ST. PAUL – “In time, remembrance will become all we can offer them,” said Major (Lieutenant-Colonel Retired) Forrest Rock, referring to the veterans of the two great wars during St. Paul’s Remembrance Day ceremony on Nov. 11.
Rock, a former 401 Tactical Fighter Squadron commanding officer at CFB Cold Lake and recipient of the Officer of the Order of Military Merit, the Meritorious Service Cross and the Canadian Forces’ Decoration, served as a special guest during the ceremony, which was organized by the St. Paul Royal Canadian Legion, and held at the Recreation Centre.
Addressing the gathering of veterans, families, and residents to honour those who served, Rock spoke of three recently passed veterans who he said have close ties to the 401, and by extension, to the St. Paul Legion.
The three veterans are squadron leaders Bill Falconer, who flew Hurricane fighters in the Battle of Britain; Jack Hilton, who provided close air support on D-Day; and Tom Dowbiggin, who survived nearly two years as a prisoner of war after his Spitfire ran out of fuel over France.
Their lives reflect the struggles many veterans face, both during and after wartime.
“For many veterans, their war doesn’t end when they return home, many relive their experiences with challenged minds, managing the grief of lost friends, personal injury and the pain and remorse of their actions for the remainder of their lives,” said Rock.
Even these days, he said, Canadian and allied forces are deployed throughout the world, many sacrificing their lives for a great cause.
“Throughout history, warfare has evolved significantly – but steadfast is the reality that people fight wars, and remembering their sacrifices and supporting those challenged by their service remains ever important,” he said.
Remembering their lives will become all that people could offer them. And, “We will remember them,” said Rock.
The ceremony closed after a tribute from attendees, placing wreaths of poppies to offer their respects.