PAX Centurion - January / February 2013

Page 32 • PAX CENTURION • January/February 2013 617-989-BPPA (2772) I happened to be in City Hall and noticed a photo display in a little used corridor. I took my time and perused all the vintage snapshots, which chronicled the deadly blast that leveled Halifax, Nova Scotia on December 6, 1917, duringWorldWar I. A freighter loaded with munitions destined for Europe, collided with another ship in the crowded har- bor. The resulting explosion (largest in history at the time – only to be eclipsed by theA-Bomb less than 30 years later) caused widespread death and destruction, leaving the community crippled, and matters made worse by harsh winter conditions. A blizzard the next day, covered the area in 16” of snow! Upon hearing of the tragedy, physicians and other emergency personnel from Boston commandeered a train, loaded it with medical supplies, food, etc. and headed north without hesitation. These Good Samaritans treated the injured, buried the dead, and provided food and shelter to the survivors. Along with the widespread property damage, the blast left about 2,000 killed and almost 9,000 injured. In recognition of their assistance, Halifax sends a large fir tree to Boston every year as a token of their gratitude for the help that was sent so long ago. This tree becomes the Official Boston Christmas Tree, but not many know of its origins in tragedy. It IS a Christmas Tree! By P.O. Jay Moccia