102-year-old WWII veteran honoured at Battle of the Atlantic ceremony in Almonte

An annual event in Almonte is highlighting the stories of Canadian war heroes and keeping the memory of the Battle of the Atlantic during the Second World War

Community members gathered in Almonte, Ont. on Sunday, looking to mark those who sacrificed during the Second World War and the Battle for the Atlantic.

The annual event took place outside the Almonte Old Town Hall on the banks of the Mississippi River and was hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 240.

John Chance, a 102-year-old veteran, served in the war. The retired commander is one of the last surviving veterans in Canada.

His work and sacrifice was honoured at the ceremony. Chance says he thinks of his family who all returned home.

“Those days were the same as my twin brother had, and my older brother had. All three brothers in the family. We all served,” he said. “And it was a great honour to be in the military during the war.”

“That’s all I can say. I’m a proud veteran of the Canadian Navy.”

Branch president John Dalgity says it’s about honouring the sailors, aviators and merchant mariners who defended the North Atlantic during the war.

“It’s important that we honor them while they’re in service, as well as when they’re done their service,” he said.

The Battle of the Atlantic became the longest continuous military campaign of the war, spanning from 1939 to 1945.

During the ceremony, a ringing bell marks the many ships lost and created a moment of reflection for those who came to witness the ceremony.

“We should never forget that the suffering and the atrocities that happened and the brave men and women that were there,” said local resident Brigitte Trau.

Mississippi Mills Mayor Christa Lowry says she’s been attending the ceremony since she was young.

“The Battle of the Atlantic has ties to many of the families in this community and to many of the military families who are living here in our community now,” she said. “It’s important to remember those who served and those who are currently serving.”

More than 4,000 Canadians died in the battle. The annual service is a tradition for the Legion and the town to ensure generations to come understand the sacrifice of so many Canadian veterans.

“To see the community show up for military again and again is truly an honor and a very special time,” said resident Axelle Pellerin.

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