Submitted by Jerry Meadows

Royal Canadian Legion 

Br. 71, Windermere District

This year we celebrate some significant events in Canada’s history.

Afghanistan

More than 40,000 Canadian Armed Forces members served in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2014. It was the largest deployment of Canadian troops since the Second World War. 

Serving in Afghanistan was very dangerous. Sadly, 158 Canadian Armed Forces members died. Many more returned home with injuries. March 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of the end of Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. We recognize the brave Canadians who served and died there defending peace and freedom.

Juno Beach

Eighty years ago on June 6, 1944 the Normandy Invasion was the most important. Changing the course of history, it marked the beginning of the end of Nazi rule in Europe. 

Canada made a major contribution to the D-Day attack by taking responsibility for one of five beachheads known forever as Juno Beach. A total of 14,000 Canadian troops by ship and 450 by parachute landed in the early hours of that fateful day, supported by the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Juno Beach represents the will of Canada to preserve and defend freedom and democracy.

Air Force

Our country has a long and proud tradition of military service in the air. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) was formed on April 1, 1924, and has made many contributions over the years. During the Second World War, more than 250,000 Canadian aviators served at home and around the world. Their efforts came at a high cost. More than 17,000 of our airmen and airwomen lost their lives. Canadian pilots also served in the Korean War. They transported troops and supplies to East Asia and flew fighter jets. During the Cold War, our war planes served with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces at sea and in Western Europe. Canada continues to partner with (NORAD) to protect our continent’s skies today.

Service in Africa

In 2024, we are highlighting Canada’s military efforts in Africa. Thousands of Canadians have served in many missions on this huge continent over the years. Our troops sailed overseas to take part in the South African War in the late1800s. At least two valley residents were there. Canadian aviators, soldiers and sailors fought in allied campaigns around North Africa during the Second World War. Canadians have also served in Africa as part of many peace operations since 1960. Canadian Armed Forces members participated in NATO operations against Libya in 2011. Anti-piracy efforts in the dangerous waters off the African coast and the Mediterranean are also ongoing.