Veterans deserve more recognition

It was my pleasure and honour to make a presentation on behalf of Virden Legion Branch #8, to the recipient of the French Legion of Honour decoration (Knights Class). However, as I stated in my introduction, 50 years “too late,” as there are so few remaining; time and age takes its toll.

At one time, I have been told, the government of Canada did have intentions of awarding a Canadian decoration to those who were involved with OPERATION NEPTUNE, but what happened to those plans is anyone’s guess.

The French Consulate member, Bruno Burnichon, who pinned the medal, had this to say, as he explained the decision to honour those who liberated France.

“Two years ago at one of our meetings the question was asked. ‘What can we do ?’ I said ‘What do we lose by giving them the highest honour. If we are here today, it is because of them.’”

If we are here today, “it is because of them.” Sombre, grim words, indeed.

Sadly, our government of Canada hasn’t recognized “their contribution” in a similar manner, nor have they recognized the contributions of the Cold War veterans who proudly served from 1945 to 1990. All responded to roll call when Canada needed them, but now they are forgotten. Approximately 45,000 members did not return home.

“The most deadly poison of our time is indifference.” — St. Maximillian Kolbe.

JOHN FEFCHAK (CWO. ret.)

Virden