Clarington Honours our Veterans was initiated in November 2018 to honour veterans with a connection to Clarington with banners. The goal was to honour the contributions and sacrifices these veterans have made on behalf of our communities, our nation, the global theatre and to further promote remembrance in our communities. We started off with 20 banners and currently have 158 banners. (I am a founding member and continue to be involved)

St. Francis of Assisi Council 11268 sponsored two banners this year recognizing Samuel Glanville and Lionel Bowen, both soldiers in World War One. Samuel enrolled on November 10, 1915 and was assigned to the 136th Overseas Battalion. He was involved to participate in a multi battalion sized raid on German positions at Hill 145 part of Vimy Ridge. This was in preparation for the larger assault five weeks later but the Germans were fully prepared and waiting. The attack devastated the soldiers of the battalion with 123 either killed or missing including Samuel Glanville. His remains were never recovered and was only 22 years of age.

Lionel Bowen enlisted for service just shy of his 21st birthday. He was involved with the five month engagement with the enemy in the upper reaches of the Somme River valley in France. On September 7, 1916, Lionel received a gun shot that severely disabled his left shoulder and arm. He was transferred to many battalions and he was backing the infantry units in the field by March 1, 1918. On April 4, he received a shrapnel wound and was treated. He returned to action on May 18 and he helped push back the enemies on October 1, 1918. He suffered an abdominal gunshot and later succumbed to his injury. He was only 23 years of age. Less than 6 weeks later, the armistice was signed.

Our veterans, everyday people, men and women, from every walk of life, who answered the call to serve our country in time of crisis. Many who served suffered horrific wounds, both physical and mental while others were never able to return home .

Council 11268 will never forget the brave souls who served our great country.

Lest we forget.

1354 Kevin Wilson, Doug Penn, and Al Gabriel. 1356 Brothers Mark Benedict, Ken Young and David Komel.