Lois Laycock - heroines.ca, Women in Canadian History

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People .Heroines .Biographies .Group Histories	Biographies Lois Daley Laycock Poet, volunteer
	Lois Laycock Submitted by Lois Laycock: I am originally from Jacquet River, New Brunswick. I went to Montreal, P.Q. in 1942 at age 18. I joined Air Force House (as a volunteer), I volunteered three nights a week and Saturday. I met my husband, Ralph Laycock at Air Force House on June 6 /45. We were married on August 21/45. We were married 63 years. I am still volunteering. I am an international poet, with 5 books of poetry published. I am the author of “The Unknown Soldier” which I wrote for The Royal Canadian Legion in the year 2000 (a special celebration in Ottawa).(I am a life member of the Legion.) I am also an artist and still continue to paint. I have lived in Ottawa for the past 20 or so years. A poem about war brides, written by Lois Daley Laycock: STRANGERS ON OUR SHORE Canada sent troops to England Their shores to defend English lassies captured the hearts Of our Canadian men. Romance was very short Engagements shorter still Marriage was on their minds A void needed to be filled. It was distressing for the families When they said ‘Goodbye’ Many tears were shed Many were with “child.” They sailed across the ocean Those courageous English wives Canada would be their home For the rest of their lives. A new world unfolded Not all experienced a happy life With different customs and expressions Just added to the strife. Brides had not seen their husbands For months, some for years Would they be perfect strangers? Would that be their only fear? Some had visions of grandeur The men told them so Many hardships they encountered It was such a terrible blow. Shattered were the dreams It was not the life they sought But time has a way of healing And they were a hardy lot. Many years have passed Since those lassies graced our shore We thank them for their contribution Strangers they are no more. Lois Daley Laycock, 1994 Discover more Online: Lois Laycock: A lifetime in the service of others Article from YourOttawaRegion.com, first published May 16, 2008.