A 104-year-old Saskatchewan World War II veteran, Nick Kuzuska, was recently presented with the French Legion of Honour medal for his contribution to the liberation of France. Kuzuska spent eight days in Normandy before being sent back to England during the war. Upon his return to Canada, he resumed farming in Saskatchewan where his family was located. Historian Kelsey Lonie noted that the Legion of Honour medal has been awarded to nearly 1,200 veterans nationwide, with 92 of them hailing from Saskatchewan.
In addition to Kuzuska’s honor, an eight-foot bronze statue commissioned by the Royal Regina Rifles was unveiled to mark their 80th anniversary and their role in World War II, particularly on D-Day. Kuzuska expressed his admiration for the statue, calling it “outstanding.” The statue was initially displayed in Regina before being sent to Bretteville-Sur-Mer, France, as a gift symbolizing the alliance between France and Canada. Lieutenant-colonel Ed Staniowski, a retired member of the Canadian Armed Forces Royal Regina Rifles, shared his pride in witnessing the unveiling of the statue. Both of Staniowski’s parents were involved in World War II, with his mother working as a nurse and his father serving in the infantry.
The sculptor of the bronze statue, Don Begg, aimed to capture the emotions of fear and determination in the faces of the figures. He emphasized the lasting impact of bronze sculptures, as they endure for thousands of years. Begg stated his hope that the statue will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who fought for their countries, many of whom volunteered for their nation. The unveiling of the statue was deemed a tribute to the legacy of the Royal Regina Rifles and their ongoing dedication to honoring their history and contributions to the war effort.
The ceremony celebrating the statue’s unveiling also highlighted the importance of remembering and honoring the veterans who played a crucial role in the liberation of France during World War II. Canadian veterans like Kuzuska and the others who received the Legion of Honour medal have been recognized for their significant contributions to history. The event served as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy during a difficult period in history. The unveiling of the statue in both Canada and France underscored the enduring alliance between the two nations and the importance of commemorating the shared history of the Second World War.
The honor bestowed upon Nick Kuzuska and the unveiling of the bronze statue reflected the gratitude and respect felt towards Canadian veterans who fought for the liberation of France during World War II. The ceremony provided an opportunity to acknowledge the bravery and dedication of those who served in the conflict and to ensure that their contributions are remembered for generations to come. The event served as a touching tribute to the veterans and their families, affirming the bond between Canada and France forged through shared sacrifices and mutual respect during a time of great conflict.
