By Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Essex Free Press
The Town of LaSalle has installed a Remembrance Day commemorative crosswalk on Normandy Street, near its cenotaph. The new commemorative art piece is located on a busy thoroughfare, in the heart of the community, as a reminder to residents to stop and remember.
As someone who has served his country, LaSalle Deputy Mayor Mike Akpata was happy to support this Council-led project that carries significant meaning.
“Somebody gave something so we can be here and live in the community we live in and have the freedoms we have,” he said, speaking from the heart.
He joined the Canadian Reserve Army in 1987, eventually touring Afghanistan in 2007 with the 2nd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment.
Akpata said his story of originally joining the Reserves is one that is standard, having been in university at the time and unsure what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.
“The next thing you know, you are doing something you love for 20-some-odd-years. It was a wonderful experience,” he said, noting he wouldn’t trade that experience for the world for a couple of reasons. One of them being it fulfilled the need in him to contribute.
He spoke of being deployed to assist with a snow storm in the early ‘90s, or helping to sandbag rivers. It was about “being prepared to do something to support the country.
“I have met a lot of people who left an impression on me with their commitment to country and to other soldiers. It is nice to have people stop, and pause, and remember.”
He noted there were fellow soldiers killed on his tour in Afghanistan.
“I made it home. I am with my family. I met some of the members who were killed. And I am reminded every single day that they are not here. I owe them something,” Akpata continued. “I have to make sure their memories carry on, or I failed them.”
It is not just about the loss of life in combat, Akpata noted. It is also about post-return home suicides, and knowing of people who struggle years after returning home due to decisions that were made.
“I know they will never fill the void, but it is something simple for municipalities to do, is to say ‘we acknowledge the sacrifice and commitment of these men and women that went to give us what we have.’”
Though Remembrance Day crosswalks are not a new initiative in Essex County – or across the province – Akpata is, however, glad LaSalle now has one, as well, to recognize the sacrifices Veterans have made for their country.
“LaSalle – and this area – has ties to the First World War, ties to the Second World War, ties to Afghanistan, ties to every Canadian conflict. And it is one of these things that you can never thank some people enough. So, we proposed it, Council moved on it, and now it is done. It is actually quite amazing,” Akpata said.
In the municipal grind, the project moved forward quite quickly, Akpata acknowledged. It took less than a year from the concept to installation.
Akpata spoke of the privilege he has had in meeting some Second World War Veterans, prior to their passing, and their families. For their families, this Remembrance Day crosswalk “is a recognition of service. It is a recognition of our community. It is a recognition of our values.”
The Remembrance Day crosswalk was relatively inexpensive and quick to install, Akpata noted. It is also a simple and fitting tribute for the hundred of thousand of Canadians who gave their lives. He said he is not glorifying war, but acknowledging sacrifice.
“For so many people, and for so many families, it has a meaning,” Akpata added. “It is good to recognize those who have given up themselves for us.”
In addition, the Town of LaSalle website showcases a number of Veterans from LaSalle and their stories. Residents or families of Veterans of LaSalle, or the former Township of Sandwich West, are encouraged to submit their photos and information to be added. More information can be found at www.lasalle.ca/recreation-culture-and-community/history/local-veterans/
Be the first to comment