NEWMARKET - It was the party of the century as a roaring crowd gathered in Newmarket to celebrate Second World War veteran Jim Parks’ 100th birthday.
More than 150 people attended Parks’ centennial birthday party at the Newmarket Royal Canadian Legion Oct. 16, as celebrations continue since his Sept. 22 birthday.
The Mount Albert resident was surrounded by family, friends, political dignitaries, and guests who applauded him on reaching triple digits in age.
“I feel like I am 66,” said Parks. “It’s hard to believe. I live one day after another. A lot of people don’t get to be 100. I’m lucky. I enjoy the company I am with now.”
Parks enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces at 16 with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles. He was sent to England in 1941 before he joined the troops storming Juno Beach in 1944.
He helped liberate France from Nazi Germany and was involved in engagements such as the Battle of Putot and Battle of Carpiquet. He, however, was injured while serving in Delfzijl, Netherlands. Parks was blown through a window under shell fire and woke up in a military hospital with shrapnel in his arms and legs.
“I can speak on my behalf; my mother was 12 years old when her family’s house was bombed completely out of the Netherlands,” said Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. “They came two years later to Canada. They came here because of the legacy Jim and his colleagues left, a legacy that left so much love and admiration for Canada.”
The shrapnel in his leg is still there, as it’s too close to a main artery to be removed.
“A true Canadian hero, Jim’s contributions to our country and the world are immeasurable,” said Newmarket-Aurora MP Tony Van Bynen.
Parks attended ceremonies this year at the beach where he landed, marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day. He said it is important to participate in events to remind people of their freedom.
“All the freedom we have came at a price,” said Parks. “It came at the price of friends of mine.”
York-Simcoe MP Scot Davidson accompanied Parks on his trip to Normandy. He revealed Park’s secret to a long life was chocolate milk. They shared a shot during birthday celebrations, and Davidson reflected on his service to our country.
“He has also dedicated so much of his life to ensuring that those he fought with and those who did not make it home from the Second World War are remembered,” said Davidson.
Parks remains involved with the community. He visits school students to discuss his war experience, participates in Remembrance Day ceremonies each year, and was involved in Historica Canada’s memory project. Parks said he wants people to remember their freedom and not take it for granted.
“Look around where you are,” said Parks. “You’re in Canada. You’re in a great country, if not the best country in the world. Be thankful for what you have because there are a lot of people who appreciate what they have and fight for it.”