A number of youths from Kingston cleaned along the Highway of Heroes in honour of a soldier who died in Afghanistan.
The youths spent part of the morning and afternoon cleaning the on and off-ramps of the Highway of Heroes at Grafton which is named after Michelle Knight-Mendes on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
Knight-Mendes was 30-years-old when she died in Afghanistan on April 23, 2009.
Kingston resident Kerri Tadeu who was good friends with Knight-Mendes organizing the event twice a year to honour not only her friend from all the soldiers along the Highway of Heroes.
“It’s teaching the kids about service and sacrifice, while we are out here we talk about why we live in the greatest country in the world.”
“The conversation as much as it’s rooted in Remembrance Week and it’s rooted in remembering those who sacrificed so much for our country, there are things on the highway, such as alcohol. We’re talking about the dangers of drinking and driving.”
“It’s an education piece for the students.”
Fifteen-year-old Derrick Stewart has been attending the clean-up for the past few years and said it’s disappointing finding the amount of trash and alcohol containers each year.
“It bothers me everytime, the same amount, even more. I’m definitely surprised because people should know that drinking and driving is a terrible thing and shouldn’t happen today.
Dianne Knight also comes out to clean the ramps that are named in honour of her daughter.
The cleaning of the ramps has taken place for several years and it so popular that the youths and parents are phoning Tadeu asking when the event will be happening each year.
“They appreciate what they learn and they appreciate giving back to the community.”
Each year the youths give Knight a bouquet of flowers and a warm hug.
“You made my day,” said Knight.
“I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you coming out to do this today – it means the world to me.”
After the youths presented Knight with the bouquets, Tadeu gave her a hug and whispered, “we’ll never forget.”
Earlier this week, Lorna Dickson and Chris Clarke cleaned the Wesleyville ramps along the Highway of Heroes in honour of Knight-Mendes which is where she first met Tadeu.
“In remembrance of all the fallen soldiers, the veterans and their families we try to continue on and keep the exits a better place.”
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
