Remembering

In these days of our fast moving lifestyles, it’s vitally important to stop and reflect on the past. In Canada, on November 11th at the 11th hour, we’re asked to stop and observe a moment of silence to remember the fallen soldiers.

Remembering is also part of the observance.

For this year, the Digital Poppy honours The Blue Puttees, the name associated with The Newfoundland Regiment that was sent overseas in October 1914 — the colour of the uniform leggings were blue.

If you want to know more, Mark Critch and Allan Hawco hosted a CBC documentary that retraced the steps of the Newfoundland Regiment through Turkey, Belgium and France in the first World War.

When thinking about graphic novels and remembering the past, several creators have devoted time and effort to honour soldiers of the past.

Brian Bowman and Susan Tooke chatted about Canadian history in Dusty Dreams and Troubled Waters graphic novel featuring the HMCS Sackville that was crewed by young men from across Canada and endured the Battle of the Atlantic (1939-1945), the longest of the Second World War.

Chris Sanagan and Jason Lapidus discussed their book Peregrines featuring front line nurses doing double duty as home front defenders as they fight in the shadows to protect Canada from threats unbelievable and unknown.

Scott Chantler talked about his Eisner Award-nominated  Two Generals, a graphic memoir of World War II based on his grandfather’s experiences.

Matthew Barrett and Robert Engen chatted about Through Their Eyes: A Graphic History of Hill 70 and Canada’s First World War that recounts the summer of 1917, when Canadian troops had captured Vimy Ridge.

For additional information about Remembrance Day, please visit the Legion.ca website https://www.legion.ca/remembrance/remembrance-day