Care home commemorates WW1 Canadian soldiers

To commemorate the bravery and loyalty to King George V and the allies shown by the Canadian Corps during World War 1, the staff and residents of Cedar Court Care Home in Cranleigh invited Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Rushen, Chief of Staff, from the High Commission of Canada, London, to join them on Tuesday June 21 to pay their respects.

The commemoration at Cedar Court Care Home in Cranleigh

LCol Rushen was joined by Al Cunningham, President of the Canadian Veterans Association (UK) as well as members of the Royal British Legion Cranleigh and Deputy Mayor of Waverley, Councillor Simon Inchbald.

Over 20 children from Cranleigh School, were marched through the gardens of Cedar Court by Corporal Dixon and trainees from 25th Training Regiment, Deepcut. The children were in fine voice, singing songs to mark the occasion. The residents always appreciate the interaction with local children and with the sun shining enjoyed a memorable afternoon.

Many of the Cedar Court staff were dressed in military attire and one of the highlights of the afternoon was the re-enactment of the King’s Shilling. In past times to “take the King’s shilling” was to agree to serve as a sailor or soldier in the Royal Navy or the British Army. The recruits handed out the shillings to the children who enjoyed the activity and were then marched through the garden once more.

LCol Rushen, said: “I was warmly welcomed by the residents of Cedar Court and honoured to be in the company of these elders. The ceremony truly celebrated the achievement of the Canadian Soldiers who fought during WW1 and the spirit of the occasion was reinforced by the superb singing of the children.”