Lest We Forget

As we approach Remembrance Day, with many disturbing misadventures in real time, it is appropriate to reflect on those who gave their efforts and their lives in each of the wars in which Canada has been involved, to ensure the freedom of democracy in Canada.



Nurses and Soldiers from WWI.
A. E. 'Hoppy' Hopkins is in the back row, second from the left
84.1377.2, gift of Barbara Crawford

During the Second World War, men and women from Peace River defended our country. It was well on its way by September 1940, when John Hopkins joined up with the Calgary Highlanders and leaving the next morning. “Of course, we knew it was inevitable and not long after, Michael enlisted in the Edmonton Fusiliers,” says their mother, Mary. Michael and Dudley Stranaghan enlisted at the “old” Legion Hall. John and Michael were following in the footsteps of their father, Hoppy, who had served in the First World War.

Four years after enlisting, Michael arrived in Europe. In the meantime, he truly was on guard for thee, O Canada, as he patrolled the West Coast after the Japanese might became evident at Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7, 1941, and protected the Niagara Escarpment and the Welland Canal – a reminder – Canada’s Armed Forces protected from within, as well as without.

All Hopkins men returned home, safe. Many did not.

You are invited to view Museum Remembrance Day displays in the window of the Main Street entrance of Riverdrive Mall and at the Museum (open Tuesday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.).