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Canada’s oldest veteran turns 110, reflecting on a life of quiet service

From chemical warfare trials to a century behind the wheel, his life is a testament to endurance. Yet, he rarely speaks of the war that shaped him.

In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text...
In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text above it.

Canada’s oldest veteran turns 110, reflecting on a life of quiet service

Canada's oldest living veteran, Burd Sisler, turns 110 this year. He rarely discusses his wartime experiences but has left a lasting impact on his family and the country.

Burd Sisler joined the Canadian Army in 1943, serving during the Second World War and later in the Cold War era. Despite his son Norm's encouragement to reflect on veterans' service, specific details about Sisler's military assignments remain scarce.

After his military career, Sisler joined the Canadian Border Agency and retired in 1979. Remarkably, he continued driving until he was almost 100. Sisler's son Norm acknowledges the hardships veterans faced during the war, highlighting the importance of remembering their service.

In his early years, Sisler volunteered for chemical warfare trials, enduring exposure to mustard gas. Despite these trials, he remains happy about leaving the United States for Canada a century ago.

Burd Sisler, Canada's oldest living veteran, has led an extraordinary life of service. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the importance of preserving their history.

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