Royal Canadian Legion Branch 76 in Meadow Lake kicked off its annual Poppy Campaign a little differently this year. In addition to the traditional presentation of the first poppy of the year to mayor Merlin Seymour, this year the Legion also organized a small ceremony Friday (Oct. 23) at the Meadow Lake Co-op Centre to honour the fallen soldiers as well as those who were injured during the recent incident that occurred at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright.
“On behalf of the Meadow Lake Legion we want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the community of Wainwright following the tragic events of last weekend,” stated Branch 76 president Jo-Anne Carter who emceed Friday morning’s ceremony. “When something like this happens, we are reminded how quickly life can change and how much tragedy can affect an entire community.” On Oct. 17, a fast-moving, destructive grassfire erupted during a live-fire training exercise at CFB Wainwright in Alberta. Four members of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3PPCLI) – 26-year-old Sgt. Morgan Wong, 23-year-old Pte. Shaun Farrell, 23-year-old Pte. Aidan Goulding and 19-year-old Pte. Hayden Lykkemark – were killed while dozens of soldiers were injured. Sudden high-velocity winds reportedly gusting up to 105 km/h pushed the fire nearly a kilometre in less than a minute. Military officials confirmed the fire started on an automatic grenade launcher range during routine training.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who is grieving, those who are hurting and all those who are working to support one another during this difficult time,” Carter continued. “As a Legion we understand our role goes well beyond remembering those who have served our country. The Legion is also a place where people come together, where friendships are formed, where generations connect and where neighbours support neighbours through both the good times and the hardest days. In moments like this, we are reminded why having a Legion in the community matters. It represents connection, compassion, service and the simple but powerful belief no one should have to face hardships alone.”
A special guest was also in attendance for Friday’s ceremony. “I’d like to welcome Cpl. Sarah Radke, a servicewoman stationed at CFB Wainwright,” Carter remarked. She went on to say the local branch initially planned to present a monetary donation it has collected for CFB Wainwright to Radke, but, because of certain protocols, was unable to do so at the time. “We really appreciate you coming out today, Sarah, and joining us,” she said. Carter also noted the donation it has for CFB Wainwright is more than financial support. “It is a message to CFB Wainwright its community is not alone in its grief,” she said. “Even though we may be miles apart, we are connected by the same spirit of service and care for one another. May the people of Wainwright find strength in one another and comfort in the support surrounding them.”
As noted, Friday’s ceremony also served as an opportunity for the local branch to kick off its annual poppy campaign when poppy campaign chair Alloha Twanow presented the mayor with the first poppy of the year. “I want to thank the Legion for inviting me to be a part of the kickoff for this year’s local poppy campaign,” Seymour said. “This is a very important time to recognize all members of our community who have served our country by wearing a poppy in remembrance of them. Today also marks a day to honour the soldiers who lost their lives recently at CFB Wainwright, as well as the numerous other injuries that happened. I proudly accept the first poppy from our local Legion branch.”
Meanwhile, Legion padre Flo Campbell led the small crowd in attendance in prayer while two minutes of silence capped off the ceremony. “On behalf of Legion branch 76, I would like to thank you all very much for attending our service,” Carter said.