Paul Breeze has dedicated his life to serving both his country and his community. With a remarkable career that spans the military and law enforcement, first in the United Kingdom and later in Canada, Paul exemplifies commitment and resilience. He is also the driving force behind the upcoming Victory in Europe (VE) Day celebrations in Scugog, scheduled for May 8th, an event that promises to be both inspiring and memorable.

When I had the chance to speak with Paul, he was tirelessly working to bring the various elements of this project together. Accompanied by his service dog, Scarlett, Paul shared his story, one that underscores his dedication to service and his enduring love for his adopted home of Canada.

Paul’s journey began in the Midlands of England, in a small town near the Welsh border. With a family history deeply rooted in the military, his path seemed almost destined. His father, a member of the British Army, set an example that Paul would follow. In those days, national service was still in place in the UK, and at the age of 16, Paul joined the Royal Logistics Corps as a supply specialist in ammunition.

Paul’s career took an interesting turn when he auditioned for, and was accepted into, the Royal Military School of Music in London. Upon completing his studies, he was assigned to the band of the Royal Irish Regiment in Northern Ireland during a turbulent time in the region’s history. Alongside his musical duties, Paul received training as a medic, a skill that would serve him well throughout his military career.

Promoted to the King’s Royal Hussars, later part of the Light Dragoons, Paul was stationed at Bovington Camp in Dorset as part of the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment. During this time, he had the honour of performing for the Royal Family and dignitaries, including the Clintons. His musical talents also saw him participate in three Military Tattoos in Edinburgh.

It was in 2003 that Paul met Tara, a Highland dancer. Two years later, they were married, and Tara, originally from Canada, suggested they make the move to her homeland. Paul transferred his military reserve entitlement to the Canadian Forces, and joined the Lorne Scots regiment in Brampton. Soon after, in 2007, Paul began a new chapter in his career, by joining the Toronto Police Service.

Paul thrived in law enforcement, excelling in his roles and eventually became a homicide detective. Later, he transitioned to investigating fatalities within Toronto. He admitted to enjoying the challenges of investigative work, but noted the toll that dealing with constant tragedies can take on one’s mental health.

In 2016, after a particularly devastating child fatality case, Paul was diagnosed with complex PTSD. He explained that, while such cases were part of his work, they never became easier to face. The child in the case was the same age as his own, and this emotional connection became too much to bear. Scarlett, his service dog, came into his life as part of his recovery process.

Paul became the first police officer in the Greater Toronto Area to return to active duty with a service dog. Scarlett’s presence helped pioneer a new approach, and today, five police officers on the force work alongside service dogs.

Now retired, Paul remains deeply involved in his community through the local Legion. His latest endeavour is leading the VE Day celebrations in Scugog. When asked to organize the 80th anniversary event, Paul approached the task with his characteristic enthusiasm and creativity.

He shared his initial idea, saying, “I joked about eating MREs in the backfield, and the more we thought about it, the more it seemed like a unique touch.” For those unfamiliar, MREs, or Meals Ready-to-Eat, are self-contained, shelf-stable meals, designed for military use.

Paul’s connections have also brought some exciting features to the event. A friend who serves with the Sky Hawks skydiving team helped arrange for a dozen paratroopers to land on the fairgrounds during the festivities. Paul himself plans to take part in a tandem jump, and asked me to join him in the plane. I agreed, but there is no chance I am setting any part of me outside of that fuselage.

The fairgrounds will open at 4 p.m. on May 8th, offering a vast range of activities and attractions. In addition to the Sky Hawks and MREs, attendees can enjoy hot dogs, burgers, and beef stew. There will also be face painting, a photo booth, and performances by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Canada, as well as the Uxbridge Legion Pipes and Drums. Military history enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of tanks from the Canadian Tank Museum, also there will be participation from the 41 Port Perry Royal Canadian Army Cadets, and the 76 Uxbridge Royal Canadian Army Cadets.

The event will feature parades, dignitaries, and a chance to honour veterans. I am deeply humbled to have been asked to serve as the emcee, and look forward to welcoming the community to what promises to be an extraordinary celebration. Scugog and the surrounding areas, are invited to join in marking this important occasion, a tribute to history and a salute to those who have served.