Ed Laird lays a wreath at a Remembrance Day ceremony. (Ian Gustafson/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Victory in Europe

P.A. veteran recalls the end of fighting in Europe

May 8, 2020 | 5:00 PM

A Prince Albert World War II veteran is reflecting on the 75^th anniversary of the allied victory in Europe.

Ed Laird, who served in WWII transmitting messages, was in fact given the duty of passing the ceasefire orders to the artillery at four in the morning after the armistice was agreed to.

“It was my birthday I was 22 years old that day, when I was giving that message, I was on the control set, I sent it to all the regiments,” he said.

Laird said he can’t believe it has been 75 years since then. He explained this year is different as there will not be any ceremonies marking the occasion. Laird said there were originally plans to do something at city hall to commemorate the day.

“Yes, I miss all that,” he said.

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When the COVID-19 situation resolves, Laird said he will be looking forward to seeing people once again at the local legion hall. Currently he is staying home to protect himself against the virus.

Provincial representatives take time to remember

In Regina, provincial leaders, including Premier Scott Moe and Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty took time to place wreaths at the Saskatchewan War Memorial near the provincial legislature Friday.

Legion asks Canadians to wear red

While the COVID-19 outbreak has forced the cancellation of ceremonies to mark the occasion the Royal Canadian Legion is asking people to wear red and post the photo to social media to honour those who served.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn