As the eleventh hour approaches, Canadians and Americans mark both Remembrance Day and Veterans Day with respect. Two neighbours who sent their sons and daughters to two world wars, the Korean War, and the conflict in Afghanistan. The two fought side by side, with many paying the ultimate price, fighting to protect the rights and freedoms of others from the hands of their oppressors.
We honour those who have lost their lives; however, both Governments continue to decline providing adequate support for individuals affected physically or experiencing mental health challenges as a result of combat, leaving many to confront the ongoing psychological impacts of warfare.
When I signed and pledged my oath to queen and country, I fully understood that should conflict break out I may not return, but the lure of a calling to the sea was far too great an opportunity, and a way to travel without worry of huge expenses attached.
I knew I could count on both my fellow citizens and shipmates for support, and I believed the Government of Canada would stand behind me as well. Ultimately, when a country sends its young people into combat, it is duty-bound to be there for them once they come home.
I saw people enthusiastically display "support our troops" signs on their cars and houses, encouraged by the Government's ongoing promotion. However, once everything was over and our young men and women returned home, they were left forgotten.
There was no money for their recovery, even Trudeau himself said it at Grant MacEwan University to a VET who lost his legs to an IED.
The reaction in America was just as disgusting and demeaning as that of the then-Canadian Prime Minister. The cost of war has no price tag, as Tony Benn once said, he had never heard a General say, “I can't bomb Baghdad because I have exceeded my budget. So, it should remain that way to support those returning. There is no price too high to pay to ensure the care for those who were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice serving their country.
So , as we remember those lost, keep in mind those still with it suffering a much different sort of loss. Yet just as much a death due to the indifference and ignoring of responsibility by the very people who represent us.
They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
And in the morning
We shall remember them.
Response: We will remember them
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