Remembering Harry Colebourn

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/11/2019 (2396 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The story of Harry Colebourn, a Canadian soldier who served in the First World War, was introduced to me in the most unexpected way.

It was years ago, while visiting the Pooh Gallery at Assiniboine Park Pavilion. I expected to learn more about the famous fictional bear Winnie the Pooh, from the writings of A. A. Milne. Instead, I was drawn to the factual story of a young soldier from Winnipeg, a black bear from White River, Ont. and their relationship during ‘the Great War.’

When England declared war on Germany in 1914, Colebourn was one of thousands of young Canadians who voluntarily enlisted to serve the war effort. Colebourn was a veterinarian and soldier with the Royal Canadian Army Veterinary Corps and was assigned to tend to the horses that would be involved in the war, bringing supplies and weapons to the front lines in France.

The six personal diaries (1914-1918) of Colebourn, in which he documents his experiences during the First World War, are on display at this gallery.  Excerpts can be read and the give us a vivid picture of his life during this unimaginable time. They document his adoption of Winnie in White River, the battles of Ypres, the Somme, and Vimy, the Hundred Day Offensive and the armistice.

The First World War ended on Nov. 11, 1918, and Colebourn returned to Winnipeg to continue his veterinarian practice and start his family.

Winnie, his beloved bear, remained at the London Zoo, where she captured the hearts of many. His story has been told so effectively showing his compassion and valour, that it has captured my heart.

This Remembrance Day, I attended the service at the cenotaph in Bruce Park, hosted by the St. James Legion.

As the bugle played the Last Post at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, and the two-minute silence was observed, I bowed my head, remembering the sacrifices made by others, so that I can live and raise my family in this wonderful sovereign nation.

Thank you for your service. Lest we forget.

Sue Schumacher is a community correspondent for Westwood.