‘Keeping History Alive’
That’s the slogan of the Sylvan Lake based organization, Veteran’s Voices of Canada, which did just that by hosting its first annual Veterans’ Appreciation Day and silent auction on Saturday at the community centre.
The parking lot was filled with a range of military vehicles and those promoting the ‘Support Our Troops’ theme such as Rosenau Transport’s 18 wheeler. Owners of the beautifully restored vehicles were happy to talk about their vehicles. While inside, a number of veterans talked about their experiences in Veteran’s Corner, some autographing postcards of themselves.
Organizer Allan Cameron said it was amazing how happy the veterans were with the way the day went.
“When I saw them together in Veterans’ Corner, talking when we took a group photo I got a lump in my throat,” he said. “Seeing the smiles on the veterans faces as they were milling around, talking, was amazing.”
”On the fundraising side, the event raised about $8,000 before costs. “
For the first time it seemed to be received really well. People appreciated the veterans which was the most important part,” he said.
Thanking everyone who participated, Cameron promised next year will be bigger and better. A volunteer committee is already being formed to organize the second annual event. More volunteers are always appreciated.
For more information on Veterans’ Voices, check the website www.vetvoicecan.org.