What motivated you to be a part of this project?
I thought it was an important project to remember those who have served in the military or had some association with the military. Not only do I feel strongly about the poppy and what it symbolizes, my 2 grandchildren (Christopher and Emily) call me “Poppy” so it is quite special to me.
What was going through your mind when you were “Sitting in Remembrance” for the project?
I was remembering the people I met during World War 2. I am one of the few veterans left from my regiment and I felt I was representing all of the amazing men and women I worked alongside.
What message do you want to pass along to future generations about your life’s experiences?
While a lot has changed since I was born, 101 years ago, some things have remained the same. One thing I have always lived by… treat others as you would like to be treated. If you do this, you can never go wrong.
101 year old Veteran, Raymond “Poppy” Farndale, sits with his medals and war scrapbook in front of his portrait. #013/100 in the 100 Portraits / 100 Poppies project. Tuesday July 14, 2015 at the Guelph Public Library.