Jesper Jensen has worked on many projects over the last 30 years, but none hold more meaning for him than a memorial baton honouring the fallen soldiers of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI).
Fashioned from sterling silver, 18-karat yellow gold, and maple wood, the baton is hand-made and hollowed out to make room for an honour roll of 1866 names of PPCLI members who lost their lives in battle since the infantry’s formation in 1914.
Jensen, a master goldsmith based in High River, Alta., says he was honoured to receive the commission. A committee that included Adrienne Clarkson, former Governor General of Canada, selected the baton’s final design from several of his drawings.
“This is definitely the most significant and meaningful piece I have made,” Jensen says.
“Seeing the pride in the PPCLI soldiers when the baton was presented was quite moving. It was passed around amongst old and young. I am from Denmark and have been in Canada for 25 years. I was not aware of the role Canada played in the First and Second World Wars. I am now, and realize the world would be very different without their sacrifices.”
The baton is partway through a two-month long journey that started in Edmonton and ends in Ottawa on Sept. 18, retracing the original route taken by PPCLI soldiers on the eve of the First World War.
Next May, it will be part of a rededication ceremony in Frezenberg, Belgium, marking the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Frezenberg and symbolizing the regiment’s arrival at the site.
