Pause And Remember

   It is the 11th day of the 11th month. And at the 11th hour, people across the Commonwealth paused to remember those who gave their lives in war. This year is a little more special than others, since it's the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I and the 75th anniversary of the start of World War II.
   There are no more World War I vets left. Florence Green served in the WRAF (Women's Royal Air Force), and enlisted in September 1918. Of course, she never saw combat, but she was still the last of the last. Florence died in 2012.
   The last verified combat vet of that war was Claude Choules, who served in the Royal Navy. He died in 2011 The last surviving vet to serve in the trenches was Harry Patch, who died in 2009. Franz  Kunstler was the last Central Powers veteran. He died in 2008.
   The list of surviving World War II vets is also getting shorter and shorter. It's possible the last veteran of that war may pass away before I do. And I'm no spring chicken, either.
   While both global conflicts are the centre of most services, lets not forget those who died in Korea, Afghanistan and all other armed conflicts. Their sacrifice should be remembered also.
   To those who died, and to all who served, I salute you.
   'Nuff said.