It was an honour to take part in the 100th anniversary celebration of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Espanola on Tuesday. The event was part of a tour tracing the steps of the PPCLI one hundred years ago when they crossed Canada to go fight in Europe. In Espanola the soldiers honoured Pte. David Byers, 22, of Espanola, who served with the PPCLI 2nd Regiment, and Cpl. Glen Arnold McKerrow, 32, who served as a medic with 2 Field Ambulances at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. Both of these men lost their lives while serving in Afghanistan. I took the opportunity to thank Mrs. Jane Byers for her work to ensure the tour would make its way through Northern Ontario along with Regimental Sgt. Major Brian McKennelley and countless others who were involved in the arrangements. It is true there are no words to adequately express the debt of gratitude we feel for the sacrifice these individuals have made, but dedications like this one, and the recent dedication of the Cpt. Glen Arnold Memorial Sports Field in McKerrow ensure that future generations will remember our fallen heroes and their selfless commitment. Finally, let’s thank the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry for their remarkable service over the last 100 years and wish them safe travels as they continue the relay.
Posted on: Thu, 04 Sep 2014 18:49:16 +0000