Windsor Unveils Commemorative Walkway Honoring Veterans

A new commemorative walkway honoring veterans is nearing completion outside the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 255 in Windsor. This permanent display, located along Tecumseh Road, features the significant phrases “LEST WE FORGET” and “11 11 11.” The project aims to serve as a daily reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military.

Ron Marshall, the first vice president of the legion and chair of the poppy campaign, emphasized the importance of recognizing veterans. “Here at the Legion, we celebrate our veterans every day, all year round,” he stated. “Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen all across Canada, year-round.” Originally, the display was intended for a nearby crosswalk, but to reduce wear and tear, it was relocated to the legion’s front entrance.

The design of the walkway draws inspiration from similar commemorative work in British Columbia. As of last week, most of the construction was finished, with only minor work remaining. Marshall described his emotional reaction, saying he was brought to “tears” by the results. “How much effort that we put into the planning and seeing it come to fruition, it was like we never thought it was going to happen right away, and then to get it done before this remembrance period,” he reflected.

Support from the city played a crucial role in bringing the walkway to life. Both Marshall and Marty Flanagan, a member of the branch’s executive committee, credited Windsor City Councillors Gary Kaschak and Jo-Anne Gignac for their assistance in coordinating the project and making donations. The City of Windsor covered the costs associated with labor and paint for the sidewalk, while Flanagan noted that they are still assessing the final expenses for the stencils and any additional funding required.

“We went to the city with the concept, and then it was pushed through, and the crews came out right away and finished it in less than a week,” Flanagan explained. The message “LEST WE FORGET” is particularly impactful, serving as a reminder that veterans who fought and died will always be remembered. Flanagan added, “Canadians do well around November 11th. We can do better year-round, and I think doing this is going to help move that along.”

An official unveiling of the walkway is expected to take place this week. In the meantime, the annual poppy campaign is set to launch on October 31, further emphasizing the commitment to honoring veterans throughout the year.