The record, 10 novembre 2005, Supplément 1

.I.¦ • ¦ Supplement November 2005 kip ¦< 1#U» .*.i'*.v1V- ‘‘*VV‘1 •¦’ j: ¦¦ Brt£ 4*#* \ fw ' .I V # ¦Jr# MMiMH MH ¦i .SSÏiSÏS. page 2 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 Researching war heroes made me more Canadian: Journalist By Patrick Lavery It’s amazing what a little research can reveal.When Giancarlo La Giorgia took on the assignment of writing a book on Canadian war heroes, he wasn’t much of a military buff.But in his research, he discovered a whole world of wartime heroes and characters, each with a distinct personality.La Giorgia, former Record summer intern, still isn’t much of a military buff, but he says he now learned how war can bring out the hero in even the meekest of people.“Terrible conflicts sometimes produce incredible heroes, men and women who put others’ lives ahead of their own, even people like me, who normally abhor violence and can’t fathom ever going to war,” he said.His book, Canadian War Heroes: Ten Profiles in Courage, points to people like I .aura Secord, native leader Tecumseh, and Georges Vanier as examples of that selflessness.La Giorgia said the book also helped him learn more about his own Canadian identity.atiikLgCE 17755 9 College St„ LENNOXVILLE CAMPBELL, BELLAM & ASSOCIES INC.IT INSURANCE BROKERS Personalized and professional service for all your insurance needs since 1901 467 Dufferin, Stanstead, QC JOB 3E0 (819) 876-7114* 1-800-567-6014 PÉTROLES W.W.CROOK_ "FUELS “Writing the book made me feel more Canadian,” he said, “more appreciative of our veterans’ sacrifices, more respectful of events like Remembrance Day.To me, a deeper respect for our shared history and iconic figures like those I profiled means a deeper respect for our present, our future — our identity.” La Giorgia found that it was in wartime that Canadians seemed to be the most united.“Sure, war is hell, and Canadians have their differences,” he said.“But like any occasionally bickering family, nothing brings a nation together more than the threat of harm from a common enemy.By that I mean real threats like American invasion in the War of 1812, and real enemies, like Nazi Germany.” La Giorgia came across the subject almost by chance.A student of Concordia's Journalism program, he was working with professor Linda Kay on a television documentary when she told him a publisher in Alberta was looking to hire a writer to take on a project.He sent in a resume and “slightly irreverent cover letter,” and was hired.La Giorgia didn’t get to pick the sub-jects he wrote about.He submitted a list of people and from that list, his publisher chose ten.With a strict, two- month deadline, he began to research and write the stories that make these heroes so important to Canadian history.The book covers all of Canada’s history, going as far back as the Marquis de Montcalm and the Battle of the Plains of Abraham all the way to Roméo Dallaire and the tragedy of Rwanda.Some of the peo- 562-9444 November 11, we pause 1954 - 2004 Heating oil Diesel Fuels Lubricants Mike Crook, president e-mail rrKrookityetrotemwcrook.cvm Mr.Walter “Buster" McComb, delivery: 876-5835 Mrs.Lyse Belknap, consultant 876-5450 Watts: 1-888-wwcrook (992-7665) jj Office: 819-838-4942 E Fax: (819) 838-5476 GREAT CANADIAN STORIES CANADIAN *: ¦ When Giancarlo La Giorgia took on the assignment of writing a book on Canadian war heroes, he wasn’t much of a military buff.He still isn't, but he has developed a profound respect for those who have served their country.pie mentioned seemed natural choices: Laura Secord, Billy Bishop, Isaac Brock, Georges Vanier.But there are others that history (and Canadians) may have already forgotten, like Tecumseh, Alexander Roberts Dunn, Arthur Currie.La Giorgia found Tecumseh, a Shawnee tribe leader during the War of 1812, the most interesting of the people he profiled.“He defied the status quo and fought for the rights of his people in a truly eloquent and valiant manner,” said La Giorgia.“Most of all, he was such a tragic figure, whose fate embodied that of all the First Nations.I think we would be living in a very different world today if he and his followers had won against the Americans.” With such a compressed time frame to write book, La Giorgia did little else but read history books and biographies.“I literally spent the last three weeks in front of my computer,” he said.“I didn’t leave my house, often sleeping on the couch next to my PC.I gained ten pounds and grew a full beard.” The book itself shows the care and craft that went into putting it together.While La Giorgia isn’t entirely intimate with the people he profiles, he provides enough background on each of his subjects to give the reader an understanding of the drive these people had in accomplishing their acts of bravery.Who knew that Laura Secord was actually born in the U.S.?He also doesn’t fawn over his subjects.In his profile of Gen.Isaac Brock, he admires the feats the man accomplished, but laments how he was killed.Brock was shot and killed in the Battle of Queenston Heights during the first months of the War of 1812, while trying to take a hill.La Giorgia describes Brock’s charge as “valiant, but foolish,” an example of the General’s impulsiveness.“My research for tire four first chapters was relatively extensive,” he said.“When I realized that this wouldn’t work — especially since each chapter was supposed to be only 3,000 words — I decided to change strategies.I basically zeroed in on the most important parts of each subject’s story and then worked my way backward and forward from that point.” La Giorgia said that given a chance, he’d like to write more on the people he couldn’t profile, like daredevil WWII pilot George “Buzz” Beurling and plane designer Elsie MacGill.The book is an excellent read, with La Giorgia wringing every bit of excitement out of the famed battles these heroes fought.When writing about the Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry, he writes about the friendly fire accident in Afghanistan with solemn respect.“I hope more people will read books like mine, only to understand that ‘war hero’ isn’t a dirty word,” he told the Esquintait News.La Giorgia will be in Sherbrooke on Nov.13 at the Legion Branch, promoting his book and visiting with the veterans there.“After interviewing several Fusiliers for [a Record supplement] I did in the summer, I just thought it would be a great opportunity to rub elbows with the men and women I consider real-life heroes.” MAI LUS WULFTEC cc& 'levttem&eri Tel.: (819) 838-4232 • www.wulftec.com Remembrance Day.• THE RECORD Thursday, November 10., 2005 page 3 Former bomber pilot Jack Hobbs gets 60-year pin Danville Legion honours music man By Stephen McDougall Special to The Record Danville Get Jack Hobbs anywhere near a piano, add in a slight request, and his fingers will be tickling the ivories before long and producing magical music that anyone within listening distance can sing along to.And for the past 60 years, that has been Hobbs’ special gift for the Asbestos and Danville Legions he has been a member of.Last Saturday, he was presented with a 60-year pin by his comrades after his Danville branch held their annual Remembrance Day ceremony and banquet.“When I returned from the war in Europe, the Legion in Asbestos was the first place that welcomed me after my family,” Hobbs remembers.“At that time, we were meeting at the old Asbestos town hall and it was just a basic room.But the comradeship was there then and is still there now.It is not something you can put a price on.” That comradeship was created out of the horror of World War II and his part in trying to bring a murderous, fascist Germany to its knees.His job was to fly RAF bombers over such towns as Berlin, Essen, Cologne and Frankfurt in hopes of destroying Germany’s will to fight.The cost to him was the loss of countless mates he got to know in Canada and England during his five-year tour of duty.“We lost at least 10 per cent of our aircraft on every mission to those 88s anti-aircraft guns and the fighter planes,” he said.“That meant hundreds of good men who just wanted to do their 30 missions and maybe go home.They never did.” Hobbs himself came close to dying several times during his bomber missions.He remembers returning from one mission and counting 35 holes in his plane.STEPHEN MCDOUGALL/ Last Saturday, legion members presented Jack Hobbs with a 60- year pin.But one dangerous mission he remembers well had nothing to do with German guns or planes.A defective Halifax bomber with double the normal bomb load almost didn’t get off the ground and could have meant a crash and explosion and instant death for Hobbs and his crew.“I’d told my squadron leader the plane would not get off the ground even without the bombs, but he told me to fly it anyway that night,” said Hobbs.“It failed to become airborne twice, then started to gradually climb but hit a tower at the end of the runway and our landing wheels were sheered off.We were ordered to ditch the bombs in the Atlantic and then head back to England, bail out and let the plane crash land.” On November nlh we remember those so brave # « $ û # n 4° # 4s NATIONAL ASSEMBLY Pierre Reid, MNA., Orford and Minister of Gvt.Services 101 Du Moulin St., office 201 Magog • (819) 847-3911 Countertops & Monuments ^ On November 11 D> we pause ( ' 1 e , e T 1 11.1 * l; 10.oint.IL 1015 (819) 876-2763 or (800) 567-2747 18 Campbell Street, Stanstead II www.dominiongranite.com and www.greatgranite.com £ | When ground crews found the crashed plane in northern England, Hobbs’ boots were discovered in the wreckage, causing RAF officials to believe he was dead."I was very much alive, being the pilot who bailed out last and landing in my stocking feet,” he said.“1 had to walk for miles to a remote base, and the ground crew there was shocked to see me still standing.” After that harrowing experience and special missions in Norway, Hobbs was grounded because of his shot nerves.But he chose not to go home.He remained in England as an air traffic controller and even moved into Holland, Belgium and Germany in that capacity after the allies invaded the European continent.“I had done 16 missions in one year and I wanted to continue, but the RAF said no more.I was homesick, but I also knew this war was not going to end soon.So I insisted if they did not want me to fly, find something else useful I could do.” In 1963, Hobbs transferred to the Danville Legion.He continued to play the piano regularly there until the branch was destroyed by fire in 2003.A donated piano now graces the new Legion hall and he occasionally sits down if egged on by his comrades.“When I was six-years-old, my mum used to pay me five cents each time I played,” he said.“Now, I gladly play for free if they come around and sing along.” Now, apart from the piano, Hobbs serves his Legion by attending every Remembrance Day ceremony.He said he has only missed one year because of a health problem.“I had a dizzy spell and I didn’t think I could march properly, so I bowed out," said Hobbs, who will be 86 on Nov.26.“But as long as my body complies, I want to do my duty for my Legion and for those who did not return with me.” Encan Bilingual Licensed Auctioneer We buy & sell complete farms and farm equipment s 1274 South St., Cowansville (450) 266-0670 (450) 263-4480 page 4 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 Lenn air force electrician recalls spitfire and death Ron Taylor's specialty was repairing and preparing spitfire aircrafts for battle.*We were the lucky ones, the army lost many more men, ’ says Taylor By Jen Young Record Correspondent He considers himself lucky since he only had to endure the death of two men in which he had close contact with, but Lennoxville’s Ron Taylor says that he remembers the thousands of others who lost their lives during the war years.Taylor was a ground crew electrician with the 443rd squadron of the 144th wing in the air force.His specialty was repairing and preparing spitfire aircrafts for battle with Germans.He was in his early 20s when he enlisted in the air force and was dispatched overseas in 1941, but he did not return home until February of 1946.Taylor tries not to remember too much of the bad, but he does recall details about the aircrafts he was trained to work on.“I was in the mobile tactical air force so we were on the move most of the time,” said the 84-year-old veteran.“1 can remember getting into Holland in October of '44 because it was raining so much.There were no runways where we were and it was so muddy.The spitfire doesn’t need a runway because they are so light, but because of the rain, the planes weren’t flying very well.” He recalls the threatening anti-personnel bombs that he and his troop spent many hours trying to avoid.“The Germans were always flying over and dropping anti-personnel bombs.They were small containers filled with pieces of small metal, like nails, and they would float down with a small parachute.Once they approached the ground they would explode sending these nails and metal everywhere.Many of our tents were filled with holes.We were glad to head back to Belgium.” He recalls a photographer taking video footage who was killed by one of these bombs.His unit returned to the thick of things on April 11 and traveled through to Germany.On the May 8, once they were in Germany for but one day, the end of the war was declared.“I remember thinking, ‘geez we can go home now,’ but that’s not how it happened.I became part of the British Air Force occupation to make sure that the Germans stayed out, and I didn’t get to come home until February of 1946.” Taylor says that he attends local Remembrance Day services to remember the thousands of men who weren’t as lucky as he was.“We lost our squadron leader.It was Sept.27 1944, and his airplane never returned in the afternoon.He was killed in action, but that was really the only person killed that I knew personally, so I think we were surely lucky.The army was not as lucky.They lost many friends.On Remembrance Day we think of those who were killed over there.” ABOUT THE SPITFIRE Ron Taylor was in his early 20s when he was sent overseas where he served as a electrician for the duration of the war.The Supermarine Spitfire was introduced in 1936.It was one of the first aircrafts to have retractable wheels.This cut down on drag because the wheels could be pulled up into the body of the aircraft and out of the wind flow.Cutting down on drag meant that the plane could move faster.The Spitfire became a very well known combat machine during World War D.It’s top speed was 571 km/h (355 mph) and it’s wingspan was 11.2 m(36 ft, 10 in).Soldier remembered by friend Canadian reserves landed at Dieppe Aug.19, 1942 at 7 p.m.Their mission Was to support the Royal Highland Infantry and secure the harbour.Under heavy German fire, the commanding officer was severely wounded.Captain Guy Vanderlac and Sergeant P.Dubuc took over the command of Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal and sol- Stonsfetyi, Québec 876-2722 Toll Free;(80C DERUSHA SUPPLY You Produce, Well Supply! Serving Since 1978 Wholesalers, Retailers & Artists Counter Top & •Dimensional Stone Fabrication Sign & Glass Industry Masonry Trade ~Zjm Construction Nov.11 we remember Qjiv The Monument Industry's Seal of Excellence l 4 (819) 876-2745 diets fought their way through the town into the harbour area.Sergeant Dubuc and his men were surrounded by the Germans and captured, but Dubuc overpowered the Gentian guard and fought his way back to the shore near the harbour.Captain Vanderlac fought his way up to the casino where other Canadians were having problems with German snipers.Captain Vanderlac was trying to help them take out the snipers, but they ran out of ammunition.Captain Vanderlac, his men, along with the remaining Canadians were captured by the Germans.Captain Vanderlac was believed to have been drowned in the initial assault on Dieppe.The authorities were not aware that he had been captured by the enemy.He returned to Canada in 1945 where he finished his service in the army.He continued to serve Canada as Usher of the Black Rod in the House of Commons which represents the Governor General and the Senate.hi 1971, Guy Vanderlac bought a farm in Austin.with plans to retire here in his chosen country after his tour of duty.This is where I met hint.He bought livestock from the monastery and I took care of his farm and his livestock part time.In 1972, two heifers were stolen and butchered.Two hundred and fifty gallons of diesel fuel went missing in the spring 1973.During the spring of 1974, the Vanderlac bam was vandalized and a chain saw stolen.During Christmas of 1975, Van-derlac’s dog was shot and killed.This was the final act for him.The next day, the Van-derlacs packed up and left the area.He rid himself of his cattle and property at a loss and never returned to the area.There was a police investigation but sometimes you have to choose your battles.I still feel badly that he had to leave as he did.I still consider him my friend.Peter Theysen We would like to salute all the veterans who gave their lives for us.WE REMEMBER ville do Cookshire-Eaton Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 page 5 An order obeyed, a life given By G.Campbell McDonald f » jhe Family Bible records my brother Kenneth’s death in World War II in A* four stark lines that say everything but tell nothing.My father’s entry discloses only what the telegram from the RCAF Casualties Officer said: “F/O John Kenneth McDonald, R.C.A.F.Killed on active service overseas Dec.27/44.Buried at Royal Air Force Regional Cemetery, Brookwood, Woking, Surrey, England Jan.3/45.” Then Dad added: “Age, 20 years and 7 months,” as if by drawing out the measure of Ken’s life, he could somehow prolong it.Over the years, and recently with the help of the Internet, I have tried to piece together a coherent account of how Ken was killed on what would ordinarily be a routine assignment to fly a weather check.As I write; Ken smiles at me from the last photograph he sent Mother and Dad from England.It shows him handsome and happy wearing his Royal Canadian Air Force uniform, his pilot’s wings and the ribbon of his Canadian Voluntary Service Medal.Ken had his heart set on being a pilot right from the time he was a kid of 12.The tips he saved from his Montreal Gazette paper route went, a dollar a time, for rides in a rickety biplane flown by a World War I “ace” from Granby’s grass airfield.Sometimes he let Ken take the joystick on a level pass over the city.Citing this experience, Ken tried to join the Air Force when he was 16, but was turned away.Undaunted, he wrote to the Chief of Air Staff in Ottawa, Air Marshal WA.Bishop, VC, DSO, MC, DFC, asking for a special dispensation to join while underage.The officer from Billy Bishop’s staff who answered Ken’s letter let him down gently.“You may be assured that your enthusiasm for flying and keen desire to join the RCAF are sincerely appreciated,” he wrote."It is difficult for a boy with your enthusiasm to be patient these days.” His advice for Ken, however, was to give his studies priority and finish high school.A new cadet league was about COURTESY G.CAMPBEL MCDONALD F/0 John Kenneth McDonald, R.CA.F.Killed on active service overseas Dec.27/44.to be formed, he revealed, that would offer opportunities for Ken and other boys like him to take instructional flights while completing their education.And so it came to pass.Ken became Cadet No.1 in the Granby squadron of the Air Cadet League of Canada, graduated with honours and proudly signed up for the RCAF a month after his 17th birthday.He embarked on his training in Canada with his sights firmly fixed on becoming a fighter pilot in the tradition of the Spitfire pilots of the Battle of Britain and Buzz Beurling of Malta 565 7646 Asbestos East-Angus Weedon Bromptonville Sherbrooke Windsor COOPÉRATIVE FUNÉRAIRE DE L'ESTRIE Since 1974 Let us remember ervices to members and non-members raditional funerals - Cremation iolumbarium - Pre-arrangements 4-hours service fame.When he arrived in England full of ginger a year later, our joyous reunion in London combined a pub crawl, a Palladium revue and a spectacular air raid as we dashed to take shelter in the Underground.The next day I showed him the sights of Piccadilly Circus and Soho and we had our picture taken together to send home.Shortly after, he sent me a letter at my artillery unit, telling me he was dis-appointed he had to retrain as a bomber pilot because the air war’s manpower requirements had changed.But, still game, he reported he was doing well at the Royal Air Force FTS (Flying Training Station) in Wiltshire where he was taking his conversion course.Two days after Christmas 1944, Ken’s name came up on the duty roster to fly the daily weather check.Even though the airfield was socked in by fog, according to Ken’s best friend who wrote to Mother and Dad after his death, he was ordered to take off by the station’s orderly officer.He was to climb and check on flying conditions higher up, return and report.The aircraft he was assigned was a Miles Master, a British advanced trainer that cruised at 120 miles an hour, with a top speed of 226.Fatally, however, according to Canadian friends on the station, it lacked air-to-ground radio equipment, so once aloft, Ken was cut off from the station and alone in the fog.Ken’s body was found the next day in the wreckage of his aircraft at Bobbing-ton Marsh, Street’s Farm in Somerset, a county to the west of Wiltshire.A Ma- FRANCE BONSANT MP FOR COMPTON-STANSTEAD On November 11th we remember Every November 11th, Canadians across the country pause in a silent moment of remembrance for the men and women who served our country during wartime.We honour those who fought for Canada as my father did, in the First World War (1914-1918), the Second World War (1939-1945) and the Korean War (1950-1953).More than 1,500,000 Canadians served overseas - more than 100,000 died.They gave their lives and their future so that we may live in peace.1945 Belvedere south, Suite 203, Sherbrooke (Quebec) J1H 5Y3, Tel: (819) 347-2598 - www.francebonsant.qc.ca 2^ BLOC QUÉBÉCOIS Æ The Miles Master, a British advanced trainer that cruised at 120 miles an hour, with a top speed of226."x-i.' * fine search party from a naval station to the south made the discovery and reported the plane had crashed but not burned; its fuel tanks were empty.As bits and pieces of this information filtered through to us in the months after the first meagre telegrams and official expressions of sympathy, our family realized with heart-breaking clarity that Ken spent the last day of his life looking in vain for a place to land.He remains in England, forever 20, under a Maple Leaf memorial stone at the beautiful RAF cemetery in Surrey.But his loss, and the way of his going, haunt me still.I wonder if the orderly officer has remembered Ken ever after on Nov.11? I page 6 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 Just some of the combat veterans we Photos Courtesy Edward Douglas Martin-Forestry Corps.¦K Ç ?» .N Douglas Powers West Nova Scotia Regiment.Emery Robichaud W.W.Il Carlton York Regiment.Fred Lucas Canadian Grenadier Guards -Normandy Guy Megs R.CA.M.C.George Kirby W.W.2 1st Canadian Corps of Signals R.C.C.S W.W.II Northwest Europe Henri Bourque, Captain Regiment de Chaudière - Normandy Herbert Hudson 1st Armoured Regiment 1st Hussars."oWg ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Danville Branch 41 Barry Evans, President V CIO ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Richmond Branch 15 André Berger, President Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 page 7 will remember today for their sacrifice James Trew R.C.A.S.C.W.W.II France to Germany * John Brus Dutch National Battalion and 1st Canadian Army Corps W.W.1;' M pf > - .'J,/ wm É " 1 p-: Æ John Colton R.CA.F.Hawker Typhoon Pilot 137 Squadron RA.F.104 Operational missions.W.W.II.Northwest Europe.CAN/m Lloyd Albert Styan 9th Canadian Field Ambulance.Rolland Bergeron WW.U.Le Regiment de Maisonneuve Normandy.Ronald Taylor R.CA.F.443 Squadron 127 Wing 2nd TA.F.T.Russell Kezar Sherbrooke Fusiliers.Kenneth Kirby 4th Armoured Stephen Holmes.R.C.A.F.423 Corps Headquarters.1st Squadron.Canadian Army W.W.II.ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Bury Branch 48 We Will Remember Them ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Branch 10 Col J S Bourque 971 Galt East, Sherbrooke 563-4944 page 8 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 Remembrance Day rekindles memories of war Remembrance Day November 11 D.H.M Technologies Inc.Worldwide Waterproofing for Buildings.Structures.Silos Sealers and Coatings for Concrete, Concrete Blocks, Brick, Stucco, fete.¦Ui() Baron fond,./Iijcr’s ( HJJ', Our.(819) 843-2222 They gave their tomorrow.that we might have today.In memory of those so brave ESSAÎM R.Potvin et S.Garneau FREE DELIVERY Walk-in Clinic upstairs Every Wednesday HEALTH-CARE DAY NURSE ON SITE For follow-up of: • Diabetes • Hypertension • Cholesterol ' 6 Open 7 days a week 624 Bowen South Sherbrooke, Quebec J1G 2E9 569- 5561/ ‘On our first night we shot down two German planes, ’ said World Warll gunner By Jen Young Record Correspondent many at-e n d rmistice Day services to remember those who fought, and others who gave their lives to ensure freedom for future generations Ayers Cliff veteran, Corporal Donald Sharman, tries not to remember the horrifying memories that tend to haunt him worse on this day.“1 chose not to attend Remembrance Day services,” said the 86-year- old Bofor gunman.“It was a long time ago but on Remembrance Day there are too many memories that come back to me.It’s too hard to remember some of these things and if I do go, and think of some of these things, I don’t feel too good.” Sharman left for overseas in 1940 when he was in his early 20s, and though the years and some dates have escaped him, he remembers his first encounters with World War II.“We left on a convoy of boats from St.John’s heading to Sicily,” said Sharman.ifuW- JEN YOUNG *¦¦¦ A Personal Thanks Lennoxville Cubs gave a personal thanks to veterans during Remembrance Day ceremonies held last Sunday.In memory of those so brave Service 24 hours Les Pétroles Ron H.Mackey Inc.Petroleum morm Home Heating Oil • Gasoline • Diesel Lubrifiant 1034 Paul Rd., Tel.: 819-562-5848 Ascot Corner, Qc, JOB 1A0 Fax: 819-562-2086 “I was in the 35th Battery 1st light antiaircraft unit and I was trained on the 40 mm anti-aircraft Bofor Gun on land, but as we were on the boats we men had to help the gunners load ammunition.On that first night on the boat I remember taking down two German airplanes.” Once Sharman’s troop reached Sicilian land in 1943 they were responsible for getting the large Swedish design guns set up and it was up to them to take over anti-aircraft defence.“We hauled the guns with a truck through the mud and then had to stabilize the machinery,” he stated.“When we were in Messina, Italy we were at the foot of a mountain and I can remember how the Germans had occupied the entire location.” He recalled how the Germans resembled ants since they had made numerous tunnels and outposts that made him think of a giant anthill.“Our job was to-keep the German aircrafts away as our planes were attempting to take the mountain.I remember our planes coming and bombing and bombing.We were there for a couple of days until the mountain was completely flattened.” He doesn’t remember specific details about that spring day when the war was finally declared over, but he recalls the relief felt by soldiers everywhere.“I was in a town on the border of Germany and Holland when it was announced through the ranks.That night sure was a big celebration.” Because Sharman was a single man he was given the choice to be discharged or not, but he chose to let the married men leave first and he stayed in the aftermath of war for another year.This is when he says that he had to continue his battles, but not against Germans.He had been promoted to Provost (military police).“While we stayed behind we were making sure that the Germans would stay out, but the rough stuff came about after the war among our own men and we needed authority,” said the corporal.“After the war, there were a lot of parties and some of the men got out of hand.Not all of them, but some became a little out of control and we had to keep this under control.Though there were fights and roughness everyone was happy.They may have been fighting, but they were still happy it was over.” He was more than happy to come home in 1946, where his mother was anxiously awaiting his arrival, but he says it will never leave him completely.He was proud to come home with two stripes and earning a defence medal and three stars, which he and his wife keep in a safety deposit box. Remembrance Day THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 page 9 One war bride remembers the worry and wait By Nancy Nourse Record Correspondent Evelyn Rollins did not lose her husband, Norman Rollins, to war, but his contribution to freedom certainly affected their lives as a family.Soon after they were married, word came that wartime was upon them.Norman enlisted in the 73rd Battery of the 5th Field Regiment of the Magog District.It’s clear Evelyn felt as strongly about her husband’s contribution as Norman did.Pictures of Norman as a young soldier in uniform along with an impressive array of medals - ‘39-‘45 Service Star, England, France & Germany Service Star, Defence Medal, CVSM (Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with Bar, and the Victory Medal, grace her living room.One such picture was taken of the entire 5th Field Regiment just before they were shipped overseas.“As you can see, the men are still wearing uniforms used in World War I.They did not receive any newer ones until they reached the shores of England,” Evelyn Rollins said.“ Although we were all very proud of our men, at the same time, we were very worried about their safety during combat and during the long travel by ship to get to the British shores.“ Evelyn was originally from Magog but Norman came from the Stanstead area.There was a definite shortage of jobs at that time.“I worked in a bobbin shop to make some money but there wasn’t an available apartment or home to be found anywhere.They just weren’t being built at that time, certainly not like today.After he left, I lived part of the time with my folks and part with Norman’s parents, not exactly an ideal situation for a newly married young girl,” explained Rollins.Before the men were sent off from Halifax, they gathered in Montreal then went for further training at a base in Petawawa, Ontario.Evelyn remembers visiting her husband with some of the other wives.They were pleasantly surprised to arrive in Petawawa and find that they were being given the full use of a home owned by a German family.She remembers them as being very kind people who literally moved themselves into the barn so that the soldiers’ wives could have suitable accommodations.She was definitely awed by the experience.Memories of times when they had to use coupons to get special items like sugar and butter, especially gas, came flooding back.Rollins said she was more fortunate than some because of the closeness that existed between the wives of the veterans.They would put their coupons together and share whatever they could get.She remembers how they used to gather things together so that they could send care packages overseas to their men - special favorites of Normans were chocolate bars and cigarettes—items very hard to come by during wartime.She would try to send a package every week with warm socks, ;Ü!l(z&êtàÊÈuJ VANCY NOURSE Memories flood back of wartime years worrying about her husband overseas.toothpaste, soap, tea, canned hams and letters from home—being oh so careful about staying within the weight limit! She believed that it was important that the soldiers knew that they were being remembered and their efforts were being appreciated.When it came to buying cigarettes, Evelyn spoke of sending her money to the Sweet Corporal Cigarette Company and they would send the cigarettes directly to the men, in packages of 1,000.In Norman’s letters, he told of what an uplifting event it was for the men to receive packages from home.He told how they would share in each other’s package of goodies, making a difficult situation better for everyone.Norman Rollins was seriously wounded in the South of France and was sent home to a hospital in Montreal.He received shrapnel wounds which destroyed his jaw.He continued to pull shrapnel pieces out of his body for years to come as do many of the injured veterans.When he was finally shipped home, they were offered a chance to buy one of the houses being built in the Stanstead area - often referred to even today as 'little Tokyo’ or ‘West Park’, for the huge price of $2,000 (a very large sum of money at that time).Evelyn still lives in the little house that she and Norman had spent their lives as husband and wife for almost 65 years, until his death earlier this year.Evelyn remembers watching with amazement as the little prefab houses went up, one a week, to establish a development for returning soldiers and their families.None of the original houses were built with cellars but many future owners created a cellar just large enough to put in a furnace and a hot water heater (no easy task as the land contained a lot of ledge).Norman’s letters tell of his outings to Wales and Scotland when he was granted a few days leave— Wales especially because it reminded him so of the landscaping of Canada and home.In later years, Norman found work at Butterfield Industries and A.C.Industries, eventually having to give up work due to health reasons.While these years were definitely filled with sacrifices, Evelyn feels that her life in Canada was much better than the lives of so many who lived close to the battlefields.Her heart goes out to them and to so many others today who are trying to cope with similar and even harsher circumstances.We Shall Not Forget LONDON RESIDENCE 301 London St.Sherbrooke, QC J1H3M6 % « «¦reeç.sesfc TTÎPJLJI.mil 11 ¦HÉpiimip (819) 564-8415 TERRASSES -~lli Honorary members of Canadian Legion Branch #10 Clément Jacques/Normand Pinard, co-owners SPECIALTY: FINE PRIME CUTS | 777 King St.E., Sherbrooke 50 Jacques-Cartier Blvd.N., Sherbrooke SOÜCSSBZS Clément Jacques STANDISH COOKSHIRE, QUE.(819) 875-3387 WE SHALL NOT FORGET! 826-3721 Dyson & Armstrong 555 Craig Street, RICHMOND Your GM regional dealer serving the area for over 85 years “In memory of those so brave ” Pause and remember November 11th 826-3501 1-800-263-9766 'flu nr ml r 1-800-567-6031 Honoring those who gave their lives The Iticlmumd ('ciiotajih AG K 10 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 Why wear a poppy: ?“Please wear a poppy," the lady said And held one forth, but I shook my head Then I stopped and watched as she of-aed them there And the face was old and lined with care But beneath the scars the years had aade There remained a smile that would not ide.A boy came whistling down the str eet Bouncing along on carefree feet.Pierre Aubé We serve our seniors with care and understanding.For your convenience, we open 7 days a week.Orthopedic products - Home services - Free delivery - Vast selection of natural and homeopathic products.'i'ef u.ff i remem /ter His smile was full of joy and fun.“Lady,” he said, “can I have one?” When she had pinned it on, he turned to say, “Why do we wear a poppy today?” The lady smiled in a wistful way And replied “This is Remembrance Day” And the poppy there is the symbol for the gallant men who went to war.And because they did, you and I are free, That’s why we wear a poppy, see.I had a boy about your size with golden hair and big blue eyes He longed to play and jump about.Free as a bird he would race and shout.As the years went by he learned and grew And became a man as you will too.He was fine and strong with a boyish smile, But he seemed to be with us such a short while.When war broke out he went away I still remember his face that day.He smiled at me and said “Goodbye, I’ll be back soon, Mum, So please don’t ciy.But tire war went on and he had to stay And all I could do was wait and pray.His letters told of the awful fight With tanks and guns and cruel barbed wire And the mines, the bullets, the bombs and fire.Until at last the war was won, “So that’s why we wear a poppy, son.” The small boy turned as if to go Then he said “Thanks Lady, I’m glad to know.That sounded like an awful fight, But your son, he did come back all right?" A tear rolled down the folded cheek, She shook her head but did not speak, I slunk away feeling sick with shame And if you had been me you’d have done the same.For our thanks in giving is often delayed, Though our freedom was bought.and millions paid.By The Rev.Dr.Howard L.Shantz, Padre The Royal Canadian Ixgion #101, Toronto Submitted by: R.CAF.Veteran Roger Tétreault 2261 King West, Sherbrooke Tel.: (819) 569-6304 • Fax: (819) 564-6053 I N1V r.R S I I 1- BISHOPS I N I V F.K S I I Y Lest We Forget Bishop’s University Alumni from World War I and World War II who died in Service for Canada World War I George Belford John Brown Frederic Crawford Henry Dinning Thomas Eustace Angus Ford Edward Ireland Wilbur Ladd Louis Lemieux James Lobban Howard Millar Charles Mitchell World Edward Ames Donald Bennett James Bilkey Edward Boothroyd Ross Bradford David Budden Douglas Carmichael John Carroll Donald Chute Basil Doak Gordon Doak Philip Duval Paul Ethier Hugh Gall Henry Gray Donald Jack William King Robin Lindsay Brian Lynn Franklin Lyster Gerald Mackay Hugh Mackenzie Vernon E.Mayhew Archibald McKell John Michaels Forest Mitchell George Murray Frederick McCrum Charles Pope John Porter Lennox Robertson Reginald Robinson Harry H.Scott William Ward Gerald Wilkinson James W.Williams Arthur Percival Williams War II Leslie McCaig John Milne Bruce Munroe Walter Page Edward Parker Sherman Peabody Henry Pibus Kenneth Pyper Derrick Ridge Russell Rexford William Rogers Kenneth Simms Gilbert Stairs Trevor Stevens James Symington Henry Trenholme Ray Tulk Waldo Tulk Arnold Woodside Through the years I don’t know how it happens But it does most every year I run across your picture Which still summons up my tears Or some magazine remembers Us Red Cross as girls in war Then memories come flooding back Of happy times before You joined and then away you flew Forever - into World War Two -Dora Scott Glen Sutton Remembrance Day As the gloomy month of November draws nigh I oft’ wonder why I hate this month so.I think of sadness left by this month of woe How the war was so raw it hurts us so.How the willing soldiers were eager to go For the cost of freedom oft’ leaves a bitter blow So many mothers, fathers and children often seperated by it Some come home but very few but many made sacrifices as the war raged on and dragged along.Oh how I have the dark dreary month of fall When I think of all the soldier boys who answered the call How so many were killed and blown away it was the devils’ work, was and still is on display.As 1 said before the cost of freedom is mighty high So many young men who were left to die on the battle fields We owe them so much gratitude and love and praise But war is hell on earth I must confesson “Remembrance Day.” God bless each and everyone of our vets This somber time of year.It was a hauting and dreadful experience.Eloise Hodge, Veterans Remembered vl JEN YOUNG Veterans were honoured during ceremonies in Lennoxville last Sunday.A parade through town ended at the cenotaph with the laying of wreaths and a time of remembrance.The local Cub group presented veterans in attendance with cards of thanks for their valiant efforts in the fight for freedom. Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 page 11 Remembrance Day ceremonies held throught Townships Magog The veterans of Unit 203 Army, Navy and Air Force of Canada will hold their an-nual Armistice Day ceremony at the Magog cenotaph in Parc des Braves.The event will take place on Sunday, Nov.13,2005 at 2:00 p.m Richmond Thursday, Nov.10 at 9 a.m.Service at St.Francis Elementary School Thursday, Nov.10 at 10 a.m.Services (2) at Richmond Regional High School The final inspection By Errol B.Sturt The soldier stood and faced God, Winch m ust always come to pass.He hoped his shoes were shining.Just as brightly as his brass.“Step forward now, you soldier, How shall I deal with you?Have you always turned the other cheek?To My Church have you been true?” The soldier squared his shoulders and said, “No, Lord, 1 guess I ain't.Because those of us who cany guns, Can’t always be a saint.I've had to work most Sundays, And at times my talk was tough.And sometimes I've been violent, Because the world is awfully rough.But, 1 never took a penny, That wasn't mine to keep.Though I worked a lot of overtime, When the bills got just too steep.And I never passed a cry for help, Though at times I shook with fear.And sometimes, God, forgive me, I’ve wept unmanly tears.I know I don't deserve a place, Among the people here.They never wanted me around, Except to calm their fears.If you’ve a place forme here, Lord, It needn't be so grand.I never expected or had too much, But if you don't, I’ll understand." There was a silence all around the throne, Where the saints had often trod.As the soldier waited quietly, For the judgment of his God.“Step forward now, you soldier, You’ve borne your burdens well.Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets.You’ve done your time in Hell.” Remember, it is the Soldier, not the reporter Who, has given us the freedom of the press.It is the Soldier, not thé poet, Who has given us the freedom of speech.It is the soldier Who salutes the flag.Who serves beneath the flag, and Whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the protester to burn the flag.Friday, Nov.11 at 10:45 a.m.Wales Home Service Friday, Nov.11 at 1:30 p.m.Service at South Durham Monument Saturday, Nov.12 at 6:30 p.m.Remembrance Banquet Price $13 single, $25 per couple Dance after the banquet, bring a friend! Sunday, Nov.13 at 9:30 a.m.Service at St.Anne’s Anglican Church Sunday, Nov.13 at 2 p.m.Parade and Cenotaph Service Please note that all times given are actual starting times and participants should be present 15 minutes prior.Alexander Galt The Alexander Galt High School services will be held Friday morning, Nov.11 at 9:30 -10:15 and again from 11:00-11:45 .The Galt concert band will accompany several student singers during the service in addition to two students playing bagpipes.An artistic expose created by the Learning Centre students and staff will be on display on the stage in addition to numerous pieces of student artwork that will be displayed in the Foyer.We are honoured to have join us two guest speakers who served countable years of service within Canada’s military: Mr.Edward Rogers, World War II veteran and Brigidier-General (ret’d) Robin Gagnon.Asbestos Asbestos legion branch 141 in Asbestos will be holding its remembrance day ceremony on Friday, Nov.11 at the town cenotaph at the corner of 1st Avenue and Simoneau blvd.The starting time is 11 a.m.According to legion member Roger Spencer, the time and date reflect the end of World War I.“That war ended with an armistice on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month,” he said.“We want that tradition remembered." Spencer said branch members will start assembling at the cenotaph at 1030 so as to be ready for the 11th hour commencement.For more information, call the Asbestos Legion at 879-2224.Diabetes epidemic REACT NOW! m Diabetes •• Québec Information and donations: {514} 259.3422 or 1.800.361.3504 www.diabete.qc.ca On liovember 11, let us pause for two minutes to honor the memory of those who gave their lives that we might live in freedom! In Flanders Fields By: Lieutenand Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian Army IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.We are the Dread.Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset flow, Loved and were loved, and now wo lie In Flanders fields.Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.a A.M.A.F."The Hut" 300 St.Francis Street Lennoxville • 346-9122 Remembrance November 11 Improving our services and listening to your concerns.That's how we work with you—and for you! Caisse Populaire de Stanstead 484 Dufferin St.10 Railroad 74 Main Stanstead Stanstead Stanstead 819-876-7551 Caisse Populaire du Lac Memphrémagog 230 Principale W 12 Lapointe 342 Main Magog Eastman Mansonville 819-843-3328 450-297-2194 450-292-3337 Desjardins page 12 • Remembrance Day • THE RECORD Thursday, November 10, 2005 - ¦ mis • ¦ REBATE on the REBATE ONTMi .PURCHASE OF 4 TIRES ErSBB ***4L*$ NEW REBATE onthe PURCHASE OF 4TWIS TIRES FOR ON/OFF ROAD PICK-UP TRUCKS Lt.Colonel John McCrae of Guelph, Ontario simply made an observation that damp dark night.As soldiers fought and died in numbers, the Canadian doctor sharpened his lead and wrote on blood -stained paper of the bright red flowers that were grow- ing under the fallen bodies of hundreds of his comrades and friends.McCrae remarked that the flowers were blood red in color, making the connection to the blood shed that specific night.During the tremendous bombardments of the First World War the Goodyear’s INSTANT REBATE season is back at all participating Goodyear SELECT dealers.Take advantage of rebates up to $50 with the purchase of 4 selected tires designed for winter driving.And take to the road safely, under the wings of Goodyear.m CARS A VANS GOODYEAR ULTRA GRIP ICE Optimal ice and snow traction.ICE OVER WINTER™ silica tread compound.GOODYEAR ULTRA GRIP DUNLOP GRASPIC DS-2 Severe winter traction.Radial - Pinned for Studs.For difficult winter conditons.Premium silica based compound.REBATE o PURCHASE OF 4 ON THE FOR PERFORMANCE VEHICLES GOODYEAR WRANGLER SlLENTARMOR GOODYEAR EAGLE ULTRA GRIP GW3 DuPont™ KEVLAR® for extra toughness and mileage.Silica based compound and "Mountain/Snow Flake" certified for winter driving.• Extreme winter per- formance.• Unique High Performance tread goodA£a*elEct chalk soil became rich in lime from the rubble, allowing the poppy to thrive.McCrae was a tall, boyish 43-year-old member of the Canadian Medical Corps.He was an artillery veteran of the Boer War in South Africa and was described as a person with the eye of a gunner, the hand of a surgeon, and the soul of a poet when he went into the line at Ypres on the 22nd of April 1915.April 22 was the first time that the enemy used poison gas but the first attack failed and so did the next wave and the next.In fact, for 17 days and nights the allies repulsed wave after wave of the attacking enemy.McCrae wrote - “One can see the dead lying there on the front field.And in places where the enemy threw in an attack, they lie very thick on the slopes of the German trenches." McCrae worked from a dressing station on the bank of the Yser Canal, dressing hundreds of wounded and never removed his clothes for the entire 17 days.At times the dead and wounded actually rolled down the bank from Goodyear Select Center 570 Wellington South, Sherbrooke, QC • (819) 346-5283 above his dugout.At other times, while awaiting the arrival of batches of wounded, he would watch the men at work in the burial plots which were quickly filling up.In time, McCrae and his unit were relieved and he wrote home “ We are weary in body and wea-„ rier in mind.The general impression in my mind is one of a nightmare”.McCrae came away from Ypres with 13 lines scrawled on a scrap of paper.The lines were a poem which started: “In Flanders fields the poppies blow.” These were the lines which are enshrined in the innermost thoughts and hearts of all soldiers.McCrae was and is their voice.To further McCrae’s coincidence and observation, once the war had ended the lime was quickly absorbed, and the poppies that flooded the fields like a red carpet began to disappear again.Sadly, McCrae died of pneumonia at Wimereux near Boulogne, France on Jan.28 1918 when he was 44-years-old.It was not only the poem, In Flanders Fields, that caused the poppy to become the worldwide symbol of fallen heroes.Of course, after its publishing in 1915 it became a symbol, but it wasn’t until Moina Michael’s initiative to wear a poppy on her lapel three years later led to its famous statute.Michaels, while working in a New York City YMCA, wore the poppy in memory of millions and explained her goal and the history to Madame Guerin who was visiting the United States in 1920.On her return to France she decided to use handmade poppies to raise money for children who were victims of war.In November of 1921 the Great War Veterans’ Association officially adopted the initiative and the first poppies were distributed throughout Canada.Now millions of the blood red flowers bloom on the jackets, dresses, and hats in memory of their 117,000 countrymen who died in battle.•Th.-Irat.™ Rabat.>| • manufacturât! rabats with a dlflaranta.Hat.n how « wurkvTh.parut,pMmg ratailar daducts th.amount of tha Inuant Rata, from tha participate ramlar'.pr«.ai th.tun.of yoor purchara For you that, ara no loam, to M out and no ~o, lor chaquaa to b.madad Goodyaw rabat., th.partieTaay maüar In dua coma.Tha participating ratadar n loMy ratporwbft lor datarnamn, tha lading pnea of tha tiraa wchouc dractjori horn Goodyaar.Instant Rabat.! ahoarn abora non a aat of tour oral Rabat» ara afio mlabla par ura on a petnmad basis.From Octobar ) to Novamhar lt.200S.Cannot ba comblnad with arqr othar ofhr.Tmdamariia of AIR MILES bnarmafonafltadbig &V «nod undoe k«M by Loyalty FWwfnmt Group Canada Inc.and Goodyaar Canada Inc PERRY BEATON Sherbrooke Mayor Jean Perrault helps local veterans launch the annual poppy campaign.The Poppy immortalized by John McCrae