Halifax, Nova Scotia
Mr. Burns is a Second World War Veteran who served as an operating-room assistant with the No. 1 Mobile Neurosurgical Unit landing on Juno Beach a few days after D-Day. He has been a member of The Royal Canadian Legion for 50 years and has participated in annual poppy campaigns. In his career as a financial advisor, he advised his branch and command on investment matters. Mr. Burns attends and assists with many commemorative events, the most noteworthy being the Juno Beach commemorative ceremonies in 2005. In 1971, he founded the WWII Annual Remembrance Church Service Association to honour his brother, following the discovery of his grave in Italy by a family member. Mr. Burns' brother, Lt. Daniel William Burns, lost his life in Italy as a prisoner of war. The church service has become an annual tradition on the Friday prior to Remembrance Day, and this year will mark its 38th anniversary. It has evolved to commemorate all service men and women who gave their lives for their country during the wars, as well as Veterans who have passed away. The event draws hundreds of people, including Veterans and their families, lieutenant-governors, members of Parliament, members of Legislative Assemblies and of Veterans' organizations, youth and current members of our Canadian Forces. It is one of the largest memorial church services in Canada and serves as a fitting reminder of all the Veterans who have served their country.