Two veterans’ benches were unveiled in Perth, thanks to funds raised through the Perth-on-Tay Royal Canadian Legion’s banner program, and poppy campaign, at a cost of $4,700.
Sue Doran, member of the Perth Legion, said she wanted to do something special with the funds and the commemorative benches seemed like the most appropriate, especially when placed at the cenotaph in front of the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital.
“The benches were created and built by veterans associated with our banner company, OnePromo in Hanover, headed up by Chris Taibinger, who is a 14-plus-year veteran himself,” Doran told the Perth Courier. “He has a few retired veteran friends in the steel business and he asked them if they could build the First and Second World War benches.”
Doran said they wanted the First World War bench to have a hospital theme “since the benches were in front of our hospital.”
The benches have been in the works for several months. They are anchored to cement pads donated by Mike Purdon from Ennis Carpentry (labour and materials), Doran noted. “So grateful for Mike’s support, who is a supporter of veterans and the legion,” she said.
Special mentions were given to Town Crier Brent McLaren, legion chaplain Bernie Boucher, president Bob Day, legion executive and members, Tay Valley Reeve Brian Campbell, Drummond North Elmsley Reeve Steve Fournier, Perth Deputy Mayor Ed McPherson, Perth Hospital Vice-President Nancy Shaw, Chief of Staff Dr. Kate Stolee, the hospital foundation executive director Margot Hallam, piper Chris Gilbertson, Perth firefighters, volunteer bartender Susan Lafosse, and custodian Brian Ohlman.
Doran thanked the veterans associated with OnePromo.
“They are spectacular,” she said. “Most importantly, thank you to our veterans (in attendance on June 5), not only for being there to receive your beautiful commemorative benches, but for your many years of service to our country.”
