My name is Don Stewart, and for those of you who don't know me, I'm the president of the Veterans and Community Residents Council at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. On this very important day regarding Armistice Day, I am pleased to say a few words on behalf of the almost 500 veterans living at Sunnybrook.
Originally from British Columbia, I moved here to join a family. Sunnybrook's beautiful campus and veterans facility has been my home for the past six years. There is tremendous history at Sunnybrook, and I can think of no better place to be than the wonderful care, rich programming, and quality of life provided by Sunnybrook and Veterans Affairs Canada.
Along with currently serving as council president, I have been an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion for almost 70 years. It's hard to believe how quickly the years have passed. In 1945, after the war, immediately on my return to Canada I joined the Legion. Shortly before Armistice Day, I was at a ceremony at a local school with 800 children taking part in a remembrance program in the gymnasium. It moved me to see our youth engaged and so intent on learning the battles and our war history. It is my hope that the youth will carry on forever the message and pledge of the phrase, “Lest we forget”. This phrase is a promise to Canada's war veterans, as well as a pledge to learn and to never forget the lessons learned in two world wars and in the Korean War.
The majority of veterans I have spoken with at Sunnybrook are in favour of making Armistice Day a statutory holiday. By making Armistice Day a statutory holiday, this will underscore the importance of remembering all of the sacrifices that have been made for our country.
Thank you kindly.