Emile joined the army in 1943 (The Royal Canadian Dragoons) during WWII and the year-long occupation of Germany. He received the following decorations: 1939-1945 Star, Italy Star, France and Germany Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, 1939-1945 War Medal, 2005 Year of the Veteran Commemorative Medallion (Legion). He was a model of courage for his wife, his 6 children and his entire family, to whom he passed on his zest for life.