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Veterans Attend Remembrance Day Service at Trent |
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During the war, Sub-Lieutenant Bob Stairs, a retired Trent University professor, served in the 65th Motor Torpedo Boat while Warrant Officer Al Golding served in the 15th Field Regiment in the fourth Canadian Armoured Division of the RCA. Prof. Stairs said he was "delighted to take part" in Trent's Remembrance Day Service. "The serving soldiers and sailors know war shouldn't be gloried or celebrated. It should be remembered with sorrow and the determination that it will not happen again," said. He spoke humbly of his role in the war. "Our duty was to protect shipping along the (British) coasts from our German counterparts," he said. Prof. Stairs said he arrived in Britain as the war at sea was ending. He was involved in one minor action, when his ship got too close to shore and was shot at.
Mr. Golding was badly burned while serving and spent Victory in Europe (VE) Day in the hospital, he said. After his recovery he remained in the Canadian Forces until 1975, serving at home and in France and Germany. Champlain College Senior Tutor David French organized the service which included performances by the Unity Hand Drum Singers and an address from Dean of Arts and Science Colin Taylor as well as multi-faith prayers. Wreaths were laid on behalf of Trent students, staff, faculty and administration. 2005 has been declared the Year of the Veteran and it marks the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Photo 2: Warrant Officer Al Golding Photo 3: Unity Hand Drum Singers Posted November 11, 2005
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Two World War II veterans spoke of their war-time experiences at a Remembrance Day Service on Friday, November 11 at Trent University. Close to 200 people attended the service, held in the Great Hall in Champlain College.
Mr. Golding related some of his battlefield stories as well. Serving in the Armoured Division, part of his role was to transmit fire orders from his position in a tank. 
Photo 1: Sub-Lieutenant Bob Stairs