The Battle of Britain was fought in the summer of 1940, 79 years ago.
The Royal Canadian Air Force and the Royal Air Force confronted the German Luftwaffe on a daily basis.
As the largest air campaign at the time, it is often referred to as the “turning point” of the Second World War.
The allies claimed victory on September 15, 1940.
In North Bay a commemorative ceremony was held at the North Bay Cenotaph, remembering those Canadians who served and those who lost their lives during the Battle of Britain nearly eight decades ago.
Among those in attendance was 97-year-old WWII Retired Corporal Ivan Cote RCAF 409 Night Fighter Squadron, who was involved in the Battle of Britain.
Cote served in England, Holland, Belgium, and France, and proudly displayed the many medals he received for his service.
The veteran was just 18-years-old when he enlisted in 1939.
“I was with a lot of good men that never made it back. I’ve seen a lot of people that were killed. I was just a boy,” said Cote.
“The German Wolfpack submarines were waiting for us, but we made it through. It was a hard fight to get over there. We landed in Edinburgh and they put us on a train. The Germans came over and blew up the munition factory right close to the tracks. When you’re 18 you grow up fast.”
The 409 Night Fighter Squadron was also involved in the battle at Juno Beach.
“Canada lost a lot of men. I was lucky. I think the sacrifices that were made by people in the war, the women, everybody, I think it is important to remember what happened and how it was won,” said Cote.
“They (young people) have got to remember they do owe a vet who looked after the country. They don’t know what went on over there. They don’t know what young guys went through.”
The 79th Battle of Britain memorial service was attended by members of 22 Wing CFB North Bay, members of the Royal Canadian Legion, veterans, and politicians from all three levels of government.
The Commemorative ceremony included the laying of wreaths.
Lieutenant-Colonel John Roper Acting Wing Commander said we can never forget the significance of this battle and the sacrifices made.
“We can’t know where we’re going if we forget where we’ve been. So to do these ceremonies, especially this one from 79 years ago, is just incredible. It is hugely important that the public remember. Hopefully, the people who were here will spread the word and get more folks out for next year’s 80th anniversary.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Matthew Slusher, Detachment 2 Commander for the United States Air Force Detachment and Operations Support Squadron Commander at 22 Wing, said it was a battle won by many nations joining forces to attack the enemy.
“The significance of this collaborative effort, even though long ago, today we’re standing here as a bi-national team supporting the NORAD mission on top of the hill. So that significance rings through today,” said Slusher.
President of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23, Eileen Viau said Canada fought by land, air, and sea.
“It is to remember those veterans who gave their lives and those who came back. It is very important to remember all of this. It is part of history. I had my dad and seven uncles in the Second World War so it is very dear to my heart as well. We’re very proud of our vets, to be a proud Canadian, to have freedom in this country and hope that we never have heavy wars again.”
