M’CHIGEENG — In a momentous celebration, Manitoulin Island’s last surviving World War II veteran, Mr. Justin Roy, returned to his home community to mark his 100th birthday. The island came alive with gratitude and reverence, as friends, family, and fellow veterans gathered to honour a man whose life has been a testament to courage, resilience, and service.
The festivities began on Monday, August 19 at the Little Current Legion, Branch 177. The room was filled with the warm embrace of comradeship, as Mr. Roy was welcomed by veterans, sea cadets, and community members who came to pay tribute to a man who had stood on the front lines of history.
The following day, a more intimate gathering was held at the M’Chigeeng Elders’ Residence, where Mr. Roy, now residing in Mesa, Arizona, was surrounded by loved ones. The atmosphere was filled with stories of the past, laughter, and the deep connection shared by those who understand the weight of service and sacrifice. Among those in attendance were members of the Canadian Forces, veterans, and local dignitaries who came to honour a hero whose legacy continues to inspire.
In a previous conversation with The Expositor in 2021, Mr. Roy reflected on his journey from the quiet shores of M’Chigeeng to the tumultuous beaches of Normandy. Born and raised in this small community, Mr. Roy left home at the tender age of 13 after the passing of his father. He worked in a lumber camp in Whitefish Falls and later found his way to Sault Ste. Marie, where he secured a job at the steel mill.
In 1943, at the age of 19, Mr. Roy felt the call to serve his country and traveled to Toronto to enlist with the Canadian Forces. He vividly recalled his time at the CNE’s Horse Palace, where basic training was conducted during the war. Despite his desire to join the paratroopers or the air force, his lack of formal education led him to a role in the 3rd Division of the Allied Expeditionary Special Forces.
Mr. Roy’s service took him to the front lines of one of history’s most significant battles—D-Day. As part of the second wave on June 6, 1944, he stormed Juno Beach, facing unimaginable odds. “When you got off that ship, down that rope ladder, your life expectancy was 15 minutes,” he recounted. The mission was perilous, with only 45 out of 200 soldiers in his unit surviving the assault.
The conversation during Mr. Roy’s 100th birthday celebration was rich with emotion and reflection. M’Chigeeng Ogimaa Morgan Hare spoke of the significance of Mr. Roy’s return to his home community to celebrate this milestone, highlighting his active life up until the age of 97. Carol Hughes, Member of Parliament, presented Mr. Roy with a certificate, acknowledging his service and the enduring impact he has had on the community.
Jeanie Debassige, Mr. Roy’s niece, shared stories of their family history, detailing the contributions of his mother and her siblings, many of whom also served in World War II. She spoke of the community’s pride in Mr. Roy’s legacy and the military tradition that runs deep in their family.
The celebration reached its emotional peak when Chief Morgan Hare presented Mr. Roy with an eagle feather—a symbol of great honour among First Nations people. This gesture, accompanied by Elder Alma Jean Migwans’ prayer in Anishinaabemowin and an honour song, moved Mr. Roy to tears. Elder Migwans spoke in the language, recounting how her mother, Mr. Roy’s aunt, sewed parachutes for the soldiers overseas and how the community prayed daily for their safe return.
As the gathering came to a close, there was a profound sense of gratitude and respect for Mr. Roy’s life and contributions. His 100th birthday was not just a celebration of longevity, but a heartfelt tribute to a man whose life has been marked by bravery, service and an unwavering connection to his roots on Manitoulin Island.
