It is both an honor and a privilege to initiate a crosswalk campaign dedicated to our veterans, a meaningful tribute to their bravery and sacrifice. Each step taken across these symbolic crosswalks serves as a reminder of the path paved by those who fought for our freedoms, often at great personal cost. This campaign is not just about creating a physical space of recognition, but about fostering a lasting legacy of respect and gratitude within our communities. By highlighting their sacrifices in such a visible and impactful way, we ensure that the contributions of our veterans remain etched in the hearts and minds of all who pass by, honoring their service for generations to come.

There is a wave of support from Veterans who feel that ONE day is not enough to remember the sacrifices our Veterans gave.  Our World War II veterans are now in their 90’s and every year we lose another one.  Honoring them with crosswalks near our Legions and also schools would be a constant reminder.  Victor Green was a Navy Veteranwho was inspired by the many towns and cities who are honoring our veterans with these crosswalks.  Mr. Green was inspired by the latest local Crosswalk and it motivated him to start the Veteran Crosswalk Campaign

The new painted crosswalk honoring veterans in Amherstburg is shown on Friday, November 8, 2024. The Remembrance Day initiative is located at the corner of Dalhousie and Murray streets. Photo by Dan Janisse

The Windsor Star reported on the latest sidewalk in Amherstburg:

The Town of Amherstburg has unveiled a painted crosswalk, honouring veterans for Remembrance Day.

Mayor Prue was honored to have the crosswalk in time for this years Rememberance Day.  He said:

“Our veterans have given so much to uphold the freedoms we cherish, and this crosswalk is a symbol of our collective gratitude and recognition of their service,” said Mayor Michael Prue.

“We are honoured to have this crosswalk ready for Remembrance Day, providing our community with a place to reflect and pay homage to the brave men and women who have served.”

“We are deeply moved by this gesture from the Town of Amherstburg to honour our veterans,” said Shawn Wilkie, president of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 157.

“This crosswalk near our branch serves as a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave service members, and we are grateful for this meaningful tribute as we approach Remembrance Day.”

Victor is a second generation Veteran.  His Father was a POW in Japan

Remembering my old dad and the suffering, starvation and torture he went through as a JAPANESE POW. He was in Singapore when it fell. Then spent 3 1/2 years in slave labour building the Burma-Siam Railway, AKA The Death railway. (Google it) 75 Lb when he was liberated. Footnote, The peace-loving people of Japan today, bear no resemblance to the barbaric Japanese prison guards of WW2. It is important also to mention, that dad as a Christian was unable to hate the Japanese, and no hate was passed down in perpetuity from generation to generation.
“Only a fool forgives and forgets, a wise man forgives and remembers” Victor Green senior. My Dad, my hero.

Victor felt that this campaign could also include our children and grandchildren. Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion that calls on us to honor the sacrifices of those who served and continue to serve for our freedom and peace. It is a day to reflect on the bravery and selflessness of individuals who faced unimaginable hardships to protect the values we hold dear. As we wear poppies and observe moments of silence, we must also ensure that the significance of this day is passed on to the next generation. Teaching young people about the courage and sacrifices made by veterans fosters gratitude and a sense of responsibility to preserve the hard-won peace. By keeping these stories alive, we ensure that the legacy of those who fought for our future remains a guiding light for years to come.  This is why we should have more than just one day to remember their sacrifices.