazenave, who was also 110 severe," he says, based on his veteran dies at 110 years old. Around 8.5 million French personal experience. "But the poor nationals fought in World War I. Afghanis are taking it on the chin." Reflecting on his wartime experiences, Two or three Canadians are injured for Ponticelli once said: "You shoot at every 20 or 30 Afghans, he notes, but men who are fathers: war is when a Canadian patient is wheeled completely stupid." in, "you can hear a pin drop."

Wednesday, March 12, 2008 Findlay chatters incessantly afp throughout the program -- a CBC Section: Veterans signature -- whereas the HBO film did away with narration altogether and left the doctors and support staff to tell Fifth estate takes cameras their story in their own words. PARIS, March 12, 2008 (AFP) — The into battlefield hospitals Baghdad ER won four Emmys, but last surviving French veteran of World don't discount Life and Death in War I, Italian-born foreign legionnaire Kandahar when the Gemini Lazare Ponticelli, has died at the age nominations are announced. Findlay of 110, President Nicolas Sarkozy may talk too much, but it's a story that announced Wednesday. needs to be told. 9 p.m., CBC "Today, I express the nation's deep © Times Colonist (Victoria) 2008 emotion and infinite sadness," he said. On the eve of the debate on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 "I salute the Italian boy who came to Parliament Hill over Canada's Paris to earn his living and chose to Alex Starachan, Canwest News Service involvement in Afghanistan, the fifth Section: Afghanistan become French," Sarkozy said in a estate takes viewers on a tour of the statement. battlefield hospital in Kandahar where "First in August 1914, when he lied Canadian doctors and surgeons stare In-House Pool League about his age to sign up at 16 for the death in the face on an almost daily Standings Foreign Legion to defend his adopted basis. homeland. Then a second time in The program Life and Death in 1921, when he decided to remain here Kandahar isn't a documentary, but a for good." news profile. The fifth estate's Gillian Ponticelli's death leaves just a handful Findlay was granted access together of World War I veterans still alive with a camera crew for four weeks this worldwide. past winter, with the original intention of putting together an extended He had long insisted that he did not The In-House Pool League Standings segment for the fifth estate. want his death to be marked by a as of Monday, March 10, 2008 are: national day of mourning, but recently The resulting program is nowhere Mens Results: relented to government pressure, and near as compelling or competently said that he would accept the honour made as HBO's Emmy-winning Peter W. 64; "in the name of those who died." Baghdad ER, but it is worth seeing Mike 51; and because it tells a Canadian story Trevor 48. The government said that a mass will through Canadian eyes. And it's worth be held in his honour at Les Invalides, Ladies Results: seeing because it gives the viewer at the historic Paris military hospice that home some sense of what Canadian Bev 50; also houses the tomb of Napoleon, at medical personnel face in a combat Mary 48; and a date as yet to be decided. trauma that treats military and civilians Helen 40. The mass will be attended by "the casualties alike. Don't forget to sign up for the Mixed highest state authorities," officials The soldiers and doctors are Pool Tournament scheduled for said. committed to their cause, too: It's not Saturday, March 29th. Ponticelli died on Wednesday at 12:45 just a paycheque. Wednesday, March 12, 2008 pm (1145 GMT) at the home he Jerry Prince, Sports Officer "I've trained my entire life for this," one shared with his daughter in Kremlin- Section: Sports Canadian surgeon says quietly. "I'm a Bicetre, a southern suburb of Paris, great believer in the fight against the French ministry of veterans affairs terrorism. Do I believe in an attempt to said. stabilize this country? Sure, I think we Ponticelli's death came less than two can do it." months after that of the penultimate It's proving tougher than he imagined, French survivor of the 1914-18 war, though. Canadian injuries "are not that Page 4 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 New headstone to mark headstones in the Cranberry downs Cemetery. "They don't refurbish grave Seeing the woman who hesitated headstones that have been placed by saying yes to his marriage proposal in family members that are not official 1955, walk through his front door in from Veterans Affairs," Ladret said. 2001 was the answer to Don Magee’s "But they have made an exception for prayers. John MacGregor, whose family put a headstone down." The 73-year-old retired Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) veteran is Veterans Affairs wants to put a happy a woman who he thought never headstone up, Ladret said, and the to see again is back in his life. MacGregor family has agreed. The headstone that will be placed on So is the woman, 71-year-old RCAF MacGregor's grave is especially for veteran Ethel Tomi Strand. Victoria Cross recipients, Ladret The two spoke their wedding vows added. early last month after having been back together for seven years and, In 2006 Veterans Affairs Canada before that, living separate lives for signed an agreement with the 46. Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) for the The marriage ceremony took place in institution of a national grave location their Blind River home, where they project. Work performed by CWGC have been living since 2006. includes identifying veterans' burials Don describes himself as a quiet that are marked by an identifiable person who does not enjoy large stone and determining types of Lieutenant Colonel John MacGregor is social events. He is not fan of headstones. recognized as a war hero Northern Ontario. A new headstone will mark the grave Wednesday, March 12, 2008 Laura Walz -- Peak Editor “I didn’t want to come and I am still of one of Canada's most decorated Section: Veterans sorry I came. I don’t like it up here.” war heroes. Tomi on the other hand is very Lieutenant Colonel John MacGregor, Man, woman marry after determined to make the most of things who lived in Powell River, served with and likes to laugh. the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles in nearly 50-year split World War I and the 2nd Canadian The two seem to be opposites, but it is Scottish Battalion. He received the easy to see the affection they have for Victoria Cross for his action in each other. attacking and destroying an enemy The couple met in St. Jean, Quebec in machine-gun nest during the battle for October 1955 while they were Cambrai in September 1918. His other undergoing basic training at a RCAF heroic exploits earned him two Military base. Crosses as well as the Distinguished Conduct Medal. She was 18 and training to be a clerk while he was 21 and getting schooled MacGregor fired the three white flares to be a medic. from the top of Vimy Ridge which announced to the world that the The two crossed paths during parade Canadian troops had taken the ridge drills. in July 1917. Tomi was in charge of the exercise on In Powell River he is recognized and that fateful day. acknowledged through the naming of “Don had been trying to get a date city hall, the MacGregor Building, with me and I didn’t want a date. I MacGregor Street and MacGregor wanted to get through my course. Place. But his grave in the Cranberry Cemetery is a 12-inch-by-16-inch “But, he always made sure he was in plaque submerged in the ground that the first (parade) line.” is hard to find. Don Magee and Ethel Tomi Strand met Don’s reason for pursuing her was Frances Ladret, Powell River Regional when they were both young recruits in the simple. Royal Canadian Air Force sometime in District administrator, reported at the Tomi says, “He said he liked my February 28 board meeting that 1955. The relationship ended that same year. wiggle.” Veterans Affairs Canada was refurbishing all of the military Couple’s separate life had ups, It was clear that Don fancied her. The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 5 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 “He just kept bugging me.” vows before the mayor of a German Dutch woman had one drink, told him city. he smelled terrible and left. She says Don would come to her barracks and stand outside the door. Don says the man did not speak much Don regrets that. English. “I would run and hide and stand on top “She wasn’t bad looking.” of the toilet bowl so nobody could find “He just said, ‘Do you want him? Do Eventually, Don found a woman who me.” you want her? OK, you’re married.’” became his second wife, Edna Black. Their first date was almost accidental. Don continued working for the military However, the two divorced in 1993, until he resigned. He then took a after three years. Tomi’s girl friend had found a date and position with the Canadian Corps of invited her out. Unknown to Tomi, Don Don thought this would be his last Commissionaires and worked security tagged along. relationship. at a chemical plant. He did this for 28 “I wasn’t going to be ignorant and walk years. “That was pretty well it.” away from it,” she says. During this time his first wife died of Her troubles The night went fine and soon they cancer when she was only 49 years Tomi's story was not as rosy as Don’s. were going steady. old. Going out on the town was not easy “I went into a very deep depression Her life had some ups and some though. During basic training, recruits and I didn’t work for almost three major downs, starting with this airman were confined to the base. That did months. I stayed home drank coffee, who she knew at the base. not stop the couple or others from stared out the window and smoked Tomi says she was angry when Don using a hole in the base’s perimeter cigarettes.” stormed out of her room and out of her fence to go town and the bar. At the time, Don did not imagine life that day in 1955. The relationship progressed until meeting someone new. That is one of the reasons she went June, when Don proposed to her. He He says between working 12-hour out with this new fellow. was stationed in Montreal at the time shifts and getting meals to take to and she lived in Aylmer, Ontario. “We were sitting in the restaurant one work he did not have much time to day and he just up and asked me to He was at her apartment when he think about a new relationship. marry him.” asked her to marry him. She says she Don retired when he was 60 and lived was surprised and did not know what She said yes because she was upset off his RCAF pension and his Canada to say. with Don. Pension Plan. He sold his house and “The engagement lasted about 10 bought a trailer in Brockville on an “It was more or less to get even. I minutes,” Don says. acre of land. don’t know,” she says with a laugh. “She said she needed some time to “I just cut grass and did things around She split up with her husband a few think about it,” he adds. the house. And that is when I started years later when she found him thinking about someone new. In fact, I cheating. His reaction was dramatic. put notices in the newspaper.” With no relationship and no job, Tomi “I just felt if she doesn't know (her Don says he got many responses found work at an airplane feelings), then she doesn't love me although none of them stuck. manufacturing plant. and I grabbed the next bus back to Toronto and that was the end of it. His first blind date, from a personal ad, Soon she found someone else, but it was with an English woman. The was not too last. Sadly, her second “That was the way I was back in those relationship did not take. Don says husband died only two months after days. I just cut it right off.” she talked too much. they were wed. They went their separate ways and did Another date was with a woman who Tomi married a third time, to air force not see each other again for nearly 50 had a large wart on her face. cook Ron Strand, and stayed with him years, after each had several for about 40 years. marriages and just as many careers. “I had to go through with it because I didn’t want to insult her. So, I bought The couple had several children and Don continued his military career as a her a drink and told her I would see travelled the world. Ron retired in medical assistant. He served on bases her again, but I never did.” 1988 in Angus, Ont. across the country and around the world. Then there was the young Dutch The two divorced in 2001 at around woman who arranged a date at a the same time Tomi learned Don was When he was in Germany, he met restaurant. still alive and living in the same Gail Brophy who he married in June province. 1960. Don got there early. To kill time he visited a pharmacy and wound up “I was going through my pictures one They were married at a church by a sampling 10 or more colognes. day and I found a bunch of my Canadian army minister. To make it pictures of his mom, father and his legal however the two repeated their When it came time for his date, the Page 6 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 nieces and nephews.” saying, ‘We should get married.’ Weird, but interesting! Prayers answered “I said, ‘I asked you once and you refused.’ With her curiosity about Don stoked she began looking on the Internet for a “I didn’t refuse, I just didn’t answer,” D. Magee. she says chuckling. She found one telephone number, Don agreed to a ceremony as a way called and spoke with a man who was to end the argument. related to Don. She was given a “I like peace and quiet. And the only phone number and soon made contact way to settle this is to go along with it.” with the man who walked out of her life all those years ago. At this point in the interview, it is clear “It took me about two weeks to get Tomi disapproves of Don’s bluntness. enough courage to phone him,” she “Well, I am just being honest,” he says. says. “I didn’t know if he was married and I “Well, he is not easy to live with too, didn’t want his wife getting jealous.” you know,” she says. She phoned Don. He asked her to visit Minister Glenn Forest, accompanied him and she did. by his wife Alice, performed the Don thought God had answered his ceremony. A few friends were present Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out prayers of finding someone he could and Don and Tomi’s four cats each of 100 can. be with. had a red bow. Tomi called them her i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty bridesmaids. He also had feelings for her. uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The “I tried to keep it down,” says Don, not phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan “I was deeply in love with her back in wanting anything fancy. mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at the old days. I always had that feeling Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't in the back of my mind.” Don says while meeting Tomi again mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a was an answer to his prayers he has At first the two talked mostly about the wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is no regrets about not marrying her all old days. Then they spoke about taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the those years ago. giving their relationship a second try. rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl “The girl (his first wife) that I married mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit Don says it was her idea to move in was a wonderful, fantastic woman.” a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn with him. mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by Tomi has the opposite feelings. “She has a very forceful nature. istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. “My life was not just all roses being Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas “I just said we could give it a try, but married to this one fellow (who tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! nothing is final.” cheated) and then my second Image: Cone Figure Scratching Head, Tomi moved all of her furniture into husband (who died). 2000, John Berggruen Gallery, Don’s trailer. It was not long before “It wasn’t an easy thing for me.” photo by Tom Otterness Tomi began “nagging” Don about moving north. The two now share their time together Thursday, March 13, 2008 and are waiting for Don to get better Webmaster Their first place was in Elliot Lake in Section: Miscellaneous from recent cancer surgery. 2005, but Don was not happy living in the small city. Copyright © 2008 Elliot Lake Standard “He didn’t like it there,” she says. Wednesday, March 12, 2008 “Too many rules and regulations,” he SHANNON QUESNEL, Elliot Lake Standard says. Section: Veterans She says, “We had an argument one day and he took off, came back and said, ‘I bought a house in Blind River.’”

Happy times Don says during the time they have been back together she had been bugging him about marriage. “This was another nag. She kept The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 7 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 Remembering the struggle of “They are experiences that change they know that their freedom is in part Ortona your life,” says David Robinson, a a result of eople who came from history teacher in Port Perry, Ontario, countries as far away as Canada and and coordinator of the project South Africa.” “Remembering Ortona.” Arnone has kept the contact between Italy and Canada for many years, “It’s different compared to studying often with ‘simple’ gestures that history in books. Actually talking to seemed to go ignored. Instead, she survivors, seeing the actual places discovered, they had great value for where the battles took place and those who received them. Like the seeing the graves of the solders time she sent a photo of the grave of changes you inside. It happened even R. Beaton, one of the soldiers who to the students who seemed ready to died in Ortona, to his daughters. No treat this project like a simple class one ever brought flowers to that grave field trip.” because neither of them was ever Robinson admits that when he was a able to make the trip to Italy. School project honours WWII student, he too was unable to Receiving that photo was almost like Canadian soldiers who fought in Italy understand the importance and the being there in front of their father’s value of history from books. “Our grave. “There are 1,375 Canadian solders parents and our grandparents who “All I knew up until now was that on buried in Ortona,” says Michael Ukas. endured the war never talked about it,” October 13, 1943, it was a nice day,” “I knew them one by one. I get explains Robinson. “And the texts wrote one of the sisters to Arnone in a emotional every time I talk about devoted far too few pages to the thank you letter. “I know that when my them.” As he recalls these memories, history of Canada. At a certain point, I dad died, it was a nice day.” Ukas’ voice is broken by emotion and felt lost and I tried to reconstruct the “Ortona represents a piece of Italian age. connection between past and and Canadian history,” says Martin Ukas was 24 years old when he present.” fought at Ortona, Italy, in December of Stiglio, director of the Italian Cultural 1943. “War is horrible,” he says. “Only It’s a connection that has not been lost Institute. “Enough with memories that those who never endured it can on the Italian side either. In Ortona, divide us. It’s important and necessary understand it.” there are visitors who still to this day to share and remember the cruelty of bring fresh flowers every day to the war so that it doesn’t happen again.” But it’s important to remember, monuments of the fallen called “The especially for future generations. It is Price of Peace.” Thursday, March 13, 2008 in this spirit of remembrance that a Two of these visitors are the Lasorda By Letizia Tesi, Tandem News Section: Veterans few teachers, on the 65th anniversary sisters, Francesca and Maria. In 1943, of one of the worst battles Allied they were the same age as the Canadian troops ever fought on Italian Canadian troops who had come from Minister Of Veteran Affairs, soil, have organized the so far away to liberate their country “Remembering Ortona” project. The Speach before the Senate from the German siege. They didn’t Sub-Committee on Veterans project is open to high school students speak the same language and it was all over the country. This coming difficult to understand them, but for the Affairs November, hundreds of students will Canadian troops, there was always a leave for Italy to see the place where plate of pasta in the Lasorda house. many of their ancestors fought and Francesca and Maria’s mother would died. even do the soldiers’ laundry. Cooking Also participating in the project are the and cleaning were ways in which the Italian Cultural Institute in Toronto, citizens of Cortona demonstrated their where the project was presented last gratitude to the Allied troops. It’s a Wednesday night, and the Ortonan sentiment that has not faded with time. City Hall, which has always held a In that ancient village, hidden on a close connection with the Veteran’s peninsula in the Adriatic cost, there’s a Association. museum of the battle of Ortona. “They Ottawa, Ontario March 5, 2008 In past years, other students have call it the ‘battaglia dimenticata’ (the participated in similar initiatives to forgotten battle) because in Italy, it’s Thank you. And bonjour Mr. Chair and remember troops who fought far from not as well known as others but we good afternoon Honourable Senators. home. In April 2007, about 2,000 should not forget it,” explains Angela It is a pleasure to be with you today. Canadian students celebrated the Arnone, founder of the museum and To be among a group of 90th anniversary of the battle of Vimy central coordinator of the project. “We parliamentarians who are genuinely Ridge in France. In 2005, roughly 200 don’t want our children to relive the concerned with the well-being of our Canadian students commemorated suffering of our parents and nation's greatest heroes. the deaths of coalition forces in 1941. grandparents, but it’s important that Page 8 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 And I would like to begin my opening years against those of any other accomplishing that. It still needs fine remarks by reading a short quotation. government in Canadian history. We tuning but, as I said the last time I was It's from a speech British Prime have come a long way in a very short here, it is meant to be a "living Minister David Lloyd George gave just time. charter." An open book that is evolving a few days after the fighting had with the needs of our Veterans and Let me provide just a few examples - stopped after the First World War. their families. because, as we often say, actions "What is our task?" the Prime Minister speak louder than words. One of the most pressing needs we asked. "To make Britain a fit country are finding with our Veterans is the In just two years, and three budgets, for heroes to live in." mental illness that comes with seeing we have already budgeted a total of combat action or serving on Ninety years later, his question and $1.6 billion more for our Veterans than dangerous, stressful missions. The his answer are as true as ever. What was in the previous government's last psychological harm that comes with is our task? To make Canada a fit budget. their service is very real. It's country for heroes to live in. That is $1.6 billion more for our devastating. And it is equally tragic for That's why we are here today. To look Veterans, for their families, and for the our Veterans' families who are at what we are doing as a country to programs, the benefits and the struggling to cope with the harm their care for and support those brave men services that they count on. loved ones have suffered. and women who have always stood $1.6 billion to better serve our We have to dedicate ourselves to up for Canada. To look at how we are Veterans and to honour their these Veterans, and to their families, honouring the men and women who remarkable service. in the same way that they have defend our shared values of freedom, dedicated themselves to their democracy and the rule of law. We discussed some of this when I last missions. Always 100 per cent. appeared before your committee. At It is no more complicated than that; it that time, we spoke at length about We can't ask men and women to go could not be any simpler. Has Canada the New Veterans Charter that we had overseas without making sure they - have we - been doing enough to just implemented. A Veterans Charter know - instinctively - that we will be serve those who have served us so that represented the most sweeping there for them when they need us. well? That is a question we could ask changes to Veterans programs and ourselves. The New Veterans Charter helps us to services in 60 years. do that. It reassures them that the Everyone in this room will have his or And today, we can say that the supports will be there for them and her own answer. You will have your implementation of the New Veterans their loved ones. own opinions. And over the next 90 Charter has been a success. In two minutes we will no doubt cover a lot of We are taking action to deal with the years: issues in terms of what we are spike in operational stress injuries. accomplishing for our Veterans, and there have been more than 6,000 That's why we are doubling the where we still need to do more work. disability awards granted; number of operational stress injury We agree with our Veterans' Almost 1,800 clients have been clinics, often referred to as OSI clinics, organizations in recognizing there is approved for rehabilitation services-an we operate across the country. We more work to do. After all, as I often approval rate of 92 per cent; want to get our men and women the say, no matter how much we do for And more than 1,500 Canadian care they need. We want them to our Veterans, it will never be enough Forces members and their families are know that help is available. And that to repay the great debt we owe them. receiving earnings-loss benefits to they don't have to suffer in silence. help them make ends meet during the And how could we? How could we We are also getting better at the way transition process. ever fully repay these men and we reach out to them, at the way we These were some of the main goals of women for their sacrifices? For their help our men and women better the New Veterans Charter. To deal achievements? Or for their complete understand what they may be with the realities facing our modern- willingness to give up everything experiencing, and to let them know day Veterans. Men and women who important to them? To leave behind that they are not alone. We are there are retiring at younger ages and who their loved ones, their homes and their with them. want to start rewarding, productive careers to serve Canada? How do you new careers outside of the military. One new program in particular is thank the men and women who were producing great results. Operated willing to risk their own lives for our This includes men and women who jointly with the Department of National way of life, and for you and for me? have been injured - physically or Defence, its official name is the mentally - and who desperately want When you begin a debate that way, it Operational Stress Injury Social nothing more than to get better. To get humbles you. And it makes everything Support Program, or OSISS for short. back on their feet. And to contribute to else seem small by comparison. our country with the same sense of While the name is long, its goals are But I would argue that our purpose that led them to the military in very straightforward - and effective. It's Government can be proud of its record the first place. about having peers helping our on Veterans. I would be willing to soldiers with operational stress The New Veterans Charter is match our achievements after just two injuries. Bringing in counsellors who The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 9 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 have suffered their own service- can't figure it out. understand what happened at related mental health injuries. Men Gagetown 40 years ago. In many We have to simplify the process. Make and women who understand the tragic ways, I now understand why previous it easier to understand. And eliminate impact of such illnesses as post- governments - governments of all any gaps. Because our Veterans have traumatic stress disorder and who can political stripes - did not act. already endured more than their fair provide one-on-one and group share of hardship by the time they It's a complicated issue. A counselling. take off the Canadian uniform for the controversial issue. Involving a mix of Now we know this program is needed final time. They've sacrificed enough. both civilians and military personnel. and that it is working. You can see It's our turn to serve them. And it's been blurred by time and that by reading a new book, written by distance. That's why we have introduced two Capt. Fred Doucette, a Lincoln, New very important measures in the past I have often described the Agent Brunswick man who served as a UN year. The first is a Veterans' Bill of Orange issue as a puzzle you find in peacekeeper in Bosnia. In Empty Rights - something our Veterans had your grandmother's attic. Pieces have Casing, Mr. Doucette offers a stark been asking governments to do for gone missing or lost. And the full account of his experience as a decades. In fact for four decades. picture will never be truly known. But peacekeeper and his ongoing battle Something we promised in the last none of that can be used as an with PTSD: the painful, vivid election. And something our excuse for refusing to act. flashbacks, the nightmares, and the Government has followed through on. anger that has changed him. That has We found a responsible, fair and left him, in many ways, an empty The Bill of Rights is a guarantee to our compassionate way to solve this long- casing. Veterans that they will be treated by standing issue. their federal government with respect, The comfort in this often grim account With our $96.5 million plan, we are with dignity, with fairness and with is that Mr. Doucette says OSISS is providing $20,000 ex gratia payments courtesy. That they will receive clear, making a "big difference" for our to anyone who lived or trained on the easy-to-understand information about Veterans and soldiers. And, as he base or lived within five-kilometres of the federal programs available to recently told the Ottawa Citizen, he's the base in the summers of 1966 and them. And that they will receive all of witnessed a new attitude atop 1967. the benefits and services they're Veterans Affairs and National entitled to. That they have earned. The only other eligibility requirement is Defence. "I've seen some amazing that these recipients have been changes," he said. And, to make sure all of this happens, diagnosed with one of the 12 diseases we have appointed a Veterans And you will see more changes. More that the U.S. Institute of Medicine has Ombudsman - just as we promised we improvements. As we speak, we are concluded can be associated with would. In naming Col. Pat Stogran as training more OSSIS co-ordinators exposure to Agent Orange. Canada's first Veterans Ombudsman, and adding staff to our district offices we have found someone truly capable This is the right thing to do. While we at Veterans Affairs. And DND is doing of speaking up forcefully for our know the base is safe and that there's the same. Veterans. Someone who is been no long-term health affects from We are making it even more effective determined to defend them, and the Agent Orange tests, we also know and accessible, and we will be making someone who understands their that - 40 years later - there is still more announcements in the coming needs and their issues because - after uncertainty about what happened. months. all - Col. Stogran is a Veteran himself. Forty years later, good people have lost the chance to prove the harm they At the same time, we are raising Together, the Veterans Bill of Rights believe was done to them. We realize Veterans Affairs Canada's profile on and the Veterans Ombudsman this, and we've acted. our Canadian Forces bases. And we represent two major breakthroughs. are working closer than ever with the Two major achievements for our And, by way of a footnote, I can tell Department of National Defence. Veterans, and we should be proud of you that by the end of last month more Because we want to create a them. They show that we are than 700 individuals had already been seamless transition for those CF matching our words with firm action. approved for the $20,000 payment. members who are leaving the military Now, before I close, I would like to There are just a couple more things I and joining our programs. touch briefly on just a few other would like to add. One of them is from This new approach is long overdue. important subjects. Other last week, when Finance Minister Jim accomplishments that should be Flaherty delivered our government's You recently saw a colour flow-chart noted. third budget - a budget that includes of the way retiring and releasing CF $282 million over the next three years members cross over from the The first is our resolution of the Agent to extend the Veterans Independence Department of National Defence to Orange tests conducted at CFB Program to more than 12,000 Veterans Affairs Canada. The maze of Gagetown in the summers of 1966 Veterans' survivors. arrows and lines explain why some and 1967. Veterans fail to get the help that's out This is good news for our Veterans' There are few files more difficult or there. I did see that chart and I still widows who, in some cases, have complex than trying to unravel and to Page 10 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 waited more than 25 years for this As well, we expect that we will be died. help to remain independent in their marking our first National During the course of the war, 125,000 own homes. Peacekeeping Day this year. That is aircrew of Bomber Command carried essentially our entire military history- With this announcement, we are out a total of 366,514 sorties. Of covered in a single year. supporting those survivors who need it these, 297,663 were by night. During the most and who can least afford it. And with each of these occasions, we these sustained operations, 55,573 will help new generations of pilots and crew were killed. For these low-income or disabled Canadians to understand our proud survivors, we will provide them with up The dead included 38,462 Britons, past, and how great our country is to $2,400 to cover their bills for 9,980 Canadians (58 per cent of the because of ordinary men and women housekeeping and grounds Canadians who flew with Bomber who accomplished extraordinary maintenance - so they can enjoy the Command were killed), 4,050 things. Men and women who continue quality of life they deserve in their Australians, 1,703 New Zealanders, to do extraordinary things serving twilight years. It's about respect. About 977 Poles, 218 Free French, 68 Canada. saying thank you, thank you for what Americans attached to Bomber you've done. This is the proud heritage we have Command from the United States inherited. The tradition that has been Army Air Force, 34 Norwegians and And this brings me to the final point I handed down to us from what we call three Indians - as well as 1,479 would like to make in these our greatest generations. And it is a ground crew. introductory remarks. It's about paying history, a heritage, which comes with proper tribute to our Veterans and Ninety-one members of the Women's responsibilities for us to shoulder. their families. During our first two Auxiliary Air Force also died while on years, we've done much to remember We have a sacred duty to honour our duty with Bomber Command. 10,999 their sacrifices and accomplishments. service men and service women. To members were taken prisoner of war; remember our debt. And to pledge our as many as a thousand evaded We've made sure, through increased steadfast support for those who wear capture after being shot down, most security and a ceremonial presence, the uniform and for those who have making their way back to Britain to fly that the integrity of the National War worn Canada's uniform. That is our again. Monument and the Tomb of the mission. Unknown Soldier is maintained. That In all, Bomber Command was the Green Park Memorial in London, And that is why you and I are here awarded 19 Victoria Crosses, nine of England remains a fitting tribute to our today. To make sure Canada is a fit them posthumously. Two members of Veterans. And that there is stable place for our truest heroes to live in. the Advanced Air Striking Force also funding for the Juno Beach Centre in Lest we forget. Thank you. Merci. received the Victoria Cross - France for the next decade. posthumously - for a bombing raid on Thursday, March 13, 2008 May 12, 1940 on a bridge being used As well, we have led Canadian The Honourable Greg Thompson by the German army to advance into delegations overseas to Section: Veterans Belgium: Flying Officer Donald commemorate special anniversaries Garland, aged 21 - the first of four for Vimy, Passchendaele, Beaumont- brothers to be killed in the war - and Hamel, and Dieppe. And Mr. Bomber Command deserves his observer, Sergeant Thomas Gray, Chairman, you and other members a medal 26. have accompanied our delegations on these great events. Recently I visited the graves of Garland and Gray in the immaculately And we have held countless maintained Commonwealth War ceremonies on our own soil to Graves cemetery at Heverlee, in remember and reflect on how blessed Belgium. They lie side by side. Next to we are as a nation. To remember that them is the third member of their crew, we owe this great country, the best Leading Aircraftman Lawrence country in the world, to those willing to Reynolds, 20. die for it. There is a third RAF Victoria Cross And this year, we will mark three more holder in that cemetery, at whose major anniversaries. The year 2008 grave I paid my respects: Flying will remind all Canadians of our three More than 60 years after the end of Officer Leslie Thomas Manser, killed greatest military achievements. the Second World War, there is a on May 31, 1942 on the return flight We will commemorate the 90th growing call for a special campaign from the first mass raid on Cologne, anniversary of the end of the First medal for Bomber Command: for the three weeks after his 20th birthday. He World War; the 65th anniversary of the 30,000 pilots and aircrew - and more had refused a parachute in order to Battle of the Atlantic from the Second than that number of ground crew - hold the bomber steady to enable an World War; and the 55th anniversary who are still alive; together with the NCO to jump to safety. of the Korean ceasefire. next of kin of those who were killed in action during the war, or have since The Heverlee cemetery is a The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 11 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 microcosm of the fortitude and heavy a burden as he and none often need to fight – and so often suffering of Bomber Command. In it lie contributed more distinguished publicly – for better treatment 752 British airmen, 157 Canadians, 45 qualities to the discharge of his duty. connected to injuries sustained doing Australians, 17 New Zealanders, 11 their duty? "As Minister of Defence, I had the Poles, one South African and one opportunity and the duty of watching The latest case of Canadian military American. his work very closely and I greatly personnel, and vets, running into The American, First Lieutenant D. admired the manner in which he bore bureaucratic roadblocks while trying to West, DFC, a member of the USAAF the altogether peculiar stresses of get help for service-related injuries attached to the RAF, was killed on planning and approving these came to light Tuesday. A Canadian November 3, 1943. Two of his crew repeated, dangerous and costly raids Press report revealed many of those members - Sergeant Henry McKernin, far into the heart of the enemy's serving on the submarine HMCS RAFVR and Sergeant William country. Chicoutimi in October, 2004, when a Frederick Neill, RAF - lie next to him. fatal fire broke out on the vessel’s "For nearly four years, he bore this In several cases, whole crews are maiden voyage, killing Lieut. Chris most painful responsibility and never buried beside each other. Saunders and injuring eight others, lost the confidence or loyalty of doubtlessly were exposed to varying In Heverlee, as in so many of the Bomber Command, in spite of the fact levels of hazardous substances in the Commonwealth War Graves that it endured losses equalled only, in incident. Commission cemeteries, one can severity, by those of our submarines in measure the sacrifice of the members the Mediterranean." Many of the submariners have since of Bomber Command, and feel the been stricken with various debilitating Unmoved by Churchill's reasoning, commonsense need for a campaign conditions, including severe breathing Attlee would not reconsider his medal. problems, post-traumatic stress and decision. That year, Harris was made other medical and neurological The scale of the achievement of these a Marshal of the Royal Air Force. His disorders. Some men reportedly had brave men was expressed, in 1945, by 125,000 aircrew (Harris called them to quit the navy. Sadly, according to Winston Churchill, when he wrote to his "old lags") still await a campaign the report, many submariners, as well Sir Arthur Harris, Air Officer medal for outstanding bravery, where as their families, have since also had Commanding-in-Chief, Bomber the chances of survival were about to fight for pension benefits and have Command: "All your operations were one in two. seen documented claims for planned with great care and skill. They Harris also wanted recognition for the compensation denied. were executed in the face of untiring, 24-hour service by the ground desperate opposition and appalling Reacting to the news report, Veterans crews, who kept the aircraft fit to fly in hazards, they made a decisive Affairs Minister Greg Thompson on difficult and dangerous weather and contribution to Germany's final defeat. Tuesday ordered an urgent review of operational conditions: among them, how submariners who survived the "The conduct of the operations the airfield drivers, mechanics and Chicoutimi fire have been treated by demonstrated the fiery gallant spirit armourers. The time has surely come his department. He also told his senior which animated your aircrews, and the for a campaign medal - and also for a officials to find out more about high sense of duty of all ranks under monument in London to these brave hazards faced by the crew as they your command. I believe that the men. battled the electrical fire. massive achievements of Bomber Command will long be remembered as Thursday, March 13, 2008 "We are seeking more information an example of duty nobly done." Martin Gilbert, Telegraph UK because at the end of the day we want Section: Veterans the benefit of the doubt to go to the Following the German surrender, veteran," Mr. Thompson said. Churchill's coalition government was replaced by a caretaker Conservative Our veterans deserve better It’s astonishing that in 2008 the administration, which was defeated in minister would have to instruct senior the general election in July 1945. As a staff to investigate what hazards faced result, the distribution of honours for a crew aboard an enclosed sub three- wartime service leadership fell to the and-a-half years earlier, a crew new Labour government, headed by fighting an onboard fire which almost Clement Attlee. certainly spewed toxic smoke into the air those men had to breathe. It That summer Attlee, who, as Deputy certainly shouldn’t take a news story. Prime Minister, had chaired the committee of the War Cabinet that Unfortunately, the experience for approved the Dresden raid, while veterans of the Chicoutimi tragedy Churchill was on his way to Yalta, seems to be far from an aberration. declined to put forward Harris for a Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Chicoutimi. Too many times, it seems, the benefit peerage. Churchill protested, writing to Credit: Royal Canadian Navy of the doubt does not go to the Attlee on January 6, 1946: "No C-in-C WHY must those who volunteered to veteran, but to bureaucratic in the RAF after Lord Dowding bore so serve in Canada’s Armed Forces so inflexibility. Page 12 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Just last year, the federal auditor War widow: PM broke or their widows for costs such as general was sharply critical of Ottawa promise shovelling snow or cutting grass. for the poor level of mental health Last spring, Ms. Carter confronted Mr. services available through the Harper in the foyer of the House of Defence Department. This despite the Commons, and during a private fact that, according to Veterans meeting with the prime minister she Affairs, the number of former soldiers said she got a promise from him that suffering post-traumatic stress had her concerns would be addressed in tripled – from 1,802 to 6,504 the budget. individuals, in a five-year period to March, 2007 – since the deployment Ms. Carter said the program in Afghanistan began. The military announced in last month’s budget was plan is to double mental health staff, not what she would call Mr. Harper from 228 to 447, by 2009. keeping his word. Meanwhile, the Canadian Forces’s On Wednesday, she joined MP Peter own ombudsman calls "fundamentally Stoffer (Sackville-Eastern Shore) and unfair" the ongoing deductions of pain MLA Percy Paris (Waverley-Fall River- and suffering payments – given for Beaver Bank) at the legion in Truro to service-related injuries -- from the denounce Ottawa’s "pitiful" attempt at pensions of more than 4,000 wounded addressing the issue. veterans. A lawsuit is before the court Mr. Stoffer said the extended program on that matter. would essentially be restricted to low- Two years ago, the same ombudsman income and disabled widows and found that the military had widowers. He estimated it might systematically ignored health benefit only about one-third of the complaints by 350 soldiers exposed to Joyce Carter joins MP Peter Stoffer at a estimated 100,000 widows across the depleted uranium, and other health news conference in Truro on Wednesday country. hazards in the 1991 Persian Gulf War to call on Ottawa to do what they say is the "The problem I have with this is the in Kuwait. right thing for veterans and their spouses. Credit: MARY ELLEN MacINTYRE / Truro prime minister (in his letter to Ms. Disturbing allegations of tampering Bureau Carter) said ‘all’ widows and he said with medical files of military personnel All veterans, their spouses should ‘immediately,’ " Mr. Stoffer said. have also surfaced. In 2000, a board qualify for new aid program, crusader He said that when soldiers, sailors and of inquiry found information was says. airmen went to fight overseas, no one deliberately removed from the files of asked how much money they made Canadian peacekeepers exposed to TRURO — Hold their feet to the fire but when their widows seek help for toxic chemicals in Croatia in 1993. and never give up. everyday costs, their incomes The list goes on. Those who served It was that kind of attitude that got suddenly become a question. their country, including those Joyce Carter through the war years in "The prime minister when in submariners aboard Chicoutimi, her native Manchester, England, and opposition made a solemn promise to deserve better. she hopes it will see her through to the end of a long battle to make Prime a widow of a veteran," he said. "The Thursday, March 13, 2008 Minister Stephen Harper "keep his only thing government should be The Halifax Herald Limited promise" to her. asking is, ‘Did you serve or did your Section: Veterans husband serve?’ And that’s it." "I was told when I was younger that you never make a promise you can’t Mr. Stoffer said extending the program keep," said Ms. Carter, 83, of to all veterans and their spouses is the Samsonville, Cape Breton. right thing to do — and it makes financial common sense. It would cost Ms. Carter gained national fame when far less to pay for seniors to get snow she publicly insisted the prime minister shovelled or have small repairs done extend the Veterans Independence to their homes than to foot the bill for a Program to all veterans and their nursing home, he said. spouses. Ms. Carter’s husband, Murdock, died In a letter to her in 2005, then- in 2000, and for a year she continued opposition leader Stephen Harper to receive his pension cheque and a vowed that his government would cheque from the Veterans extend the program to the surviving Independence Program. After that her spouses of all Second World War and pension cheque was cut in half and Korean War veterans. The program her program money stopped coming. offers financial assistance to veterans The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 13 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 Concerned about her financial plight Three Nova Scotia soldiers "We kind of overwhelmed them with and that of other war widows she awarded medals for work in our firepower and then we pulled back knew, Ms. Carter began a petition that with the rest of the platoon," he said. eventually included 996 signatures. Afghanistan The insurgents eventually left, he said. She started a letter-writing campaign to MPs, senators and newspapers "Once they put down their weapons, across the country. geez, you could see them a couple of hundred metres down the road being In November 2004, the federal a farmer again. It’s that kind of place. government restored the allowance to The enemy is 360. You don’t always widows who had lost their husbands know where they are or who they are." since 1990 and Ms. Carter got her allowance back, but that didn’t satisfy Sgt. Killam is one of three Nova Scotia her. soldiers who will be honoured later this month for their work last year in By late 2005, the allowance was given Afghanistan. to those who had become widows Cpl. Matthew Elliott of Dartmouth sits in an since 1981. American Blackhawk helicopter last April Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean will award him the Medal of Military Valour at a But Ms. Carter said she will not rest en route from Ma’Sum Ghar to Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. March 26 ceremony in Ottawa. until all widows and widowers are Credit: Christian Laforce / Staff / File included, regardless of when their Sgt. Killam, who has also done tours spouses died. She still writes more IT STARTED OUT as an ordinary foot of Bosnia and Kosovo, said he was than 50 letters each month to various patrol. It ended with a vicious firefight, just doing his job that day in Sangsar, politicians, urging action, and said a narrow escape and a medal for a just west of Kandahar city. she’ll continue to do so. soldier from Dartmouth. "My chain of command seems to think Asked what she thinks her husband of Sgt. Gerald Alexander Killam, then a that it’s more than that. It’s kind of 55 years would have thought of what master corporal, was leading a 10- hard to argue with them. They pretty she has been doing, Ms. Carter member section through the village of much told me you can argue all you thought for a moment. Sangsar in southern Afghanistan last want, you’re still getting it." May. "I think he’d be proud of me," she said. That modesty is striking considering "We were interviewing locals and his deeds as described in a citation ( [email protected]) asking the usual questions for a patrol, provided by the Governor General’s ’I was told when I was younger that like where the Taliban would be, and office. you never make a promise you can’t they were saying that there was none "On May 16, 2007, Sgt. Killam, then keep.’ in the area," Sgt. Killam said Wednesday. master corporal, repeatedly exposed Joyce Carter83-year-old war widow himself to lethal enemy fire during an But when women, children and elderly Thursday, March 13, 2008 ambush launched by insurgents in MARY ELLEN MacINTYRE Truro Bureau, The folks started leaving the village, "we Sangsar, Afghanistan," it says. Chronicle Herald kind of knew something was up," said Section: Veterans the 33-year-old Dartmouth native. "Although separated from his platoon, he identified enemy positions and The Canadian soldiers were doing the issued clear orders that enabled his same when they came under machine- section to engage the enemy. Inspired gun fire from three different locations. by his leadership, Sgt. Killam’s troops "It happened really fast," Sgt. Killam fought back a numerically superior said. enemy with no casualties to his section." The Taliban ambush was well- executed, he said. Two other Nova Scotia soldiers will receive the Meritorious Service Medal "The first few rounds landed at our at the same ceremony. feet. I mean, they didn’t miss by much." Cpl. Matthew John David Elliott, who grew up in Dartmouth and played He ordered his soldiers into a nearby football at Saint Mary’s University water-filled ditch where they could before joining the army, will be take cover. recognized for demonstrating versatile "We managed to make it there, and "and ingenious methods of collecting everybody got there safe. We actually intelligence." got pinned down there for a little bit." As a gunner in a light armoured Sgt. Killam was able to organize his vehicle, collecting intelligence was soldiers to start returning fire. Cpl. Elliott’s secondary role while he Page 14 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 was in Afghanistan last year. "I hoped before I came over — and I true character, here is dialog from 'The found it’s true here — that I see a Tonight Show with Johnny Carson'. "You just get as much info as you can physical difference as I go along His guest was Lee Marvin. Johnny and then hope it’s good," the 28-year- where things are changing, and things said, 'Lee, I'll bet a lot of people are old said Wednesday. are improving. It’s very small, very unaware that you were a Marine in the The Afghans who did talk were minute things, mind you. But it’s things initial landing at Iwo Jima ...and that forthcoming, Cpl. Elliott said. "Whether that I can say, ‘I assisted with this.’ I during the course of that action you the info they were giving us was true actually did something that I can be earned the Navy Cross and were or not is another question. If they proud of, things I can brag about, even severely wounded.' didn’t want to talk to you, they avoided back home." 'Yeah, yeah... I got shot square in the you altogether." ( [email protected]) bottom and they gave me the Cross Cpl. Elliott credits his father, a veteran for securing a hot spot about halfway Mountie who worked in intelligence up Suribachi. Bad thing about getting gathering for a decade, for helping him Thursday, March 13, 2008 shot up on a mountain is guys getting' out in Afghanistan. CHRIS LAMBIE, The Chronicle Herald shot hauling you down. Section: Afghanistan "He was a huge help if I had questions But, Johnny, at Iwo I served under the on different ways to do things or how bravest man I ever knew... We both to see things that aren’t supposed to Unexpected Heros... you got the Cross the same day, but what be seen," he said. "Little things like learn something new every he did for his Cross made mine look that. He was an invaluable source for day !!!! cheap in comparison. That dumb guy me to call up and bounce some stuff actually stood up on Red beach and off him. I don’t know if I’d say it’s a directed his troops to move forward genetic thing, but it certainly didn’t and get the hell off the beach. Bullets hurt." flying by, with mortar rounds landing everywhere and he stood there as the Before he left for Kandahar, Cpl. Elliott main target of gunfire so that he could used computer software to teach get his men to safety. He did this on himself how to speak conversational Lee Marvin, Captain Kangaroo, Mr Rogers. more than one occasion because his Pashto, the local dialect. Captain Kangaroo passed away on men's safety was more important than "That’s about as close to training as I January 23, 2004 as age 76, which is his own life. could get and then everything else odd, because he always looked to be That Sergeant and I have been was just kind of going off feel, trial and 76. (DOB: 6/27/27) His death reminds lifelong friends. When they brought me error," he said. us of the following story: off Suribachi we passed the Sergeant Warrant Officer James Adam Hunter Some people have been a bit and he lit a smoke and passed it to of Springhill will also receive the offended that the actor, Lee Marvin, is me, lying on my belly on the litter and Meritorious Service Medal later this buried in a grave alongside 3 and 4 said, 'Where'd they get you Lee?' 'Well month. He was the civil-military co- star generals at Arlington National Bob... if you make it home before me, operation detachment commander for Cemetery. His marker gives his name, tell Mom to sell the outhouse!' Canada’s provincial reconstruction rank (PVT) and service (USMC). Johnny, I'm not lying, Sergeant team in Kandahar from January to Nothing else. Keeshan was the bravest man I ever August last year. Here's a guy who was only a famous movie star who served his time, why knew. The Sergeant's name is Bob "His diligence, particular attention to the heck does he rate burial with these Keeshan. You and the world know him cultural sensitivities while dealing with guys? Well, following is the amazing as Captain Kangaroo.' local Afghans, as well as his vast answer: On another note, there was this wimpy knowledge of the Zharey district, were little man on PBS, gentle and quiet. instrumental to successful counter- In a time when many Hollywood stars Mr. Rogers is another of those you insurgency operations in the region," served their country in the armed would least suspect of being anything says the commendation. forces often in rear echelon posts where they were carefully protected, but what he now portrays to our youth. The 33-year-old reservist was only to be trotted out to perform for the But Mr. Rogers was a U.S. Navy Seal, teaching a course Wednesday and cameras in war bond promotions, Lee combat-proven in Vietnam with over couldn’t be reached for comment. Marvin was a genuine hero. He won twenty-five confirmed kills to his name. He wore a long-sleeved sweater on But in Kandahar last spring, where he the Navy Cross at Iwo Jima. There is TV, to cover the many tattoos on his was working to clear irrigation ditches, only one higher Naval award... the forearm and biceps. He was a master he described why he volunteered for Medal Of Honor! in small arms and hand-to-hand the Afghan tour. To show the humility of the man, he combat, able to disarm or kill in a "The humanitarian side really appeals credits his sergeant with an even heartbeat. to me," Warrant Officer Hunter told greater show of bravery. After the war Mr. Rogers became an The Chronicle Herald. If that is a surprising comment on his ordained Presbyterian minister and The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 15 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 therefore a pacifist. Vowing to never in the conflict. Military, RCMP vets decry tax harm another human and also Master Cpl. Paul Franklin, who was clawbacks dedicating the rest of his life to trying severely injured in a 2006 suicide to help lead children on the right path bombing, said pulling the plug too in life. He hid away the tattoos and his soon on the effort would be letting past life and won our hearts with his down the Afghan people. quiet wit and charm. "It’s a good decision because Real heroes don't flaunt what they did, Afghanistan is a fight worth fighting . . . they quietly go about their day-to-day we can’t let Afghans die," said Halifax- lives, doing what they do best they born Franklin, 40. earned our respect and the freedoms that we all enjoy. If anything, he said, setting any deadline on the complex, difficult Look around and see if you can find mission is a mistake. one of those heroes in your midst. "It’s not like expired milk, it’s going to Often, they are the ones you'd least take a while," said the Edmontonian. suspect, but would most like to have on your side if anything ever But even if the politicians had voted happened. for a quick withdrawal, Franklin said he wouldn’t consider his sacrifice to be Take the time to thank anyone that in vain. has fought for our freedom. With Military and RCMP veterans across encouragement they could be the next "For me, it was worth it — I signed up, the country are fighting a tax rule they Captain Kangaroo or Mr. Rogers I knew the dangers," he said. say is stripping them of as much as a Thursday, March 13, 2008 "I’d gladly give up my legs to be able quarter of their pensions every month. to do what I’ve done." ANON, From The Inbox Of The Webmaster The clawback, which is a result of the Section: Veterans Quitting Afghanistan would actually introduction of the Canada Pension prolong conflict in that country, said Plan in the 1960s which replaced the Injured soldier praises Janis Rapchuk, spokeswoman for a Canadian Forces own pension plan, decision to stay in Calgary-based group aiding Afghan means that when retired military or Afghanistan women. RCMP members turn 65, their pension payments - which often start when "A troop withdrawal would mean a they retire in midlife after 25 years of very bloody civil war with no end in service and then move on to another sight," said Rapchuk, of Canadian career- are treated as income and Women for Women in Afghanistan. taxed. "The majority of Afghans want us Some veterans claim they are losing there and want to work toward building more than $1,500 a month to a peaceful Afghanistan." clawbacks, and they point out that Her group has raised $2.5 million to Members of Parliament have educate Afghan women. exempted themselves from the same sort of clawbacks that other former ’I’d gladly give up my legs to be able to federal employees deal with upon do what I’ve done.’ retirement, while at the same time MASTER CPL. PAUL FRANKLIN refusing to change the legislation. Friday, March 14, 2008 "We were members of the Armed BILL KAUFMANN The Calgary Sun Forces, and so we had no union and Section: Afghanistan no voice when the legislation was changed, even though we were the ones who were most hurt by it and we were opposed to it," said John Labelle, a retired Canadian Forces member who is leading the national campaign. He says he is losing about $575 of his $2,500 pension every month to taxes, CALGARY — Parliament’s decision to including the loss of indexing on his extend the Afghan military mission to pension. 2011 was praised Thursday by an Labelle has brought the matter to Alberta soldier who lost both his legs politicians, the military's Veteran's Page 16 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Ombudsman and other groups in an [email protected] returning veterans. Among other effort to change the tax laws, which he things, she wants to see the Copyright © 2008 The Whig Standard says affect tens of thousand of retired implementation of standardized military members, including disabled Friday, March 14, 2008 programs that can be monitored. Canadians. The Kingston Whig Standard Locally, you can help by writing to Section: Veterans The legislation is the target of one MPs, asking them to back any lawsuit in federal court and has been program designed to help returning unsuccessfully the subject of several We can do more for our veterans. It's not enough to ride private members bills in Parliament, troops around town with a yellow ribbon on the latest of which is still before the your bumper that proclaims your House of Commons. support for the troops. In a very real sense, that's the least you can do. It was written by Peter Stoffer, an NDP MP from Nova Scotia, who has Tell your MP you're willing to pay more championed the cause. taxes or accept more service cuts if that's what it takes to assist our The motion has received first reading, soldiers. but has not gotten the second reading that would send it to committee for The bottom line is that, whether you're debate. Whether it will get to a hawk or a dove, the vets deserve committee depends how long the our support. minority Conservative government lasts. Friday, March 14, 2008 The Sarnia Observer And, in 2003, all parties of a standing You can't watch TV or read the Section: Afghanistan legislative committee on national newspapers without knowing that defence and veterans' affairs voted to Canadians are paying a heavy price stop the clawbacks, as did the majority for their participation in the Our aging veterans deserve of MPs in a non-binding vote that was Afghanistan mission. better opposed and subsequently not acted The images of flag-draped coffins upon by the Conservative being loaded onto transport planes for government. the long, sad journey back to Canada An online petition supporting the are a grim reminder that war truly is Re: Push For Nursing Home Heats Up changes to the tax law has attracted hell. -- March 10 more than 25,000 signatures and But what people don't see is the received the support of NDP leader Isn't it sad that the veterans who mental strain that combat is putting on served and sacrificed for our peace Jack Layton and a large number of those who return in one piece. retired senior officers, including retired cannot get support to build a home so Maj.-Gen. Lewis MacKenzie. A local family found out first hand what they can live out their days our troops are going through when peacefully? As young people they Labelle is encouraged by the wide, Cpl. Travis Schouten walked out of his signed up to defend our freedom, and grass-roots support for the initiative Sarnia home last November intent on our right to choose. and hopes that it will spark a political killing himself. Fortunately, he will to act on the part of politicians. But the one chance we get to thank returned home on his own after our surviving veterans, they are "It's a big issue, and it affects a lot of spending two days disoriented in a overlooked, and the proposal for a people, including people in Kingston," wooded area. home is overlooked and pushed aside he said, noting the large number of Schouten is among a growing number as too expensive, or not a necessity military personnel who choose to retire of soldiers returning home suffering right now. Was our freedom a here. from post-traumatic stress disorder, a necessity? Without these brave He also said changing the rules would psychiatric condition that's more than soldiers, would we even have this not cost taxpayers - the Canada tripled since Canada first sent troops choice not to give them a nursing Pension Plan, the Employment to Afghanistan in 2002. home for the aged? Insurance Fund and the old military The situation is so serious that the If, as a community, we all stood up retirement fund all have billions of House of Commons standing and said: Isn't there something wrong dollars in surpluses, so returning the committee on national defence will with this picture? -- then maybe we money to veterans who paid into it all meet April 8 to examine mental health could get more done. their careers would not result in any issues among our soldiers. shortfall. What is your freedom worth? Mine is One of those who has been invited to definitely worth more than a veterans' "We're not asking for anything from speak to the committee is Schouten's nursing home. That is the smallest of the public purse," he said. mother, Ann LeClair. thank yous they deserve. "We just want to be treated fairly." LeClair is calling for more support for Dan Gray The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 17 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 Kitchener against it," said Baxter, who is able to there are agreements between Ottawa live independently. "We've got to show and Queen's Park to care for veterans Friday, March 14, 2008 there's a need for it." in provincially regulated and operated Dan Gray. Kitchener nursing homes. Section: Veterans Last year Baxter was distracted from the campaign, after a flood in his "It gets really complicated," he said. apartment forced him to move from Four months ago, Martiniuk sat in on a Push for nursing home heats Galt to Preston. up meeting between veterans and an Now the battle is heating up again. official from Veterans Affairs, who came to Cambridge from Ottawa to The veterans home committee was discuss Baxter's idea. The official incorporated last month as the first explained that Ottawa's policy is to step in securing charitable status from support veterans in their homes or the Canada Revenue Agency. This hometowns, near friends and family. will allow tax receipts to be issued for donations to the cause. "It sounds logical to me," Martiniuk said of the policy. Later this month, the committee will meet to form its 2008 battle plan: more MP Gary Goodyear, too, said he investigation into where federal money continues lobbying on behalf of for veterans goes, more looking for Baxter's committee after arranging the Len Baxter is as determined as ever suitable land to build, more calls for meeting last year. to see vets get own place for care donations, Baxter said. There are 1,900 veterans in Waterloo Victory appears as remote as ever, Someone offered the group 28 Region, Goodyear said, including but Len Baxter won't end his fight for a hectares of farmland south of young veterans from Afghanistan. local nursing home for old soldiers like Cambridge last year but it wasn't Of the 2,300 nursing home beds in the himself. suitable. It was in the Grand River region, veterans have priority access floodplain. For Baxter, it's a matter of justice and to 110. equity.Veterans deserve a long-term Baxter said the plan he's been pitching The current federal veterans policy care institution because of their for three years has changed. In 2005, seems to be working well, Goodyear service to Canada, he says. And they the veterans committee hoped to put said. He doesn't expect Ottawa will should not be treated differently from 75 beds into an unused floor of retreat and build Baxter's dream. their comrades in Quebec, where Freeport Hospital in Kitchener. That there is a full-fledged veterans fell through when Queen's Park "I don't see it anytime soon." hospital, he says. expanded other services there. Veterans deserve the best care, not "Everybody is supporting us, but to get Today, to give his plan broader rolling the dice waiting for a bed in a it through the bureaucrats is a tough appeal, Baxter would like to see a 450- local nursing home, Baxter said. road to haul," said Baxter, a Second bed facility, with 150 beds reserved for "You don't get them until somebody World War air force veteran who veterans, 150 for the general dies. It's 'if they're available.' " survived two bomber crashes. population and 150 for native Locally, veterans get first crack at a Canadians. Baxter said he used to work as an inspector for Veterans Affairs and the set number of nursing home beds, so "I think it would be generally Royal Canadian Legion, touring they can stay near family and friends. acceptable," he said. "It would be an nursing homes. Until they get into a long-term care asset in many ways for everybody." home, Veterans Affairs picks up the "Some were pretty good and some In 2006, he went to Cambridge city tab for the home care they need. were a disaster," he said. "I'm a council looking for support to build a There is a ward for veterans in a veteran and I'd fight like hell to go into standalone building. Mayor Doug London hospital, the kind of care local one of those." veterans deserve, Baxter said. Craig said the city supports the idea, but building a veterans' home or [email protected] Since 2005, Baxter has led a hospital is up to Queen's Park and Originally Posted March 10, 2008 committee of leaders from branches of Ottawa. the Royal Canadian Legion in Friday, March 14, 2008 Waterloo Region in the campaign for a Cambridge MPP Gerry Martiniuk said KEVIN SWAYZE, Record Staff veterans home. he continues pushing the idea in Section: Veterans Toronto on Baxter's behalf but is They've buttonholed politicians and making no progress. met with officials from Veterans Affairs. A letter from Health Minister George Smitherman last year said the issue "There's nobody who's been brave was federal, not provincial. Martiniuk enough to stand up and say they're said this is not entirely true because

Page 18 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Remembering Korean 1951, extended across the Korean were dead, with bodies of dead Legend, Ken Barwise Peninsula, with one prong thrusting Chinese all around them. down the southern coast, the other Barwise and Wanniandi reported back down the Kapyong Valley, both aimed to Capt. Mills, who then ordered a at Seoul. counter-attack to restore the position. The Gloucester battalion defending Again, Barwise and Waniandi the coastal road was wiped out -- all volunteered to show the way. but 37 killed, wounded or taken prisoner. The Kapyong Valley was Blood up, Barwise raced over open defended by an Australian battalion ground and again fought his way to and the Pats, one on each side of the the machine-gun. This time he tried to valley. turn the Vickers on the enemy, but it was too badly damaged. So he In the attack the Aussies were forced hoisted the 80-pound weapon on his to retreat. The Canadians stood alone, shoulder as if it weighed nothing, and It is with regret that I dicsovered that supported by fire from U.S. tanks and carried it back to a secure position. Ken Worthington passed away on the New Zealand artillery. 3th Of March. I knew Ken personally. Courtenay quotes another soldier, P.J. Col. Jim Stone, commanding the Pats, We did an interview together on CBC Comeau: "When I saw what that big told his men there'd be no retreat -- it News World on a Sunday Morning bastard did, charging ahead and was do or die. And "do" they did. The back in 2003 for the 50th anniversary taking over that gun under fire, I knew Chinese overran some platoon of the armistice for the Korean War I had seen a man win the Victoria positions, but platoon commander when the Monument to the fallen was Cross ... If a lieutenant or captain had Mike Levy and company commander, dedicated in Ottawa. He was a giant of done what Barwise did you can bet Capt. Wally Mills, called down artillery a man, and a real hero. Peter your ass he would have got the VC... on their own positions. Worthington who is also a Korea Ken Barwise is the bravest man I Veteran sums it up in a nutshell in his FIRING FROM THE HIP know and he got screwed" (by getting tribute to Ken. "only" the MM). In the midst of battle, Mills (later Dave Davidson, President RCL awarded the Military Cross) asked Barwise himself was more laid back. I branch 50. Barwise and L/Cpl. Jimmy Wanniandi talked to him about Kapyong when we to reconnoiter Dog Company's 12 were in Korea for the 50th anniversary ------Platoon, under heavy attack and of that war, at the invitation of then- Korean legend of Ken Barwise overrun by the Chinese. president Kim Daejung. There aren't many individuals in our As described in a detailed book, Kapyong was arguably Canada's military who are regarded among their Patricias in the Korean War by Vince greatest defensive battle, measured peers as legendary, but Ken Barwise Courtenay, a Patricia veteran of by holding off vastly superior numbers, was one of them. Korea, Barwise and Wanniandi not losing any ground, inflicting worked their way towards an isolated horrendous casualties on the enemy, A grizzly bear of a man -- 6-foot-4, 250 machine-gun post under heavy fire. likely saving the city of Seoul, and pounds in his prime -- gruff, gentle suffering "only" 10 killed. In gratitude, (unless riled), generous, and They were attacked and in hand-to- South Korea ceded an acre of land to pathologically outspoken, Barwise hand fighting, Barwise was firing his Canada at Kapyong for a memorial died March 3 in Penticton, B.C., after Lee-Enfield rifle from the hip, until it marking the victory, which is undergoing surgery for colon cancer. jammed. celebrated every year. Earlier, he'd had both legs amputated A Chinese soldier tried to spear him GREAT REGRET due to diabetes and suffered from with a bayonet, but Barwise wrestled heart trouble. But he had the the rifle free and stabbed the Chinese Barwise's great regret was that constitution of an ox. with his own bayonet. Wannianda (since deceased) didn't also get an MM: "He did everything I The Barwise legend dates back to the He scooped up an American Tommy did, and he outranked me. I've always Battle of Kapyong in the Korean War, gun dropped by a Chinese soldier who wondered if it was because he was an when the 2nd Battalion, Princess evidently had acquired it fighting the Indian that he didn't get it -- things Patricias, held the front against a Americans. "I didn't like that gun -- you were different in those days." massive Chinese attack aimed at re- touch the trigger and the weapon tries capturing Seoul. to fly from your hands," he recalled. Anyway, Barwise doesn't remember much of that day. Barwise was awarded the Military Others who saw the pair reported that Medal at Kapyong, but some of his Barwise killed six Chinese. An explosion (mortar or grenade) comrades felt it should have been the knocked him unconscious when he At the Vickers machine-gun pit, the Victoria Cross. was trying to rescue the Vickers. two Canadians manning it, Ptes. When he came to, he was befuddled, The Chinese attack that April 23-24, Maurice Carr and Bruce MacDonald, and can barely remember carrying the The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 19 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Week Ending March 15, 2008 weighty machine-gun away from gun surgery for colon cancer. The Chinese possession. 30 years of Service to Canada had operation took place within a month of begun a surgical procedure that followed a Three days later he went to the doctor heart attack. for savage headaches and ear aches. He never took the Lance Cpl’s hooks As Hellyer made each of his buddiy’s Ken was one of the first to join the With tweezers, the doc extracted a one Canadian Army Special Force when it thin sliver of shrapnel embedded and He was happiest as a Private because was formed in August, 1950 to help abscessing in his ear. defend the Republic of Korea against He could loudly speak his mind in fun Barwise went regular force after incursion forces from North Korea. and pun! Korea, and before his death remarked He took his training with the 2nd that serving his country for 30 years He’s up there now with Big Jim Stone Battalion, Princess Patricia’s was the greatest reward of his life -- And my buddy Machine Gun Bill Canadian Light Infantry and sailed to that and a strong marriage until his Bill Fischer was a PFL too Korea with the battalion in November wife died in 2004. He is survived by Both fought on that Korean Hill of that year. his daughter, Jose Van Berkel. Ken’ll be there now with Greek Cattell The strapping, 6’4” young soldier was Always modest, he never remarked on Many great war stories they all will tell well liked by virtually everyone who what others thought should have been About how they sent the enemy to hell served with him. a VC recommendation, but the story of Big Ken, Bill Fischer and John Cattell! him rescuing the disabled Vickers In Korea he was assigned to a Vickers machine-gun lives on among Korean PFL –an imaginary tattoo said to be medium machinegun team as Number vets. tattooed on some soldiers rear ends – 3 on the gun, serving under Captain Pte For Life - In the Queen’s Own it Andy Foulds of Vancouver. Captain Stories abound among veterans of was RFL (Rfn for Life) – We had John Foulds passed away a couple of escapades by this gentle giant, who Cattell, WW2 and Korea – Baldy weeks ago. never flinched from speaking his mind. Baverstock WW2 and Korea and Bill Ken went into action with the Patricias Fischer WW2 and Korea - These men "A true son of Canada," recalls in February 1951 while the battalion did not want to be NCOs and the Courtenay. fought its way from positions near Regiments respected that right. Yoju on the South Han River to the Proof that some old soldiers never die Hellyer did not win out in every case. Imjin River on the west central front. ... and some don't fade away Ken and Bill were PPCLI during the Korean War – Baldy Baverstock When in April the battalion was - served with the Gloucesters in Korea ordered to rush into positions on the Peter Worthington, founding editor of and was one of a few survivors who west side of the Kapyong River valley the Toronto Sun, commanded a walked off the hill wounded – Greek to stem an enemy offensive Ken was platoon of Princess Patricia's Cattell was a Commando in WW2 and temporarily assigned to D Company, Canadian Light Infantry in Korea escaped twice from prisoner of war which was then under command of during the Korean War. He also flew camps having killed many Germans. Captain Wally Mills. as an observor-fire coordinator with He went to Korea with our 2nd D Company held the largest feature in the US Air Force Mosquito Squadron Battalion QOR of C in 1953 and I the battalion area, Hill 677, which as an exchange officer. In World War served with him in Germany and forms a great shoulder on the far left Two he was the youngest officer in the Calgary. I knew all three of these men side of the valley. He and his friend Royal Canadian Navy, serving as a personally – they were great old Lance Corporal Jimmy Wanniandi wireless air gunner in the Fleet Air soldiers – They are part of Modern were given a tiny 2-inch mortar and Arm. Canadian Military History – Thank you positioned outside Captain Mills’ slit Vince for writing part of their stories for trench command post. posterity. Be well my friend – billy – ------http://iwvpa.net/willbondwha The company was attacked after THREE PRIVATES PASSING midnight of the night of April 23-24. ------Following an artillery barrage called By Billy Willbond Korea Vet News, Published by the onto the D Company positions Ken The Regiment, oh the Regiment Cries Korean War Commemoration Council and Wanniandi were asked to At the passing of our own Private Ken of Canada. reconnoiter the 11 platoon area that Barwise Last Post for Comrade Private had been over-run by the attacking The big fellow won the coveted MM Kenneth Francis Barwise, MC, CD enemy. But he wanted it too for some other Word has been received from Jose Both men were attacked by enemy men van Berkel that her beloved father and soldiers as they made their way down Ken, he fought the enemy hand to our comrade passed away this the slopes. Eye witnesses said Ken hand morning between 4 am and 5:30 am. fought hand to hand with six of the Chasing them off of the no man’s land Kenneth died in the ICU unit in a enemy before he and Wanniandi He carried back the precious machine Penticton hospital after undergoing made it back safely to their position. Page 20 The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Week Ending March 15, 2008 WEBNEWS Volume - 2 Edition 10 Later Ken went with a counter attack Colonel of the Regiment. She Veterans were walking toward the drill platoon from C Company that was replaced Countess Mountbatten who hall where the refreshment bars were commanded by Lieutenant Whittaker. was well into her 80’s, widowed and in set up. There was a painting of a They swept the 11 platoon area and her view unable to give the job her all. PPCLI shoulder badge above the Ken retrieved the Vickers machinegun door. It measured about eight feet Ken was a kind man but not a shy that had been manned by his wide by a yard high. man. His voice was heard at every comrades, Privates . PPCLI function. He did not shrink from One of the Veterans stopped the Ken is remembered carrying the authority of any kind. others, pointed up at it. heavy gun back up the hill on his He badgered superiors, always spoke “Hey look,” he called out. “There’s shoulder, the coolant reservoir can up if he thought things were being Barwise’s shoulder flash!” bouncing along behind him. It was still mismanaged of could be handled connected to the gun by the coolant He was well know even by soldiers better. He was powerful with his hose. and Veterans who had never met him. oratory and let the chips fall where He was a legend in his own time. Ken was awarded the Military Medal they may. for bravery in the field and he It didn’t put food on the table and he “I guess that’s why I retired as a campaigned to have his friend Jimmy was hard pressed to care for his family private after 30 years of service,” he Wanniandi similarly recognized. It was and do all of the things he wanted to quipped in 2000 when he was in not to be, however. Ken was do for them. At that regimental reunion Korea as one of 12 honoured Veteran decorated for bravery and Jimmy was he had driven there in his pickup truck guests of South Korean President Kim overlooked, except by Ken and his and slept on the truck bed to save Dae-jung. “I was never one to curry comrades who cherished him. money. favour with officers. I always did what I After Korea Ken went on to serve with thought was right.” He also made a meal from the cookies the Canadian Army for a period of 30 and coffee available in the morning The late Danny Bordelaux, who retired years. It was service that he cherished reception for Countess Mountbatten. as a warrant officer with the Canadian and badly missed following his She spent a long time chatting with Intelligence Corps, served with the 1st retirement. him. Battalion of the PPCLI that replaced Ken became well know to Princes Ken’s 2nd Battalion. He once told friends on his 2000 trip to Patricia during her tenure as Colonel Korea that along with his Military Danny’s younger brother Gerald had of the Regiment and by her successor, Medal he received a small been wounded in the head at the Countess Mountbatten of Burma. The honourarium from the Queen. Every Battle of Kapyong in the same Hill 677 Countess always sought him out at month he received less than $20 in position where Ken had also been regimental reunions and annual honour of his brave and faithful wounded. That was Danny’s first general meetings of the PPCLI service to the crown. He appreciated meeting with Ken. Association. it, was proud of it. A few years later in Germany Danny Ken missed meeting Canada’s Now he joins many, many comrades was eating lunch in the mess hall Governor General, Adrienne Clarkson from his battalion who left the world when he was approached by several when he was in Ottawa in 2003 to before he did. soldiers from a rival regiment. They participate in the dedication and ordered him in unkind words to get up He died peacefully in his sleep, his Consecration of the Monument to and move so that they could have his daughter Jose said. Canadian Fallen. It honours all table. Canadian who fell during the Korean If so, it would be the first time he ever War and on peacekeeping service in Danny was not a very big man but he did anything big without making a lot Korea. was a tough, no nonsense fellow. He of noise about it. One must assume refused. They took hold of him to that it was a journey Ken finally Madame Clarkson was on a state visit make him give up the table. wanted to make. to Arctic Circle nations and could not attend the service. Ken, did, however, Suddenly huge Ken Barwise was Friday, March 14, 2008 meet with Canada’s Prime Minister, among them. He grabbed one of them Dave Davidson, Peter Worthington, The Toronto Jean Chretien who noted almost with by the neck and the back of his belt Sun, et al. awe, “You are a really big guy!” and pitched him through the open Section: Veterans window like a bail of hay. Shortly after that Ken lost his wife and not long down the line lost one leg to “You were saying?” he asked the rest complications of diabetes, then had a of them. Danny finished his lunch heart attack and lost the other leg, without moving. They all retreated. then had another heart attack and Unforgettable because of his size, simultaneously was diagnosed with strength, audacity and warmth Ken colon cancer. became a legend within his regiment. He did not get to meet with Madame At its 80th reunion in 1994 a group of Clarkson when she was appointed The Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies Branch 50 (Ontario) Page 21