Honouring the passing of John Babcock, Canada’s last WWI veteran

Ninety-three years ago, a Canadian lad of 16 answered his country’s call to serve. Barely a man, he couldn’t have known how he would go on to stand as an icon, as our last link to the 650,000 Canadian women and men who sacrificed so much in the Great War.

It is with sadness and deep respect today that we note the passing of John Babcock, the last of Canada’s First World War veterans. And for so many of us today, sadness is tinged with a sense of wonder as we reflect on Mr. Babcock’s journey. So much change witnessed; so much life well lived.

Four years ago, Parliamentarians felt driven to prepare for this moment, knowing it would arrive in our generation. Shoulder to shoulder in the House, members unanimously adopted Peter Stoffer’s motion to sponsor a state funeral on the passing of the last Great War veteran.

When Mr. Babcock respectfully declined that honour, I am told he said that he didn’t want to overshadow deeper sacrifices made by others on the front lines of Europe. While his humility is striking, it is characteristic of so many Canadians who have worn the uniform.

Today, we are marking the passing of a generation of heroes. These First World War veterans and their families were the generation that built our country. They fought and died for the freedoms we hold so dear. In our hearts, we will forever remember their contributions—and it is a new generation’s responsibility now to honour them.

Not just in words, but in our actions.

Not just today, but every day.