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Soldier, Statesman, Saint: The Inspiring Life and Legacy of Georges Vanier

George Bernard Shaw

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Published in Georges Vanier: Soldier: The Wartime Letters And Diaries 1915 1919

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Georges Vanier was a man of extraordinary courage, compassion, and faith. His life spanned a period of great turmoil and change, and his experiences during the First World War shaped him profoundly.

In his wartime letters and diaries, published as Georges Vanier: Soldier The Wartime Letters And Diaries 1915-1919, we get a glimpse into the mind and heart of a young man who was determined to make a difference in the world.

Georges Vanier: Soldier: The Wartime Letters and Diaries, 1915-1919

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Language	:	English
File size	:	5778 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	240 pages

A Young Man's Journey to War

Georges Vanier was born in Montreal, Canada in 1888. He was the eldest of five children, and his family was devoutly Catholic. Vanier received a classical education at the Collège Sainte-Marie in Montreal, where he excelled in his studies.

At the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Vanier was 26 years old. He was working as a lawyer in Montreal, but he felt a strong sense of duty to serve his country.

Vanier enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force and was commissioned as a lieutenant. He was assigned to the 22nd Battalion (French-Canadian),which was part of the 5th Canadian Infantry Brigade.

Baptism of Fire

The 22nd Battalion arrived in France in February 1915. Vanier's first experience of combat came at the Battle of Neuve Chapelle in March 1915. The battle was a disaster for the British and French forces, and Vanier's battalion suffered heavy losses.

Despite the horrors of war, Vanier remained committed to his duty. He wrote to his family that he was determined to "serve my country with all my heart and soul."

Vanier's courage and determination were recognized by his superiors. He was promoted to captain in May 1915 and was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery in action.

A Leader of Men

As the war continued, Vanier's leadership skills became increasingly evident. He was promoted to major in September 1916 and was given command of the 22nd Battalion. Under Vanier's leadership, the battalion became one of the most respected and successful units in the Canadian Expeditionary Force.

Vanier's success as a leader was due in part to his natural charisma and his ability to connect with his men. He was a firm but fair commander, and he always put the welfare of his soldiers first.

Vanier's wartime experiences had a profound impact on him. He saw the horrors of war firsthand, but he also witnessed the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

A Life of Service

After the war, Vanier returned to Canada and resumed his legal career. However, he never forgot his experiences during the war. He became actively involved in veterans' affairs and dedicated his life to serving others.

In 1939, Vanier was appointed Canada's first ambassador to the Holy See. He served in this role until 1953, when he was appointed Governor General of Canada.

As Governor General, Vanier worked tirelessly to promote unity and reconciliation within Canada. He was a staunch defender of human rights and social justice, and he played a key role in the development of Canada's welfare state.

A Legacy of Hope

Georges Vanier died in 1967. He was 78 years old. He left behind a legacy of hope and inspiration. Vanier was a man who dedicated his life to serving others, and he became a beacon of hope in the darkest of times.

In his wartime letters and diaries, Vanier shared his thoughts and experiences with his family and friends. His writings offer a unique glimpse into the mind and heart of a truly remarkable man.

Georges Vanier: Soldier The Wartime Letters And Diaries 1915 1919 is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about this extraordinary man and his inspiring life.