Discussion · Statements by Members
Mel Arnold Conservative
“I want us to honour Canadian veterans and those who died in service. Many suffered lasting physical and mental harm so that we can live in peace. We must remember their sacrifices on Remembrance Day and every day.”
“Mr. Speaker, as poppies bloom on lapels across the nation, we are reminded of the people who have sacrificed everything so that we can live free. From the Boer War in 1899 through the first and second world wars, the Korean War, the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan, and in peacetime, Canada’s women and men in uniform have given everything and carried immense burdens for all of us. Recent tragedies, such as the loss in Wainwright, underscore the ongoing depth of their sacrifices. I am reminded of my own grandfather Jesse Pullin, who served in the First World War for Britain and, after immigrating to Canada, returned and served for Canada in the Second World War. He came back with shrapnel and other wounds, but in all the years I knew him, he never spoke of the battles and atrocities he saw or the hardships endured. Many carried and carry similar physical wounds and deep emotional scars. We must not forget what they have given for our peace. On Remembrance Day, and every day, we will remember them.”
Mr. Speaker, as poppies bloom on lapels across the nation, we are reminded of the people who have sacrificed everything so that we can live free. From the Boer War in 1899 through the first and second world wars, the Korean War, the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan, and in peacetime, Canada’s women and men in uniform have given everything and carried immense burdens for all of us. Recent tragedies, such as the loss in Wainwright, underscore the ongoing depth of their sacrifices. I am reminded of my own grandfather Jesse Pullin, who served in the First World War for Britain and, after immigrating to Canada, returned and served for Canada in the Second World War. He came back with shrapnel and other wounds, but in all the years I knew him, he never spoke of the battles and atrocities he saw or the hardships endured. Many carried and carry similar physical wounds and deep emotional scars. We must not forget what they have given for our peace. On Remembrance Day, and every day, we will remember them.