Chris Abbott
The 62nd annual Warrior’s Day ceremony, Saturday, Oct. 12 at the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show, featured several distinguished local guests, including Brigadier-General Ryan Deming who grew up in the hamlet of Rattlesnake Harbour, north of Nixon.
“I am honoured to be here today to be in the presence of those who have served, sacrificed and dedicated so much of themselves for our freedom,” said Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin. “I am especially pleased to connect with this year’s honoured guest, Norfolk County native Ryan Deming, who was once quoted in the media stating he was encouraged to join the Canadian Armed Forces because it would enable him to be something larger than himself.
“We are beyond proud to have your dedication, your selflessness be a representation of Norfolk County.”
Martin thanked all veterans present at the fair on Warrior’s Day – and those unable to be at the ceremony – and their families.
“Your dedication, your bravery, and your sacrifices have ensured that our way of life, right here in Norfolk County, which is rooted in community and freedom, and certainly in opportunity, is something that will continue to thrive for years to come. In Norfolk County we value hard work, we value loyalty and we value service, and I can’t think of any other category that would better exemplify these qualities outside of our veterans and current serving members. Today we not only remember and honour those who have served, and we celebrate them, we are also taking a thoughtful moment to consider the deep bond that those acts of service tie all of us together into our community. We are bonded as one community because of your service and your sacrifices, and those bonds make us stronger as one. And there is no better place to celebrate coming together as one community than the Norfolk County Fair… rich in tradition, nostalgia and happiness of community members of all ages and all backgrounds.”
“This spectacular event includes the colour, sound and traditions of our regiments and our squadrons,” said MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, thanking veterans and army reservists from the 69th Field Battery, the Simcoe unit of the 56th Field Artillery Regiment, the Legion colour party, and members of the Army, Navy, Air Force Unit 255, Ingersoll Pipe Band, and Salvation Army band on behalf of the province for ensuring we that recognize and honour the contributions and service of those from the area to war efforts of the 20th century and today.
“Norfolk County has had a distinguished military history, since our beginnings, whereby citizens have continually stood up to answer the call,” said Brady. “It is no surprise, with the incredible people that Norfolk County boasts, that over 6,000 men and women have volunteered to serve the crown of our nation. They have all done us proud. We see them, we support them, and we stand with them.
“Tell your kids and tell your grandkids of such men and women, and as we embark on Remembrance Day, take the time to partake in events that point to the bravery of past warriors, and tell the stories of their deeds.”
Brigadier-General Deming also expressed his gratitude to all those who have served, or continue to serve.
“This is a celebration of Norfolk County’s remarkable service history,” said Deming. “It’s a celebration of the brave women and men who have answered the call to serve this country.
“And I want to talk about - equally important - the families that have supported those members. The sacrifices made through these contributions are a testament to the spirit of courage and commitment that defines our community.”
Deming said he remembers being eight-years-old and telling a recruiter at public school, “I’m ready to go. I’m ready to fly. Tell me where to sign me up.” He was told he would have to wait a few years, and at the age of 18, he left the Simcoe-Delhi area to pursue a future military career.
“I’ve experienced humanity at its best, and also at its worst. It was during those times… that I reflect on this community, and my friends and family that are here.
“I understand military service is not for everybody, however, if you feel that passion and that desire in your heart, through wanting to help someone bigger than yourself, I encourage you to consider a career in the military. We need those young minds, we need those innovations to take us through the next 100 years.”
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