KAWARTHA LAKES-The President of the Lindsay Legion says he is angry about the way City staff have treated the Remembrance Day banners that line the main street every November.
“Our staff was totally in dismay at the disrespectful manner that these banners were handled. Many of the Veteran’s depicted in these banners offered the supreme sacrifice.” Walter Tomasik, President. Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67 Lindsay told Kawartha 411 News.
Tomasik says City public works staff usually pick up the banners at the beginning of Poppy Week and installs them on light standards throughout the City. After Remembrance Day staff collect the banners and take them to the legion for cleaning and storage.
“The banners are the property of veterans’ family members and are held for safe-keeping by the Branch.” explained Tomasik “This year, Public Works employees brought the banners back to the Legion and promptly dropped them on the floor in our front foyer in total disarray. This is truly a travesty and a total disrespect for those who continue to sacrifice and have sacrificed.”
Tomasik says he has tried to discuss the issue with the Mayor’s office but has not had a response.
“I have attempted to contact the Mayor’s office on two occasions and to date have not received a response. I realize they are in transition but surely someone checks their messages?”
Kawartha 411 News contacted the City and they say staff are looking into the issue.
“The Legion has expressed concern with the handling of the Remembrance Day flags. We understand their importance to all involved and that they should be treated with care. We are looking into what happened and where appropriate, will follow up directly with the parties involved.” said Bryan Robinson, Director of Public Works.
