Eternal debt

Yesterday, at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, marked the 90th anniversary of the end of World War I.
Known at the time as the “War to end all wars,” we know today that wasn’t the case, of course. The Second World War began just over 20 years later, followed by the conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, the two in Iraq, and now Afghanistan—not to mention the four wars in the Middle East and countless other smaller ones around the globe.
More than 100,000 Canadians have died in distant lands fighting to defend our ideals of democracy and freedom, and to help protect our own shores from attack by those who wish to destroy our way of life. While the number of veterans from the first two world wars diminishes with each passing year, new casualties in Afghanistan are poignant reminders of the incalculable debt the rest of us owe all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and fellow citizens.
Those who give their lives do so in the hope of sparing future generations from the scourge of war. Sadly, that hasn’t happened yet, but just look at how different Europe is today—united and at peace after centuries of warfare—thanks to the rows and rows of crosses now covering old battlefields across the continent. Each grave marks the final resting spot of an ordinary person, loved by family and friends, who showed extraordinary courage and resolve under horrific conditions to make our world a more peaceful place.
Similarly, it rests upon us to ensure the end of terrorism is the legacy of our fallen soldiers in Afghanistan.
Nov. 11 is the day we pause to remember those who went off to war and never came home. To remember their sacrifices, and their stories, and to give thanks for allowing us to live in a nation strong and free.
They deserve an undying gratitude that must be passed along to our children and grandchildren. Lest we forget.