The Yellow Ribbon

by Hattie Dyck

Some time ago I accompanied Truro Legion member Reby Stewart when she was

visiting veterans at The Mira nursing home. One of the vets we were privileged to talk to was the late Curtis Faulkner of Truro. I asked him about some pretty yellow ribbons he had tied to his furniture and he explained their significance to me.

Curtis was a veteran of the Korean War and following his service time he was very

active in the Truro Legion. One of his favorite achievements is the work he put into

the Korean War Memorial at the entrance to Victoria Park.

He gathered the ribbons as a symbol of the many tasks done by members of the

Canadian Armed Forces and how their efforts affect all of us in some manner. He

believed we should pay more respect to the yellow ribbons and tell their story freely to anyone who will listen. He believed every family who waits for a service member to return home should display yellow ribbons to tell the world how important they are.

Curtis had a granddaughter in the service at that time and mentioned the

loneliness that comes with separation of service members and their family.

I wrote the poem below, took it to the nursing home and they displayed it in his

window at the entrance to his room. This small gift made him very happy.

THE YELLOW RIBBON

DEDICATED TO ALL MILITARY PERSONELL SERVING AWAY FROM HOME.

It’s a precious reminder of a loved one

Who we would dearly love to see.

To hear, to hug, to be with us,

Although we know this cannot be.

It’s a symbol of remembrance,

of those serving far away.

From their homes, their families and others

who miss them every day.

Those who defend their country in many different ways,

In many lands, seas and in the air.

Are honored by these ribbons

That symbolize “”WE CARE”.

They show we embrace their commitment

to their country, God, and family.

That we are grateful for their missions,

And we pray for their safe return.

Written: April 25, 2019