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Remembrance Day in Europe
By Joan Legris
 Members of the European morale and welfare team.From left: Sgt K. G. Milford; Patrick Robinson, PSP Coordinator; Lisa Letendre, HP Assistant; Christina Carter, NPF HR Assistant; Marian Bielec, PSP Manager; Joan Legris, NPF HR Manager; and WO S.A. Galante. |
At 11:00 on the 11th day in the 11th month of 2004, as part of the NPF/CFPSA team accompanying Canadian Forces (CF) in Europe, I joined my colleagues and military members in a quiet and solemn Remembrance Day ceremony.
The weather was typical for November; the sun shone rather bleakly and a brisk breeze was scattering dead leaves about the feet of the small group gathered around the Selfkant Kaserne parade square. A few German officials joined us as their flag was lowered simultaneously with the red Maple Leaf.
As the final notes of the Last Post played, I looked around and was struck by the juxtaposition. Here we were, a small group of displaced Canadians, standing next to German artillery and missiles, shoulder to shoulder with our former foes, respecting our differences and reconciling our histories with quiet and respectful ease. It was a moment I will never forget and one that for which I will always be grateful.
Grateful is a word that comes to mind much more often these days. The opportunity to work in Germany has been a wonderful experience, not least of which are the travel and the adventure. More importantly however, is the chance to be part of a military and civilian team focused on providing support services to the CF members working all over Europe.