Ingersoll Times, Sept. 19, 2001 God Bless America! Have you ever heard that phrase used as often or with as much sincerity in Canada? As Canadians we have collectively removed that chip from our shoulder that we tend to carry around in relation to our Big Brother to the south. Whether it is national television or local church services, the emotion runs high. Outrage at the despicable act of cowardly terrorism, deep concern about what is going to happen next and the need to reach out to our American neighbors are felt by everyone. Those video pictures of what happened on September 11 are etched in our memories forever. We all feel we need to do something. But what? We think about our children and grandchildren and agonize over what is in store for them. And we all feel so helpless! Sunday, THOTH and I had the privilege – and it was a privilege - of attending the Battle of Britain anniversary parade and memorial service in Tillsonburg. The Ingersoll and Tillsonburg Legion Branches decided some time ago to combine their efforts and alternate the place of service. Last year’s well attended service was held in Ingersoll; and this year, the 61st anniversary of that historical air battle was held in Tillsonburg. I’m glad we were there. It truly was a rallying point. While no one forgot the main reason for the service was to pay tribute to the valiant men of that battle, every speaker referred to the recent tragedy and offered support to the USA. American flags were carried in the parade with pride and as a show of support. One of those carrying the Stars and Stripes was former Woodstock police chief and WWII veteran, Jim Miller. He said he was proud to do so and felt it was important for all Canadians to show their support in any way they can. "I didn’t dip the flag" he explained. "It is not the time to do so". The speeches were short and meaningful. Scott Campbell, representing Oxford MP John Finlay; Oxford’s MPP Ernie Hardeman; John Geoghegan, the county’s Deputy Warden; Ingersoll Mayor Michael Hennessy; District Commander RCL Bob Sivyer, of Salford; Bruce Julian, of Beachville, Zone Commander RCL and Jean Uncer, Ladies Auxiliary Zone Commander and president of Branch 119 Ingersoll, each spoke briefly and sincerely. Each honored those who fought in the Battle of Britain and each referred to the American tragedy of a week ago. The American National Anthem was played and sung before O Canada. Looking at the faces of the veterans, standing so tall and proudly, one could not help but wonder what was going through their minds. Later, at the reception, several revealed they were reliving old memories – memories they had hoped were pushed to the back of their minds forever. They know the horrors of war and they know a third World War would be even worse than anything ever experienced on this continent. They also know such evil must be stopped. Battle of Britain services are always meaningful. Sir Winston Churchill told the British House of Commons on August 15, 1940, "Never in the field of human conflict was so much, owed by so many to so few". We must never forget that. As Canadians we take time out each year to remember those who fought this battle for our freedom. It is the first time we have ever attended one of these services with the terrifying threat of another war hanging over us. It is a sobering experience. It doesn’t matter where you go, the conversation is the same. People are worrying about war, about what is will mean to Canada, about germ warfare. Several well attended prayer vigils have been held in Ingersoll. No doubt there will be more. Each of us has our own prayers, our own concerns and our own fears. The ones that we share are: God Bless America! God Bless Canada! And they are fervent prayers.. |