Burma Star Association - B.C. Chapter
Once again we paid homage to the memory of our comrades who died in Burma and also the gallantry of Major Charles Hoey, VC and MC.
About 15 of our BC Branch members journeyed to Vancouver Island and stayed the night in Duncan. Next morning we assembled with about the same number of Victoria Branch members and headed in convoy fashion to the miniature granite replica of the Kohima monument at Stolz Pool on the Cowichan River in Arakan Park. A solemn service was held under almost tropical weather conditions which together with the dense bush of the area almost simulated the real Arakan. With colors flying and a trumpeter playing The Last Post we were engulfed in sad memories of the comrades we left behind.
We next moved back to Duncan and gathered around the City’s Cross of Remembrance to honor Major Hoey who gained both the Victoria Cross and Military Cross for his heroism in Burma. Engraved on the pedestal of the Cross is also the name of Charles Hoey’s brother Trevor who was killed in Normandy. Regrettably, some families bore a heavier burden than others.
Mayor Coleman of Duncan has attended this ceremony for many years and once again delivered a very moving, memorable and sincere speech. He is a delightful man and a credit to the community.
This year there was an interesting inclusion which gave additional emphasis to the proceedings. For the past two or three years a chap called Johnny Haddock has been in touch with me via e-mail saying how much he would like to take part in our ceremony. Finally, this year he took the plunge and came from London, England to do just that. It turned out to be highlight for him since he is a direct descendant of Major Hoey. John’s father and Major Hoey were cousins since their respective mothers were sisters. John's uncle, Lt. Colonel Jamie Haddock was also a cousin. Lt. Colonel Jamie Haddock served with the Royal Engineers and he too was awarded the Military Cross for exceptional bravery
John also gave a fitting and well received speech at the Cross of Remembrance. John and Percy Smith our President and also Mike Hyde of the Victoria Branch were intensively interviewed by a crew of a local TV channel, together with very good coverage of the entire proceedings. We hope to be able to obtain a copy of the program which was aired on local Island TV’s.
John cherished his participation in the ceremonies and also our West Coast life style. He stayed on for another 10 days as my house guest, during which time he met many members of both our branches and also some of his own family members.
We hope to continue this tradition until our last member turns out the light.
Reminiscences of Joe Arblaster
To read Johnny Haddock's speech
1) Percy Smith Address |
(2) Percy's TV Interview |
(3) Percy with Johnny Haddock |
(4) Colour Party arrives |
(5) Percy & John at monument |
(6) John Haddock at momument |
7) Saluting the memorial |
8) Mayor of Duncan - - Solemn Moment |
9) Mayor Coleman's Speech |
(7) Peter Clancy & John Haddock |
(8) March off |
(9) John's TV Interview |
(10) John at Arakan Viewing Board |
(11) Mayor of Duncan's speech |
(12) The Turnell Family |
(13) Mayor's speech - a solemn moment |
(14) Interviewing Mike Hyde (Victoria Branch) |
(15) John Haddock and Mayor Coleman |
