By Nancy Kelly
KingsCountyNews.ca
The Royal Canadian Legion’s Call To Remembrance quiz does more than test junior high school students’ knowledge of Canadian military history.
“It’s also about creating an awareness and putting a face to some of it,” explained Merv Steadman, a member of Branch 98 in Kingston, which hosted the regional quiz on Feb. 7.
This year, six teams from Kings Edgehill School, Horton High School, Berwick and District School, Pine Ridge Middle School and Bridgetown Regional High School took part in the event. Teams were comprised of four members in grades six to nine.
Kingston Legion president Dave Geddes agreed, adding it represents another way for the Legion to reach out and connect with the public.
“It’s a good program for the kids and for us, too,” he said.
Students have been preparing for the quiz since early January. Study materials cover Canadian military history, ranging from the Indian Mutiny in the 1800s through to the present. During each round of play, students are challenged to answer up to 130 questions.
“There is a lot of material to learn, but it’s interesting,” said student Jenna Crocker, a member of the Pine Ridge contingent. She also appreciated the opportunity to meet the Legion members who hosted the day.
“It’s been really cool to be able to talk to World War II veterans,” she added.
The students also had the experience of having W/O Reg Smith give an inspirational talk on his experiences during his tour of duty in Afghanistan during the quiz.
“The students were treated to a personal history of someone who was actually there and appreciated his candor of life in Afghanistan,” said Harold MacKenzie, publicity coordinator for the Call to Remembrance quiz.
The winner of the regional quiz will attend the provincial Call to Remembrance quiz, being held in Pictou County in May.
See a video from the event HERE
And the winners are:
First place – Kings Edgehill, Windsor
Second place – Horton High School, Wolfville
Third place – Bridgetown Regional High School
