Honouring our Second World War veterans
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 16/10/2020 (967 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Two years have passed since I earned the honour of representing the people of Transcona, I began an initiative near and dear to my heart to honour the remaining living Second World War veterans in Transcona with honorary street namings.
As we get closer to the month of November, a time for remembrance, let me take you for a tour of the signs in Transcona.
The initiative began shortly after taking office in December 2018 with Honourary Andrushko Way at Melrose Avenue East, between Wabasha and Kanata Streets, named after Stephen Andrushko, who served as a wireless operator in the Canadian Army serving in England.
That was followed by Honourary Henry Golis Way at Regent Avenue West between Winona and Madeline Streets. Henry served as a wireless-gunner in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
As word spread of this initiative, community leader Peter Martin teamed up with community activist Cornelius Thiessen and former MP Bill Blaikie to help find other living Second World War veterans.
The next street naming was Honourary Robert Bullen Way at Rosseau Avenue West between Hoka and Madeline Street. Robert served in the 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment in France, Belgium, and Holland.
As you make your way over to Cloverdale Crescent, you will find Honourary Peter Frejuk Way. Peter served with the Canadian Army, training with K Company in Petawawa, Ont.
Our next honorary street naming will take us to South Transcona on Webster Avenue between Dugald Road and Copeland Street, where you will find Honourary Walter Nilsson Way. Walter served in the Royal Canadian Navy, completing his training at Digby, N.S.
Heading back to the other side of the CNR at Leola Street between Harvard and Whittier Avenues East, you will find Honourary Jack Wright Way. Jack served in the Royal Canadian Navy, completing his training at Comox, B.C.
As you make your way to Horton Avenue East between Day and Wabasha, you will find Honourary Lavana Sorokowski Way. Lavana served in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps, and completed her training in Kitchener, Ont.
Last, as you make your way to Ravelston Avenue West between Hoka and Madeline Streets, you will now find Honourary John Cochrane Way. John served in the Royal Canadian Navy, completing his training at Cornwall, N.S.
When you see these blue honorary street-sign toppers, please take a moment and spread the word about the history behind these signs so that our community will always remember those who have served our nation.
At the time of submitting this article, my office is currently working on another application for an honorary street naming.
If you know of any living Second World War veterans in Transcona, please reach out to my office, and we will connect you to Peter Martin and his team.
As always, I’m proud to represent Transcona at City Hall, and I hope you find my articles informative.
I currently have a Facebook page, Instagram account, and website at www.shawnnason.ca to regularly inform our community on items of importance.
Should you want to discuss this or other items of concern, please call 204-986-8087 or email snason@winnipeg.ca
Shawn Nason
Transcona ward report
Shawn Nason is the city councillor for Transcona ward.