D-Day veteran Garth Webb died at age 93 The D-Day veteran and founder of the Juno Beach Centre in France for whom Oakville's new northwest high school has been named -- Garth Webb -- has died. "It is with extreme sadness that the Board of Directors of the Juno Beach Centre Association announces the passing of a true Canadian hero, our president, Garth S. Webb," stated a news release from the Burlington-based Juno Beach Centre Association. "Mr. Webb passed away peacefully on the morning of May 8 at the age of 93. Symbolically, May 8 happens to be the 67th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe)," added the press release. Lt. Garth Webb landed on Juno Beach, Normandy, France, with the Canadian 14th Field Artillery on the morning of D-Day, June 6, 1944, as part of the Allied forces. His unit experienced significant casualties shortly after leaving the beach, but continued their advance that fateful day to begin the liberation of Europe, further stated the press release. After the war, Mr. Webb returned to Canada and resumed his studies at Queen's University in Kingston. Upon graduation he embarked on a successful career as a real estate broker and appraiser. In June 1994, for the 50th anniversary of D-Day, he returned to the beaches of Normandy with many of the veterans from his unit. It was at this point that they realized there was not very much there for their children and grandchildren to see in commemoration of the Canadian involvement in the Second World War. Canada. The initiative also worked to boost awareness of the role that their country as a whole had played in the conflict. The Juno Beach Centre was born and established. On the 59th anniversary of D-Day, in June 2003, the Juno Beach Centre opened in Courseulles-sur-Mer, France. After the opening of the centre, Mr. Webb continued to serve on the board of directors as president of the association and was actively involved in all aspects of the day-to-day operation and strategic planning. Among his many commendations and military medals from the Second World War, Webb was also the recipient of the Meritorious Service Cross. It was presented to him in 2003 by the Governor General of Canada for his part in the creation of the Juno Beach Centre. Mr. Webb was also honoured by the French government in 2005 with the Legion of Honour medal. The National Order of the Legion of Honour is the highest decoration in France. Membership in the Legion is usually restricted to French nationals. The veteran was honoured with his name selected for a new school. Garth Webb Secondary School opens in the fall of 2012 in northwest Oakville. 15 · Thursday, May 10, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com W Garth Webb As a result, Mr. Webb, a Burlington resident, and his partner, Lise Cooper, spearheaded an initiative of Canadian Second World War veterans, widows and children of veterans keen to perpetuate the memory of the wartime operations that were a credit to e celebrate the community health care nurses who have touched our lives and continue to make a difference! To find out more about our nursing services call 905-827-8800 or visit www.acclaimhealth.ca At ti times mes our ow own n li light ght g goes oes ou out t and is rekind rekindled led by a s spark park from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. ~ Albert Schweitzer 2370 Speers Rd Oakville, ON L6L 5M2 Charitable Registration Number: 11928 4602 RR0001 THANK YOU SOMEBODY PINCH ME The Modern Theory Panel Bed for only $999 Regular Price $1998 50% OFF ALL BEDS * With purchase of one additional bedroom piece THOMASVILLE BURLINGTON 2269 Fairview Street, Burlington Ph. 905-631-6000 SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE Please see store for full details