In addition to being a radio host on 630 CHED, J’Lyn Nye is a passionate advocate for the military. Nye has been patron of the Edmonton Garrison Military Family Resource Centre for seven years, as well as Honorary Colonel of 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron for two years.
Q: How important do you feel Edmonton’s military history is to the city?
A: Without a doubt, it is incredibly important. Edmonton has a long and storied military history and I think we could all do a better job of learning about it.
Q: Who are your heroes in real life?
A: Anyone willing to put on a uniform and serve their country. But, even more so, their families. Their support. Their sacrifice. They are the strength behind the uniform.
Q:What are three words you would use to describe Remembrance Day in Edmonton?
A: Emotional. Powerful. Humbling.
Q: What was the most impactful moment you experienced creating [the documentary] Return to Normandy?
A: I was standing outside of the Canadian War Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, just down the road from Juno Beach – more than 2,000 Canadian Second World War soldiers are buried there – talking to a veteran from the Italian Campaign. He looked at me with tears in his eyes and said: “We will never have a future if we don’t remember the past.” The memory still gives me goosebumps. I have written those words in the guest book of every war cemetery I have visited in France and Belgium.
Q: What is a motto or phrase you like to live by?
A: Be. I have it tattooed on my left wrist. When my friend’s husband died in Afghanistan and I was going through a really tough time, it became our reminder to each other. A reminder to slow down, take a breath, centre ourselves and know that we can get through whatever life throws our way, no matter how difficult.
