A bronze on granite sculpture by Tyler Fauvelle that commemorates members of the Canadian Armed Forces who served in Afghanistan was unveiled on 9 November 2017. It was commissioned by the St. Thomas War Memorial Site Committee.
This artwork is about connection. A soldier serves Canada far away from home, in Afghanistan. As others have before him, he rests, still alert, and thinks about home, family, comrades, sacrifices made of mind and body. The narratives change, but the conflicts and soldiers of then, now, and tomorrow are all connected, because freedom still has the same price.
The munitions crate blends historical and modern design, so that it can’t be set in time. A Canadian Beaver is featured on the side of the crate. Representing engineering and unwavering perseverance, the beaver is a foundational symbol of Canada, and has long been the mark of Canada’s military engineers.
Visitors are encouraged to sit awhile with this young soldier, and reflect on the bravery, honour, and sacrifice of all those who served and never came home…Who served, but were changed in ways only other veterans can know…Who continue to serve, forever connected to their brothers and sisters in arms.
