Breanna R.

Kingston, Ontario

Kingston Regional Fair

Three Brothers Go To War

My Papa Ross landed on Juno Beach and moved on to help liberate Holland in 1945. His two brothers’ stories were very different. One brother was sent to defend Hong Kong – spending four years as a POW in Japan – and the youngest joined the RCAF – sadly paying the ultimate sacrifice for his country – and family. Through my research I realized that my Papa Ross’s story and his two brothers’ stories are not only my story – but my nation’s stories.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

We Canadians truly united as a nation to help liberate Holland and free those all young and old who were starved. The thought of how Holland is truly thankful to us, amazes me every day – while they thank us each year with sending over tulips to show their gratitude.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I have learned that war comes with a very high cost. Veterans’ stories like those I’ve shared remind us all of the terrible costs of war and how important it is to value what we have and to never forget the sacrifices given. There are many families across Canada with stories of sacrifice like my family. The names of more than 45 000 soldiers who gave their lives in the Second World War can be found on memorial walls in cities from coast to coast.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

My life today is in no way comparable to what my Papa Ross’s and my two Great-Uncles' lives were. , However, there are some similarities. In the world today, I hear stories of conflict in such places as Afghanistan, Syria and the Ukraine. My hope is that these conflicts will end, and the world will be peaceful. I feel this way because my family’s stories from the Second World War have helped me understand the horrible costs of war.