Second World War veteran Jack Bennett became something of a minor celebrity at the Fort Langley services.
The Langley man who was a navigator in Lancaster bombers during the war and the other vets attending were spotlighted in the speech by Rev. Lorin Bergen.
“In the midst of all that you have done and all that you continue to do, I humbly ask one more thing of you, share your story with us,” Bergen said. “I recognize the pain that may bring. But we need to hear so we do not lose sight of the horrors of war.”
He called on all others to honour veterans and current members of the armed forces.
“Talk to one of the esteemed veterans or armed forces members. Look into their eyes and say thank you. Let it become personal,” Bergen said.
He suggested people ask to take a photo with a veteran or armed forces personnel and post it to their social media sites, not just on Remembrance Day but throughout the year and encourage people to honour them and remember their sacrifices.
After the Fort Langley service, lines formed as people patiently waited to meet Bennett and others veterans with many young families taking the time to explain to their children the importance of Bennett and others.
Grace Young, nine, made a wreath to give to a veteran when her family attended the Fort Langley services. After, she had a chance to meet veteran Jack Bennett and present her homemade gift.
She was also one of four children chosen to read her letter to the Remembrance Day assembly at her school, Fort Langley Elementary.
“Because of your hard work, every one gets to enjoy Canada the way it should be,” her letter said. “Canada is peaceful and acceptant country. All of us should honer you and your friends, especially the ones that didn’t make it. Not just at Fort Langley Elementary, everyone should. You are the ones that kept the peace, not just in Canada but all over the world. We will all remember your acts of courage.”
The service, held at the cemetery in the heart of the village, is organized by the community-based Fort Langley Remembrance Day committee with support from the Fort Langley Lions Club, the Fort BIA, and the churches of Fort Langley.
* Click here for more photos from the ceremony.
