NVWSP 2023 video for an audience of all ages
Video / October 5, 2023
Transcript
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When we think of Canada's military history, we often think about the battles, and the harrowing conditions faced by Canadian Armed Forces members and civilians alike during war.
We think about how these conflicts made our country what it is today.
We reflect on the values our people were fighting for, and we give thanks that we can live in peace and safety today.
But our military history is so much more than just a list of battles won and lost.
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Canada has a proud military history that dates back centuries. And that history comes down to people.
Every name in our history books was a person—a sibling, a parent, a child, a loved one.
Someone who left the comfort of home, endangering themselves to help others in need.
So, as we remember the collective struggles and triumphs that made our country what it is today, let us also honour the individuals who came together from across our nation to bring safety, support, and hope to those in peril.
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Today, we recognize people like Ted Zuber, who enlisted as a parachutist when war broke out in Korea—jumping into danger to help conquer enemy positions. He would later become a sniper, responsible for taking out far away targets and protecting his fellow troops from danger.
He served from 1950 until the 1953 armistice was signed, 70 years ago this year. His bravery and skill, like that of thousands of other troops, helped ensure independence and prosperity for South Korea.
He kept serving despite being wounded by shrapnel during an accident—an accident which claimed the life of a comrade and wounded several others.
This injury—and what he saw during the war—affected him for the rest of his life.
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After the war, he devoted himself to painting his memories, to sharing our history on canvas. His paintings were sometimes beautiful, sometimes uplifting, sometimes heartbreaking.
After several decades, he was retroactively named the Canadian War Artist for Korea by the Canadian War Museum and would later serve in the same role in the Persian Gulf.
He died in 2018, but his legacy carries on through his paintings. Thanks to him, Canadians have a unique insight what is often called “the Forgotten War”.
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We also recognize people like Wendy Jocko – a retired Forces member and former chief of the Algonquin First Nation at Pikwakanagan.
She came from a long line of warriors—those dedicated to helping others at home and across the globe, as military members, first responders, or community leaders.
In 1993, she deployed as part of the UN Peacekeeping mission in Croatia, one of many Peacekeeping missions Canada has participated in since the UN began operations 75 years ago.
She served for six months in the region, working as a purchasing agent, and seeing first-hand the effects of war on civilians.
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This was a difficult time for the region, where the fighting involved the civilian population in unspeakable horrors. So, wherever she could, she tried to help those who were struggling, including women and children stuck in the middle of the conflict.
She even befriended a young family who lived nearby the base camp, helping them by bringing food and milk when she was nearby.
Her experiences left a lasting impact and re-affirmed her desire to do good across the globe.
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She would later return to Croatia in 1998. When she returned, she was able to see a transformation which promised a peaceful future.
For her service and for her dedication to helping others—in Croatia and as part of her community back home —she has been honoured with a portrait by artist Elaine Goble, formally unveiled as part of National Indigenous Veterans Day celebrations this year.
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No matter their background…
Whether they're sailors, soldiers, aviators or special forces members…
Whether they're dressed in the blue peacekeeping helmet, in combat boots, or dress uniforms,
Whether they are former or currently serving members …
Canadian Armed Forces members carry on a proud legacy.
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So this Veteran's Week and especially on Remembrance Day, I hope you will think about members, past and present and their vast contributions that make up Canada's military history.
Seek out and listen to their stories.
Celebrate their achievements.
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Remember those who are no longer with us, and everything they did to create a safer, more peaceful world.
We will remember them.