In France, a street has been dedicated to Peter J. Barlow, a Second World War veteran and former chief of the Mi’kmaw community of L’nui Menikuk in eastern New Brunswick. The town of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer in Normandy unveiled Chief Peter Barlow Lane to honor his service with the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, one of the first Canadian units to land on Juno Beach on D-Day.
Loretta Perley, Barlow’s daughter, expressed that her father, who passed away in 2000, would have been delighted by the recognition. She described him as an amiable, intelligent man. Perley recounted her father’s harrowing experiences during the D-Day landing in France, where he witnessed a sea of blood and had to navigate through floating bodies amidst enemy gunfire.
During his time in France, Barlow assisted a farm family with gardening and other agricultural tasks, which was deeply appreciated. Joannie Fraser from the Juno Beach Centre highlighted the special bond between the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment and the French community due to shared language and communication.
In a message shared at the unveiling ceremony, Paolo Fongemie, the honorary colonel of the regiment, expressed gratitude for the tribute to Barlow, recognizing his contributions as a soldier and Mi’kmaw leader. Barlow, who was born in 1920, took on the role of chief at a young age and continued to serve his community for many years.
After his military service, Barlow worked in various roles, including as a longshoreman, fisherman, and farmer. He played a significant role in advocating for Indigenous rights and establishing essential programs for his community. Despite the lack of recognition upon his return to New Brunswick, his dedication to improving the lives of Indigenous people did not waver.
The Canadian Veterans Affairs website acknowledges the contributions of Indigenous individuals during the war, highlighting the challenges faced by Indigenous veterans upon their return home. Perley emphasized the historical discrimination faced by Indigenous veterans in accessing benefits and rights, stressing the importance of the ongoing fight for equality and recognition.
The honor bestowed upon Barlow holds special significance for Perley’s family, symbolizing the culmination of years of advocacy for equal treatment and acknowledgment of Indigenous veterans’ sacrifices. She expressed her wish for her father to witness the recognition he rightfully deserves, underscoring his legacy as a compassionate and dedicated individual.