Sir: We are extremely disappointed in Chatham-Kent council, again. We phoned and attended the Civic Centre numerous times to remind mayor and councillors of a promise made earlier this year to make amends for council’s huge faux pas of forgetting to participate when our whole country recognized, with ceremonies and honours, the veterans of the Afghanistan War 2002-2014. Canada’s longest war of 12 years.
To soothe the hurt to veterans, their families and communities living in Chatham-Kent, council passed the motion to have every Cenotaph in Chatham-Kent engraved with recognition of this war so that citizens would not forget. We must not forget the service and sacrifice of our local soldier who gave her life for our freedom to be maintained. Without engraving in stone, will we all forget? Will Afghanistan be referred to as an “etc.?”
It appears they forgot, however, and left it up to the Legion. Excuse, not reason because the Legions can be charged with vandalism, etc. if they tamper with Cenotaphs. The reason? The municipality owns the Cenotaphs.
We believe that every veteran was insulted if, when, they were asked to do this work. Is it not akin to having to bake one’s own birthday cake?
All media is reminding everyone not to forget Remembrance Day. The First and Second World Wars and sometimes Korea are mentioned, but I’ve seen no mention of Afghanistan. Many of these veterans are alive. Must they die first? Many are suffering PTSD, homelessness, and addictions. Yet, they continue to remember and appease to the point of suicide.
Yes, we have a vested interest. A Second World War parent who died at age 58 as a direct result of being a soldier. A very close friend, age 97, a Second World War veteran whose story should be heard.
We are parents of a three-deployment Afghanistan veteran; a young veteran. I quote him: “The most important thing civilians can do is attend Remembrance Day ceremonies every 11-11-11.” Wear your poppy proudly 11 days before the 11th, on the 11th, and 11 days after. All veterans need to feel valued and loved.
Don’t just remember – think. Our protection by our military never goes on holiday. Absence of proclaimed war does not equate to peace. Please, Chatham-Kent, remember with due respect.
Jim & Doreen Stonehouse
Tilbury
