A local Second World War veteran is getting ready for Remembrance Day

Yarmouth’s Jim McRae is 104-years old, and became the oldest veteran to lay a wreath at the Mariners Centre ceremony last year.

McRae joined the military in 1941, and learned how to fly twin engine planes in Brandon, Manitoba.

During the war, McRae’s plane was shot down, and he survived a lengthy period in the Atlantic Ocean.

He says his memory isn’t what it used to be, but it means a lot to see young people honouring veterans.

“It’s good to see so many of them taking such an interest in it. I’m sure they’re all learning quite a bit from it,” says McRae.

McRae has been attending Remembrance services at local schools this week, and will be back at Mariners Centre tomorrow to lay the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 61 wreath.

“It’s important that young people have an interest in public affairs. It’ looks like they’re doing a great job. I’ve been all over Canada as a guest of government, but it’s hard for me now to pick out one thing and talk about it these days,” added McRae.

McRae was the guest of honour on ‘Armed Forces Appreciation Night’ at the Yarmouth Mariners game, where he received a standing ovation.

He got to drop the ceremonial puck, and has kept hold of the puck ever since.

When asked about his upcoming 105th birthday on November 28th, McRae says he’s been lucky not to have experienced much sickness in his life.

He says is memory is fading, so he’s forgotten the secret to a long life.

Hear more with Jim McRae this Saturday on the Y95 Weekender.