A second tribute to veterans takes shape at Perth’s Great War Memorial Hospital
A second Veterans Memorial Crosswalk has been painted in Perth, creating another lasting tribute to those who served Canada and sacrificed for the freedoms Canadians enjoy today.
The crew was at the main entrance of the Great War Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, October 20, bringing to life a second project spearheaded by local resident Don Rideout.
The new crosswalk is identical to the one unveiled near the Crystal Palace in June, featuring military helmets representing different generations of service, along with messages of remembrance and respect.
Rideout says the response to the original crosswalk has been overwhelmingly positive, and he hopes the new installation will continue to keep veterans in people’s thoughts.
The hospital location carries particular meaning.
The Great War Memorial Hospital already has a strong connection to Remembrance Day, including its annual display of thousands of handmade poppies.
With the new crosswalk at the entrance, visitors will have another opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of Canadian veterans.
Photo: Linda Rideout
For the crew responsible for bringing the design to life, it’s more than another painting job.
Norman Mills, operations manager with All Signs, says being involved in the project is something he takes pride in.
Mills and his crew also painted the first Perth crosswalk, making this their second project of its kind.
While similar memorial crosswalks have appeared in communities including Pembroke and Petawawa, Mills says he expects to see more in the future.
He also appreciates the simplicity and meaning behind Rideout’s design, which offers a visual reminder of generations of military service.
The second crosswalk is the latest step in Rideout’s effort to ensure veterans are remembered beyond annual ceremonies.
The first crosswalk, dedicated June 7 near Perth’s Crystal Palace, brought together veterans, community leaders and residents for an emotional celebration.
Now, with the second installation complete, Rideout says the hospital entrance will become an especially meaningful place as Remembrance Day approaches.
The hospital has created a collection of tributes in one location.
The crosswalks are designed to serve as permanent, everyday reminders of the sacrifices made by Canadian veterans.
And with Remembrance Day just weeks away, Perth now has two highly visible tributes encouraging residents to honour those who served — not just on November 11, but every day of the year.
Photo: Linda Rideout
