On November 11, Trooper Don White was honoured at a Remembrance Day ceremony at Valour High School. Don White, who passed away at the age of 98 on June 17, 2023, was remembered for his bravery and service during World War II. His daughter, Heather McVety, and son-in-law, Paul McVety, laid an honorary wreath in his memory.
Born in Oshawa, Ontario, Don enlisted in the military at the age of 16. He served with the Royal Canadian Dragoons and played a key role in the liberation of Leeuwarden, Netherlands, where he was part of the first Canadian troop to enter the town. Don’s actions were celebrated both in Canada and abroad. In 2019, the Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, honoured Don in Canada’s Parliament, and a tulip was named after him – the “Don White tulip.”
Throughout his life, Don remained humble about his wartime service, often saying that everyone played an important part in the war effort. After the war, he completed his high school diploma and became a successful businessman.
To honour his legacy, Valour High School will place a plaque at the Juno Beach Memorial in Normandy, France, and a replica will be displayed on the Valour Wall of Remembrance. The Petawawa Rotary Club generously supported the initiative. Valour High School takes pride in remembering Trooper Don White and his contributions to Canada’s freedom.
(Written by: Emma Butler)