Members of IBEW local 530 have been busy volunteering their time to help turn an unfortunate event into an uplifting story in Sarnia, Ontario.
Vandalism in Veteran’s Park
Earlier this year, members from the Sarnia Historical Society noticed something strange about the Tommy Soldier atop the cenotaph in Veterans Park. It had been vandalized: the soldier’s rifle stolen and an attempt made to dislodge the statue from it’s post.
It wasn’t long until the news broke and outrage spread across the community. Soon after, an abundance of support flooded in have the statue restored. The Sarnia Historical Society received a call from John Swart, President of the Sarnia-Lambton Building Trades (SLBT) with good news. The SLBT was committed to help fund the restoration and add enhanced security measures on the site.
Brightening the Mood
IBEW local 530 was quick to jump on board to assist with this project. The 530 team worked with Bluewater Power and local 1802, volunteering to erect new lighting and security cameras. “I’m very happy and very proud of my members,” states Frank Harris, Business Manager from IBEW local 530, Sarnia. Together, the team installed nine new light poles, illuminating the area around the cenotaph and Tommy Soldier and wired up new security cameras to monitor the area.
A long list of Sarnia residents and organizations helped to bring this project to life (and just in time for Remembrance Day celebrations and reflection). It’s a true example of a community coming together.
We invite you to watch this touching video about the project and those involved, including our very own IBEW local 530 members: