So You Can Live

Before the trifecta of Halloween, Remembrance Day (obviously more important than the former) and Christmas do you think we can just allow people to do what makes them happy? Instead of being arseholes? Instead of being mad for the veterans that are perfectly fine with it?

I once knew a man who was in The Nova Scotia Highlanders. They were a Scottish-heritage infantry regiment known for their discipline, courage, and adaptability. During WWII, they took part in major campaigns across Europe, including amphibious landings, assaults, and defensive operations. Many soldiers enlisted at a young age, and it was not uncommon for some to be underage when joining.

At Normandy, the beaches were heavily fortified with mines, barbed wire, obstacles, and machine-gun nests. Kenneth’s unit landed as part of the second wave, arriving shortly after the first soldiers who cleared paths through enemy fire and obstacles. While the initial wave bore the heaviest attack, the second wave still faced intense danger, including sniper fire, mortars, artillery, and the chaos of crowded landing craft and partially cleared beaches.

The second wave’s mission was vital: reinforcing positions, bringing heavier equipment, and pushing inland to secure towns and strategic points. Soldiers like Kenneth moved quickly from the beach, navigating treacherous terrain and enemy defenses to help establish a foothold for the Allied advance. Their courage contributed to the liberation of France and the eventual defeat of Nazi forces in Europe.

After the war, Kenneth returned home to civilian life, resuming his work as a fisherman and raising a family, carrying with him the memories of one of the most dangerous and pivotal military operations in history.

He was my grandfather. When asked, I was only a child, what he thought about 'people celebrating Xmas in November', I got something along the lines of: 'I went over there so people could do whatever the hell they wanted. I wouldn't give a shit if people celebrated in July'. lol! My point in this whole thing? They sacrificed so we could live. With all that said, Merry Xmas.