In the traditional exchange of tunics, “oldest” soldier Corporal Dany Beaupre changes his rank and placement with Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Eric LeClair at the annual Soldiers Appreciation dinner on Dec. 11. Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag News

Jubilous cheers and whoots harmonized the more than ten awards and commendations presented during the annual Soldier Appreciation Dinner at CFB Shilo, with Soldier of the Year for 2023 announced as Corporal Derek Picklyck, on Dec. 11.

More than 420 attendees were welcomed into the celebratory lunch with a receiving line and handshake of recognition from the Base Command team, officers and department heads.

Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk told Shilo Stag News that soldier appreciation dinners have been a way to express gratefulness and offer tribute to soldiers as long as there has been a British Army. The tradition has continued through the years and across the miles to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)

The much-anticipated exchange of tunics between the Base Commander and the youngest soldier, Private Keegan Bean, 21, was solidified with loud applause when he announced early dismissal for the day shortly after everyone had their fill of traditional fare. Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Eric LeClair swapped duties and patches with the oldest soldier, Corporal Dany Beaupre. His age was not obtained.

A group of 70 officers above the rank of sergeant, senior NCOs (non-commissioned officers), alongside civilian department managers, served soldiers and a full seasonal menu of turkey, stuffing, vegetables and holiday treats in gratitude for their resolute accomplishments throughout the year.

Steeped in tradition, a message of contemplation offered by Master of Ceremonies Lieutenant Peter Nasady had attendees reflecting on an empty chair beside the head table.

“You may have noticed the small table set for one that is off on its own – it is reserved to honour our fallen comrades in arms. This symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit. We should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call to serve and served the cause of freedom in a special way,” he said, explaining the symbolic denotations at the place setting.

The lieutenant described the roundness of the table as a circle of everlasting concern for fallen comrades; the whiteness of the tablecloth indicates the purity of motives when soldiers answer the call of duty; the single red rose is a reminder of the fallen lives, the loved ones and friends of comrades who “keep the faith”; the red ribbon tied around the flower vase is an emblem of continued determination to remember.

“A slice of lemon on the bread plate reminds us of the bitter fate of those who will never return. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by the families of those who have sacrificed all,” he said.

His message continued to explain the military edition “Holy Book” represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those who have lost their lives.

“The glass is inverted [because] they can not toast with us at this time. The chair is empty because they are no longer with us.”

“We are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured the agonies of pain, deprivation and death,” Lt. Nasady said.

MORE TO COME: Awards presentation and recipients

In the traditional exchange of tunics, Private Keegan Bean, as the youngest soldier, stands next to CFB Shilo Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk after the honorary promotion for the 2023 Soldier Appreciation Dinner on Dec. 11.  Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News

Awarded Soldier of the Year at the annual Soldier Appreciation Dinner, Corporal Derek Picklyk shakes the hand of CFB Shilo Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk on Dec. 11. Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News

The Fallen Soldier table stands as a reminder at the 2023 Soldier Appreciation Dinner “to honour the fallen comrades in arms,” Master of Ceremonies Lieutenant Peter Nasady said during the ceremony on Dec. 11. Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News