Dean Thorpe Historical Military Tour Pt 1

Terry Evans, Rick McSwain of Network Travel, and Jackie Rae Greening welcome Dean Thorpe from 840 CFCW Radio to discuss his recent Canadian Military Tour through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Before diving in, the hosts mention their upcoming November golf trip to Moon Palace in Cancun.
Dean shares how the tour, guided by Canadian military historian Tom Leppard, followed Canada's footsteps through both World Wars — from Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach, Dieppe, and Ypres. A recurring theme was how little Canadians know about their own military history, with Dean and fellow travelers repeatedly asking, "How come we don't know this stuff?"
Among the most moving moments was 90-year-old Lilian visiting her grandfather's First World War grave for the first time — the first family member ever to do so — placing a small flag and holding a quiet ceremony at his headstone.
Key Topics
Canadian military history in Europe
Personal stories of WWII veterans and soldiers
The significance of war cemeteries and memorials
The role of historians like Tom Leppard in education
The emotional and prideful experience of remembrance
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the Canadian Military Tour
03:24 - The Journey Begins: Following Canadian Soldiers
06:34 - Emotional Connections: Personal Stories from the Tour
09:30 - Pride in Canadian History: Lessons Learned
13:09 - The Impact of War: Stories of Sacrifice
16:33 - Community and Remembrance: The Role of Cemeteries
19:52 - Reflections on the Experience: A New Perspective
22:40 - The Significance of Juneau Beach
25:55 - Lessons from History: Learning from the Past
27:03 - The Disaster at Dieppe
29:30 - Reflections on Juneau Beach
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