I recall several years ago having the opportunity to speak with a WWII survivor from Holland. I inquired as to how life was for him and his family during Germany's occupation. He stated that it was extremely bad and only got worse as the war progressed. He stated that they ran out of food toward the end of the war, and you could tell that telling the story still bothered him greatly.
I'm not sure where he lived in Holland, but I inquired as to how the Canadians gained control of his town. He stated that there was no fighting in his town, but that the Germans vanished one morning. Then, in a sad voice and with a tear in his eye, he continued, "and then I saw the Canadian Soldiers." You could tell his emotions were strong, and it felt as if it happened yesterday to him. Seeing his emotions and how appreciative he was made me proud to be a Canadian and proud of the sacrifices our soldiers made to assist the people in Holland regain their freedom.
We have a lot to be thankful for, but one thing none of us should ever take for granted is our freedom. This Remembrance Day, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought and died for our freedom.
Blake Campbell
Gull Lake Events