Sunday, May 14th was scheduled by Vimy Unit to be its annual memorial breakfast and motorcycle run to honour three members of our unit that have passed away in the past year. Our three past members were "Doc G", his wife "Hugs" and "Arnie." Unfortunately, mother nature did not see fit to allow this to happen. As a result, only the breakfast occurred and the run may be rescheduled.
However, sixteen members of Vimy Unit did gathered at #560 Legion to partake of breakfast and honour our three past members. A framed photograph, the first formal picture taken of the unit 4 years ago was placed on the table for everyone to look at. The significance of this picture is that all three of our past members were in it. This picture was taken when Vimy was at its peak in membership with approximately 130 members. This photograph was a history lesson to some members in attendance at the breakfast. They were not members back then and had no idea of the size of Vimy when CAV first started.
An old fashioned plain do-nut was placed in front of each attending member and we were asked to refrain from eating it until told to. The reason, they were to be used as a toast, or token gesture to one of our past members, "Arnie." Before his death, while in the hospital, it was learned that he absolutely loved old fashioned plain donuts. Subsequently, everyone that visited him, took donuts with them for his pleasure .
Everyone present was given the opportunity to say a few words regarding any or all the three past members. Several of the members availed themselves of this privilege and related their story or stories.
Special thanks to Ratz (Jeff) and Kaiserin (Margret). They gave up their normal Sunday morning church routine to attend our ceremony. Jeff, for saying grace and reading an appropriate passage from the bible, and both of them for providing the do-nuts. It is unfortunate that people have to pass on but it is important that we do not forget them and their contributions. Ceremonies such as the one on Sunday are necessary. These ceremonies incorporate and signify the CAV motto. "Strength and Honour."
Mr. B
