A veteran from Cambridge who proposed a commemorative crosswalk in the city is expressing disagreement with the decision made by local legions to abandon the idea. The Veterans Working Group, established by the city last year, expressed reservations about using an active roadway to honor and remember veterans.
Joe Gowing, the president of the Preston Legion, stated that the poppy symbol should not be placed on a surface that is regularly walked or driven on. In an open letter to various Cambridge legions and media members, veteran Patrick Wuori disclosed that the concept for the crosswalk originated from him and was developed in collaboration with Cambridge councillor Adam Cooper.
Wuori emphasized that the initiative was not hastily conceived, highlighting Cooper’s dedicated involvement throughout the process. He emphasized the importance of having a visible, year-round method to acknowledge the service and sacrifices of veterans for the benefit of future generations. Wuori clarified that his design avoided using the poppy image, aligning with the Royal Canadian Legion’s guidelines that discourage placing the poppy where it can be stepped on or driven over.
Encouraging the legions to reconsider their rejection, Wuori emphasized that the crosswalk proposal merits further consideration. Gowing mentioned that the Veterans Working Group is not outright dismissing the crosswalks but is exploring alternative options. He expressed surprise at Wuori’s involvement and stressed the importance of having diverse voices at the table for such decisions.
Despite the differing viewpoints, Cooper affirmed his unwavering support for veterans and the necessity of year-round recognition for their sacrifices. He called for continuous dialogue with veterans, both within and outside the legion, to understand their preferences. Cooper believed that a commemorative crosswalk could initiate discussions among young children about the sacrifices made by soldiers.