A new memorial bench has been unveiled in Springhill, N.S., to honour the town’s veterans. The bench complements the veterans’ banner program which recognizes local service members through banners displayed along Main Street. “The committee (Springhill Veterans Banner Committee) started in 2020 through the vision and determination of Allison Rolfe, who believed our veterans should be recognized in a visible and lasting way,” said committee member Beth Adams in a news release from the town. “We started with a committee of eight people and today we have seven following Allison’s passing. Her dedication and friendship remain deeply missed. Like so many volunteers in our communities, everyone’s contributions have helped build something that will continue for generations.” Located beside the cenotaph, at the corner of Main Street and Junction Road, the bench offers a place for remembrance and community reflection. The idea for the memorial bench emerged from a desire to ensure there would be a lasting tribute in the community even if future volunteer support is limited. “We decided to create a plaque featuring the names and photographs of everyone we’ve honoured,” said Adams. Approximately 500 Springhill residents enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War, according to Adams. At the time, the town’s population stood at roughly 3,868 people. Nearly 17 per cent of the town’s population enlisted during the Second World War. “Nearly one in every six people from this community wore the uniform, and of those who served, 54 made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Adams. For Adams, the banners and bench are more than a commemorative display – they are an opportunity to educate future generations about courage, duty and service. “It is about ensuring the names on the banners never become just names,” she said. “They remain stories, lives, families and legacies.” For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
