Alberta Centenarian Shares Wartime Memories
Elmer Friesen, a remarkable 103-year-old Second World War veteran from Alberta, recently sat down with CTV News to recount his unique military service that focused on maintaining morale back home in Canada. While many soldiers fought on foreign battlefields, Friesen's contribution took a different but equally vital form.
The Homefront Contribution
During the extensive interview, Friesen detailed how his wartime duties were specifically designed to boost morale and maintain spirits among Canadians during the difficult war years. His service represents an often-overlooked aspect of military contributions—the psychological and emotional support that kept the homefront strong.
The Alberta veteran's recollections provide valuable historical insight into the diverse roles Canadians played during the global conflict. At 103 years old, Friesen stands as one of Canada's oldest living veterans, offering a precious firsthand account of the Second World War era.
Preserving Living History
Friesen's interview, conducted by CTV News journalist Kathy Le, serves as an important historical document. As Canada's WWII veteran population continues to age, such personal accounts become increasingly valuable for understanding the full scope of the war experience.
The veteran's story highlights how every contribution mattered during the war effort, whether on the front lines or supporting from home. His memories help paint a more complete picture of Canadian society during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
