Photo: Bill Fowler

As Father’s Day approaches, we pause to honour the profound legacy of military service and the lasting impact it has on families across generations. This week, we’re sharing three inspiring stories from supporters who carry forward the memory of fathers who served our nation with courage and sacrifice.

A Legacy of Service and Silent Strength: How Patti O’Connor’s father has inspired her lifelong support for veterans

“I need to ensure what my Dad and so many others gave up for our liberty and our freedoms isn’t forgotten and for nothing. It means something.”

These powerful words come from Patti O’Connor, whose father’s wartime service continues to inspire her dedication to supporting veterans today. Her story reminds us that the echoes of military service resonate far beyond the battlefield, shaping the values and commitments of entire families.

101 Missions and a Lifetime of Memories

Patti’s father, Bill Fowler, flew 101 combat missions for the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. His service took him into some of the most dangerous skies of the war, but perhaps his most haunting assignment came after the fighting ended. Bill helped liberate and clear some of the most notorious death camps—an experience so harrowing that it would stay with him for the rest of his life.

After returning to Canada, Bill rebuilt his life with the quiet determination characteristic of his generation. He pursued higher education, married, raised a family, and became a successful businessman. To the outside world, he appeared to have seamlessly transitioned from warrior to civilian. He passed away in 1986 at the age of 65, taking many of his stories with him.

The Invisible Wounds of War

Looking back with the wisdom that comes from time and understanding, Patti now recognizes that her father quietly carried the heavy burden of PTSD—a reality for many veterans that was not widely understood or acknowledged at the time. Like so many fathers of his generation, Bill embodied quiet strength while bearing the weight of experiences that few could comprehend.

This recognition has deepened Patti’s appreciation for the sacrifices made not just by those who served, but by the families who supported them through the invisible struggles that continued long after the war ended.

Honoring Through Action

As a long-time donor and volunteer with True Patriot Love, Patti draws inspiration from the courage of her father and great-uncles, whose wartime service left a lasting legacy on her family. Her commitment to supporting veterans stems from a deep sense of responsibility to honor their sacrifices.

When asked why she supports True Patriot Love, Patti’s response captures the heart of her mission: “I need to ensure what my Dad and so many others gave up for our liberty and our freedoms isn’t forgotten and for nothing. It means something. We owe them. The very least we can do is to support emotionally and financially what these outstanding people do: committing and sacrificing themselves to keep Canadians free and safe everywhere. I do this in memory of my Dad.”

The Ripple Effect of Service

Patti’s story illustrates how the dedication of those who serve—both on the front lines and at home—continues to shape the freedoms we cherish today. The values instilled by fathers like Bill Fowler don’t end with their generation; they inspire continued service and support for those who carry on the mission of protecting our nation.

This Father’s Day, we invite you to reflect on the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have served our nation. Their legacy lives on not just in the freedoms we enjoy, but in the continued commitment to support those who serve today.

Consider making a donation in honor of one of the many fathers who have served. Stand with us as we honor their legacy every day, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten and that current and future generations of service members receive the support they deserve.

Over the coming week, we’ll continue sharing more inspiring stories from supporters about the challenges, impact, and ultimate legacy of their fathers’ service. Each story reminds us that behind every uniform is a family, and behind every family is a story of sacrifice, love, and enduring commitment to something greater than themselves.

In his honour, we remember. In his honour, we serve.