Rauri Nicholson and John Gilmour, SOE Planning Committee
As 2020 draws to a close, so too do the celebrations associated with the 80th anniversary of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), and Canada’s role in that esteemed organization. The past year has seen a number of different events and initiatives as part of the anniversary celebrations. They have served to raise the profile of this unique wartime creation within the public domain, and to bring together agencies from Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom with a historical connection to that organization, to toast the courage, boldness, and resoluteness of those men and woman that served in the SOE.
I have had the honour and pleasure of serving as the Chair of the SOE Anniversary Committee. In this role, I have come to better learn and appreciate the role the SOE played in the defeat of Axis forces in Europe during World War II. Serving in both the military and national security environments has given me a special appreciation for the character of those who risked all in the most dangerous of circumstances, one that represented the best attributes of both determination and selflessness.
The success of the celebrations is largely the result of the participation of a number of different partners within both the public and private sectors. In this regard, Glenora Distillery has been a most enthusiastic, innovative and steadfast partner right from the beginning, when planning for events was still in its early stages. Under the guidance of Messrs. Lauchie MacLean and Robert Scott, and with the support of the rest of the Glenora team, Glenora’s support of the anniversary has been one of the most positive experiences coming out of this past year.
Our partnership culminated in the development and marketing of a special 80th anniversary whisky under the Glenora brand that was, in my view, an unparalleled success. Glenora went above and beyond in terms of its interest in this special whisky throughout the year, and continues to do so. I cannot adequately express my sincerest appreciation for Glenora’s “can-do” attitude throughout this initiative.
As the anniversary year and my role as Chair come to an end, on behalf of the SOE Committee. I must acknowledge Lauchie, Bob, and the Glenora team with a well-deserved “Bravo Zulu!”
I wish you continued success in your future initiatives.
Cheers!
Ruari Nicholson
Chair, SOE Planning Committee