Men of Character & Honor

A Gentle Man, the beginning and the end of imagination.

With dignity and pride abounding from his broad shoulders and frame  he passed through the doors of Mawata Armories wearing  jeans, a work shirt and of course his cowboy boots.  Only at seventeen could he demonstrate, without borders such enthusiasm, strength and courage.  His Country called on him and he responded. He and 120 other young men proudly formed the  14^th Army Tank Battalion and eighteen months later after making it ashore on the north coast of France in August 1942 he was captured by the German Luftwaffe in the battle that later became documented as the Battle of Dieppe.  He remained in a concentration camp until March 1945 when the allies defeated Germany.  After the restraints, the dead bolted doors and barb-wire cages were unlocked and torn down, he remembers being assisted through the deserted camp only announcing with spirit “I Just Want To Go Home.”

He speaks with valor and pride of his Country.  A mighty Nation he does not separate by location, or by political beliefs; never doubting his honor in serving and supporting his Country in any way he can. 

Now at 89 years old, he remains tall, still wearing his cowboy boots, confident in his stride and states with unquestionable enthusiasm, honor and pride of his time, with his family at the Military Museums. 

 Asked to speak regularly to classes at various venues including elementary schools, he talks of his life including all his tales and his patriotism to his Country. As a member of a barber shop quartet he regularly visits hospitals and care centers always achieving his purpose of leaving behind a better moment of joy and memories. On other days he volunteers to transport seniors to their various appointments, not in a publically sponsored vehicle, but his own.

And this is where I met this Gentle Man; in the waiting room of a medical office, both there as guests waiting for our associates to conclude their business. 

Silent towards his gallantry it was only when the conversation ventured into the political arena did he speak with principle and conviction honoring the history of his Country.  When called up to defend her boarders, he accepted with distinction his opportunity to follow the admirable path of his predecessors. He spoke not of personalities or parties only of the imperishable strength and pride of his Country that he demonstrates in return as a citizen, coaching by example for all to witness.

His love and pride for life is so striking you remind yourself of the necessary ascend you must take to travel along a similar plateau that this man travels.

He talks of a successful career after returning from the war.  Again chosen in loyalty and benefit to his country and its future sustainability. 

His eyes pond while he talks of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He talks, not of identity bias, nor the never ending demands and self -indulgent pity that he occasionally watches travel between the Three Oceans of his Country and always, with respect, inquires what they have done for their Country. 

As silence again travelled throughout the room he spoke with pride of the many historical decisions that have been made by the citizens of this Country.  Without attempt, he instilled pride in each and everyone that afternoon and reminded all of what has made this nation so great – not the elected officials that occasionally have gone into their parliamentary seats by abstention; but of the will and determination of this nations  great and proud citizens,  united in their desire for a Country that they can in turn guard for their children and their children’s children.