Al Neil Memorial

At 2pm yesterday the Western Front hosted a memorial for artist Al Neil, who passed away November 16, 2017 at the age of 93. Hank Bull provided introductions to scheduled speakers Eric Metcalfe, Daina Augusts, Christos Dikeakos, Renee Rodin, Bill Smith and Glenn Alteen, who donated two boxes of wine to the event and who told us a story about the picture below -- the last one taken of Al before he went to spirit.

The story concerns a Remembrance Day walk that Al and Glenn took through Al's neighbourhood. Al had his medals on (he was among those who landed at Normandy Beach on D-Day). At one point a young man passed.

"Thanks for your service," the young man said.

A few steps later Al stopped and said to Glenn, "What did he say?"

"Thanks for your service," said Glenn.

Al nodded, then said, "I thought he said, 'Hey, you look nervous."

And with that the audience roared!

Thank you, Glenn.

Thank you, Al.

Thank you, Western Front.