As the number of World War II veterans decreases, 103-year-old Elmer Friesen stands as a living link to an essential era. His experiences and memories from the war are invaluable as fewer individuals remain to share their stories. His journey reflects both personal and historical narratives of courage and resilience.
Dwindling WWII Veterans and Remembrance Day
Elmer Friesen, along with his brother Alvin, faced a significant decision during World War II. The Mennonite church in Aberdeen, Saskatchewan, sent a letter stating they could return but had to apologize publicly for their military service. This ultimatum stemmed from their church’s pacifist beliefs. Both brothers chose to serve, believing it was their duty to contribute to their country’s freedom.
Born in 1920, Elmer began his service in 1942, repairing aircraft parts in Ontario. By the war’s end, he was an entertainer for civilian populations in Canada. In stark contrast, Alvin, five years older, served as a medic on the front lines in Europe. On Victory in Europe Day, Elmer was only 23 and had yet to experience combat overseas. Despite their different paths, both firmly believed in their contributions to the war effort.
Veteran Statistics and Current Population
More than 1.1 million Canadians participated in World War II from 1939 to 1945. However, Veterans Affairs Canada reports that only 3,691 of these veterans remain today. This population continues to dwindle, with many centenarians representing the last eyewitnesses of that historic conflict. In 2022, the average age of veterans from World War II and the Korean War was 96 years.
- Total Canadian WWII Veterans: 1.1 million
- Estimated Living WWII Veterans: 3,691
- Average Age of Veterans (2022): 96 years
Elmer Friesen’s voice is critical as he prepares for Remembrance Day ceremonies at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. Despite being one of the last veterans of his generation, he avoids dwelling on the past. Instead, he lives in the present, engaging in conversations rarely about wartime experiences.
Preserving Memories for Future Generations
The Canadian War Museum is actively working to capture the fading memories of remaining WWII veterans. The project “Last Voices of the Second World War” seeks to document their experiences through interviews and narratives. Teresa Iacobelli, a co-curator, emphasizes the “endurance of grief” as a recurring theme in these interviews.
Many veterans endured significant trauma but often struggled to share their stories. The societal perception of service varied, especially among women, who frequently minimized their roles during the war. Only in recent years have many begun to reclaim their contributions with pride.
Reflections on Service
Friesen’s thoughts about his service are complex. Although he spent time performing and boosting morale rather than on the battlefield, he acknowledges his contribution. “I did what I was asked to do,” he stated, realizing that every effort mattered during the war.
Elmer’s brother Alvin, who saw much firsthand suffering, returned from the war deeply affected but rarely spoke of his experiences. This silence reflects the struggles many veterans faced, burdened with memories they found difficult to express.
Friesen, having been rejected by his church after the war, was welcomed back years later without conditions. He now enjoys a rich family life and finds joy in his daily activities despite the challenges of aging. “Each day is precious to me,” he affirms, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment.
As Remembrance Day approaches, individuals like Elmer Friesen remind us of the sacrifices made during World War II. Their stories must be preserved to ensure that the legacy of bravery and service continues for future generations.
