CNE Warriors' Day Parade recognizes 75th anniversary of Dieppe Raid

When asked why it's important people march in theparade, 95-year-old Dieppe Raid veteranHarry Neillsaid it'sbecause a lot of men gave their lives.

Neillspent six years overseas with an advanced team in the Canadian Army from1939 to 1944.

While his memories may be a little bit foggy now,Neill said he still remembers fighting in the war and exchanging enemy fire with Vickers machine guns.

Hundreds of veterans marched in the annual paradeestablished in 1921, and current serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces showed their appreciation.

"It's good to come in contact with [veterans] and ask them about their stories...they give us their life experience about being in the military. I'm glad that they're here," said trooper Melissa Frangella.

Many of the veterans spent the day taking time to also reflect on the lives lost.

The Dieppe Raid holds the record forthe most amount of Canadian deaths in a single day, ultimately claiming the lives of more than 900 people.

"I lost a lot of good friends, I got hit myself...it wasn't all blood and guts, we had a lot of fun too," said veteran Hern Pike.

Despite the bittersweet memories Warriors' DayParade brought up for veterans, some family memberslike Jennifer Emmerson, daughter Harry Neill said they were honoured.

"It's amazing to see the determination of these seniorveterans to remember, the willingness to come out for their fellow comrades and people of arms that they served with. I'm extremely proud of my father, " she said.