Two local veterans recognized by Oxford MPP

Surrounding Tom Boneham, centre, when he was presented with a challenge coin and certificate of recognition, are from left to right are MP Arpan Khanna, Frank Moore, Pastor Paul Robinson, Darrell Ball and Christine Grim. (Contributed Photo).

Frank Moore, Post Contributor

On Friday, Sept. 5, Arpan Khanna, Member of Parliament for Oxford, was joined by members of Tillsonburg Legion Branch 153 as he presented specially designed Oxford County/House of Commons "Challenge Coins" and certificates of recognition to WW2 veterans Tom Boneham and Leighton Ronson.

At 102, Tom is an original member of the elite ultra-secret “30 Assault (Commando) Unit” established by Ian Fleming, who authored the James Bond books. Their task was to capture Hitler's enigma coding machine.

Leighton, who turns 100 this December, served with distinction as a signalman with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals both in the UK and in Northwest Europe.

As their certificates say, they leave “an enduring legacy of honour and resilience that will inspire generations (and) for which the people of Oxford County are deeply grateful.”

Tom‘s coin and certificate – along with a Canadian flag – were presented at the Tillsonburg Hospital where he is currently a patient. The presentation to Leighton was made at the Tillsonburg Retirement Centre where he and his wife, Zana, now live.

Tom and Leighton are both recognized on the Legion’s Veteran Banner program for this coming year.

Tillsonburg resident and former Legion president Leighton Ronson was recognized by Oxford MP Arpan Khanna, recently. Left to right: Frank Moore, Darrell Ball, Khanna, Zana Ronson, Pastor Paul Robinson and Leighton Ronson. (Contributed Photo).