People sometimes make offhand comments that our collective consciousness lacks remembrance. Society is accused of failing to hand down a proper respect for the armed forces. There is a perception that unless it’s Nov. 11 or a family member is involved that their sacrifice is forgotten. This belief is wrong and here are a few examples of why it’s wrong.

First, take a look at this Bell commercial. Yes, it’s a commercial designed to sell a product. But somewhere an executive remembered Dieppe and felt that this piece of remembrance would have enough emotional impact to be effective. This is a worthwhile reminder, regardless of its commercial intent.

A second example is from CBC’s Vinyl Cafe. This is a true story told by a gifted storyteller. Listen to it if you ever get the opportunity. This is another item added to our collective memory helping to pass down the remembrance of sacrifices made for our benefit.

Contemporary memorials can also be pointed out. There is a stretch of Highway 401 between CFB Trenton and the Toronto Coroners Office that Canadian casualties travel when they are repatriated. It became the location for a spontaneous shared ritual that calls out to our fallen soldiers as they return home from Afghanistan. It adopted the unofficial name of The Highway of Heroes some time ago. This wasn’t organised by any government or political group. You won’t see it used for photo opportunities – ever. It’s direct action by the people and is now held sacred. This action has had such a strong influence that the stretch of highway has officially been renamed The Highway of Heroes. Watch this video and you will see that – Yes, we do remember.

duncanrice Uncategorized Highway of Heroes