(Photo – David Panepinto serving in Afghanistan in 2008)
It is a nice gesture to wait until after Remembrance Day to put up the Christmas lights but if it helps hearing it from a veteran to not feel guilted into waiting, then here it is.
I deployed on my first trip to Afghanistan in the infamous Panjwai District at barely 20 years old.
In my even younger army cadet and army reserve days, I stood as Cenotaph Guardian in Cobourg, Grafton, and at the Alderville First Nation.
I do not speak for all veterans or any organization but I think I make a strong argument that I do support our veterans and the fallen in the service of Canada.
As of writing on November 8th, the wind is calm, the day is sunny and pleasantly mild if only a little cool.
The past week however, was constant rain. By the second week of November the weather begins to deteriorate. Freezing rain, snow, cold drizzle or strong wind is not uncommon.
These conditions can make it dangerous for anyone who would have to climb a ladder to put up their Christmas lights.
Numb hands and wet rungs increase the risk.
There is simply better ways to support our veterans and remember the fallen.
Wearing a poppy is a good start.
You donate a small amount of pocket change and symbolically display your support with the poppy on your jacket.
Join the Legion where you can volunteer your time at the annual poppy campaign as well.
Many veterans could benefit from company, especially the elderly and more isolated veterans amongst our communities.
There is more meaningful ways to show respect without running the risk of sacrificing yourself.
No shade on anyone who waits, pay your respects how you decide but for anyone else seeking reassurance that it’s not worth putting your safety on the line just for a gesture, here it is.
Don’t wait, don’t rush, do put up the Christmas lights when the conditions allow you to safely do so.
Have a spotter if you can, maintain three points of contact and be safe. Lest we forget.
David Panepinto
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
