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Veteran's hockey wish comes true

August 19, 2013

Second World War veteran and Sunnybrook resident James Houston got a special gift for his 105th birthday: a Syl Apps-style jersey, presented by NHL alumni.

Once a month, the Veterans Grant a Wish Program realizes the hopes and dreams for Canada's war heroes living at Sunnybrook. It is the only "wish program" dedicated to Canada's war veterans.

Over 80 NHL players enlisted to serve overseas during the Second World War, including Toronto Maple Leafs legend Syl Apps, who is Mr. Houston's favourite hockey player.

Founded in 1948, Sunnybrook has a long and distinguished history of caring for Canada's war heroes. Today, Sunnybrook's Veterans Centre is the largest veterans care facility in Canada, providing complex continuing care and long term care to 500 veterans of the Second World War and Korean War. 

» Watch video of the event on The Toronto Star website

War veteran James Houston