Cobourg Legion Branch 133 veterans to have stories told in a six-part documentary series.
Photo outside Cobourg Legion Branch 133. Courtesy of Eelay Media. Used with permission.
By: Dan Jones Northumberland 89.7 FM, Local Journalism Initiative.
As Canadians remember the sacrifices of veterans in November, a media production company in Cobourg is in full production, chronicling the stories and tales from veterans of Cobourg Legion Branch 133.
Eelay Media in partnership with Bell Fibe TV are creating a six-part, 10 minute documentary series called “Legion of Honour.” Cobourg’s rich history of veterans will make for some fascinating stories. One such story will feature James “Jimmy” Keeler. Keeler is Cobourg’s oldest war veteran and will share stories.
Eelay Media Associate Producer Deb Hulme said she will showcase Fern Blodgett Sunde, who was the first Canadian woman wireless radio operator on the M/S Mosdale during the Battle of the Atlantic. “Of course Cobourg’s own Fern Blodgett Sunde who was Canada’s first wireless operator during the war. That’s a fascinating story that deserves to be told,” said Hulme.
Other episodes will include; the Poppy Campaign, the King Street Banner Program and the involvement of 598 Sabre Air Cadet Squadron. Yet Hulme noted one episode will examine the incredible story of Lt. Col John Foote, who fought in Dieppe. “He was known as the hero of Dieppe. He was a Chaplain, who stayed on the beach with his men. He said ‘the lads on the beach need me more than the lads back in England,’” said Hulme. “So, when the order came to evacuate he refused to leave, staying with his troop.”
Foote was captured and spent three years in a prison camp, where he provided faith services to other camp soldiers.
Cobourg holds a potent and proud history of heroes in the Canadian military,” said Mark Johnston, President of Eelay Media. “Each episode displays the rich and vital role of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Legion’s contributions to the Cobourg community.”
Production for “Legion of Honour” began in October and is expected to wrap later in November. “It is an honour and a privilege to be able to portray what the Cobourg Legion and its veterans do for the community,” said Janet Kyle, President of Cobourg Legion Branch 133. “Over the past year, we have donated over $52,000 through our lotteries and are thrilled to share our local impact.”
Hulme anticipates “Legion of Honour” episodes to begin airing next summer.
