She's done it again. She died in 1901 after a reign of more than sixty-three years but she continues to bring delight to Canadians over 100 years later. Every year on this day I'm thankful for the holiday but upset it's in honour of a Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.
In 2003 I suggested we re-brand Monday's holiday Terry Fox day, or Wayne Gretzky day or John Candy day or even Don Cherry Day. In 2004 I wanted to honour Dave Andreychuk. In 2005 I called it Chuck Cadman Day. Today, I'm not celebrating Victoria Day, I'm celebrating Captain Nichola Goddard Day.
Goddard, 26, died Wednesday while fighting Taliban insurgents west of Kandahar, Afghanistan. She is the first Canadian female combat soldier to die in action since World War II. She was the 16th Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan since 2002.
Whether we should be there or not is another entry unto itself. Regardless, Goddard and many other brave Canadians like her are in Afghanistan right now risking their lives, fighting on our behalf. There is nothing more courageous. Vicky can step aside again this year. This day is in honour of Nichola Goddard and those who sacrifice all.
