To the editor,
I write this letter with utmost respect to each and every veteran, living or dead.
Following the end of the First and Second World Wars, and later wars and conflicts, the merchant marine’s ‘war sailors’ are still a largely forgotten group.
Knowing full well the grave danger that lay ahead, they signed up to transport the desperately needed supplies such as oil, gasoline, weapons, ammunitions, etc., to all branches of the allied fighting forces, and without fanfare or recognition, they died on the oceans at a rate higher than those lost on the battlefields.
The fact remains, that had it not been for those unlisted volunteers – the men and women war sailors, the Second World War would have been a dead loss for the allied forces. Yet today, we still do not show them the respect, recognition or gratitude they so much deserve for their selfless service and ultimate sacrifices.
It was only a few years ago that the merchant navy plaque got added to our local cenotaph, and at first, only on the side. It has since been moved to its rightful and logical place, the front.
The grave markers signifying their resting place are few and rather far between since the majority were given only that of a long-forgotten watery grave, and for them also, ‘lest we forget’ should be remembered.
G. Larsen, Nanaimo
READ ALSO: B.C. man completes seven-week term guarding the Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier
READ ALSO: U.S. Merchant Marine veteran from Lantzville receives Congressional Medal of Honour
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press Media or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Letters policy: Letters should be no longer than 250 words and will be edited. Preference is given to letters expressing an opinion on issues of local relevance or responding to items published in the News Bulletin. Include your address (it won’t be published) and a first name or two initials, and a surname. Unsigned letters will not be published.
Mail: Letters, Nanaimo News Bulletin, 777 Poplar St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9S 2H7
Fax: 250-753-0788
E-mail: editor@nanaimobulletin.com