From the beginning of this trip, we were told that we are now historians. For a business student this could be a little bit troubling. Nevertheless, it provided a motivation to think differently and adapt to the new surroundings. This course isn't just about the facts and numbers of the Second World War; it isn't just about the statistics of won and lost battles. It is a personal and evocative experience. These young soldiers walked and fought along the same ground that we are walking. This is so much more than the facts and statistics that a business student could focus on - It is much more important to feel the history.
The first few days taught us about Rome and how it was affected by the war. Then we moved to Salerno. Nestled within a small gulf, the battle of Salerno took place along beaches stretching 40 km, framed by mountains barring all passage inland. Now, halfway through the trip, we have seen many fallen men, magnificent acts of valour, and a battle of hope for a country. The campaign that took place in Italy, in my opinion, is one that has been overlooked. It was not a glamorous war but deserves a great deal of remembrance.
Along the way, countless Italian citizens have stopped to admire our class, Many of them directly affected by the war, stay and “listen.” With Cindy and Lee providing translation, these Italians have recounted their stories and sentiments of gratitude. "It is amazing that we, as young people from Canada, have chosen to take an interest in a story that may not have been told and that importantly, want to learn from this story." I believe we should all be ambassadors for what happened, and embrace the characteristics of those men that fought in the war. It is really eye opening to go to the cemeteries where these men are buried. The size and beauty associated with the every location is amazing. | Blog author Kalen Park |
We should be proud, yet humble, hard working and understanding ambassadors of peace and happiness.
Beauty and serenity
The ruins depict a valiant history,
One that ruins the past
By forgetting what was last,
Memories, myths, being a real mystery
The beaches stretch for miles
The sands turn the table of time,
Holding the power of life
Mountains flexing their muscles,
The sun setting on the day
Tired eyes lay restlessly,
Now there is little to say
As oceans turned into mountains,
Mountains turned into people
Consequences grew, many knew,
Many were lost, never to find a way home
Shadows loom over foot,
Starting to take hold
I had hope, I believed in beauty and serenity
But hill after hill, step after step
We lost serenity, hope became meek
Fighting for those to be free,
But never for them to see,
All the beauty in the world
Has vanished,
Those that are here
Are those that are beauty and serenity
Embracing their family
Holding them in their arms
One last time,
Time to wake up, smell the poppies
Remember those who were here,
They lifted us up, held our passion
Which is our true beauty
The sun shines again,
We will find that, That is lost
Yet hope for what is best,
they rest here, that is serenity.