Age shall not weary them
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2024
A Special Edition of Your West Central Voice and The Kerrobert & District Chronicle
We salute those who fought for our freedom so we may live in peace. This special edition is dedicated to the men and women from our region that so bravely served our country. Some of them paid the supreme sacrifice. They were more than soldiers, they were sons and daughters, husbands and fathers. They came from towns and hamlets that are no longer. We can never begin to repay them, but we can remember them, every ONE of them.
EXCERPTS FROM A WWI DIARY: Billy Roger
William Ernest (Billy) Roger lived on his homestead at SW 15-24-26, coming from London, England, in 1910. The history book A Past to Cherish noted that he saw the First World War as an opportunity to visit his homeland and serve his country, so off he went.
He saw action in France and was wounded, briefly documenting some of his experiences in a diary. Here are some excerpts that give readers a glimpse of what it was like in the field.
Feb. 26, 1916: At Imperial Army Training Camp. Got issued shovels and shovelled snow.
Friday, March 10, 1916: In Trenches C3. German lines about 300 yards distant. Can see Mercinnes plain. Don’t look good to me.
March 19, 1916: Nice day and as we were being strafed lots laid on the ground, watching the shells explode.
March 27, 1916: Wet. British bombarded German front lines at 4:30 a.m. Returned about 10:00 p.m. Marched to Dunout. Arrived 1:30 wet thru, hungry and tired. Revived when I found my first parcel from home from Nellie. Slept on concrete barn floor - no blankets.
March 29, 1916: Battalion muster parade, then inoculations and I suppose next they paid us to make up for the abomination. It sure catches me. Am very stiff. Confound doctors.
April 12, 1916: Our front line enduring awful hardships. Mockery of a trench - bullets go clear thru.
April 16, 1916: Well here we are. It’s hard to believe. Dodging shells, bullets, going for rations, taking out casualties are mere details. It’s the lack of sleep that hurts.
May 5, 1916: Observing and making sketch of Hill 60. Awful looking joint. Got two cigars from Slack. Hill 60 looks as if the bottom of the hill is on top.
June 20, 1916: Had good chance of observing effects of our artillery fire which was fearful - above all human imaginings. Dantes Inferno a garden of Eden alongside.
July 9, 1916: (Horton Hospital, England) Helping to make beds. Saw Doc about 9:30 - that done it. He operated immediately - engaged in grinding teeth. Doc used freezing where he was going to cut, but damn place was rotted inside. Rather lonely. Other chaps are up and out.
July 12, 1916: In bed - tube is to be taken out every day, cleaned and boiled. I suppose they iron it too!
November, 1917: Back to tents. Arrived at 3 or 4 a.m. Started to open letters and parcels when Fritz made air raid. Upset things in general. Parcels from Nellie and Fred. Marches to Ypres. Entrained for Flamintang.
July 8, 1919: Chilly on deck. Dock at Halifax 5:30 p.m.
July 15, 1919: Caught Imperial Limited at 10. Swift Current at 4 p.m. 5:15 caught train to Prussia (Leader). Arrived after 9 p.m.
“O for the touch of a vanished hand, and the sound of a voice that is still.” - Alfred Lord Tennyson
William (Billy) Roger, WWI. PHOTO: A PAST TO CHERISH
Mickey & Pete Abelseth K.D. Acker
L.E. “Sparky” Ament
Melvin C. Annis
Harvey W. Balderston Allan Barry
Wallace S. Bruce Henry Buchanan
Campbell G. Casswell
John Chandler
Kenneth Christal Edna M. Clark (Higgins)
Floyd Clark M. Cole
Maurice Cook
Arthur A. Currie
Mel Davison Ove M. deConnick Smith
Doris Baxter Charles Bernst
Ernest Bowden
Cliff Brick Harold Brick Roy Brick
Kenneth J. Drummond Robert England
William Fergusson
Dennis Clifford Dunn
Raymond Ranson Dunn
Frederick William Dunn
Gunner Cecil Duffin Bourne Army
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: October 13, 1944
Commemorated at Bergen-op-Zoom Canadian War Cemetery, Holland
Cecil Duffin Bourne, born April 5, 1919 at Eston, Saskatchewan, grew up in Kindersley, Saskatchewan where he completed his education. Single, he worked as a machinist’s helper with the Canadian National Railroad at Kindersley before enlisting at Rosetown, Saskatchewan June 25, 1941. Overseas in November 1941, Bourne trained with the 7th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment attached to the 67th Light Anti-Aircraft Battery in Scotland and England. Landing in France in July 1944, Bourne went on to serve with the Royal Canadian Artillery attached to 2nd Anti-Tank Regiment (18th Battery) as a Gunner during the Second World War. On October 13, 1944, Gunner Cecil Duffin Bourne died following an attack by German forces near the village of Hoogerheide, Holland during the liberation of Holland. He is commemorated at Bergen-op-Zoom Canadian War Cemetery, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands. Son of Reginald Stafford and Celia Pearl Bourne of Kindersley; brother of William Richard, Inez Alice, Phyllis Margaret and Vera Audrey Bourne; he was 25 years old. Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: May 2, 1916
Commemorated at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium
John
Affleck Buckham was born March 5, 1889 at The Glebe, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, Scotland. Buckham came with his family to Canada in 1901 and first settled in Westmorland County, New Brunswick. Buckham lived in Kindersley, Saskatchewan before moving to Calgary, Alberta. Living in Calgary with their parents, Buckham and his brother, Thomas, enlisted on March 9, 1915 with the 50th Overseas Battalion. Going overseas to England in October 1915, Buckham went on to serve as a Private with the Canadian Expeditionary Force attached to the 49th Battalion (Edmonton Regiment) during the First World War. Part of the 7th Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division, the battalion landed in France in October 1915 fighting in the trenches along the Western Front in France and Belgium. On May 2, 1916, Private John Affleck Buckham died of gunshot wounds at No. 10 Casualty Clearing Station and is commemorated at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium. Son of Gideon and Elizabeth (nee Lauder) Buckham of Calgary; brother of Euphemia, Charlotte, Jessie, Bessie, Private Thomas Buckham (49th Battalion) and Isabella; he was 27 years old.
Private Edward Max Ellefson Army
Fairmount, Saskatchewan Died: February 26, 1945 Commemorated at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Holland
Edward Max Ellefson, born November 8, 1923 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, attended Prince Edward School in nearby Fairmount where he completed his education in 1940. Single and a farm labourer, Ellefson lived at Fairmount and worked in the district for the Millie Reed Farm at Netherhill, Saskatchewan before enlisting at Regina, Saskatchewan June 7, 1943. Ellefson served with the Royal Canadian Infantry Corps attached to the 1st Battalion, The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada (Nemo Me Impune Lacessit) as a Private during the Second World War. Part of the 5th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, the regiment fought at Hoogerheide during the Battle of the Scheldt in October 1944, later moving into the Reichswald Forest in early February 1945 during Operation Veritable. On February 26, 1945, Private Edward Max Ellefson died near Louisendorf, Germany following the breach of the Siegfried Line and capture of German fortifications along the west bank of the Rhine River. He is commemorated at the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Netherlands and on the Columbaria at Eatonia, Saskatchewan. Only son of Edwin and Christina Louise Ellefson of Fairmount, Saskatchewan; brother of Evelyn Anne Ellefson; he was 21 years old.
OKindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: November 19, 1916
Commemorated at Vimy Memorial, France
liver Mansen Ditson was born October 16, 1886 at Collingwood, Ontario where he completed his education. Single, he moved to Kindersley, Saskatchewan and joined the 29th Light Horse while working as a clerk before enlisting at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan March 8, 1916. Overseas with the 65th Battalion in June 1916, Ditson went on to serve as a Private with the Canadian Expeditionary Force attached to the 46th Battalion (South Saskatchewan) during the First World War. Landing at Le Havre, France in August 1916 with the 10th Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Division, the 46th Battalion fought along the Western Front in France and Belgium. On November 19, 1916, Private Oliver Mansen Ditson died during an attack on the Desire Trench near Courcelette, France. He is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France and on a Memorial Stone and Plaque commemorating the 46th Battalion that stands on the northeast corner of the Bowl at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon. Son of John and Margaret (nee Graban) Ditson of Collingwood, Ontario; brother of James, Benjamin, Minnie, Albert, Ida, Cora and Emma Ditson; dear friend of Miss E. K. Humphrey, Kindersley; he was 30 years old. Citation(s): Victory Medal, British War Medal.
Private John Affleck Buckham Army
Private Oliver Mansen Ditson Army
Ernie Krepps grew up in Brock, SK and enjoyed a career in the military for thirty-two and a half years. He joined December 6, 1960 and retired in 1992. Ernie was a long-time member of the Kindersley Legion. He passed away on November 7, 2022.
Norman Floate Anne Fuhrman Ray Fuhrman
George Goddard John Gordon William Gordon
Sam Grace Ralph Gray Harold Hawker
George Herman Alan Hubbel
Lloyd Hunter
Richard “Jack” Jones Ronald Jones
Thomas Keslick
Eugene Lea
Robert Lee
Nelson Lewis
John Lupak
William “Bill” Marchant Harold Edwin Martin
Ernie Gard Robert Gardner Nick Getz
Vince May
Bert McBride
Charles McDowell Allan Mills
Wray A. Johnson
Richard Krepps
Rifleman Floyd Allan Appleby
Army
Pinkham, Saskatchewan
Died: February 16, 1945
Commemorated at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Holland
Floyd Allan Appleby, born January 20, 1918 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education in 1935. Working at the oil fields in Turner Valley, Alberta and farming for his parents at Pinkham, Saskatchewan, Appleby enlisted at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan February 12, 1942. Appleby served with the Royal Canadian Infantry Corps attached to the 1st Battalion, The Regina Rifle Regiment (Celer Et Audax) as a Rifleman during the Second World War. On February 16, 1945, Rifleman Floyd Allan Appleby died of wounds at the Regimental Aid Post of the 2nd Battalion, The Glasgow Highlanders following the attack at Moyland Wood. Appleby is commemorated at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Netherlands. Son of Franklin Taylor and Minetta Adelaide Appleby of Pinkham, Saskatchewan; brother of Harold Franklin, Ralph William and Mrs. John Swift; husband of Alice Wilhelmina (nee Doupe) Appleby of Pinkham; he was 27 years old. Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Rudolph (Rudy) Schmidt Royal Canadian Air Force
Rudy signed up in the army on November 19, 1941. He was only 20 years old. He was enlisted with the British Columbia Dragoons, an army tank regiment.
He served in Italy, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and North Africa. He was assigned to a tank regiment on the front lines.
Age shall not weary them
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: September 2, 1918
Commemorated at St. Catharines (Victoria Lawn) Cemetery; Ontario, Canada
Frederick Harman Benson was born July 3, 1886 at Edenvale, Simcoe County, Ontario and moved west to work as a carpenter. Single and working as a carpenter, he moved to Kindersley, Saskatchewan where his sister, Ada, and his mother lived before enlisting there June 12, 1916. Overseas with the 210th Battalion in April 1917, Benson served as a Lance Corporal with the Canadian Expeditionary Force attached to the 49th Battalion (Edmonton Regiment) during the First World War. Landing in France with the 7th Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division, the 49th fought along the Western Front in France and Belgium. During the Battle of Amiens in August 1918, the 49th broke through a German trench line before capturing the village of Parvillers. On September 2, 1918, Lance Corporal Frederick Harman Benson died while fighting near Drury, France and is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Son of John and Emma (nee Robinson) Benson; brother of Ada Louise, John Walkey and Catherine Mary Benson; he was 32 years old. Citation(s): Victory Medal, British War Medal.
From a letter sent home at Christmas time, 1943, Rudy was in North Africa. He makes mention that the people don’t wear shoes there, and also that he was so thrilled to be able to pick oranges from the trees in an orchard not far from where he was stationed. He says the first morning he awoke early at 5:00 a.m. and snuck down the road to the orchard and filled his kit bag. He also mentions in this letter to his parents, that there was lots of dates, figs and lemons.
He goes on to say, that he really didn’t care for the country, but that it was a great experience.
Upon his discharge March 8, 1946, when he returned to civilian life, he married Margaret Bosch, and with the help of the VLA (Veteran’s Land Act) they purchased land south of Smiley, Saskatchewan. Together Rudy and Margaret raised six children on their farm.
Royal Canadian Air Force
Brock, Saskatchewan
Died: February 16, 1945
Commemorated at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany
DonaldJames Campbell, born July 9, 1922 at Brock, Saskatchewan, completed his education at nearby Kindersley High School in 1939. Working for Macdonald’s Consolidating at Kindersley, Campbell enlisted at Regina, Saskatchewan February 2, 1942. Campbell served with the Royal Canadian Air Force attached to No. 198 (R.A.F.) Squadron (Igni Renatus) as a Pilot Officer (Pilot) during the Second World War. Part of 123 Airfield (123 Wing) under the Second Tactical Air Force, the Typhoon squadron operated from RAF Thorney Island, West Sussex, England in attacks on V-1 launch sites and enemy coastal radar installations. On February 16, 1945, Pilot Officer (Pilot) Donald James Campbell died during sweep operations over the Reichswald Forest. Crashing on Johann Jansen’s farm, Campbell is commemorated at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany. Son of James Campbell (veteran of the First World War) and Clara (nee Cyr) Campbell of Kindersley; brother of Olivina Jean Campbell; he was 20 years old. Campbell Rapids on the Paull River in Saskatchewan is named in his honour. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, France & Germany Star, Defence Medal, General Service Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Flight Sergeant Raymond Ranger
Royal Canadian Air Force
Coleville, Saskatchewan
Died: October 4, 1943
Commemorated at Hotton War Cemetery, Belgium
Raymond Ranger, born October 20, 1921 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education in Kindersley in 1937. Working on his father’s farm near Coleville, Saskatchewan, Ranger enlisted at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan July 7, 1941. Ranger served with the Royal Canadian Air Force attached to No. 427 (Lion) Squadron (Ferte Manus Certas) as a Flight Sergeant (Wireless Operator) during the Second World War. Part of No. 6 (R.C.A.F.) Group, Bomber Command, the No. 427 flew Wellington and Halifax bombers from RAF Leeming, Yorkshire, England. On October 4, 1943, Flight Sergeant (Wireless Operator) Raymond Ranger died during air operations to Frankfurt, Germany when his Halifax bomber failed to return to RAF Leeming. Ranger is commemorated at Hotton War Cemetery, Belgium. Son of Ralph and Hortense (nee Bourgon) Ranger of Coleville, Saskatchewan; brother of Robert, Alfred, Gaston and Real; he was 21 years old. Ranger Lake, along the Northwest Territories and Saskatchewan border is named in his honour.
Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, Air Crew Europe Star, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Private Frederick Harman Benson Army
Pilot Officer Donald James Campbell
Private Earl Conrad Swalm Army
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: September 22, 1944
Commemorated at Calais Canadian War Cemetery (Leubringhen), France
Earl Conrad Swalm, born January 29, 1920 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education at Merrington High School in Kindersley in 1937 before working on the family farm. Summoned to military service under the 1940 National Resources Mobilization Act, Swalm enlisted at the 120 Canadian Army (Basic) Training Centre in Regina, Saskatchewan on July 31, 1941. After training in home defense along the Pacific coast, Swalm went on to serve with the Royal Canadian Artillery attached to the 58th Special Anti-Aircraft Battery as a Gunner during the Second World War. Landing in France July 30, 1944, Swalm joined the North Nova Scotia Highlanders as a Private under the 9th Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division. On September 22, 1944, Private Earl Conrad Swalm died during the capture of Boulogne and is commemorated at Calais Canadian War Cemetery (Leubringhen) Pas de Calais, France and at the Merrington Cemetery, Kindersley, Saskatchewan. Son of Samuel Sampson and Ethel Annie (nee Bawden) Swalm of Kindersley; brother of Hazel, Fay, Vera, Vivian, Lona and Reece; he was 24 years old. Swalm Lake in Saskatchewan is named in his honour. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, France-Germany Star, War Medal 1939-45, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Royal Canadian Air Force Kindersley, Saskatchewan Died: July 25, 1941 Commemorated at St. Eval Churchyard, England
Keith Fergus Arnold, born in April 1911 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, attended Wilson and City Park schools in Kindersley before completing his education at the University of Saskatchewan. Following enlistment as a CAN/RAF pilot, Arnold first served with the Royal Air Force attached to No. 217 Squadron (Woe to the Unwary) as a Flight Lieutenant (Pilot) during the Second World War. Arnold went on to serve with the Royal Air Force attached to the No. 1 Overseas Aircraft Delivery Flight delivering new aircraft from the Lockheed factory in California to Royal Air Force locations in England. On July 24, 1942, Flight Lieutenant (Pilot) Keith Fergus Arnold died after poor weather caused his Hudson aircraft to crash at Mull of Kintyre, Scotland following a delivery flight from California to RAF St. Eval, Cornwall, England. Arnold is commemorated at St. Eval Churchyard, Cornwall, England and on the RAF Memorial, London, England. Son of Colonel Henry “Harry” Watson Arnold and Eva Mary (nee Martin) Arnold of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; brother of Pilot Officer Victor Charles Arnold (RCAF, died May 1941), Doris Eva, Freda Mary and Joan Elain; husband of Mary (nee Hudson) of Middlesex, England; father of Wayne McLeod Arnold; he was 30 years old.
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: May 5, 1941
Commemorated at Grangemouth (Grandsable) Cemetery, United Kingdom
VictorCharles Arnold, born
February 20, 1921 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, moved to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan where he served with the Saskatoon Light Infantry (MG) as a Private until he enlisted with the RCAF on July 17, 1940. Arnold served as a Pilot Officer with the Royal Canadian Air Force (Sic Itur Ad Astra) attached to No. 58 Operational Training Unit during the Second World War. Based at RAF Grangemouth, Scotland, the No. 58 OTU trained day fighter pilots. On May 5, 1941, Pilot Officer Victor Charles Arnold died following the crash of his Miles Master aircraft during a training exercise, his aircraft going down near Falkirk, Stirlingshire, Scotland. Arnold is commemorated at Grangemouth (Grandsable) Cemetery, Stirlingshire, Scotland. Son of Colonel Harry Watson Arnold and Eva Mary (nee Martin) Arnold of Saskatoon; brother of Flight-Lieutenant Keith Fergus Arnold (DFC) who died July 25, 1941 on Mull of Kintyre, Doris Eva Arnold, Freda Mary Arnold and Joan Elain Arnold; he was 20 years old. Arnold Lake, north of Goodsoil, Saskatchewan is named for both sons.
Army
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: November 19, 1916
Commemorated at Vimy Memorial, France
Oliver Mansen Ditson was born October 16, 1886 at Collingwood, Ontario where he completed his education. Single, he moved to Kindersley, Saskatchewan and joined the 29th Light Horse while working as a clerk before enlisting at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan March 8, 1916. Overseas with the 65th Battalion in June 1916, Ditson went on to serve as a Private with the Canadian Expeditionary Force attached to the 46th Battalion (South Saskatchewan) during the First World War. Landing at Le Havre, France in August 1916 with the 10th Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Division, the 46th Battalion fought along the Western Front in France and Belgium. On November 19, 1916, Private Oliver Mansen Ditson died during an attack on the Desire Trench near Courcelette, France. He is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France and on a Memorial Stone and Plaque commemorating the 46th Battalion that stands on the northeast corner of the Bowl at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon. Son of John and Margaret (nee Graban) Ditson of Collingwood, Ontario; brother of James, Benjamin, Minnie, Albert, Ida, Cora and Emma Ditson; dear friend of Miss E. K. Humphrey, Kindersley; he was 30 years old. Citation(s): Victory Medal, British War Medal.
Flight Lieutenant Keith Fergus Arnold
Pilot Officer Victor Charles Arnold
Private Oliver Mansen Ditson
Harlem Olaf Lea
Harlan was born in Minnesota, USA, on June 29, 1918. He moved with his parents as a young boy to Smiley, Saskatchewan. He attended the University of Saskatchewan for a year before joining the R.C.A.F. He served in England for three years as a radar mechanic. He passed away on June 24, 2009.
Merrell Arden Lea
Merrell was born in Minnesota, USA, on July 8, 1921. He moved with his parents as a young boy to Smiley, Saskatchewan. He served in the R.C.A.F. in different parts of Canada and was on his way to the Pacific when the bomb on Hiroshima ended the war. He was a member of the Stoney Creek, Ontario Legion. He passed away on August 1, 1981.
Eugene Norman Lea
Eugene was born in Minnesota, USA, on September 13, 1923. He moved with his parents as a young boy to Smiley, Saskatchewan. He served with the RCAF in England, Holland and Belgium. He was a member of the Kindersley Legion. He passed away on April 12, 1991.
Women’s Auxiliary sent parcels from home
During the Second World War it was common for women to form Legion auxiliary groups to help benefit members of the Armed Forces from their respective districts. In April of 1943, an auxiliary was formed in Herschel, Sask.
A dozen members raised funds through various projects. According to the history book ‘From Then Until Now’, the members had a bazaar and raised $88.00, donating the entire amount to the Herschel Legion Overseas Parcel fund.
Through this fund, the women sent parcels, cheerful wishes and Christmas greetings to local men and women serving in the Armed Forces. They used all kinds of methods to raise money for parcels and postage.
It was a joyful day when the war was declared over on May 8, 1945, but the auxiliary had more work to do. Some of the local boys were bringing home overseas brides, so the women organized welcoming teas in their honour. They presented each bride with a gift for their new home in Canada.
Zahais (Cy) Ternes
Zahais (Cy) Ternes was born June 1st, 1922 near Lemsford, Sask. In 1926, he along with his family, moved to a farm north of Smiley, in the RM of Prairiedale. He enlisted in the army on Jan. 16th, 1943 serving with the King’s Own Rifles. He spent time training at Port Alberni, Comox, Wainwright & Prince Albert. On March 28th, 1945 he disembarked for active duty in continental Europe serving with the South Saskatchewan Regiment in the Netherlands and Belgium. He was discharged from the army Jan. 29th, 1946. He, along with his wife Dorothy, were able to purchase farm land from the VLA ( Veteran’s Land Act) a few miles from his parents home.
Robert Louis Faubert
The 1945 Legion Auxiliary group in Herschel: (l-r) Sarah Thompson, May Cheyenne, Mrs. D. Heatherington, Isabella Todd, Edna Moore, Edith Bowpitt, Gladys Mills, Edith Webb, Anna Tyson and Alice Moore.
Photo From Then Until Now history book
Raymond Mylrea
William Owens Philip Parton Gordon Pendree
Lorne Purdy Lewis Quinney
Eva & Edward Reed C.M. Richardson (Willis)
Bob Salkeld
A.R. Sandbeck
Walter H. Seidel
Joe Shedlowski
Donald Staples
Joseph Staples Michael Steffanick
Robert H. Story
Robert J. Story
William Story
Fred Wake
Douglas Webster G.A. Westman
Dave Whatley
Robert A. Whatley F.Y. Wildman (Valleau)
Collin K. Wyman
Ronald Wannamaker Len Warman
John Graeme Richardson
Donald McDougall Melvin Morgan
Sergeant Gordon Henry Slaughter Army
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: May 18,1918
Commemorated at Longuenesse (St Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, France
Gordon ‘Harry’ Henry Slaughter was born April 10, 1891 at Norfolk, England and came to Canada as a clerk in March 1910, first living in Hamilton, Ontario before moving west, applying for a homestead in Alberta in June 1913. A fireman by trade, Slaughter also worked as a cook before enlisting at Kindersley, Saskatchewan August 10, 1914. Slaughter re-enlisted September 24, 1914 while training at Valcartier Camp, Quebec. Overseas in October 1914, Slaughter first served as a Private with the Canadian Expeditionary Force attached to the 5th Battalion (Western Cavalry) during the First World War. Landing with the ‘D’ Company of the 5th Battalion at St. Nazaire, France in February 1915, Slaughter fought with the 2nd Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Division and was seriously wounded after being shot in the jaw and neck near Armentières, France. Returning to the Western Front two months later, Slaughter went on to serve as a Sergeant with the Canadian Army Service Corps attached to the 12th Divisional Supplies for the duration of the First World War. On May 18, 1918, Sergeant Gordon Henry Slaughter died following an air raid over St. Omer, France by German Luftwaffe. Slaughter is commemorated at the Longuenesse Souvenir Cemetery, Saint-Omer, Pas de Calais, France. Son of George Henry and Emma Victoria Slaughter of Norwich, England; husband of Lily (nee Fisher) Slaughter of Highfield, Southampton, England; father of Mildred Elizabeth Slaughter; he was 27 years old. Citation(s): British War Medal, Victory Medal
Pilot Officer John William Hickson
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: Mar 28,1945
Commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, England
John
William Hickson, born August 16, 1921 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education in Kindersley. Hickson worked as an office clerk for the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool at Regina, Saskatchewan before enlisting at Regina May 4, 1942. Hickson served with the Royal Canadian Air Force attached to No. 425 (Alouette) Squadron (Je Te Plumerai) as a Pilot Officer (Navigator) during the Second World War. Based at RAF Tholthorpe, Yorkshire, England, the No. 425 operated under No. 6 (R.C.A.F.) Group Bomber Command. On March 8, 1945, Pilot Officer (Navigator) John William Hickson died after failing to return from a planned attack at an oil refinery at Hemmingstedt, Germany. On his 25th operational sortie, Hickson was lost without a trace and is commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, Surrey, England. Son of John Stanley and Angeline Margaret (nee Witter) Hickson; brother of Charles Morris, Elizabeth Caroline, Richard Stanley, Flora Angeline; he was 23 years old. Hickson Island on Iskwatikan Lake, Saskatchewan is named in his honour. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Able Seaman Joseph McGrath Navy
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: Aug 28,1943
Commemorated at Halifax Memorial, Canada
Joseph
McGrath, born May 31, 1919 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education at McKenzie School there in 1935 before moving to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan with his family in 1939. Single and living at Saskatoon, he worked as a car mechanic for Early Motor Company before enlisting at Saskatoon January 2, 1941. McGrath served with the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve attached to the H.M.C.S. Athabaskan as an Able Seaman during the Second World War. On August 28, 1943 Able Seaman Joseph McGrath died of wounds following an attack by enemy Dornier-217’s after a glide bomb hit the gun deck and wheelhouse of the HMCS Athabaskan. The HMCS Athabaskan had been on patrol of the Bay of Biscay on August 27, 1943 when the explosion occurred, damaging the starboard side of the war vessel and causing injuries to its crew. Buried at sea, McGrath is commemorated on the Halifax Memorial, Nova Scotia. Son of Michael and Margaret McGrath of Saskatoon; brother of James, Francis, Teresa, Pearl and Margaret McGrath; he was 24 years old. McGrath Lake in Saskatchewan is named in his honour.
“And they who for their country die shall fill an honoured grave, for glory lights the soldier’s tomb, and beauty weeps the brave.” - Joseph Rodman Drake
Flight Sergeant Clarke Edward Quickfall
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kindersley/Dodsland Sask
Died: Dec 2,1943
Commemorated at Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery, Denmark
Clarke Edward Quickfall was born March 24, 1921 at Dodsland, Saskatchewan. He received his early education at Coleville school, later moving to Kindersley, Saskatchewan where he completed his education in 1940. Enlisting in August of 1941, he served as a Flight Sergeant with the No. 90 Squadron of the Royal Air Force, skilled as a Bomb Aimer. This squadron had its beginnings in 1917 and then morphed from single seat fighters to being the first squadron to receive the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress aircraft from America. Its role went from high-altitude bombing to a re-designation as a heavy bomber unit equipped with Stirling aircraft. The 90th Squadron made significant contributions to the Battle of the Ruhr, the devastation of Hamburg and performed a good deal of mine laying. The Stirlings were eventually replaced with Lancasters, which played a prominent role in the Bomber Command’s offensive until late April 1945. Flight Sergeant Quickfall was one of 7 airmen who perished on December 1, 1943, when their Stirling aircraft failed to return to Wratting Common, Suffolk, England from a night-time operation of planting mines in the Danish coastal waters. Crashing at Hemmet, Jutland, Denmark, Flight Sergeant Quickfall is commemorated at Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery in Jutland. Clarke was the son of Harry and Marguerite Quickfall.
Herman H. Lewis (1893-1970) WWI
Herman Humphrey Lewis was a Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) sergeant during the First World War. Born in Salsbury, New Brunswick on April 13, 1893 and enlisted in the 55th Battalion on March 24, 1915. His regimental number was 444508. Herman’s service took him to England and France. His return to Canada on March 31, 1919 marked the end of his military service for which he was rewarded the British War Medal, a medal awarded to those who served in the British and Imperial forces during the First World War, and the Victory Medal, a medal awarded to all who received the British War Medal. After surviving the war, Herman returned to New Brunswick on March 25, 1919 with his British bride, Mary Monica Inch (Torquay, England). They soon moved to a homestead south of Kindersley, where they built their home and community and farmed until 1960. They were proud parents to four children: Allen, an R.C.A.F. pilot officer killed in action in WWII., Dorothy, Stewart and Grace. After retiring from farming, Herman and Mary settled in Kindersley. Herman continued actively helping his family, friends and community. He made numerous contributions to organizations such as the Legion, St. Paul’s United Church, Men’s Chorus, Kindersley Co-op, Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, and Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (C.C.F.) He was also awarded a lifetime membership to the Kindersley Fish and Game League.
During the Second World War, Allen served as a Pilot Officer with the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.) in 640 Squadron of the RAF. He was born in Kindersley, Saskatchewan in June 1921. Allen was killed in action (K.I.A.) on May 13, 1944 while conducting a raid on Hasselt, Belgium. He is buried in the Haverlee War Cemetery near Leuven, Brabant, Belgium. He was the son of Herman H. Lewis, a World War I veteran and Mary Lewis (nee Inch), originally from Torquay, England and moved from New Brunswick to farm south of Kindersley. Allen attended Turin and McKenzie Schools, graduating from Grade 12 in 1939. He enlisted in the RCAF shortly after graduation and obtained his pilot’s license. He travelled overseas and was initially assigned to the RAF and later to the RCAF Bomber Command. In 1944, Allen married Anne (nee Weir) from Wish, Scotland. They had a daughter, Margaret. Lewis Falls on the Haultain River, Saskatchewan, is named in his honour.
“The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” – Douglas MacArthur
guns below.
- John McCrae
The Albert Waldron Family
It was common for several members in a family to enlist during the WWII. This was the case in the Albert Waldron family who grew up north of Loverna in the Antelope Park district. According to information printed in the history book ‘The School Beneath the Hill’, several of Albert and Mary Jane Waldron’s children served in the Armed Forces
The couple had a dozen children, and five of them served. George was in the army for over five years and Jack was in the army for four years. Marguerite and Dorothy were in the Air Force for two and a half years, as well as their brother Bill.
Gilbert A. Lewis (Allen) (1921-1944) WWII
Parents Albert and Mary Jane (Polly) Waldron stand behind George and Dot (left) and Jack and Marguerite, who all served in the Air Force. Photo was taken in 1946.
Photo The School Beneath The Hill
Countless Thanks to Our Veterans
Sgt Gilbert recalls his time of service in the Middle East
BY JOAN JANZEN
Sgt. Dale Gilbert has been a member of the Kindersley Legion for the past fifteen years. He recalled his time spent in the Middle East when he served as part of Canada’s contingent of the United Nations Emergency peace keeping force. At the time, a local paper announced Dale’s de-parture to Egypt from Moose Jaw in 1971. The trip included a sixweek stop over in Calgary for training, in preparation for Dale’s duties as a cook.
While attending high school at Riverview Collegiate in Moose Jaw, Dale joined the reserve militia for five years. He had one three-month long tour of duty with the military in Germany, as part of his training, before joining the Sas-katchewan Dragoons in 1970. Soon afterwards, Dale had an opportunity to serve in the Middle East.
He had taken a cooking course in Wain-wright, AB, so with a certificate under his belt he was able to serve as a cook for the Canadi-an contingent of 600 in Egypt, and 135 in Golan Heights in Israel.
Upon arrival in Egypt, the pale group of Canadians were dubbed as “pinkies”. Although there was no fighting in the area where the 135 Canadians were stationed, they would regularly hear the ‘boom’ from the Israeli tank battalion’s target practice, and the weekly fly over of the Is-raeli airforce.
Dale left Canada as a corporal and one year later came back as a sergeant, earning many medals during his time of service. He has an album of photos of his time spent in the Middle East, where he was able to see Lebanon, the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem and many other locations. As an additional souvenir, he brought back a tattered Israeli flag, which flew between the Syria border and Israeli border where the United Nations forces were positioned.
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Remembrance Day
Lest We Forget
“At
NOVEMBER 11
Photos: Sgt. Dale Gilbert brought back this tattered Israeli flag as a souvenir of his time serving in the Middle East as a cook.Sgt. Dale Gilbert holds a photo of taken when he served in the Middle East.
| PHOTOS BY JOAN JANZEN
Flight Sergeant Joseph Roderick
Gerald “Jerry” MacDonald
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kindersley/Abbey, Saskatchewan
Died: July 26, 1943
Commemorated at Eindhoven (Woensel) General Cemetery, Netherlands
Second Lieutenant John Genge Army
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: March 24, 1918
Commemorated at Honourable Artillery Company Cemetery (Ecoust-St. Mein), France
Ordinary Seaman
Peter Thompson Navy
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: July 3, 1944
Commemorated at Halifax Memorial, Canada
Peter Thompson, born May 27, 1923 at Durham, England, came to Canada in 1928 with his family and completed his education at Renown, Saskatchewan. Thompson worked as a clerk with T. M. McEwan Company in Kindersley, Saskatchewan before enlisting at the H.M.C.S. Unicorn in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan January 6, 1942. Thompson served with the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve attached to the H.M.C. Motor Torpedo Boat 460 as a Telegraphist during the Second World War. Part of the 29th Motor Torpedo Boat Flotilla, the H.M.C.M.T.B.460 operated in the English Channel against German Schnellboots, Räumboots and Minensuchboots. On July 3, 1944, Peter Thompson died when his H.M.C. Motor Torpedo Boat 460 hit a mine during operations in the English Channel. Thompson is commemorated on the Halifax Memorial, Nova Scotia. Son of John Howie and Ethel Fittis Thompson; brother of Ethel, Betty and Robert; half-brother of John, Mary, Annie and Margaret; he was 21 years old. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star with Clasp, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp, War Medal.
Pilot Officer
David Arthur Webb
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: September 21, 1944
Commemorated at Zeeland Roman Catholic Churchyard, Netherlands
DavidArthur Webb, born January 11, 1922 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, completed his education at Kindersley High School in 1940. Working as a bank clerk with the Kindersley branch of the Canadian Bank of Commerce, Webb enlisted at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan July 25, 1941. Webb served with the Royal Canadian Air Force attached to No. 48 (R.A.F.) Squadron (Forte Et Fidele) as a Pilot Officer (Pilot) during the Second World War. On September 21, 1944, Pilot Officer (Pilot) David Arthur Webb died after being shot down by German fighters near Oosterbeek in the Netherlands. On a re-supply mission during Operation Market Garden, Webb’s Dakota aircraft crashed on the Volkel airfield during the drop. Strafed by Focke-Wulf German fighters during his parachute descent, Webb is commemorated at Uden War Cemetery, Netherlands. Son of John Arthur and Sara Edith (nee Banter) Webb of Fairmount, Saskatchewan; brother of Marjorie Anne and John Baxter (died in 1937); he was 22 years old. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal.
Sapper Edgar Norman Shea Army Kindersley, Saskatchewan Died: August 26, 1944 Commemorated at Bretteville Su-Laize - Canadian War Cemetery, Calvados, France
Edgar Norman Shea, born September 7, 1921 at Drake, Saskatchewan, completed his education at Springwater, Saskatchewan in 1938. Working as a farm labourer for George Robins at Springwater, Shea enlisted at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan June 1, 1942. Shea served with the Royal Canadian Engineers attached to the 1 Mechanical Equipment Company as a Sapper during the Second World War. In support of General Headquarters and Line of Communication (LoC) Troops, the unit landed in France July 12, 1944 with the 1st Canadian Infantry Division. The 1 Mechanical Equipment Company began construction and repairs on the track at the airfield at Carpiquet near Calvados held by German SS Panzer forces. On August 26, 1944, Sapper Edgar Norman Shea died following the liberation of Calvados and is commemorated at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, Calvados, France. Son of Herbert Britain and Ethel Hanna Shea (formerly of Springwater) of Cordova Bay near Victoria, British Columbia; brother of Garnet, Charles, Erwin, Gordon, Ronald, Violet, Luella, Pearl, Lillian and Beatrice; he was 23 years old. Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
ARIE VAN DEN BERG Royal Canadian Engineers
Farm Real Estate Specialist
•
Kindersley, Saskatchewan
Died: July 20, 1944
Commemorated at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, France
Albert Joseph ‘Bert’ Abram, born November 17, 1920 at Kindersley, Saskatchewan, moved to The Pas, Manitoba with his family where he completed his education. A motor mechanic by trade, Abram later worked at a sawmill in Carrot River, Manitoba. Abram enlisted April 2, 1942 with the 1st Battalion, Prince Albert Volunteers at Regina, Saskatchewan. Following training, Abram served with the Royal Canadian Infantry Corps attached to the South Saskatchewan Regiment as a Private during the Second World War. The regiment landed in Normandy, France in early July 1944 with the 6th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. On July 20, 1944, Private Albert Joseph Abram died during the capture of Verrières Ridge, from the 1st Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler SS troops. Abram is commemorated at Bretteville-surLaize Canadian War Cemetery, Calvados, France. He was 23 years old. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Richard John (Jack) Jones April 1914 - April 1917 WWI
1914 World War I - Joined North Hampton Yoemanery Served in Belgium and France April 1915 - April 1917 1917 - Wounded near Aaras and was sent back to hospital.
He was on the ship which torpedoed in the English Channel. The ship sank in 20 minutes. He was rescued by the crew from The Destroyer. After convalescence in England, he rejoined the regiment in Italy. Demobilized March 1919.
Past President and Life Member of the Kindersley Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Passed away June 26, 1973.
Ronald was a Mid Upper Air Gunner and completed 33 operational tours with 626 squadron R.A.F.
On December 31, 1944 on a bombing op. over Osterfeld, they were attacked by a ME 109, which they shot down. They crash landed at Manson, England with a wounded R/G and F/E aboard.
Ron was awrded the Distinguished Flying CRoss for his assistance in destroying the attacker.
He was discharged July 24, 1945 and was a member of the Kindersley Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Private Albert Joseph Abram Army
Sergeant Murray Stewart Dewar
Royal Canadian Air Force
Dodsland, Saskatchewan
Died: January 11, 1943
Commemorated at Hoosier Cemetery
Murray Stewart Dewar, born July 2, 1920 at Dodsland, Saskatchewan, grew up on the family farm in Hoosier, Saskatchewan. After completing his education at Hoosier High School in 1939, Dewar worked on the family farm for a year before working at the Kerr-Addison Gold Mines in Virginiatown, Ontario as a miller. Following enlistment at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan October 4, 1941, Dewar served with the Royal Canadian Air Force (Per Ardua Ad Astra) attached to No. 10 Service Flying Training School at Dauphin, Manitoba as a Sergeant during the Second World War. Under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, Dewar attended No. 2 Initial Training School before advancing to No. 15 Elementary Flying Training School, both in Regina, Saskatchewan, learning navigation and training on Tiger Moth and Fairchild Cornell aircraft. Dewar transferred to the No. 10 Service Flying Training School at Dauphin, Manitoba where he flew Harvard and Cessna-Crane aircraft. On January 11, 1943, Sergeant Murray Stewart Dewar died during an instrument training test when his Cessna-Crane crashed north of Ashville, Manitoba. A student pilot and in only his fifteenth month with the Royal Canadian Air Force, Dewar is commemorated at Hoosier Cemetery, Saskatchewan. Son of James S. and Ruby Doris (nee Taylor) of Hoosier; brother of Charles Donald, Gordon Taylor, Mildred Doris, Julene Mary, Claire Elaine and Lois Audrey; he was 22 years old. Citation(s): War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal.
Flight Sergeant
Louie James Devlin
Royal Canadian Air Force
Druid, Saskatchewan
Died: May 30, 1942
Commemorated at Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Libya
Dodsland, Saskatchewan
Died: July 5, 1943
Commemorated at Cassino Memorial, Italy
Frank
Theodore Peter Netzel served as a Private with the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps, 9th Field Ambulance during the Second World War. He was killed in action when his Red Cross ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea enroute to the invasion of Sicily, July 5, 1943.
Private Netzel has no known grave, he is commemorated on the Cassino Memorial, Italy. Of the 49,261 members of the Commonwealth forces who died in the fighting in Italy, nearly one-tenth have no known grave. The 4,054 names recorded on the Cassino Memorial include those of 194 Canadians. He was 29 years old. Prior to enlisting in the army Frank worked as a Section Hand with the CNR in Blue River, British Columbia and Mount Netzel northwest of Blue River was named in his honour.
Pilot Officer
Sidney John Rogers Air Force
Plenty, Saskatchewan
Died: February 26, 1944
Commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, England
Flight Sergeant William John Poulin
Royal Canadian Air Force
Dodsland, Saskatchewan
Died: September 1,1943
Commemorated at Poix-de-Picardie Churchyard, France
William John Poulin of Dodsland, Saskatchewan served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War as a Flight Sergeant Navigator attached to #158 (R.A.F.) Squadron. The squadron took part in many major raids on naval and industrial targets, including the first 1,000 bomber raid, as well as minelaying operations. Poulin was killed in action September 1, 1943 when his Halifax aircraft crashed in France, due to enemy action, while engaged in night operations to Berlin, Germany. The son of Skinner Poulin, a businessman from Dodsland, William John Poulin was 21 years of age and is commemorated at the Churchyard at Poix-de-la Somme, Somme, France.
Royal Canadian Air Force
Dodsland, Saskatchewan
Died: December 16, 1943
Commemorated at Harrogate (Stonefall), Yorkshire, England
James MacKay, born April 13, 1920 at Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, came to Canada with his family in June 1925, settling in Saskatchewan as homestead farmers. MacKay completed his education at Viewfair School at Dodsland, Saskatchewan in 1936 before working as a farm labourer on the family farm at Dodsland. Following enlistment at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan December 28, 1942, MacKay served with the Royal Canadian Air Force attached to the No. 426 (Thunderbird) Squadron (On Wings of Fire) as a Flying Officer (Air Bomber) during the Second World War. Part of Bomber Command’s No. 6 (R.C.A.F.) Group and based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, England, the squadron flew Lancaster bombers in bombing raids over France and Germany. On December 16, 1943, Flying Officer (Air Bomber) James MacKay died after his Lancaster bomber crashed in bad weather at Yearsley, North Yorkshire following a raid on Berlin, Germany. He is commemorated at Harrogate (Stonefall), Yorkshire, England, on the Bomber Command Memorial Wall, Nanton, Alberta and on the Dodsland Memorial, Saskatchewan. Only son of James Donald and Catherine (nee Campbell) MacKay of Dodsland; brother of Elizabeth and Kate MacKay; he was 23 years old. MacKay Lake, near Thompson Lake, Saskatchewan is named in his honour. Citation(s): 19391945 Star, Aircrew Europe Star, General Service Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Sergeant James MacKay
Private Frank Theodore Peter Netzel Army
Scarlet poppies can flutter like fragile butterflies in the dry yellow corn of summer. And they can dance like graceful ballerinas among the feathery stalks of barley. Red poppies can glow like bright little lamps on our warm winter coats in November.
they can whisper, like long-lost voices from the forgotten fields of Flanders. - Moira Andrew
Age shall not weary them
Pinkham Veterans
WWI (1914-1918)
Addison, Thomas Bruce, Joe Carpenter, Ben Carpenter, Sidney Derraugh, Robert Elder, Frank Fielder, Fred Gardiner, William Gilbertson, George Green, Arthur Green, John William Halliday, Finley Halliday, George Hummel, Clifford Johnson, Oscar Lenheiser, Herbert McKenzie, Donald Murphy, Charlie Murphy, Walter Nicholls, Joseph Reid, Fred Ritchie, Robert John Rowles, Charles Stapely, Alfred Townsend, Cliff Turner, Alfred Witmer, Harvey Wotherspoon, John
WWII (1939-1945)
Adams, Arthur Anderson, Thomas Anderson, William Appleby, Gordon Bruce, Lloyd Bruce, Maitland Cann, Curly Clarkson, Delroy Clarkson, Douglas Clayton, Kenneth Clayton, Theodore Derraugh, Douglas Gilbertson, Jack Gregerson, Robert McPherson, G.D. Renwick, Verne Townsend, Robert Veldhoen, Cory
HONOUR ROLL
Appleby, Floyd Ellefson, Edward Lockwood, Duane Lockwood, Merton Renwick, Clifford
Info from “Echoes of Pinkham Pioneers”
Private John Phillips Army
Luseland, Saskatchewan
Died: November 10, 1917
Commemorated at Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial, Belgium
John Alfred Coady Army
Luseland, Saskatchewan
Died: October 9, 1942
Commemorated at Sai Wan War Cemetery, Victoria, Hong Kong
Son of William Angelo Coady and Mary Devasteen Griffin, of Luseland, Saskatchewan. William Angelo enlisted in 1917 – NRMA – in the 14th Charlottetown Regiment, transferred on March 18th, 1918 to the Nova Scotia Regiment, regimental number 3204287, served in Nova Scotia, England, Fought in France with the 17th Battalion of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, in 1943 with the 30th Company, 4th Platoon of the Veteran Guard of Canada (Alberta), regimental number L-32758. Brother of Sapper Vernon Coady, regimental number L-19253, 14th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineer. He survived combat in Europe.
Enlisted in the 12th District Depot, 2nd Division Infantry Rifles, served in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, transferred October 23rd, 1940 to Company A, 1st Battalion of Winnipeg Grenadiers, served in Hong Kong with Force C. He had 795 days of service, including 347 overseas.
“We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, We shall never surrender.”
- Winston
Churchill
Adam Flahr
Luseland, Saskatchewan
Joined when he was 17 (lied about his age) in 1940 and served until the end of war in 1945. 16 | NOVEMBER 8, 2022 Your West Central
Luseland Veterans
Killed in Action - 1914 to 1918
Walter Boulton
David Gordon
George Gordon
Harry Hoddinott
Bert Mathews
Rupert Nelson
Walter Penrice
John Philips
Killed in Action - 1939 to 1945
Kenneth Aldridge
Jack Coady
Allan Creighton
Keith Danielson
David Gillingham
Robert Land
Lawrence Marshall
Lawrence Ryan
Tony Siegel
James Sim
Everett Bates
Doug Bell
John Bineider
Mary Bineider
Walter Boulton
Bob Bruton
Andy Budd
Henry R. Budd
Mike Busch
Bert Callum
Archie Campbell
J.D. Campbell
R.A. Campbell
Jack Coady
Nelles Culp
Edwin A. Danielson
Keith Danielson
R.J. Davidson
R.A. Dixon
Nick Dvorak
William Eby
Alex Engelhart
David Eurich
Glenn Ferguson
John Ferguson
Margaret (Ferguson) Honeker
James Finley
Adam Flahr
Alex Gerlinsky
Adam German
Bill German
Gilbert German
John German
Mike German
Gerald Gerrard
Lawrence Gerrard
David Gillingham
Dr. E.R. Graham
Robert Haugen
John Herner
Private
Melville (Mel) John Whetter
Royal Canadian Air Force
October 22, 1942December 14, 1944
LAC - Leading Aircraft Man
AEM - Aero Engine Mechanic “B”
Flying Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: Dec 17,1943
Commemorated at Cambridge City Cemetery, England
Walter Fitzgerald Sheppard was born December 15, 1914, at Calgary, Alberta. Walter and his family moved to Kerrobert, Saskatchewan about 1915, where Walter completed his junior matriculation at Kerrobert High School in 1932. While a student, Walter joined the 18th Canadian Light Horse as a Trooper (Trumpeter). On July 20, 1940, Walter enlisted at Sherbrooke, Quebec, and served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War as a Flying Officer (Air Navigator). On December 17, 1943, Walter Fitzgerald Sheppard died after his Lancaster aircraft crashed near Ely, Cambridgeshire, England, after encountering heavy fog while returning from air operations over Berlin, Germany.
Private Donald Neils Pedersen
72nd Seaforth Highlanders
July 22, 1940November 23, 1945
P.P.C.L.I
Corporal
July 15, 1950 - March 23, 1953
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: Nov 2,1942
Commemorated at Monachorum Cemetery; Devon, England
DonaldKenneth Robertson was born May 20, 1919 at Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, the only son of Kenneth and Florence Robertson.
Commissioned August 8, 1941, Donald served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War as a Flying Officer. On November 2, 1942, Donald Kenneth Robertson died after his Hawker Hurricane aircraft dove into the ground during a canopy exercise at Elverton and crashed near Tavistock, Devon, England. Donald was 23 years old. He is commemorated at the Buckland Monachorum Cemetery, Devon, England. Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, Aircrew Europe Star, General Service Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
NOVEMBER 11TH
“They
- Laurence Binyon, “Ode of Remembrance”
Bob Jary
Royal Canadian Air Force 1942 - 1945
LAC - Leading Aircraft Man
Pilot Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: Sep 25,1944
Commemorated at Bergen-op-Zoom Canadian War Cemetery, Holland
Walter Nelson Auld was born May 19, 1917, at Youngstown, Ontario, the elder son of Wallace Chapman and Nettie Emelia (nee Nelson) Auld, and the brother of Leading Aircraftman Douglas C. (RCAF), Margaret Grace, and Shirley Jean Auld. In 1924, Walter and his family moved west, and lived at Kerrobert, Sask. and Castor, Alberta. Walter enlisted at Calgary August 1, 1941. Overseas in January 1943, Walter served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War as a Pilot Officer (Pilot). On September 25, 1944, Walter Nelson Auld died after his Beaufighter aircraft was shot down during an attack on enemy shipping, and crashed one mile east of Den Helder, Noord-Holland.
Flight Sergeant
Clifford Cooper Pedersen
Royal Canadian Air Force 1939 - 1945
Welder/sheet metal worker
Goalie for RCAF hockey team
“We
-
Cynthia Ozick
Walter Fitzgerald Sheppard
Donald Kenneth Robertson
Flying Officer
Walter Nelson Auld
Rifleman Herbert Hubert
Hugo Hilbach Army
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: April 22, 1945
Rifleman (Regina Rifles) Herbert Hubert Hugo Hilbach (b.1915) of Kerrobert was KIA 19450422 at Groningen during the liberation of the Netherlands and is buried at Holten Canadian war cemetery, Overijssel, Netherlands. Herbert was the son of William and Wilhelmina (Salzwedel) Hilbach, a German couple who came to Saskatchewan via the United States and homesteaded SE3635-23-W3 north of Kerrobert. Herbert was farming when he enlisted at Regina early in 1942. His younger brother Rudolph also served overseas in the Army.
Flying Officer
Robert Donald Keith Hanbidge
Royal Canadian Air Force
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: January 8, 1945
Commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial near London, England.
Keith Hanbidge (b.1921) of Kerrobert was KIA on January 8, 1945. Hanbidge’s Lancaster failed to return from a night raid on Munich. Keith was a student when he enlisted at Saskatoon in 1941.
He was the only son of Robert Leith and Jane (Mitchell) Hanbidge. R.L. (Dinnie) Hanbidge QC (1891-1974) was lieutenant governor of Saskatchewan 1963-70. He was born in Bruce Co., Ontario, to parents who hailed from Wicklow, Ireland. He came west in 1909, articled with F.W.G. Haultain and settled at Kerrobert in 1914. Hanbidge was a Conservative MLA 1929-34 and a federal candidate in 1945. Dinnie acquired his unusual nickname while playing with the Regina Rugby Club, forerunner to the Roughriders.
Private Howard Roy Prescott Army
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: November 1, 1944
Commemorated at Bergen op Zoom Canadian war cemetery, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands
HowardRoy Prescott (b.1921) was KIA 19441101, the day before his 23rd birthday, at Oude Molen and is buried at Bergen op Zoom Canadian war cemetery, Noord-Brabant, Neth erlands. His parents Fred Joseph and Ellen Christina (Oberg) Prescott came from Deerwood, Crow Wing Co., Min nesota, in 1917. Howard was born at Kerrobert and farmed with his family before being called up for NRMA training at Regina early in 1943.
Private Denys Richard Duckett Army
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: July 20, 1941
Commemorated at Agira Canadian War Cemetery, Italy
L9905
Private (Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps) Denys Richard Duckett (b.1922) of Kerrobert died 19430725 of wounds incurred three days earlier and is buried at Agira Canadian war cemetery, Enna, Sicily, Italy. He was the son of Richard and Margaret Joyce Duckett. Denys was born at Garmston, Shropshire, England, and came to the Kerrobert area with his family at the age of four. He was farming when he enlisted at Saskatoon late in 1941. His family returned to Shropshire after the war.
Kerrobert, Saskatchewan
Died: July 20, 1941
Commemorated at Dodsland, SK
L255
Gunner (2nd Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery) (Nelson) Steele Allcock (b.1918) of Kerrobert died 19410720 and is buried at Brookwood military cemetery near Woking, Surrey, England. Allcock was a despatch rider and died at Lewisham hospital two days after his motorcycle collided with a bus. Steele was born at Pasqua (east of Moose Jaw) to Thomas Everet and Ethel Beatrice Allcock, attended Avoca school, and had just started farming on his own when he enlisted at Regina in 1940. Thomas homesteaded SE16-17-24-W2 northwest of Belle Plaine before resettling just west of the Ermine siding southeast of Kerrobert.
Army
Salvador, Saskatchewan
Died: Apr 28,1917
Commemorated at Vimy Memorial, France
Royal Canadian Air Force
Major, Saskatchewan
Died: February 29, 1944
Commemorated at Chester (Blacon)
Cemetery, Cheshire, UK
Gunner Nelson Steele Allcock Army
Private Norman Mackenzie
Sergeant Ronald E. Cunnings
Remembering Eston veterans who died in combat
The history book ‘Grass to Grain’ lists veterans from the area who gave their lives fighting for our freedoms. This is the list from the beginning of WWII and beyond.
Walter John Abbott
Gunner Walter John Abbott, Royal Canadian Artillery, died June 11, 1944, at age 24, from injuries due to an accident near Brighton, East Sussex, England. He is buried in the Brookwood Military Cemetery, some 30 miles from London, England.
John Herbert Barkwell
Flight Sergeant/Air Gunner John Herbert Barkwell, RCAF, died at age 19 on November 11, 1943, when his Halifax Bomber was lost during an air strike against Cannes, France. He is buried in the St. Desir War Cemetery, Calvados, France.
Charles Raymond Botham
Private Charles Raymond Botham, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), was killed in action at age 21 on May 23, 1944, in the assault on the Hitler Line in Italy. He is buried in the Casino Military Cemetery in Casino, Italy.
Robert John Botham
Able Seaman Robert John Botham, Royal Canadian Navy, died September 20, 1943, at age 22 when his ship, HMCS St. Crowd, was hit by two torpedoes and sank while on convoy duty in the North Atlantic. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Halifax Memorial.
Gordon Keith Campbell
Ordinary Seaman Gordon Keith Campbell, Royal Canadian Navy, died at age 18 on September 13, 1942, when his ship, HMCS Ottawa, was sunk by two torpedoes fired by U-91 450 miles east of Newfoundland. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Halifax Memorial.
Harry Reginald Code
Private Harry Reginald Code, Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, age 19, was killed February 20, 1945, in the heavy fighting with German forces in the Hochwald Forest some 50 miles southeast of Nijmegen, Holland. He is buried at Groesbeck Canadian War Cemetery, seven miles from Nijmegen.
Arthur Leland Croll
Warrant Officer Class 2 Arthur Leland Croll, RCAF, age 32, died December 12, 1942, on air operations over Tripoli. He has no known grave; his name is inscribed on the Alamein War Memorial, Egypt.
John Wesley Evans
Pilot Officer
John Wesley Evans, RCAF, age 22, EDO, May 24, 1943 when his Sterling Bomber aircraft failed to return from air operations. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Runnymede War Memorial in England.
Frederick William Greenfield
Leading Aircraftsman Frederick William Greenfield, RCAF, age 21, died August 14, 1941, in a crash while training with #3 Service Flying Training School, Calgary, Alberta. He is buried in the Madison Cemetery, Madison, Saskatchewan.
Kenneth Bradley Hicks
Pilot Officer
Kenneth Bradley Hicks, RCAF, died March 8, 1944, at age 26, when the “Mosquito” aircraft he was flying failed to return from a bomber support operation to Stade and Utersen, Germany. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Runnymede War Memorial in England.
“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something
- Joseph Campbell
Elmer James Lee
Private Elmer James Lee, Royal Canadian Regiment, died August 27, 1940, at age 21 in a German bombing raid. He is buried in the Brookwood Military Cemetery near London, England.
William James McAlister
Able Seaman William James McAlister, age 20, Royal Canadian Navy, died when his ship, HMCS Margaret, was sunk by collision in heavy fog 400 miles west of Ireland on October 22, 1940. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Halifax Memorial.
Age shall not weary them
Gordon Cameron McDonald
Pilot Officer Gordon Cameron McDonald, RCAF, died August 24, 1942, at age 21 when his battle-damaged Lancaster Heavy Bomber crashed four miles north of Charleroi, Belgium. He is buried in the Communal Cemetery, Gosselies Hainault, Belgium.
Ivan George McDonald
Private Ivan George McDonald, South Saskatchewan Regiment, died of his wounds at age 22 on September 21, 1944, in what has been called the Battle of the Scheldt Estuary west of Antwerp, Belgium. Ivan was buried in Adegem War Cemetery near Ghent, Belgium.
Donald Douglas McKeracher
Private Donald Douglas McKeracher, Argyll and Sutherland Highlands of Canada, age 22, was killed on January 30, 1945, near S’Hertogenbosh, Belgium. He is buried in the Groesbeck Canadian War Cemetery near Nijmegen, Holland.
Glen Alex McNichol
Flying Officer
Glen Alexander McNichol, RCAF, age 21, died April 17, 1943, when his Lancaster suffered severe damage from the flak guns near Pilsen.
Wounded in both legs and flying with only two engines, he managed to keep flying until a night-fighter finished off the crippled Lancaster. He crash-landed on the Main Street of the little town of Pontavert. Glen was killed when the plane hit a house at the end of the street; the rest of the crew survived. He is buried in the Pontavert Communal Cemetery, Pontavert, France.
John Allen McPhee
Flight Sergeant/Air Gunner John Allen McPhee, RCAF, age 20, died December 12, 1942, while crash-landing his Halifax Heavy Bomber near Helmsley, Yorkshire. He is buried in St. Catherine Churchyard, Barmby-on-the-Moor, Yorkshire, England.
Arthur Theodore Morgan
Flight Sergeant Arthur Theodore Morgan, RCAF, age 29, died from complications from surgery in a London hospital on August 9, 1942. He is buried in the Brookwood Military Cemetery near London, England.
Noel Harvey Moysey
Flying Officer Noel Harvey Moysey, RCAF, died August 13, 1944, at age 22 when his Liberator Bomber crashed after take-off at Mysor Airport, India. He was buried in the Madras War Cemetery in India.
Earl Austin Mullis
Flight Sergeant Earl Austin Mullis, RCAF, was killed on March 21, 1942, aged 21, when his Hurricane fighter was shot down 30 miles southwest of Gazala Inlet off the coast of North Africa. Having no known grave, his name is inscribed in the Alamein War Memorial, Egypt.
Robert James Painton
Lieutenant Robert James Painton, 1st Canadian Special Service Battalion, age 22, was killed in action on September 13, 1944, after an airborne landing northeast of Marseilles, France. He is buried at Mazargues Cemetery Extension, Marseilles, France.
Robert T. Peach
Rifleman Robert T. Peach, 1st Battalion, Regina Rifle Regiment, was killed in action on August 19, 1944, aged 25, probably during the action to secure the local airport. He is buried at the BrettevilleSur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, which is near Caen, France.
Wilfred Arthur Pearce
Captain Wilfred Arthur Pearce, Royal Canadian Infantry Corps, was killed in action in Belgium on September 26, 1944, at the age of 36. He is buried in the Leopoldsburg War Cemetery, Belgium.
Alexander Robert Phillips
Private Alexander Robert Phillips, Regina Rifle Regiment, died of his wounds on December 2, 1944, at age 21, in the fighting in and around Antwerp. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery near London, England.
Jon Arthur Wellbelove
Lieutenant John Arthur Wellbelove, 1st Airborne Battalion, Border Regiment, was killed in action at age 24 on September 25, 1944, in Oosterbeek, Holland during the battle at Arnhem. He is buried in the Arnhem British Cemetery, Arnhem, Holland.
Steven Richard West
Rifleman Steven Richard West, Regina Rifle Regiment, was killed by enemy action near Calais, France, at age 35 on September 25, 1944. He is buried in the Calais Canadian War Cemetery, Calais, France.
George Walen
Flight Sergeant/Wireless Operator/Air Gunner George Walen, RCAF, age 21, died March 5, 1943, when his Wellington Heavy Bomber failed to return from a night operation over Essen, Germany. His name is inscribed on the Runnymede War Memorial, Englefield Green, Surrey, England.
Frederick Stevenson
There is one more former Eston resident who died in combat, albeit after the end of the Second World War. Sometime between November 29, 1947 and June 11, 1948, Frederick Stevenson, a veteran of WWII when he served in the RCAF, was killed while flying for the Israeli Air Force during the Arab/Israeli war. His body was recovered, and he is buried in Tel Aviv.
Signalman Oscar Albrecht Army Leader, Saskatchewan
Died: July 17, 1944
Commemorated at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, France
Oscar Albrecht, born January 24, 1919 at Leader, Saskatchewan, completed his education in 1936 at Leader. While working for Pioneer Grains there, Albrecht joined The King’s Own Rifles of Canada (M.G.) in 1940. He went on to work for Gas City Flour Mill in Medicine Hat, Alberta before returning to work at Pioneer Grains as a grain buyer. Following enlistment at Regina, Saskatchewan February 17, 1942, Albrecht served with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals attached to the 2nd Canadian Divisional Signals as a Signalman during the Second World War. Landing in France June 25, 1944 with the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, 9th Infantry Brigade, the Signals advanced towards Carpiquet, stringing signal lines and providing radio communications for the Allies during the capture of Caen. On July 17, 1944, Signalman Oscar Albrecht died during an assault near Caen and is commemorated at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, Calvados, France. He was 25 years old. Citation(s): 1939-1945 Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Private Barry Cocks
Army Leader, Saskatchewan
Born: June 16, 1922
Died: July 17, 1944
Commemorated at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery Calvados, France
Barry Cocks was the fourth born of seven children in the family of David and Esther Cocks of Leader, Saskatchewan. Barry was working in his father’s dray business in 1942 when he was called up for NRMA training in Regina, Saskatchewan. He was sent into action at Camp Vernon in 1944.
Barry was part of the Regina Rifles, a regiment of the 3rd Canadian Army. On D-Day, the Regina Rifles landed on Juno Beach, Nan Green Sector. They had been tasked to capture Caen, which was French city 10 miles from the coast of Normandy.
Barry was killed in action by a snip- er, near Caen. When Barry was shot, his good friend Alfred Nagel also of Leader, Saskatchewan, was able to carry him to the safety of a church. This is the place that Barry passed away. The pastor of the church promised Barry that he would send his pack back to Canada to his father. The pastor kept his word and his pack arrived back in Leader for Barry’s father, David.
Cocks Lake, along the Northwest Territories and Saskatchewan border is named in his honor (Latitude 59 31; Longitude 105 32).
Lietenant Paul Meier Army Leader, Saskatchewan
Died: February 26, 1945
Commemorated at Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Gelderland, Netherlands
Royal Canadian Air Force Leader, Saskatchewan
Died: September 8, 1941
Commemorated at Kiel War Cemetery, Germany
Leader, Saskatchewan
Observer
Frederick Joseph Matkin
In Remembrance of Leslie David Cornish
Leslie enlisted in The RCAF in 1940, in Saskatoon, at the age of 21. He loved to tell the story that the Doctor in charge of their medicals said, when he saw his multicolored hand painted tie and mismatched shirt, “Make sure you check that young man for color blindness!”.
After enlisting, Leslie trained as a mechanic in Toronto and in early 1941 he was sent overseas, as part of the 419 ‘Moose Squadron’, to the RAF Bomber Command Station at Middleton St. George, County Durham. The station’s motto was Shield and Deter. It was later allocated solely to the RCAF.
During the war the squadron members attended many dances in Norton and Darlington, County Durham. It was at a dance that he met Peggy Hall. He told his children often that he knew from the moment he first saw her he would marry her! He courted her steadily, riding eleven miles back and forth from camp on his bike into Norton to see her. They were married in 1945, following the end of the war. He was then sent back to Canada and his bride could only follow a long eight months later, with many other War Brides. They settled for a short time in Demaine, SK. to help on the family farm and then moved to Smiley SK. where Leslie farmed, and later owned and operated Smiley John Deere Farm Supply. He closed the business in the 1960’s and continued farming until the 1970’s. The family moved to Kindersley in 1964 where
Veterans who served at home
By Joan Janzen
Many veterans from WWII didn’t get sent overseas. My father, Albert Schwengler was one of them. He was born in 1918 and worked on the family farm near Liebenthal. My dad joined the army during the latter part of the war, or perhaps farmers were drafted later in the war years. He trained at Victoria, BC, but didn’t reminisce a lot about his training. However I recall seeing an old photo of the tents where they were housed. And he did say he ate a lot of hash, which was a mixture of whatever was available in the camp kitchen.
they resided until 1995. Peggy and Leslie then moved to Saskatoon to be closer to their children. They resided there until their end of life.
For over 50 years, following the end of the war, the Saskatchewan members of the ‘Moose Squadron’ met for annual reunions, which included all their families. Their bond from their shared experiences of the war was incredible, and lasted life times!
Age shall not weary them
The Impact of War on Society: Honouring Sacrifice and Fostering Peace
By Benjamin MacDonald North West Central School
Commemorating the sacrifices of those who served in wars is not just about acknowledging their valour, but understanding the profound effects these wars have on society. Wars shape the history of nations, change cultures, and influence religions, and permanently affect the lives of individuals and communities on a large scale. Remembrance Day is an opportunity for us to remind ourselves of these consequences and the importance of striving for peace and gives us a chance to reflect on how the sacrifices of those who fought in battle have led to the freedoms we have today in modem Canada.
Wars leave enduring footprints on societies, drastically affecting the economy and social structures, and leading to lasting trauma for both civilians and veterans. The loss of life, tearing apart of families and destruction of infrastructure and communities leads to long lasting effects on nations that are felt for generations. For us Canadians, there has not been any wars fought on our soil since the War of 1812, but the armed forces of Canada have been involved in many international conflicts since then. World War I and World War II led to the deaths of close to 61,000 and 45,400 Canadians respectively, as well as the permanent injury of many more. The loss of life and disability of so many young men and women was felt across the nation, and whole generations of people were scarred from the horrors of the wars they faced. Mothers and fathers lost their children, and those who came back lost friends and comrades in battle. One can simply take a walk through any cemetery in Canada, from the smallest towns to the biggest cities, to see how many lost their lives overseas across the nation, their graves marked with maple leaves and their battalion or regiment.
Remembrance Day is a day for remembering the great sacrifices the young men and women of Canada made for our freedoms. We recognize their courage, dedication, and the many hardships they endured
while fighting. We take it as an opportunity for acknowledging their resilience and a reminder of our responsibility to preserve their legacy for future generations by striving for peace among our nations in the modem day. Remembrance Day is about simply talcing a moment to reflect on the human cost of war and the valour of those soldiers who fought for us. Reflecting on the sacrifices of the past can be taken as an opportunity for us to have conversations about the ramifications of international conflict, and the impor-
tance of diplomacy and peaceful relations between nations to prevent the possibility of grand-scale war in the modem era.
In the aftermath of war, peace is the number one goal. Remembrance Day is important for fostering understanding and harmony between nations. It is a day of reflection on the horrors of war and intended to remind us all why we should strive for peace to prevent future tragedy. Remembering our history provides important insight into the importance of striving for peaceful resolution. After the Great War, steps to ensure future peace in Europe were not taken seriously as the Allies were more concerned with revenge than diplomacy. This led to the Second World War, as the people of Germany felt humiliated and angry and were entranced by the great promises made by the National Socialists of restoring Germany’s former glory. This is a prime example of why we should strive for a fair peace for all, as the consequences of letting our anger blind us can lead to even greater conflict. It also serves as an example of why we should never forget our history, so we can avoid the mistakes of the past and peacefully coexist in the future. Remembrance Day embodies this principle of remembering our past mistakes and moving into the future with a peaceful mindset instead of one of hate and vengeance. Remembrance Day is not a day solely for looking back at the valiant sacrifices of the young men and women who fought for our freedoms we enjoy; it also serves as a call to action for the future. By understanding the profound impact of war on people and society, and honouring the actions of those who fought, we can advocate for peace and urge societies to strive for a world where conflicts are resolved without violence and where the sacrifices of the past serve as a light to move us forward into a brighter tomorrow. We should still take the time to think about the extraordinarily profound impact of the deaths of all those who fought especially from Canada, as us living in Canada can thank them for their efforts in providing us with the freedoms that we hold dear to us today.
Reflecting on Each Day
For the past fifteen years, I have had the honour of curating a special edition dedicated to those who have served our country, both past and present, particularly the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. I take great pride in this endeavour, and I hope that the final publication conveys this sentiment. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our advertising sponsors whose support has made this edition possible. My greatest inspiration for this project is my great uncle, Bruce Maclennan (photo on the left), who made the ultimate sacrifice at just 21 years old. Each year, we dedicate one day to honour those who courageously volunteered for the cause of freedom and peace. We wear poppies, visit memorials, and attend solemn ceremonies. On that single day, we pause for silent reflection, reminding ourselves of the importance of working towards peace not just on this day, but every day of the year
Kate
Winquist, Publisher
Benjamin MacDonald who received third place in the Senior Essay category at the Provincial level for his Remembrance Day essay submission. Benjamin goes to school at North West Central School in Plenty.
SUBMITTED PHOTO