Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Canada Declares War!

September 10, 1939

It was on the cover of every newspaper in the country today, including ours: Canada Declares War on Germany! This was no surprise. Britain and France had declared war on Germany a week before. Although Canada could make her own decision, we all knew what was coming.
One of my colleagues conducted a poll two weeks ago, asking Canadians about their views of another war. Many did not like the idea of losing more lives. Of course, Canadians didn’t want to go to war; the blood of the Great War was not yet dry in Canadians’ memories. I had lost both my grandfathers to the war. I was against war myself. Until about a week ago.
Last Thursday, I attended the state held funeral of Margerat Hayworth. As you all know, Margaret was only ten when Germans sunk the Athenia. It broke my heart to think that our nation had our first war casualty, even before we entered the war. But I was brought to tears when I saw how many people were at her funeral. I knew that this wasn’t only about the life of an innocent little girl, but also about the dignity of Canada. I was touched by the unity of Canadians and am now for the war. I believe many Canadians, like me, will support the war effort.

For those who have loved ones fighting on the grounds of Europe for freedom, stay tuned to The Globe and Mail. We’ll keep you updated!

~ Patricia Meyer

5 comments:

  1. I say let's go give Jerry a good thrash! Too bad I can't join the army until I'm 17, but we still have to do our part at home like in the Great War!
    For King and Country!

    -Richard Sharpe

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  2. I was also very touched to witness the unity of Canadians for the war effort. It has strongly influenced me to help as well by working at the factory!
    -Marilyn Anderson

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  3. I heard this story on the radio at my farm. It breaks my heart hearing about Canadian casualties. But many things happen for a reason, we can now unite as a nation and fight for what is right. This story gets me eager to help the soldiers in battle fields and the people at home. I promise to work twice as hard and provide the food that Canadians need!
    -Gurt Bachett

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  4. I am glad we have you Canadians on our side to support the Allies. This will be a tough war, but I know with great determination we all have we will be able to pull through just like the First War.
    - Shirley Reynolds

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  5. It deeply saddens me when innocent civilians are targeted in war. I think it is best that Canadians gather together and spend time to remember the lives that were lost during this war.
    -Emma Bailey

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