Appointment of Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the Armour School

By Lieutenant-Colonel Dwayne Parsons

 

On the occasion of John Swanton, a World War II Strathcona veteran, celebrating his 90th birthday on 12 March 2011, the local Member of Parliament, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, made a public announcement that John had been appointed as Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the Armour School.  To say John was surprised is a definite under-statement!!!!  This “Honorary” appointment had been in the works for over a decade and while many involved thought it had been lost, true “perseverance” prevailed and the MND, the Honourable Peter Mackay, sent the official designation in time to meet John’s birthday. 

 

The importance of this appointment should not be taken lightly.  John has had a long standing relationship with the Regiment, the School, and indeed the Army that has exceeded the 50 year mark.  He is a consummate gentleman and truly epitomizes what it means to be a Strathcona.  He has never forgotten his time with the Regiment and takes every occasion possible to tell others of our rich and proud history.  On behalf of the Colonel of the Regiment, the CO, the RSM and all ranks, as well as those who know John, our collective “Congratulations” on the appointment from a grateful Regiment for the contribution you continue to provide.