Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour four compassionate Canadian soldiers: Lloyd “Red” Oliver, Paul Hagen, Mert Massey, and Doug Walker.
During the Second World War, Operation Husky, in Torrice, Italy, these soldiers went above the call of duty to save Gino, a young and starving orphan. They adopted Gino as their own, providing him with food, care, and kindness. As they departed Italy in 1945 to join the rest of the Canadian army in northwest Europe, young Gino had recovered from his injuries and was safe from danger. He was left with an Italian family who eventually adopted him.
After great efforts in 2012, Gino Farnetti-Bragaglia was given back his true identity and is now in Canada to tell his story.
The selfless actions of these Canadian heroes must never be forgotten. Lest we forget.