Editor: This past March, I found out about my great uncle Stanley, who died very young at Vimy Ridge.
I wrote this poem about him and would like honour him and all the fallen soldiers who unselfishly gave their lives. My great uncle Stan is listed on the cenotaph at the Murrayville Cemetery and when I went to see it, I was overwhelmed with grief.
This poem flowed from my heart. Perhaps you could print the poem as a letter to the editor for the upcoming Remembrance Day?
Private Stanley Tyers
July 3, 1898 – April 9, 1917
At Vimy Ridge my Great Uncle Stan fell
He willingly suffered and strode bravely into hell.
He carried a rifle as he marched straight into harm
He and his regiment, his comrades in arms.
With the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles, BC Regiment
He advanced for the loss of Canada to prevent.
Until at aged 18 he met his enemy face to face
As he fought and died in that dreadful place.
He generously gave his life for all in this land
For Canada, his siblings, and his heartbroken Mom and Dad.
I imagine my uncle, prayed aloud to our Lord
Give me courage and strength to continue onward.
I believe You were present and held him close Holy One
While he slipped into eternity for his work was done.
My Great Uncle Stan at Thelis in France does lie
The picture of his headstone moves me and I cry.
But his soul dwells in heaven, not in the grave
He lives forever because of his faith and life he gave.
Alone I stand at the cenotaph, lovingly tracing your name
With tears running down my face, I am not the same.
Thank you, thank you for your sacrifice Great Uncle Stan
I am grateful for your willingness to obey God’s plan.
I solemnly promise I will never forget your fate
And I know you will be waiting for me at heaven’s gate.
Cathy Tyers Moleschi,
Langley
