Borden-Carleton Legion

On The War Memorial Trail….Remembrance Week 2025 – Borden-Carleton Legion At 3 Schools For Remembrance Services

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November 7, 2025.  On November 4, 2025, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion in Prince Edward Island were present for Remembrance Services at three schools:  Somerset Consolidated in Kinkora, Kinkora Regional High School in Kinkora, and Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.

…. Remembrance Service at Somerset Consolidated School….

On a cold and rainy Tuesday, the day of school visits began in the morning in Kinkora, at the Somerset Consolidated School.   Each grade participated with a poem or reading and the choir sang John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’.

The flag bearers for the colour parade carried the Canadian flag and the Borden-Carleton Branch Legion flag.

This year’s flag bearers were: Arthur Ranahan (left) and George Palmer (right). Sergeant-At-Arms Mario Henry is in the centre. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, Principal Angela Griffiths, and music teacher Devin Krauskopf.

Somerset Consolidated School: Left to right:  George Palmer, Pieter Valkenburg, Trish Taylor, Kathy Henry, Principal Angela Griffiths, Teacher Devin Krauskopf, Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Arthur Ranahan.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

 …. Remembrance Service at Kinkora Regional High School….

Following the service at Somerset Consolidated School, the Legion members made their way to Kinkora Regional High School, which is also in Kinkora. A PowerPoint presentation showed students from the school who visited France, Belgium, and the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom in The Netherlands this past May. 

Four cadets who are students at the school participated in the Remembrance Service. Oscar Bulman, Maika MacLean and Lucas Somers – all three with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, RCSCC 85 Summerside, and Lochlain Dunn of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, cadets, Principal Ryan McAleer, and Vice-Principal Matt Killeen.

Kinkora Regional High School: Left to right: Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, George Palmer, Maika MacLean, Lochlain Dunn, Pieter Valkenburg, Vice-Principal Matt Killeen, Trish Taylor, Kathy Henry, Brian O’Connor, Principal Ryan McAleer, Oscar Bulman, Lucas Somers, Arthur Ranahan. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Students at the school annually offer a light lunch to the Legion members after the Remembrance Service is concluded, a gesture that is much appreciated. This year, we were offered sandwiches, as well as an assortment of cookies, plus coffee or tea.  All the food was prepared by students.

…. Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School….

In the afternoon, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion were present for a Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.  At this school, three cadets participated in the Remembrance service: Sylvia Cochrane and Alex MacPhee – both with PEI Regiment 17th Recce, and Vivian Dunn of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.

Left to right: Sylvia Cochrane (cadet with PEI Regt 17th Recce), Alex MacPhee (cadet with PEI Regt 17th Recce), Vivian Dunn (cadet with Royal Cdn Air Cadets 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.) (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The band at Amherst Cove Consolidated was a pleasure to listen to!  The students and their Band Director, Gráinne Howman, are to be commended!

Amherst Cove School Band, under the direction of Band Director Gráinne Howman. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, cadets, Vice-Principal Johnny Martin, and Band Director Gráinne Howman.

Amherst Cove Consolidated School: Left to right: George Palmer, Pieter Valkenburg, Band Director Gráinne Howman, Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Vice-Principal Johnny Martin, Barry Bernard, Alex MacPhee, Trish Taylor, Vivian Dunn, Danny Bernard, Kathy Henry, Sylvia Cochrane, Arthur Ranahan.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Thank you to the officials and students at all three schools for the work they put into the Remembrance Services. May we never forget all those who served, and continue to serve!

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail….Borden-Carleton Legion Honours Veterans By Placing Flags At Their Graves

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November 2, 2025.  In preparation for Remembrance Day, Mario Henry and George Palmer, two veterans from Prince Edward Island’s Borden-Carleton Branch #10, and Mario’s son Laurie, visited cemeteries and cenotaphs in the area on October 30.  They ensured that veterans buried at 9 cemeteries, and whose names are listed on 4 cenotaphs, received a Canadian flag in 2025. 

George Palmer (left) and Mario Henry (right) at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Seven Mile Bay.  (Photo credit: Laurie Henry)

The graves of two soldiers, whose military service the Legion had not been aware of, were added to the list this year:  WWII soldier John Peter ‘JP’ WHITE, who is buried in St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Seven Mile Bay, and WWI soldier John Anthony STORDY, who is buried in St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Kinkora.  (To read JP White’s story, see https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/09/28/on-the-war-memorial-trailthe-wwii-carpenter-buried-in-seven-mile-bay-who-does-not-have-a-cwgc-headstone/)

The cemeteries covered by the area served by the Borden-Carleton Branch are:

  • Cape Traverse – Cape Traverse Community Cemetery
  • Cape Traverse – Cape Traverse Community Cemetery
  • Central Bedeque – Central Bedeque Baptist Cemetery
  • Kinkora – St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Cemetery
  • Lower Bedeque – Lower Bedeque Cemetery
  • North Tryon – North Tryon Presbyterian Cemetery
  • Searletown – Searletown United Cemetery
  • Seven Mile Bay – St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery
  • Tryon – Tryon People’s Cemetery

Flags were also placed at these Cenotaphs:

  • Augustine Cove Cenotaph (4 flags)
  • Borden-Carleton Cenotaph (1 flag)
  • Searletown United Cemetery Cenotaph (4 flags)
  • Tryon Cenotaph (4 flags)

The placing of flags at graves and cenotaphs has been done annually for well over 21 years. If you see Canadian flags by graves, please do not disturb them. They are a mark of respect for a veteran’s service to Canada, and will be picked up about a week after November 11.

Mario Henry asks that if a veteran’s grave was missed, or if a veteran has recently passed away, please contact the Legion, so that flags can be placed for next year. The Legion branch can be contacted by phone at 902-855-2660 (after 4 pm) or on its Facebook page.

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail…..A Photo For WWI Soldier Harry Robinson

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March 30, 2025. When Pieter began researching the names on the Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion in 2015, he hoped to be able to put a face and story to each of the 48 names.  Over the years he researched each name, and we’ve told the story of each one, plus shared our visits made to the graves or memorials for many of them.

Unfortunately, photos for several have yet to be found.  The Cenotaph Wall of Remembrance in the Borden-Carleton Legion, which displays the photos of the men listed on the Cenotaph, has empty frames for those photos waiting to be found.

…The 10 year search for a photo of WWI soldier Harry Robinson…

Empty frame awaiting a photo of WWI soldier Harry Robinson.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

One of those for which a photo was missing was Harry ROBINSON, born July 9, 1881 in Augustine Cove, the son of Thomas and Sarah (nee Campbell) Robinson. Harry was a widower at the time he enlisted on April 28, 1916 with the 105th Battalion.  He’d lost his daughter Merilla in 1911, and his wife Clara Wadman in 1912. 

While in Valcartier, Quebec for training, Harry contracted blood poisoning from a cellulitis infection and died on June 27, 1916. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2019/04/29/the-ww1-soldiers-who-never-left-canada/)

Harry’s body was brought back to Prince Edward Island for burial in the Tryon People’s Cemetery in Tryon, not far from where we live.

Grave of Harry Robinson at the Tryon People’s Cemetery in Tryon, Prince Edward Island. (Photo credit: Pieter Valkenburg)

…At long last, a photo of Harry was found…

We keep an updated Cold Case List on this blog (see https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/our-cold-cases/).  From time to time, we list the names of those from Prince Edward Island in a newspaper article in the County Line Courier newspaper. 

Harry Robinson.  (Photo courtesy of the Robinson family)

After the most recent article, which ran in the County Line Courier’s February 5, 2025 issue, we were contacted by Elaine McCormick of Chelton, Prince Edward Island, who submitted a photo of Harry Robinson!  Harry was the “….son of Thomas and Sarah Robinson, brother of John Joseph Robinson (our grandfather). My brother Carl Robinson and I found the photo going through my late Aunt’s pictures.  My aunt was Beulah Robinson Thomson…” 

Elaine went on to explain that during WWI “…my grandfather John Joseph was at dry dock in Halifax…” in Nova Scotia.   “…My grandmother was dying of cancer and my dad and aunt Beulah were in the Halifax orphanage….”  Elaine’s grandfather “…brought them all home in 1917, a few months before the Halifax Explosion…” on December 6, 1917. (See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halifax_Explosion)

After Elaine’s grandmother “…. passed away...” Harry and John Joseph’s mother “…Sarah Robinson looked after…” Elaine’s father and aunt until she herself passed away.  The family had more than their share of tragedy!

…Harry’s photo is now on the Cenotaph Wall of Remembrance at the Borden-Carleton Legion….

Elaine McCormick and Pieter Valkenburg with the photo of Elaine’s great-uncle Harry Robinson.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

A few days ago, we met with Elaine McCormick and her husband at the Borden-Carlton Legion, in order to place a photo of Harry Robinson in the empty frame.  

…7 photos are still to be found for the names on the Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion….

With the photo of Harry Robinson now on the Legion’s Cenotaph Wall of Remembrance, Pieter hopes that eventually all of the empty frames will be filled.  “…Photos for 6 from WWI and 1 from WWII have yet to be found….” he said.  Can YOU help with this photo wish list?

Names still without faces from WWI

  • Leigh Hunt CAMERON, born in Albany
  • James Lymon CAMERON, born in Victoria
  • William Galen CAMPBELL, born in Wellington
  • Bazil CORMIER, born in Tignish
  • Charles LOWTHER, born in North Carleton
  • Arthur Clinton ROBINSON, born in Tryon

Name still without a face from WWII

  • Ernest Ramey GALLANT, born in Borden

Thank you to Elaine McCormick and Carl Robinson for providing a photo on behalf of the family, and to the County Line Courier newspaper for publishing the article about our Cold Case List.  If you have photos or information to share about Harry Robinson or any of the names still on the Cold Case List, please email Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.    

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail…. Remembrance Week 2024 – Borden-Carleton Legion At South Shore Villa and Cenotaph For Remembrance Services

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banner-remembrance with poppies

November 18, 2024.  After a day of school visits for Remembrance Services on November 6, 2024, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion in Prince Edward Island gathered for a Remembrance Service at South Shore Villa in Crapaud on November 8, 2024, and then for the Remembrance Day Service beside the Cenotaph outside the Legion in Borden-Carleton on November 11, 2024.

….Remembrance Service At South Shore Villa….

On the afternoon of November 8, 2024, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion were present for the annual Remembrance Service at the South Shore Villa, a retirement and nursing care home in Crapaud, Prince Edward Island.

CIMG7243 Nov 8 2024 South Shore Villa

The March On of Colours signaled the start of the Remembrance Service at South Shore Villa.  Left to right: Arthur Ranahan, Danny Bernard, and Sgt At Arms Mario Henry.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Pieter was the Master of Ceremonies at this service, while the Reverend Kent Compton of the Free Church of Scotland in Cape Traverse offered the Opening prayer and Blessing. 

CIMG7246 Nov 8 2024 South Shore Villa

Remembrance Service at South Shore Villa in Crapaud, Prince Edward Island. From left to right: Danny Bernard, Pieter Valkenburg, Rev Kent Compton of the Free Church of Scotland, Arthur Ranahan. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

 ….Remembrance Day Service At Borden-Carleton Legion….

A cold and rainy day on Monday, November 11, 2024 did not deter people from attending the Remembrance Day service at Borden-Carleton Legion.  In fact, it seemed as though there were more people in attendance than in previous years.

While most members of the public, including yours truly, stood outside while protected by an umbrella, this was not the case for the Legion members who were unprotected but remained at attention for over 45 minutes during the ceremony. 

CIMG7251 Nov 11 2024 Borden-Carleton Legion

The Reverend Barbara Cairns of the Bedeque United Church in Bedeque, Prince Edward Island, offered the Opening Prayer. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG7254 Nov 11 2024 Borden-Carleton Legion

The Legion flag was lowered during the playing of The Last Post by Arthur Ranahan.  Lucien Bourgoin held the Canadian flag.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG7258 Nov 11 2024 Borden-Carleton Legion Govt of Cda wreath being laid

Danny Bernard (left) and Pieter stand at attention after laying the Government of Canada wreath on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque. Flag bearer seen on right: Arthur Ranahan. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG7262 Nov 11 2024 Borden-Carleton Legion

Members of the Borden-Carleton Legion and the public honour the memories of those who’ve served, despite the inclement weather, at the November 11, 2024 service in Borden-Carleton. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the Remembrance Day Service, everyone was invited inside the Legion for a light lunch and a much needed cup of coffee or tea.

Thank you to the South Shore Villa for organizing the Remembrance Day Service, and to all of the Legion members who participated in the various Remembrance Week events. May we never forget all those who served, and continue to serve!

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEurope4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail…. Remembrance Week 2024 – Borden-Carleton Legion At 3 Schools For Remembrance Services

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banner-remembrance with poppies

November 17, 2024.  On November 6, 2024, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion in Prince Edward Island were present for Remembrance Services at three schools:  Somerset Consolidated in Kinkora, Kinkora Regional High School in Kinkora, and Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.

…. Remembrance Service at Somerset Consolidated School….

The day of school visits began in the morning in Kinkora, at the Somerset Consolidated School.  As this is traditionally the first school visited each year, a group photo is always taken outside the school with all of the Legion members who participated.

CIMG7223 Nov 6 2024 Somerset Consolidated School

2024 photo taken at the school’s entrance. Left to right: Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, George Palmer, Danny Bernard, Pieter Valkenburg, Kathy Henry, Dawn Gradwell, Arthur Ranahan, Trish Taylor, Barry Bernard. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

School officials were careful to verify the Order of Service and to note down the names of all of the Legion members present.  The names were read out during the service, a mark of respect that all appreciated.

CIMG7215 Nov 6 2024 Somerset Consolidated School

The Order of Service was verified with Vice-Principal Ryan Casey.  Left to right: Kathy Henry, Mario Henry, Arthur Ranahan, Ryan Casey, Pieter Valkenburg.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Two cadets who are students at the school participated in the Remembrance Service.

CIMG7222 Nov 6 2024 Somerset Consolidated School cadets

Two cadets from the school participated in the service. Left to right: Amelia MacCausland (RCSCC Sea Cadets Summerside), Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Thomas Palmer (PEI Regt 17th Recce Army Cadets). (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The flag bearers for the colour parade carried the Canadian flag and the Borden-Carleton Branch Legion flag.

CIMG7216 Nov 6 2024 Somerset Consolidated School flag bearers

This year’s flag bearers were: Arthur Ranahan (left) and Danny Bernard (right). (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

 …. Remembrance Service at Kinkora Regional High School….

Following the service at Somerset Consolidated School, the Legion members made their way to Kinkora Regional High School, which is also in Kinkora. School officials let Pieter know that students from the school will be visiting the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom in The Netherlands in May 2025.  We’re aware of 8 Islanders buried in the cemetery, whose graves hopefully will be visited by the students.

CIMG7226 Nov 6 2024 KRHS Principal & Vice Principal

Pieter (centre) flanked by Principal Ryan McAleer (left) and Vice Principal Matt Killeen. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Two cadets who are students at the school participated in the Remembrance Service.

CIMG7228 Nov 6 2024 KRHS Parade participants

Parade participants, left to right: Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Danny Bernard, Maika MacLean and Lucas Somers (both with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, RCSCC Summerside), Barry Bernard. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Students at the school annually offer a light lunch to the Legion members after the Remembrance Service is concluded, a gesture that is much appreciated. This year, we were offered chile or corn chowder, as well as an assortment of squares and cookies, plus coffee or tea.  All the food was prepared by students, and Legion members unanimously agreed that both luncheon choices were delicious!

CIMG7229 Nov 6 2024 KRHS Lunch is served

Following the Remembrance Service at Kinkora Regional High School in Kinkora, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion were invited for a delicious lunch of either corn chowder or chile, prepared by students.  Left to right: Dawn Gradwell, Mario Henry, Kathy Henry, Arthur Ranahan. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

…. Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School….

In the afternoon, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion were present for a Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.  At this school, the two cadets from the school were siblings.

CIMG7231 Nov 6 2024 Amherst Cove Parade

Parade participants, left to right: Danny Bernard, Arthur Ranahan, Kaden MacPhee (PEI Regt 17th Recce), Alex MacPhee (cadet with PEI Regt 17th Recce), Pieter Valkenburg, Barry Bernard. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Amherst Cove Consolidated was the only school on the tour this year that had a band…. and my goodness, were these students good!  As someone who played in a Youth Orchestra myself as a child, I could only marvel at how well the students played.  The students and their Band Director, Grainne Howman, are to be commended!  It was a pleasure to listen to them.

CIMG7235 Nov 6 2024 Amherst Cove School Band

The school band, under the direction of Band Director Grainne Howman, was inspirational. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

After the Remembrance Service, Principal Paul Quinlan and Vice-Principal Evan Killorn posed with two veterans from the Borden-Carleton Legion, George Palmer and Pieter.  Both men were born before D-day and both served in the Air Force – Pieter in the Royal Netherlands Air Force, and George in the Royal Canadian Air Force.

CIMG7238 Nov 6 2024 Amherst Cove Principal & Vice Principal

Vice Principal Evan Killorn (far left) and Principal Paul Quinlan (3rd from left) with two veterans from Borden-Carleton Legion – Pieter Valkenburg (2nd from left) and George Palmer (far right). (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Listening to the children at each school with their various programs of Remembrance – and the respect they showed to the members present from the Legion – offered hope that the next generations may be less selfish and filled with distrust towards others.

Thank you to the officials and students at all three schools for the work they put into the Remembrance Services. May we never forget all those who served, and continue to serve!

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEurope4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail….. D-Day Commemoration at Borden-Carleton Legion – June 6, 2024

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Screenshot 2024-05-28 at 10-34-30 D-Day 80th Anniversary Banner Decoration - 1.2m

June 19, 2024.  June 6, 2024 marked the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord (the larger Normandy invasion) and Operation Neptune (the English Channel-crossing portion of Operation Overlord) – what we refer to as D-Day.  

….80 years ago, Canadians landed on Juno Beach….

DDay 80 Newsletter - 3

On June 6, 1944, 14,000 Canadians and 7,000 Brits landed on Juno Beach. (Photo source: 2023 Juno Beach Centre Association (Canada))

An excerpt from the Juno Beach Centre Association (Canada) noted that “…between 7:45-8:15 am, units from the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, supported by tanks of the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade, launched attacks along an eight-kilometre stretch of beach between Saint-Aubin and Graye-sur-Mer.

Despite the heavily entrenched enemy, the Canadians overcame the German defences and started inland. By evening, a Canadian bridgehead had been solidly established on the coast of Normandy. So started the Battle of Normandy….”

….The Borden-Carleton Legion commemorated the anniversary….

On June 6, 2024, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion gathered by the Cenotaph to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.  It was duly noted that two of the Legion veterans present had been born BEFORE June 6, 1944! 

CIMG6855 Jun 6 2024 2 veterans Pieter & George Palmer Borden Carleton Legion

Two veterans from the Borden-Carleton Legion, Pieter Valkenburg (left) and George Palmer (right), were born BEFORE D-Day on June 6, 1944! (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG6856 Jun 6 2024 Parade lineup Borden Carleton Legion

Members of the Borden-Carleton Legion lined up for the 80th Commemoration of the D-Day landings.  Front: Sgt At Arms Mario Henry.  Back, left to right: Pieter Valkenburg, George Palmer, Barry Bernard, Danny Bernard, Trish Taylor.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG6861 Jun 6 2024 Wreath at Cenotaph Borden Carleton Legion

The Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion after the laying of the wreath to honour the servicemen who were at D-Day on June 6, 1944.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

….More information about D-Day….

Missed an earlier posting on the 80th anniversary of D-Day?  See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2024/06/01/on-the-war-memorial-trail-commemorating-the-80th-anniversary-of-d-day/

Want to know more about D-Day?  Follow the photos and text  in ‘D-Day: The story of 24 hours that changed the world’ at https://news.sky.com/story/d-day-the-story-of-24-hours-that-changed-the-world-11732907

Do you have photos or information to share? Email Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEurope4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail….. Commemorating The 80th Anniversary Of D-Day

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Screenshot 2024-05-28 at 10-34-30 D-Day 80th Anniversary Banner Decoration - 1.2m

June 1, 2024.  June 6, 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord (the larger Normandy invasion) and Operation Neptune (the English Channel-crossing portion of Operation Overlord) – what we refer to as D-Day.

….What does D-Day mean?….

Did you know that the ‘D’ in D-Day was a military codeword referring to ‘Departure Day’?  U.S. General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe,  noted, through his executive assistant, Brigadier General Robert Schultz: “…Be advised that any amphibious operation has a ‘departed date;’ therefore the shortened term ‘D-Day’ is used….”

While there were several other D-Days during the war, the invasion of Normandy was the biggest and most well-known. 

…..D-Day was an international effort….

Most people consider D-Day to have been solely a joint British, Canadian, and American effort.  However, it’s important to recognize that over 2 million troops from over 12 countries were in Britain in preparation for the invasion. While Allied forces consisted mainly of American, British, and Canadian troops, smaller contingents included Australian, Belgian, Czech, Dutch, French, Greek, New Zealand, Norwegian, Rhodesian, and Polish naval, air, or ground support!

Dday Invasion-map

D-Day invasion map. The Canadians landed on Juno Beach in Normandy, France. (Map source: https://www.ddaylepe.org.uk/index.php/overlord-neptune/)

On the morning of D-Day, ground troops landed across five assault beaches –Juno, Sword, Gold, Utah, and Omaha.  Canadian soldiers landed at Juno on the outskirts of Bernières.  British forces landed at Sword and Gold, while the Americans landed at Utah and Omaha.

Want to know a bit more about D-Day?  See https://news.sky.com/story/eleven-things-you-might-not-know-about-d-day-13132330  My favourite tidbit is how Hitler slept through the D-Day landings.  Even after he woke up in the late morning he believed it was just a diversionary tactic – and so no reserve troops were immediately sent to Normandy!

….11 servicemen who survived D-Day have been featured on this blog….

Over the past years, we have featured stories of 11 servicemen who were present in Normandy on June 6, 1944. All survived D-Day, but only 1 survived WWII and returned home – Airman Lorne MACFARLANE flew a night mission that coincided with the early morning hours of D-Day and realized afterwards what a lucky escape he and his crew had.  “…Our mission was completed.   As we crossed the Channel on the way back, we could see through breaks in the cloud, the wakes of hundreds of ships…” heading towards the French coast.  You can read Lorne’s story here:  https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/10/20/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-ww2-pilot-from-pei-who-flew-40-missions-overseas-and-returned-home/

The other 10 are buried in a Canadian War Cemetery in France, The Netherlands, or Belgium.  These men are:

….The actions of D-Day helped shorten WWII….

For a very brief overview of the significance of D-Day, watch this 3 minute CTV video prepared for the 75th anniversary:

….Upcoming Event at the Borden-Carleton Legion….

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Borden-Carleton Legion will have a wreath laying ceremony by the Cenotaph at 3:00 pm on June 6, 2024.  Pieter and I will be there. All are welcome to attend in honour of those who fought on that day.  The wreath laying ceremony will be followed by a light lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs.

Do you have photos or information to share? Email Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEurope4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten’ Is Not Forgotten By Readers

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October 17, 2022. We very much appreciate hearing from readers of ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten’.  We love seeing the photos that you send, your feedback, and where possible, having the opportunity to meet you.

…We love meeting readers of our book!….

Janet Fitzgerald with book

Janet FitzGerald with book. (Photo courtesy of Janet FitzGerald)

Janet FitzGerald wrote to say that “….the work you two are doing is so important and amazing.  I am reading your book and loving every story in it.  May you both be blessed for the precious work you are doing….”

Janet’s uncle, WW2 airman Rowan Charles ‘Bunky’ FITZGERALD of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, was on the last flight of Halifax W1175 of the 405th Squadron when it was hit by shellfire and crashed onto a sandbank in the Wadden Sea off the Dutch coast on June 28, 1942.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2022/10/12/on-the-war-memorial-trail-well-never-forget-uncle-bunky/)

CIMG5812 Sep 12 2022 Simone Comeau and Daria with book

Simone Comeau with book. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

We first met Simone Comeau and her sister Jacqueline in 2018 while researching a tragic drowning in which her uncle lost his life.  On a recent trip to Nova Scotia, we had a chance to meet up with Simone again.

Simone’s uncle, WW2 soldier Joseph ‘Ambroise’ COMEAU, from Lower Saulnierville, Nova Scotia, was one of 5 soldiers from the North Nova Scotia Highlanders Regiment who drowned in a tragic accident on the Leda River during the Battle of Leer in Germany on April 28, 1945.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/05/17/on-the-war-memorial-trail-a-tragic-drowning-on-the-leda-river-in-germany-part-3/ and https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/11/10/on-the-war-memorial-trail-linking-the-past-with-the-present/)

…A short interview in North Bay….

In May we were in North Bay, Ontario for an Author Talk. I was interviewed by Clarke Heipel of YOUR TV North Bay prior to the talk I gave at the North Bay Public Library in North Bay, Ontario on May 19, 2022.

The Author Talk resulted in several postings about our North Bay visit and stories of several soldiers. Each posting in the North Bay series has links to previous stories. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2022/07/27/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-wwii-stretcher-bearer-whose-compassion-cost-him-his-life/)

At the time we hadn’t seen the interview, so we were very happy when Don Coutts received a copy of the interview clip.

Thank you to Simone Comeau and Janet FitzGerald for taking the time to share photos and comments.  Thank you to Don Coutts and YOUR TV North Bay for sharing the interview about the presentation in North Bay, Ontario.  Photos or information to share? Email Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

© Daria Valkenburg

…..Upcoming Presentation….

  • Friday, November 11, 2022 – Borden-Carleton, Prince Edward Island, short presentation ‘They Aren’t Just Names On A Cenotaph’ during the Inter-Faith Remembrance Day service at the Borden-Carleton Legion. Time: Service begins at 9:55 am.

…Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEurope 4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information on the book, please see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw.

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail….. The Cenotaph Wall Of Remembrance

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CIMG7978 Cenotaph Borden

Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

December 15, 2021. The Borden-Carleton Cenotaph Research Project….. one Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion….. 48 names from WW1 and WW2. …. Visits made to the graves and memorials of many of these men in Canada and in Europe ….  Almost 6 years in which Pieter researched and we documented the stories of those 48 names.

The final phase of this project was a Cenotaph Wall Of Remembrance inside the Legion.  Organized by Kathy Henry, photos were framed, labelled, and placed on one entire wall in the Legion, with soldiers from WW1 on one side, and WW2 on the other side.

….The Cenotaph Wall Of Remembrance Is Prepared….

20210729_163208 Jul 29 2021 Pieter and Kathy with photo of Buxton

Pieter Valkenburg and Kathy Henry frame photos of the men listed on the Cenotaph. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)


20211103_192444 Nov 3 2021 Kathy Henry puts up WW1 photos

Kathy Henry begins putting up WW1 photos on the wall. If a photo is not available, a silhouette was placed in the frame in the hope that a photo will be found at some point.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

In addition to placing the photos on the wall, there is a photograph of the Cenotaph, plus a stand built by Mario Henry, which holds a binder in which Pieter prepared a short summary about each of the 48 men.

20211103_194856 Nov 3 2021 Kathy & Mario Henry by table

Kathy and Mario Henry by the stand and binder. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The pictures were hung, with the stand and binder in place in time for Remembrance Day.  On November 11, 2021, Pieter and Mario, two proud veterans, stood beside this completed wall that honours the memories of 48 men from WW1 and WW2.

48 names from WW1 & WW2 honoured on Nov 11 2021

….The Veterans Christmas tree includes the names from the Cenotaph….

This year’s Veterans Christmas tree in the Borden-Carleton Legion has tags for each of the 48 names from the Cenotaph.  As was done last year, veterans from the area were invited to place the tag with their name on the tree. (See last year’s story about this special tree: https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2020/11/25/the-veterans-tree-at-borden-carleton-legion/)

20211208_162016 Dec 8 2021 Pieter places tag on Legion Veterans tree

Pieter places the tag with his name on the Veterans Christmas tree.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

….Which photos are still missing?….

From WW1:

From WW2:

Thank you to the Borden-Carleton Legion, with special thanks to Kathy and Mario Henry for preparing the Cenotaph Wall of Remembrance.  If you have photos to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or send a tweet to @researchmemori1. 

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com or email me at dariadv@yahoo.ca and ask for an invitation to the blog. 

Screenshot_2021-02-27 On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg

You are invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

© Daria Valkenburg

2021 Remembrance Week Events  

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CIMG5423 Nov 11 2021 wreaths at Cenotaph Borden Carleton

Wreaths by the Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

November 14, 2021.  Remembrance Week is always busy at our place. This year, with the easing of some restrictions, we were able to be out and about in the community more than last year.

One of the events we attended was at the Tryon Cenotaph in Tryon, Prince Edward Island.

CIMG5373 Nov 10 2021 Tryon Cenotaph Remembrance Service (1)

The Honourable Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, with Pieter at the Tryon Cenotaph following the Remembrance Ceremony on November 9, 2021. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

November 11, 2021 was a cold and crisp day, with the Remembrance Day service at the Legion in Borden-Carleton, Prince Edward Island, held outdoors. Pieter had been asked by the Member of Parliament for Malpeque to lay a wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada during the Remembrance Day Ceremony in Borden-Carleton.  This year, there was a change in MP with the retirement of Wayne Easter, and the election of Heath MacDonald.

CIMG5391 Nov 11 2021 Pieter walks with Govt of Canada wreath Borden Carleton

Pieter with the Government of Canada wreath to be placed on behalf of The Honourable Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG5381 Nov 11 2021 Pieter salutes after placing wreath Borden Carleton

Pieter salutes after placing Government of Canada wreath on behalf of The Honourable Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG5392 Nov 11 2021 Pieter salutes Borden Carleton

Pieter salutes after placing Government of Canada wreath on behalf of The Honourable Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

CIMG5401 Nov 11 2021 Roger and Arthur Borden Carleton

Roger Leboeuf (left) and Arthur Ranahan (right) by the Cenotaph outside the Borden-Carleton Legion.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

It was a meaningful and well-organized ceremony.  In the afternoon, members of the Legion attended the ceremony in Kinkora.

Remembrance Day may be over for another year, but Pieter’s research work continues.  If you have photos and information to share about Canadian soldiers, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or send a tweet to @researchmemori1.

..Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com or email me at memorialtrail@gmail.com and ask for an invitation to the blog.

Screenshot_2021-02-27 On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw.

© Daria Valkenburg