Dear Editor:
On Aug. 4, 1914, Canada became part of the bloody carnage of the First World War. Out of a nation of only eight million people, 620,000 military personnel were mobilized.
Per capita, Canada contributed more than any of her allies to that war. Of these warriors, 173,000 (28 per cent) were wounded, and one in ten never returned.
Entering that war as a British colony, the Canadian military's record was so impressive that Canada was awarded a separate signature on the Peace Treaty, signifying that nationhood had been achieved by the courage and lives of Canada's heroes. Canada stood tall on the world stage.
While a peace-loving nation, Canada's military is ever watchful to protect our freedoms, and stands ready to support her allies in the overthrow of a tyrant's yoke that would enslave others. "Freedom is not free ..."
Just recently, on the 100th anniversary of Canada joining the First World War, a national war memorial was unveiled and dedicated at Cates Park/Whey-ah-Wichen.
In the form of a large jade boulder, and intended as a focal gathering point for the annual Remembrance Day service held there, it stands in silent tribute to honour all Canada's fallen warriors who died that we may enjoy the freedoms that we now take for granted.
However, children have often been seen climbing upon the memorial, a sign of disrespect of which doubtless the children are unaware.
I would politely ask parents to use the memorial as an educational tool to explain its purpose to their children, that they may understand the principles of freedom and peace that Canada's war dead died for, and take them to the park's nearby playground for their climbing activities.
Mick Webb
North Vancouver
