Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 23 continued ... continued ... London, January 1941 I’ve made a new friend, a Canadian soldier wounded in action that has arrived at the hospital. He’s very kind to me and I often wonder in a world filled with so much death and darkness how are some able to continue to shine so bright, even though tomorrow is never guaranteed. London, February 1941 I’m still in hospital in London. At least I have good company though. My nurse is like a ray of sunshine, something I desperately need these days. I wonder if she knows how fond I am of her. London, February 1941 A letter has come about my Canadian soldier, he must go back to battle now that his shoulder is healed. I am happy to see him better but sad to think about not getting the chance to see him again. London, March 1941 The time has come for me to return to battle. I have to say goodbye to my nurse and before I even think the words “will you come back to Canada with me?” are out of my mouth and to my absolute shock she says “Yes”! London, March 1941 My Canadian soldier has asked me to come to Canada and I said yes! A chance to have a family and see a whole new world. Ireland, September 1943 After many visits and hundreds of letters we got married. We were wed in Dublin. There were only a few things to do before I could go back home. Over the Atlantic, September 1943 I was on the Queen Mary heading to Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The boat was extremely dirty and I couldn’t wait to see the new world. Once I arrived it was not what I expected the new world to be. The house I’m staying at has no electricity or roads. When is my soldier coming back? London, November 1943 I’m officially discharged from active duty and can finally reunite with my wife in Canada. After a long trip over the Atlantic I’m finally back home with my lovely nurse. I’m working on getting us a house so we can start our family together. Who knew that the thing that pulled us together caused so much tragedy in the world. 2nd Place Senior Essay, Raylee True Swanson, Submitted by Habitant Br 073
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