LCol Dean Drysdale CD

Dear Dean,
I was saddened to learn of your illness from Leon Jensen.
I am also indebted to Leon for making it possible for me to convey a few words of solidarity and gratitude on behalf of your comrades across The Royal Regiment.
My what an accomplished life you have led!
I always appreciate a glimpse into the civil lives of the members of the reserve component of our Regiment.
Typically, I am reminded of the adage, “Twice the Citizen” – as I most certainly am in your case.
Outstanding academic achievement at one of the world’s most renowned business schools in what I know to be the most exacting of the business disciplines – finance - and a professional career devoted to the application of your knowledge and wisdom to the economic progress of the nation ….
Exceptional service to your community as a councillor, and a candidate, twice, for Parliament and all that implies in terms of commitment of time and energy …
Any finally, devotion to your Queen and Country as a Soldier and what’s more, a Gunner!
I believe it was Samuel Johnson who said, “Every man thinks meanly of himself for not having been a soldier, or not having been at sea.” 
Well Dean, you have been a soldier and a very good one at that – facts of which you must be rightly proud.
The comments on the Vancouver Gunners website attest to the difference you have made in the lives of so many with whom you soldiered.   
And to have done so as a Commanding Officer with all that that entails – this should be a source of great satisfaction.
“A regiment is more than a mere organization; it is in truth a family, with its ancestors and descendants, its pride and its possessions, and through all its vicissitudes, a strong sense of community and continuity”, avowed Field Marshal Earl Wavell.
I agree and offer heartfelt appreciation for all that you have done down the years to ensure that our Regiment remains worthy of that description.
Remember, you will forever be one of us.
UBIQUE!
Jim
Brigadier-General (Ret’d) | Brigadier-général (ret) J.J. Selbie, OMM, CD
Colonel Commandant | Colonel commandant
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery | Le Régiment royal de l’Artillerie canadienne

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