2020 Juno Beach 8K; Honouring Private G. Thomas Cane
I will be running the Juno Beach 8k to honour my father’s memory; Private G. Thomas Cane, Cape Breton Highlanders, Siol Na Fear Fearail (Breed of Manly Men)
Dad was a young boy from Dartmouth Nova Scotia when he enlisted in the Second World War with the Cape Breton Highlanders. His war time service took the fiery red headed boy to England, Italy and finally Holland. He always spoke highly of military service and how proud he was of being part of the Liberation of Holland.
In 1985 he had the opportunity to go back to Holland and visit, once again he donned his Glengarry and his Canadian lapel pin. In his backpack, he carried Canadian Flag lapel pins which he gave out to school children in Nijmegen.
In the weeks leading up to November 11th , he could be found visiting schools talking to students and participating in school Remembrance services. November 11th, he would take the family of 6 children to our local cenotaph for the Remembrance Day ceremony, I remember it didn’t matter what the weather was rain, cold temperature or snow he would proudly adjust his Glengarry, and make sure his medals where straight on his chest and attended the service and remind us that we should honour and be thankful for the ultimate service that many gave for our freedom.
Dad attended his last Remembrance service on November 11th 2018, and passed away on November 18th 2018 at age 93 years.
yours,
Jody Hogan
Proud daughter
Cow Bay, Nova scotia
Royal Canadian Legion, US Branch #25 