Burma Star Association - B.C. Chapter
We enter the year 2004 with more than a little trepidation. Travel and terrorism seem to be synonymous; the mere threat of an attack causing almost as much disruption and damage as the deed itself. 2003 brought us face to face with deaths and atrocities from wars, terrorism and natural disasters which occurred, and continues to occur, in many countries. Any inadequate donations we can afford to give still leave us feeling so helpless in being unable to really help innocent victims.
But even Canada did not escape unscathed. We were hit by the scourges of SARS, Mad Cow Disease and a killing disease carried by mosquitoes which are steadily encroaching from the East to the Western Provinces. Eastern Canada and the North Eastern United States were confronted by a total blackout of the electrical grid system. This shut-down of electrical power affected millions in both countries for many days. During our intense summer heat we possibly suffered the worst forest fires in our history.
In addition, British Columbia and many other regions of the country were stricken with disastrous floods and crippling snow and ice storms, leading to ice jams which caused even further flooding havoc. On top of this. our major forests are being decimated by the intrusion of the Pine Beetle. Already an area of forest as huge as England has been destroyed by this bug which makes even the forest fires pale in significance. But the forest fires did far more than destroy trees - hundreds of homes and even some small villages were obliterated. Evacuations of people numbered in the 30 to 50 thousand range - staggering numbers of human misery and suffering to contemplate.
But in spite of all this we count our blessings to be fortunate enough to live in peaceful, Beautiful British Columbia and with hope in our hearts - look forward to the year before us.
Thoughts of Joe Arblaster, Webmaster
Please click on a story line below:
Norman Currell's 90th Birthday Bash January 24, 2004
Story about the founding of our branch 1988 story in "The Legion"
Chindit 60th - Anniversary Cards
Branch Picnic - Vancouver, June 23, 2004
Arakan Park Ceremonies - Duncan, August 2004
Remembrance Day Services - Coquitlam, November 11, 2004