Wolf Solkin has been a fighter for most of his life.
A Second World War veteran, he’s lived through many battles, but the battle that’s he’s recently undertaken — supporting and speaking out for veterans rights — he says, is equally as important.
To commemorate his contributions, he was honoured with the Veterans Ombudsman Commendation.
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The recognition is given to those who have significantly contributed to supporting and advocating for veterans and their families.
Solkin, who is from Montreal and lives in Ste.-Anne-de-Bellevue, was nominated by two of his most cherished comrades.
“He’s an example that other veterans need to start to speak up, so that they make a difference, and that what we continue what he is doing and what he’s been doing for a long time,” said Sylvain Chartrand, a retired corporal.
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One of Solkin’s most recent fights is a class-action lawsuit, in which he is the main plaintiff, that revolves around the care he and dozens of others are receiving at the Ste.-Anne’s Veterans Hospital.
According to him, the level of care has gone down since control of the hospital was transferred from federal to provincial jurisdiction.
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Through the lawsuit, which he can’t comment on, he wants people to know that the veteran community needs to be respected and treated with dignity.
As Canada celebrates another Remembrance Day, he hopes people will remember veterans and those who are serving today, for more than just two minutes.
At 97 years old, he says he’ll fight to do just that, until he no longer can.
“I’m totally helpless from the neck down, but as long as I have my one remaining vocal chord and my one index finger to work on my iPad, I will continue to raise my voice whenever I feel that it might be heard,” said Solkin.
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