It was a memorable day for Cobourg resident David Ramsay on May 5, 2020.
Ramsay was not able to be in Holland due to age and the COVID-19 crisis, but his grandson helped bring a bit of that Holland spirit to Cobourg.
Ian McKelvey set up a parade outside his grandfather’s house on Tuesday morning and invited anyone and everyone to join in on the special event – the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Holland.
Ramsay is one of the last surviving Canadian soldiers who helped liberate Holland, and with the help of the community of Cobourg he was honoured.
Ramsay’s daughter, Joan and her husband Ron had plans to go to Holland for the 75th anniversary, but COVID-19 put an end to that.
Ian accompanied his grandfather for the 60th anniversary in Holland.
“They are soul mates,” said Ian’s father.
“If Ian is involved, Dave is happy.”
McKelvey said, “it’s a pretty special day,” just prior to giving the signal for the festivities to begin.
“The community is amazing. Everyone has been really great.”
All types of vehicles lined up in Donegan Park and shortly after 11 a.m., the Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums paraded down Water Street followed by approximately 100 vehicles.
Cobourg Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf stopped and presented tulips to Ramsay before saluting the veteran.
“My father was a displaced person in Holland so May 5 is always important for us.”
People lined the streets around Ramsay’s house keeping their distance as best they could, some holding Canadian flags and the procession went by the home.
Just like when the Ramsay and his grandson were in Holland 15 years ago, a number of vehicles stopped and presented gave tulips and gifts to Ramsay.
After the parade Ramsay said, “I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed. I can’t believe it. This is unbelievable.”
Ramsay said he has terrible memories of what took place 75-years ago.
“I’m glad it’s over and I’m glad I did a job.”
“The Dutch people were so gratifying it’s just unbelievable.”
Ramsay came back from the war and has been married for 71-years. He has nine children, 21-grandchildren and 21-great-grandchildren.
“I’ve had a wonderful life and I’m still having a wonderful life. It’s great for all you people to come today.”
As far as the crisis that is taking place in the world, Ramsay sums it up by saying, “it’s pretty bad, but isn’t as bad as the war. It was a nightmare.”
Members of the 598 Sabre Air Cadet Squadron created a video made 2Lt. Hayley McNabney thanking David Ramsay for his service.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
