Honoring All Who Served

As we approach November 11th, 2024, it is a time to pause and reflect, honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our freedoms. 

Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to the memory of the men and women who have fought in military conflicts, particularly during the World Wars. This date commemorates the armistice signed on November 11th, 1918, between the Allies and Germany, which ended the fighting on the Western Front of World War I. At 11 AM, we observe a moment of silence to remember the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for peace and freedom. This day is a poignant reminder of the cost of war and its lasting impact on soldiers, families, and nations alike, urging us to reflect on the virtues of bravery, duty, and peace.

Remembering our past not only allows us to honor these sacrifices but also reinforces our resolve to prevent future conflicts.

Hockey Players Who Enlisted in the World Wars

The impact of the World Wars was felt across all sectors, including sports. Many hockey players interrupted their careers to serve in the military, demonstrating remarkable patriotism and courage.

World War I

• Frank McGee: A legendary player for the Ottawa Silver Seven, McGee was renowned for his scoring prowess, including a record 14 goals in a single Stanley Cup game. Despite being blind in one eye, he enlisted in 1915 and served as a lieutenant. McGee was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme in 1916.
• Allan 'Scotty' Davidson: Captain of the Toronto Blueshirts, Davidson led his team to a Stanley Cup victory in 1914. He enlisted shortly after and served with the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Davidson was killed in action in 1915 during the Second Battle of Ypres.

World War II

• Milt Schmidt, Woody Dumart, and Bobby Bauer: Known as the "Kraut Line" for the Boston Bruins, this trio enlisted together in the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1942. Their departure was marked by a memorable farewell game, after which they served overseas. All three returned to the NHL after the war.
  
  
• Howie Meeker: A future Toronto Maple Leafs player and broadcaster, Meeker served in the Canadian Army during World War II. He was wounded in action but recovered to have a successful hockey career post-war.
  
  
• Conn Smythe: Owner and manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Smythe was a decorated veteran of World War I. At the age of 45, he re-enlisted during World War II, serving in an anti-aircraft unit and sustaining injuries in France in 1944. To honor his dedication and contributions to hockey, the NHL’s MVP trophy was later named the Conn Smythe Trophy. Awarded annually to the most valuable player (MVP) in the Stanley Cup playoffs, the trophy represents athletic prowess as well as grit, leadership, and commitment that Smythe showed on and off the ice.
  
  

These individuals represent the connection between hockey and military service, highlighting the sport's role in Canadian culture and the personal sacrifices made by its players.

Crescent Heights High School Alumni Who Served in the World Wars

Crescent Heights High School in Calgary, Alberta, has a rich history of alumni involvement in the military. The school pays tribute to these individuals through memorials and archives, preserving their legacy.

Flying Officer William Lidstone McKnight, DFC and Bar: A distinguished fighter pilot during World War II, McKnight was credited with 16 aerial victories. McKnight was show down and killed on 12 January 2941 during a fighter sweep over Calais. A painting commemorating McKnight's 'Hat Trick' hangs in the school's office.

At Crescent Heights High School, he quarterbacked the football team but was renowned for once crashing his father's car into a neighbour's fence while trying to impress a new girlfriend

 

The school's World War II Memorial lists 88 former students who gave their lives during the conflict. This memorial was created by the Girls' Association War Service Records Committee, which actively maintained records of servicemen, sent newsletters, and organized a Welcome Home Night in 1946.

The Crescent Heights High School Archives continue to preserve records and artifacts documenting the history of its students, staff, and alumni, including those who served in the military. The Archives are open every Thursday during the school year, welcoming visitors interested in exploring this rich history.

 

As we observe Remembrance Day, let us carry forward the memories and stories of those who have given their all in the service of our country. The tales of valor from the hockey rinks to the battlefields remind us that the price of our freedom is often paid by the bravery of those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice. Crescent Heights High School's commitment to honoring its alumni, along with the national moment of silence, serve as poignant reminders of our past and a solemn pledge to future generations. May we never forget the heavy cost of peace and continue to uphold the virtues of courage, duty, and honor that this day embodies.