WINDSOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Flying 424 Squadron

2012-03-14T20:02:00.000-04:00

Written By: Harry W. Major C D Flt. Sgt. RCAF

I want to thank our Government and Museum Officials who did the right
thing and changed all the degrading messages on the museum story. We Veterans were there fighting for the freedom we all cherish in this fine
country. We fought in honour to achieve this and deserve to be respected by those who live in this free land.

Adolph Hitler and his cohorts who formed the evil Nazi Party had already run over most of Europe with their hobnailed booted storm troopers and their Luftwaffe, who blitzkreiged their way by destroying cities, towns, villages and hamlets, killing millions in their quest to rule the world. The secret S.S. arrested many civilian people, eliminating them because they were not of true Aryan Race, or just because they were of a nationality that the Nazis wished to destroy. The Luftwaffe had bombed everything in sight throughout all those countries as well as in many cities and towns in Britain and Scotland, (killing thousands of innocent people) long before the Allies would have the proper aircraft to bring the war back to the enemy and to begin to retaliate by bombing German targets. Slowly, the Allied Forces built up their offensive, designing bigger and better bombers. With the twin engine Wellingtons, with a maximum of four tons of bombs, to the Halifax's six to seven tons at an average speed of 220MPH, to the famous Lancaster, carrying up to better than ten tons of bombs and traveling close to 330MPH at top speed and close to 3000 miles total distance, the Allies were able to bring the war to Germany and so help to destroy the Nazi's industrial might. And to you nay-sayers, I say NO ONE will ever prove to me that we didn't accomplish doing just that! What else caused their total lack of aircraft, weapons, tanks and fuel in those last few months of the war? Yes, war is hell and many innocent people die, but I hate to think of the many more millions that would have died had we not defeated the enemy.

Our crew had completed 13 trips in Halifax 111 bombers, flying with 424 Squadron from Skipton on Swale, York, before being retrained on the Lancaster to do our last 20 missions. That would complete our tour and we would receive the very coveted Operational Wing, which you can see just over my Service Medals in my Legion wear picture below. I will try to relay what I can remember of a couple of our Bombing Missions, as read from my flying log book (which has been through a flooded sea chest) and from my memory.

Our first trip with the Squadron was in a Halifax 111, Q.B. "unreadable call letter", aircraft #nr228, Nov;18/44 to Munster, a day trip. We encountered light flak. We did not get attacked by enemy fighters, but did experience seeing some bombers going down in flames from same. We did not have any damage to our plane. This was a 7 hour and 35 minute trip. Our next trip was a night flight to Duisburg, Nov;30/44. There was heavy flak and we did get some hits but no serious damage to Hali Q.B."M". On our next trip, I did see Hali "D" off to our starboard go down in flames. The target was unreadable. Jan;2/45, a night trip to Ludwigshaven in Q.B."E". We had much damage by ack-ack. Jan 5. was to see us flying our last mission in a Halifax 111 bomber. On a night trip in Q.B."B" to Hanover, we again were having much damage by flak and were also attacked by an F.W. 190. I did manage to get off a few bursts from my 303 Browning pea-shooters, but the German fighter was surely too far off when I was able to get my sights on him. I doubt he sustained much damage from my little pellets.

Jan. 6 to 28 found our crew retraining to learn all about Lancasters. What a super craft! Although the Hali had a few points over the Lancaster, this craft was a faster kite and was a far easier aircraft in maneuverability. When the pilot was told to corkscrew, the bottom seemed to disappear from under you. If not buckled into your seat, you would have hit the ceiling.

Our first trip in a Lancaster 1 was to Ludwigshaven in Q.B."E" on Feb. 1/45, a seven and a half hour night trip. We were first hit by ack-ack on the way and then again over the target. We were then attacked from below and unseen by a J.U.88. Before our gunner was able to get off a few bursts, the plane disappeared into the night. A short while later, I spotted an M.E.210 stooping around under our port tail-plane. I called to the skipper to dive port. He dove and we found ourselves in violent evasive action just as the enemy opened fire. He was out of my line of fire at first. As he got within my line of vision, I was able to get off a few bursts but I have no idea whether I inflicted much damage. I did see some of my bullets ricochet off that enemy fighter before we lost him in the dark. One of his cannon shells went through from starboard, taking out our radio right from under the Wireless Op's nose, then crossed to the port side, passing in front of the bomb-aimer's face before going out, making quite a hole and taking whatever was left of the radio with it. On its exit, the shell made a huge hole on the outside. We limped our way home.

The next morning, our flight truck driver came to pick us up so we could have one last look at our Kite before it as taken away to be dismantled for any parts that could be salvaged.

I still say that the Supreme Being from Above was watching out for us that night.

Eternal Rest

2012-03-13T20:01:00.000-04:00

Written By: Unknown

Eternal Rest Grant Them O Lord, And Let Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

I don't know if you saw this in the news but it really impressed me. Funny, our U.S. Senate/House took 2 days off as they couldn't work.

On the ABC evening news, it was reported tonight that, because of the dangers from Hurricane Isabelle approaching Washington D.C., the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment.

They refused. "No way, Sir!"

Soaked to the skin, marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a service person.The tomb has been patrolled continuously, 24/7, since 1930.I don't usually suggest that many emails be forwarded, but I'd be DAMN proud if this one reached as many as possible.We can be very proud of our young men and women in the service no matter where they serve.

God Bless them.

Canada Remembers the Korean War

2012-03-13T20:00:00.000-04:00

Written By: Pete Remdenok

War is a horrible act. During the Korean War, 26,000 Canadians served and 516 of our brave young men paid the supreme sacrifice. A monument was finally erected and dedicated in the Pusan International Cemetery, after almost 50 years.

The Monument is a symbol of peace. It was conceived and made possible by three or four years of uncompensated work by Windsor's Vince Courtenay, who has been awarded the Governor Generals "Meritorious Service Medal."

It depicts a Canadian serviceman with no weapon or headdress. The children represent the successive generations who have been free to realize and build their national strength.

The bouquets of Canadian Maple Leaves and Korea's National Flower, the Rose of Sharon, depict the closeness of the two Nations. There are 21 maple leaves representing the 16 Canadians with no known grave and the five sailors lost at sea. The names of all 516 are listed on the base of the monument. An Echo Copy of the Monument was sculpted and erected in our Nations' Capitol. It was dedicated this past September 28th. The Prime Minister and several other Members of Parliament honoured their memory and all those who served.

When I look at this monument I think of the last 50 wonderful years I have had, which these young men missed out on. The Korean War produced over two million casualties on both sides. It is bad enough for soldiers trained for war, but the civilians on both sides were affected greatly. Millions were left homeless and most lost at least some members of their family. There were hundreds of thousands who were orphaned. Many of them on the streets alone, trying to survive.

Everyone who was there became a casualty to varying degrees. You could not endure the endless shelling, the destruction and the atrocities committed during war without being affected. It is impossible to erase those memories. They keep coming back like a bad nightmare.

Many come back home and have difficulties adjusting to a normal life. Post Traumatic Stress, which was not recognized back then, took its toll on many. When I look at the way things are in Korea today, I feel our being there was not in vain. In the North, thousands of young children died this past year, mostly of starvation or tuberculosis. They have slave labour and little hope of ever being able to visit relatives in other countries.

By contrast, South Korea is a very modern country with a good economy and opportunities for everyone. The price of freedom is high.

Both Sides of the Coin

2012-03-12T19:59:00.000-04:00

Written By: Stan Jones

On the Ground - In the Air
September 3rd, 1939 - War was declared at 11:00 that morning and the first air raid warning sounded. My mother and father and myself were visiting relations in northeast London. There was no shelter in the garden so we stood in a trench wearing our gas- masks; our heads just above the ground, looking towards London which was about 8 miles away. There was a strange eerie silence over the whole area. "Were we to be bombed or gassed or both?" As we watched, there rose into the air about 250 silver-coloured barrage balloons. These B-balloons have steel cables attached to them to prevent enemy dive bombers attacking their targets with greater accuracy.

At first sight they looked like planes which certainly did nothing to help the situation. My younger cousin yelled, "Here they come", and we all nearly died on the spot. However, all was well. It was only the balloons and within a few minutes the "All Clear" sounded. We all looked at each other in disbelief but all with a sense of relief. The Balloons were slowly lowered and we came back into the house and put the kettle on for a much needed cup of tea. Personally, I concluded that at fifteen, if that was being frightened, then I had better get used to it.

After the fall of Dunkirk, the Battle of Britain began and my journey to work became a little more scary. During the bombing of fighter airfields in the southeast of England, it was a good idea not to dawdle on roads surrounding these bases. I made the journey, twice a day, six times a week, but fortunately I was only involved a few times. Invasion was on everyone's lips, with talk of parachute troops and landing craft being used by the enemy to invade the U.K.

Daily we saw many vapor trails high in the sky overhead, twisting and turning, and the chatter of machine guns could be heard quite distinctly. Frankly, with all the talk of invasion, anyone dropping from the sky at this time was in extreme danger. Not only from the local people but also from the "Home Guard" (Land Defense Volunteers) which had been formed in great haste. Men over the age of call-up were enlisted on a volunteer basis and trained evenings and weekends. Rifles were in short supply, so in some cases the platoon leader had the rifle, and the platoon had broom sticks. That is, until there were enough rifles to meet the demand. We had lost much war material at Dunkirk. Trenches were dug in the green belt and local farmlands around London. Concrete tank- traps and gun emplacements (pill boxes) were erected at strategic points. Signposts were taken down and a strict " blackout" was in place, through the night hours. There were also many rumors of "fifth column agents" dropping by parachute who would relay information to the enemy. Glass windows, both in houses and shop, were taped corner to corner with brown sticky paper tape to prevent glass splints from bomb blasts. Nobody missed the news broadcasts on the radio, and people looking skyward, from time to time, was not unusual.

It all started on Saturday afternoon in the late summer of 1940, September 7th. An air-raid warning sounded in our area about 3 p.m. Shoppers were just beginning to drift home from the High Street. The local anti-aircraft guns were firing almost at once. The familiar drone of enemy bombers could be heard. The people who were in the shop were herded into a big freezer which had just been defrosted; mothers, babies and prams. After a short while, the first wave of bombers had gone on to the docks in London. This was the start of the London Blitz.

A little later there was a lull in the gun fire and people hurried home. While cycling home with an older colleague, about five p.m., the warning was still on, quiet overhead. We were on the far side of the fighter airfield and in the distance, high in the sky, a plane came into view coupled with gun fire from the ground. A bomb fell in the road just ahead of us. The bomb blast blew us off of the road into a ditch, and left a crater which took out half of the road a short distance ahead.

Fortunately, except for a ringing in our ears, no damage was done to either of us or the bikes. We rode home without further interruption. It was still daylight and we could see a red glow in the sky in the direction of London some 8 miles away . That was my introduction to the London Blitz.

When I arrived home, most people were in their air-raid shelters, and although there were quiet periods, the raid was to go on all night and well into the early hours of Sunday morning. I well remember standing at the entrance of the shelter with my father, just staring at this huge red glow in the sky. It was the London docks burning. This was the first experience of an air-raid for most people, and to be in the Dock area it must have been very frightening to say the least. Some water mains were blown up, so it was necessary to pump water from the River Thames in an attempt to control the fires. All that night, at irregular intervals, you could hear enemy bombers droning overhead flying through a barrage of anti-aircraft fire towards the red glow. In those days, before the use of intersection of beams, to find the target, enemy planes followed the river Thames into London and very often they would follow the railway lines from the East and South coast.

From that never to be forgotten day in 1940, and for the next hundred nights or so, the air-raid warning sounded almost as soon as it got dark. The "Al-Clear" wail of the siren would be rarely heard before the early morning hours. At times not before dawn. During these early days of the Blitz, when the warning sounded, we would go at once to our air-raid shelter in the back garden, dressed in warm clothes with blankets, flasks of tea and biscuits. There was always a very strict blackout throughout the night hours enforced by air-raid wardens who would patrol the streets.

My father was a chief warden in our area. There were times when after the warning had sounded, there would be no planes or anti-aircraft fire for quite some time. This we called a quiet night.

Being now well into my 15th year I was required to join a fire-watching team both at home and at my place of work. We would be one night on call every two weeks. We would watch for fire bombs and deal with them until the Fire Service arrived.

One Saturday evening, later in the year, a high explosive bomb fell in the next street to where we were living. It destroyed three houses and damaged others. My father and I, along with many others, including the Rescue Services, spent many hours helping to find people who were trapped in the rubble, most of the time while the Raid was still on. Three people were killed.

Christmas night 1940 was the first night since the Blitz had started that we had no air-raid warning throughout the London area. Almost one hundred consecutive nights and at last a break. A real Christmas present indeed. We had another quiet night on Boxing night, but that was it. It was back to normal after that.

Sometime later, a weekend in late January, my London relatives, to get a break from the bombing, which was much heavier in their area, being closer to the city, came to stay with us. About 9:30 p.m., the air-raid warning sounded, and with almost a sang-froid attitude, they all continued to play darts in the front room. There was no gunfire, and all was quiet, so I decided to go to bed, which had been made up for me under the stairs, just opposite the room where the darts were being played. With all the relations staying, someone had to lose a bed. I was asleep in no time. However, a loud explosion awoke me and almost at once a number of shoes were tramping all over me. The owners of said shoes were attempting to get under the stairs, which is the place in the house to dive for when H.E. bombs fall too close for comfort. A small bomb had fallen in the street just outside the house. The front door was separated from its hinges and one or two windows were broken; a crater in the road and me with a face full of foot marks was the result. It put an end to the game of darts for a while. Many hands made light work and things were soon back to near normal. On Sunday, all returned home, having enjoyed the weekend in spite of the interruption.

The Blitz was now part of our daily lives.

In May of 43, I received my call-up papers. I remember my mother not being too pleased at the time. Her sister had just had her son (my cousin) reported "missing in action". She said to me as I left for the recruiting centre "Try not to get into anything too dangerous, son." Personally I was quite sure they would put me in the army. The Second Front had been on everyone's lips for a while now. However, after IQ tests and medical exams etc., I found myself in front of an R.A.F. officer who was sitting behind a large desk. "Sit down lad", he said, and went on to say " I'm sorry, we have no vacancies for pilots or navigators". To which I felt and must have looked greatly surprised. "You want to be in the air force, don't you, lad?" he said. "Yes sir", I replied, "Yes sir, thank you, sir". He went on to say, there was a great need of wireless operators at this time; a very important bomber crew member. We shook hands, he wished me luck, and I left the room.

As soon as I arrived home, my mother asked how I got on. I told her I got in the R.A.F. "That's good", she said, "you may not have to go overseas." It was then I told her about the flying etc. She went a little pale and said, " Oh dear". I felt very sorry for her at that moment. I quickly reassured her that by the time my training was completed, the war would likely be over.

On March 2nd , 1945, seven days before my twentieth birthday, I'm flying a daylight raid to Cologne. Early briefing and then over to the aircraft. We took off in bright sunshine, the weather forecast was good for most of the day. We climbed steadily and were soon over the Dutch coast, way below us.

When I'm not needed at the radio, I stand as a look-out from the astrodome, which is to the right and just above my seat. It affords a clear view from the aircraft and I could see a stream of aircraft, both in front and behind us. It was quite a sight and one that I got very familiar with during the next few months.

As we got about five miles from the target, our altitude being about 18,000 feet, the first wave of aircraft were entering what I described as a gigantic cluster of enemy shell bursts immediately over the target area. The black puffs of exploding shells hung in the sky. Over the target, just as we closed the bomb doors we were hit by shell fire, which exploded just below us and on the starboard side of the aircraft. The starboard outer engine was put out of action and the starboard inner caught fire. A quick check of the crew was made and found that no one was in trouble. The engineer feathered both starboard engines, and with smoke and fire coming from the starboard inner, we dove to about 8,000 feet before the fire was extinguished. We were now flying level, after a style that is.

With only two engines on the port side working, it was difficult for the pilot to keep a straight course. It was then I was able to look back down the fuselage to check the damage. All I could see through the dust was a great many shafts of light beaming through a great many holes. Now quite alone, with only the two port engines to keep us airborne, some quick decisions had to be made. By this time we were now out of the target area, alone and slowly losing height. From our present position, could we get home? Have we enough fuel? Can we maintain height? Will these two port engines hold up under the strain etc? Fuel was certainly going to be a problem, we were already losing fuel from the damaged starboard wing tank. Fortunately, after some excellent work by our flight engineer, we were able to transfer what was left of the fuel into another tank. Some floorboards had to be torn up to accomplish this.

It was then decided that we might just have enough fuel to reach the English coast.

Another problem was that it was necessary for the pilot to keep the two remaining engines at near full power to maintain height; he also had to fly the plane at a 30 degree angle to keep it on a straight course. As for the route home, we used a straight line between two points - across northern Belgium to the north sea and, hopefully, to the Suffolk coast of England, being still over enemy territory and vulnerable to attack by enemy fighters. We were more than thankful when two Allied twin engine American aircraft spotted us. They could see we were in trouble and flew around us at a distance as far as the North Sea coast. At which point, although we were still losing height, it was decided we should try and cross to the English coast. If one of the two engines were to fail, we surely would have to ditch in the sea. Knowing this, I had already tuned in to our Air-sea Rescue Station. Should we have to ditch, they were going to hear about it very loud and very clear.

We crossed the coast and made for the Crash Station at Woodbridge, Suffolk. This airfield is for badly damaged aircraft that should not attempt a landing at their home base. Now our chances of reaching our home base at Ludford Magna were slim, and again the question arose, "Could we maintain height, had we enough fuel, would an engine fail?"

More calculations were made and discussed, relayed to the crew and the general opinion was the risk was worth taking. So with fingers crossed, we made for our home base. We arrived over Ludford at an altitude of about 1000 feet. I had to run an R/T aerial down the length of the fuselage so the pilot could talk to the Control Tower. We had lost the original aerial. We were now almost 2 hours late and with only an egg-cup full of fuel left in the tanks. Still flying at an angle of 30 degrees and two engines keeping us air-worthy, the pilot asked for permission to land and gave a brief description of our situation. "Go back to Woodbridge" was the reply. Well now, that did not sit too well with our pilot, and his reply was "Can't be done, no fuel left. We're coming in". And with that, I switched off the R/T.

Now while in the circuit, it was decided to start our starboard inner engine to build up brake pressure to assist with the landing. However, it caught fire almost at once and although it was shut down, the flames were still visible as we came in to land. The pilot and engineer made a very reasonable landing under very difficult circumstances. Just one more problem . After only traveling 500 -600 yards down the runway, the left tire blew out and the under-carriage collapsed, and we slid around and came to an abrupt halt on the grass at the side of the main runway, the left wingtip touching the ground.

I remember stepping from the aircraft on to the ground; it had a strange feeling about it. Guess we were all glad to touch solid ground again.

The fire crew had put out the flames and as we looked back at our aircraft, it looked a sorry sight. We were told later by our ground-crew, they had counted 60-70 holes in the starboard wing and down the length of the fuselage. Sadly, its destination was almost certain to be the graveyard. It never flew again.

World War II officially ended May 8th. The weather was sunny and warm. There were celebrations throughout the Squadron. As part of the celebrations, there was a soccer match played between England and "the Rest of the World". All the crew came along to see their Wireless Operator play for the England side. We lost, but enjoyed the celebrations afterwards.

A Special Welcome Home

2012-03-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

Written By: Bud Irwin

The seas were calm and the sky glittered with stars as the Ascania in 1946 brought 25,000 returning men home to Canada's shores from WWII. The ship was so crowded most of us had to sleep on the deck. The lucky few that had bunks would account no price as we begged to be able to sleep just one night in a bunk. A few days into sailing some of us stood in the bow of the ship as it rode 40 to 50 foot swells. That's a ride I'll never forget.

I joined up with Jack Haugh in 1940. Jack spent his war in Halifax Harbour whereas I became a Spitfire pilot stationed in Egypt and flew in the Italian Campaign, among other battles. I was looking forward to being back in Windsor getting on with my life and living a quiet life with my family.

As we sailed toward Canada the talk was mainly about "the first thing we were going to do" when we docked. This subject covered everything from a huge steak to going to church. Suddenly a lit up Halifax harbour came into view. We all went silent with our eyes filling with tears. Throughout the war this was a sight we thought we'd never see again. We remembered those who were left behind and were not lucky enough to see this beautiful sight. Some were crying, some where whistling and applauding while others stood silently remembering.

The ship docked and the gangplank was put into place. Suddenly two beam lights were focused on the last step of the gangplank from the ship onto the shore. To my utter surprise and glee, there stood Jack Haugh welcoming me home with arms outstretched and holding two 40 ouncers of Whiskey. The first thing I was going to do was a have a meal and a whiskey with Jack.

We went to a Chinese restaurant, ordered our food and put the bottles on the table. The proprietor was not as understanding as would have liked, he told us in no uncertain terms, "No drink whiskey here!" And so we ate without having the whiskey.

It was great to be home.

A Fighting Perth Remembers

2012-03-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

Written By Stan Scislowski

The night was black as pitch, no moon, no stars, no flash of artillery fire to light the way for the Canadian infantry moving forward to the start-line of their next attack. The night was unusually quiet, as though both armies facing each other
in the flatlands of the North Italian plains had gone to bed early. The only sound came from the scuffle of the infantrymen's boots on gravel as they worked their way forward. To a man, as always, they fervently hoped that the advance would be a 'walkover', but it was not to be. The enemy had not gone away, and they had not gone to bed early. Except for those momentarily relieved of weapons post duty, the enemy was very much awake and alert. They were in positions all through the area with their weapons trained at the single point where they were sure the Canadian attack would come in on them, and that was the roadway crossing the Fosso Munio stream.

In the lead section of the lead platoon of the Perth Regiment from Stratford, Ontario spearheading the attack was a 17 year old Windsor lad. Actually, too young to have been inducted into the army, Lance Corporal Freddie Lytwyn had to have lied about his age to get in the army. But he was a veteran now, a veteran of several hard-fought battles as he marched on towards yet another battle, this one only five days before Christmas, hoping, as all men do when going into battle that it would be an easy affair and that he would come out of it okay.

Undetected thus far as they approached the start-line at the roadway crossing of the insignificant narrow watercourse, they entered a roadside drainage ditch, and with stealth. made good time on the way to their first objective. They strained their eyes peering into the black fields around them to catch
signs of enemy presenceto evade them if they could, or to throw fire at them if that had to be. The immediate danger, however, was not in the open fields to their left, nor was it in the impenetrable darkness on their right. It was straight ahead along the line of the ditch. An enemy machine-gun crew hidden behind a stone culvert waited for them, their weapon pointing down the line of that ditch. Their weapon, an MG 42 rated at 1200 rounds per minute, almost twice as fast as the Bren, could, in the narrow confine of the ditch do considerable slaughter. There was no way the man behind the gun could miss the unsuspecting approaching platoon.

At 25 yards range the enemy Fusilier squeezed the trigger, the gun ripping off a long burst. 400 steel jacketed slugs slammed into the bodies of the lead two sections. Twelve men died instantly, their bodies literally torn apart in the slash of bullets. Back along the column, others a little slower to react to the 'ripping canvas' sound of the gun, threw themselves onto the slick sides of the ditch, but they delayed only by seconds their own deaths. Somewhere in that pile of torn bodies was that of the 17 year old Windsor lad. He was too young to have to die in battle. . .He was too young to die at any time. He, like so many countless others of our generation had been denied by the cruel fates of war to reach manhood, to love, to marry, to raise a family, to enjoy all those things that we as survivors have taken for granted. And so, in eternal thankfulness to God that somehow we were spared a similar fate and allowed to live out our lives as He had intended, it is only fit and proper that on Remembrance Day we should pause and pay tribute to their supreme sacrifice.

I've taken the liberty of describing the last moments in the life of one inordinately young Canadian who represents the hundred thousand and more other Canadians who laid down their lives in War. I have done this for a reason, that reason being that it is much easier to focus one thoughts onto one individual than onto a faceless multitude. In remembering one. . .you remember all.

THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE

2012-03-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

I now write a word of thanks and appreciation
Of those young people, of this generation
Who performed the scene of World War I
With such emotion, and so well done.

To display at their age, a happening so long ago
Made you feel that you were there
While listening to what was said, and rightly so
An emotional state of mind, to share.

The feelings and the happenings, that took place
So long ago on this planet, where now we grow
In hopes that we will never endure or face
The seed of torment, man seems to sow.

Those young people in the play, perfectly did display
By why and what was said, in those times of dread
For those you loved and had to say
Goodbye, hoping and praying that you're alive instead.

What this play to me, a Veteran, with thoughts I can't forget
Was the way, those young people with tears, did display
Beyond their years, awareness and emotions with regret
For those who paid the price, for them before their day.

Many, many thanks and appreciation, and God Bless
All who in any way, made the play a huge success
In my heart and memory, you'll forever live
As an inspiration, with all the thanks, I can give.

Written by John White, a Veteran of World War II

Remembering Harry

2012-03-10T11:53:00.004-05:00

Photo by Sam Meddaka

It finally hit me. I couldn't convince myself that Harry was gone. And to think, just on Friday he was chomping at the bit for something to do to keep him busy. I think he was meant to live this long, and maybe the pneumonia he had before Christmas could have taken him then. This play production was something that he was meant to see. I came home today and thought to myself, what have I done..? Compared to a Veteran who fought for his country, praised his country and at the age of 96 was in the hospital with internal bleeding and called his buddies to let them know he wanted to be home in a week, working again. Harry Major was a true man. Here I am a very young girl wondering, what have I done? Compared to this true man, it feels like I have done nothing. I am very happy to have had the opportunity to work with Harry, to have had advice from him and to have had any kind of relationship with him. He was a man with a very warm heart. He will certainly be truly missed.

Kelsey Prosser
Windsor Historical Society
Veterans Memories Project

I have not known Harry very long - but will have many memories of him. HARRY WAS A MAN WHO WAS ALWAYS ' THERE', whatever or where ever he could help he did not have to be asked twice. He was a great spokesman and the Veterans Memory Project was dear to his heart. I am sure he was never happier than when he was talking to school children or new immigrants at their Citizenship Court. He served his country to the end. I thank Harry too, for his book a lasting gift to us. God Bless -we will miss you so much.

Priscilla and Guy

I remember Harry and his rants about our city's Lancaster. The passion in this man was without a doubt boundless. At his passing we as a city and as a nation have truly lost a soldier and a gentleman. He is in good company and has left a legacy in our High Schools that will be missed. Carry On Harry - you have passed the torch and it will be held high and carried on.

Kenneth Garlick
Massey Secondary
Secondary Teacher

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of our friend Harry. A truly great Canadian and man. I wish I knew him better. I did not get to work with him that much, which I regret. What I remember about him is the twinkle in his eye and his winning smile. One of my fondest memories of him is when we went as a group to heritage village. During the trip there and back, Harry entertained the group with his songs, harmonica, and jokes. A great memory for me and the others. He was truly one of a kind. Harry has slipped the mortal bonds of earth and now flies with his old comrades in the heavens, a well deserved rest. God bless you Harry, thanks for all you have done for us. I will miss you and I am very proud to have known you.

Andrew Rodgers

When I learned of the passing of Mr. Harry Major, I was filled with emotions that went well beyond mere sadness. You see, Mr. Major was a Canadian Air Force veteran who was over 90 years of age. My late father would also be in his 90s if he was still alive and he too was a Canadian Air Force Veteran. So when I heard of Harry' s passing, a piece of me died today along with him. I felt a special bond with Harry because he reminded me so much of my father and everything that is really neat between a father and a son. No, I was not his son but in many ways, it felt like I was. Harry Major was a most humble, courteous, and sincere a person as you will ever meet on this earth and his loss is not just ours who knew him but our whole country of Canada as well. GOD' s blessings to you, Harry...I will miss you but will always have the joy for having met you and gotten to know you.

Very Sincerely,
Barry Horrobin

Harry was a man whom I liked from the moment I met him. He always had a welcoming smile and a comforting manner. His devotion to Pat was so obvious it made one envious of her. As a Veteran, there are few to equal his passion for the support and care of his comrades. He was a wealth of information and he will be remembered in the minds and hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Doris Kelly

Not Forgotten

There are times, we feel depressed
When unexpectedly we loose a friend
Of whom you have a great respect
A memory loss, that never ends.

Our Harry was one of a kind
Who spoke his mind, in true display
At his age quite able to unwind
With respect and appreciation of others, was his way.

Now for each and all of us, there will be a loss
Of one, who though has gone away
Will in time, our paths will cross
And be with us, forever and a day.

Written by your friend John White, Veteran WWII In memory of Harry

Our community lost another of our WW II Veterans. 90 year old Flight Sergeant Harry Major C.D. was one of the last voices of his generation, having served in the RAF/RCAF Bomber Command. We first met Harry Major when the decision to move the City of Windsor Lancaster memorial was placed in the hands of a citizen's committee, as a recommendation to City Council.

This articulate outspoken man immediately put us all on notice as to his feelings for our Lancaster and where it should be displayed. He felt strongly that it should be placed on the waterfront under a plexiglas dome. He saw us as incapable of truly understanding, the trial by fire that he and his friends endured. He felt we were naive to think we could undertake such an important restoration.

He spoke with the authoritative confidence of a Veteran who performed maintenance on this type of aircraft, eventually serving as a crew member on multi-engine bombers.

At times he wept as he spoke, we knew he was thinking of his friends. He made sure we understood the Lancaster was an emotional symbol. A tribute to the men and women he knew, who built, flew and died in similar aircraft.

In the end the committee decided that this important memorial would travel to Windsor Airport in the care and stewardship of the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. He grudgingly accepted the committee's decision.

After visiting our hangar/museum, understanding the level of restoration, the emotional commitment to honouring our Veterans and our desire to educate the next generation he became an ardent supporter of our work and we fell in love with Harry.

He has been re-united with his squadron mates now; we hope he'll watch over us and consider the Lancaster Restoration Group as part of his legacy.

Thank you Harry.

Per Ardua ad Astra

S Michael Beale

"Blue Suit", member,

Lancaster Restoration Group

So, another one of our really great veterans have gone to join that great white company in the sky.
Harry was my type of individual, always friendly and loved to talk with me about our experiences in the war.
It was a privilege to know Harry, even if it turned out to be too short a time. But there is a time when all must walk on that final journey. God granted me and Harry a long life, and with that in mind I would not dread that last day. Old soldiers never die. And now, my salute to Harry Major. I am sure God will have something important for Harry to do. You can't keep a good man down.

Stan Scislowski

Powerful performance

2012-03-10T11:45:00.005-05:00

BY KARL AND FLO LOVETT, WINDSOR STAR JANUARY 3, 2011

The Walkerville students performed a moving re-enactment of the Great War. It was called a Christmas Truce, the night a true miracle was witnessed and war ceased for a short while. The young actors were very powerful in their performances and portrayed real life events in the lives of many soldiers and their families and the devastation they were left to bear after.

After the performance was over, I went to speak with some of these young actors to commend them for their excellence in bringing to life the true devastation of war. They appreciated my praise but they said, "It wasn't about them. It was for the Veterans who sacrificed so much that we may live in freedom."

I would like to say thank you to all Veterans and give you a big hug. God bless you and Merry Christmas.

Karl and Flo Lovett,

Windsor

Performance honours veterans

2012-03-10T11:45:00.001-05:00

BY HARRY W. MAJOR, WINDSOR STAR JANUARY 5, 2011

My family and I along with many Veterans and their families were fortunate to have watched a great play presented by students of Walkerville high school at the new Windsor Armouries. What a terrific performance these students put on for all of us veterans. The play itself was so true to the actual event that I am sure there were many tears among all the veterans in seeing this presentation by those very talented students.

I feel sure that all the veterans were as impressed as I because they all stormed the stage to shake hands and, yes, hug each one of these fine members of the cast.

Thanks to all those who deserve many accolades for the fine way our veterans have been recognized by everyone including The Windsor Star and its staff, the Windsor Historical Society, its helpers and staff, the Walkerville high school drama program and their very powerful presentation of The Christmas Truce, the leader Barry Horrobin, choreographer John Nabben and all those students; too many to be named here. Each one should be recognized for a great performance, second to none, all the cast made a superb presentation. Viewers were enthralled by this heart-rending play. I hope this play will continue to be made far and wide across this great country of ours, as no one could do it better than our local high school students who produced and acted out this whole presentation. My hat is off to each and everyone of you.

Fabulous! Well done, students and volunteers!

I see that we have lost another Canadian in the efforts of bringing peace throughout our world. We must never forget those people are all out there preserving the peace we all enjoy in this fine country of ours. We, as citizens, must always stay on guard that none of our precious values are taken from us. God bless our country and keep it safe.

Harry W. Major, Windsor

From myth to history

2012-03-10T11:44:00.004-05:00

Students re-enact wartime ceasefire for Christmas

BY TED SHAW, WINDSOR STAR DECEMBER 16, 2010

Kaitlyn Pindus, left, Phoenix Ouellette and Danielle Beauchamp, centre right, and other cast members of Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts Drama program perform scenes from A Christmas Truce - A Life of a Coin, a dramatic play directed by John Anthony Nabben Tuesday, December 14, 2010.
Photograph by: Nick Brancaccio, The Windsor Star

With the help of local historians, students from Walkerville high school this week are re-enacting a famous incident from the First World War with an antiwar theme. The Christmas Truce, A Life of a Coin is based on an event that took place in France early in the First World War -- on Dec. 24, 1914 -- in which 100,000 German, Scottish and French soldiers agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire over Christmas. There are 40 Walkerville students in the production to be staged today through Saturday at the Major F.A. Tilston Armoury and Police Training Centre, 4007 Sandwich St. Documented testimony from soldiers on both sides lifts this story from the status of myth to history. A big budget 2005 French-English film, Joyeux Noel, depicted the same incident.

Barry Horrobin, a volunteer for Windsor Historical Society, asked Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts drama teacher John Anthony Nabben to bring it to life on the stage. "This is a terrific story that needs to be told to later generations," said Horrobin, whose interest in the history of the 20th century's two world wars was sparked in part by both his father and grandfather, who were Canadian Army veterans. His daughter, Brooke, a Grade 12 student at Walkerville, completes the circle as one of the actors in the play.

The play is a co-production of Windsor Heritage Society's Veterans Memories Project and WCCA. To avoid comparison with the film, WCCA's Nabben came up with a concept he hopes will make A Christmas Truce relevant to veterans who attend the play and students at the four school performances. "It's a challenge to keep the memory of the efforts of the veterans intact and also deliver an antiwar message," said Nabben.

His idea was to transform the drill hall into a giant war museum.

"As the audience walks in, they see the students dressed as soldiers or nurses standing silent like statues. Then the lights go down and they come alive onstage." He was also inspired by Greek drama in which actors in character address the audience. "We tell the story of what led up to that moment and how it affected those who took part in it," Nabben said.

The result, according to Horrobin, is a cross between a Remembrance Day ceremony and a Christmas pageant. The play features several popular songs from the First World War, sung and performed onstage.

The play opens with scenes that depict the horrors of war. "You can't just tell a story like this," Nabben said, "without putting it into context."

According to several eye witnesses, the incident began about 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve when members of the German forces began to sing Stille Nacht, or Silent Night. Scottish and French troops soon joined the chorus in their languages. Eventually, the two sides traded singing carols. The next day, forces held a joint service to bury their dead, and there were even reports of an impromptu soccer match. As one German soldier later wrote: "Thus Christmas, the celebration of love, managed to bring mortal enemies together as our friends for a time."

School performances of A Christmas Truce take place today and Friday at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $3 at the door.

Public performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $15. The first 100 war veterans will be admitted free.

For more details, call 519-564-7646 or email info@windsorhistoricalsociety.com.

Christmas Truce overpowering play

2012-03-10T11:44:00.000-05:00

BY MICKEY MOULDER, WINDSOR STAR DECEMBER 27, 2010

Where were you? If your answer is that you were not at the Christmas Truce play put on by our own Walkerville High School and performed at the new armoury on Sandwich Street, then you lost out.

Never have I seen such a poignant and well-presented historical musical. There were few dry eyes in the house and the standing ovations that followed each performance told the tale of how much the audience was moved. Professionalism, sadness, historical, entertaining, remembrance, pride, emotion, enjoyment and respect come to mind.

From the moment the play opened when the acting troupe, as one, saluted the veterans, one felt that this was going to be a special show. The play quickly unfolded and beautifully represented the euphoria and excitement that rang out across Canada when war was declared in August 1914. But then, the story expanded and steadily drew the audience away from those first few weeks of naivete and gleeful exhilaration that engulfed our nation's youth who signed up for king and country. The sadness left behind after the soldiers departed for England in late 1914 and the fearful dread of not receiving the next letter from a loved one who was now fighting and dying on the western front, becomes all too prevailing and mournful. Much of this is set to music, with song and first-class acting. You could hear and feel the sobbing and tearful laments ringing out not just on stage but in front, beside and behind you right there in the audience. The last gasp of 19th century chivalry that dared show itself on that Christmas Day in 1914 was expertly captured by the Walkerville actors. The coming together of mortal combatants to sing, eat and play together for a few brief hours before once again settling down to killing each other, was there for all to see and hear.

The Windsor Historical Society and everyone connected with this overpowering performance during this Christmas season are to be congratulated. Bravo. Bravo, indeed!

Mickey Moulder, Tecumseh

Christmas Truce Memorable

2012-03-10T11:43:00.003-05:00

Cast members from the Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts Drama perform in a scene from A Christmas Truce, based on a true story about a wartime ceasefire among 100,000 German, Scottish and French soldiers during Christmas 1914.
Photograph by: Nick Brancaccio, The Windsor Star, Windsor Star

The Windsor Historical Society, Veterans Memories Project was honoured and pleased to assist in bringing Christmas Truce live drama to the stage recently in the fitting, military setting of the Major F.A. Tilston Armoury.

More than 1,000 students were fortunate enough to attend the matinee productions with chaperones and teachers. Eight hundred adults who attended the evening performances were treated to a spectacular performance and were emotionally moved to tears and sobbing as were the veterans. The Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts Drama production led by John Nabben, 15 assistants and 41 talented and devoted students accomplished something much greater than any of us had expected. It was something the students both performing and those attending will likely remember for the rest of their lives as well, parents, teachers and veterans.

Some compliments we heard as guests were leaving were professional, sad, historical, wonderful, entertaining, phenomenal, emotional, memorable, uplifting, enjoyable and proud of Canada. It is the society's hope to be able to share this performance through our website with photographs, film, DVD or better yet, a possible repeat performance.

A sincere thank you to every participant in the play. You have made an enormous impression on everyone.

Dann Bouzide, And Barry Horrobin, Windsor Historical Society.

Christmas Truce an inspiring show

2012-03-10T11:42:00.003-05:00

BY JOSEPH GATFIELD, WINDSOR STAR JANUARY 4, 2011

Re: Christmas Truce overpowering play by Mickey Moulder, December 27.

In answer to Mr. Moulder's question, I was there. I want to echo his comments. A Christmas Truce was a most incredible performance. Those young people portrayed emotions not to be duplicated. They brought the reality of all emotions to life, the good, the bad and the ugly of what happened in 1914 and in war today. The real tribute to them was the veterans saluting and paying verbal tribute to them afterwards. I only wish it could have been an ongoing production for all to see.

My congratulations to the Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts, the director and the students -- as well as the historical society -- for the "museum" and the "performance," all done with the utmost of professionalism and respect.

Joseph Gatfield,

Windsor

Moss, William

2012-03-10T11:25:00.003-05:00

U.S Army Artillery
Served: 1951-1953 in Korean War

Lappa, William

2012-03-10T11:24:00.005-05:00

Bill served with the Canadian Regiment Airborne Division from 1951 to 1954. He was trained in Petawawa and then Wainright, Alberta. They were there for 3 months before having a month's leave and then left for Korea. He is still amused when he recalls the "ship" that they travelled in and called it a "terrible boat". As soon as they arrived, he was placed on guard duty and being so tired he thought he saw an enemy moving around in the shadows. When his relief came, William told the relief who asked if William had shot at the enemy. William said that the figure had not moved so he didn't shoot at it. In the morning, the two realized that it was trees being swayed by the wind and not an enemy at all. One of the other things he remembered was that the Koreans often shot something known as mortar and because of the sound it made it often alerted them of the Koreans' presence. One morning, William was close to being hit but he ducked just in time. Unfortunately, the mortar hit a bunker where another soldier was and the solder died of a concussion.

Jones, William

2012-03-10T11:24:00.001-05:00

He enlisted in the Royal Corps of Transportation at the age of 18 and served a total of 12 years from 1948-1960. He was stationed in England, Hong-Kong and Singapore. He also spent time in Malaysia and received his general service medal with Malaysia embossed on the bar. He experienced riding out a typhoon for five days in Hong Kong with winds of 162 M.P.H.

Briscoe, William

2012-03-10T11:23:00.002-05:00

William served with the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, being posted in England, Scotland and Africa; while his wife was in England. He worked with the mechanical areas of the plane despite being trained as a gunner and a bomber. He helped establish flying schools in South Africa.

Renaud, Wilfred

2012-03-10T11:22:00.007-05:00

Wilfred's brother was an air force fighter pilot who was shot down and became a German P.O.W. His sister was in the Navy, and stationed in England. Wilfred lied about his age, then only 15 and joined the army. He only got as far as Woodstock and for a year ended up picking up garbage, shovelling coal and keeping the camp clean. He ended up telling his mother that he was not satisfied with his job. So she went to the Colonel, told him how old Wilfred really was, and got him discharged.

Royal Canadian Army
Served: 1942 - 1943 in Canada

Carmen, Victor

2012-03-10T11:22:00.001-05:00

Victor enlisted when he was 18 and served with the Royal Air Force. He was posted in Canada, United Kingdom and South Africa, serving from 1939-1946. He was stationed in Norfolk, United Kingdom in 1940. One Sunday he was walking along when he sat a plane with a string of bombs falling from it. He recalls that after the bombs had exploded he was about 15 feet from where he had been.

Abrash, Thomas

2012-03-10T11:21:00.003-05:00

Tom was in the navy during the Second World War. One of the ships he was on he was in the wheel house. He dealt with telegrams which told whoever was steering the ship, how fast to go and what direction to go. He remembers being allowed to steer the ship only when they were not in action.

Antaya, Theodore

2012-03-10T11:20:00.005-05:00

Theodore Antaya was born December 9th, 1932. He served with the Canadian Armed Forces under the direction of the United Nations in the Korean War. His service lasted for 6 years and 6 months. At the age of 20, he was deployed to Korea in 1952. He stated that he detested every moment of his deployment. He commented on the many homeless Koreans and the wide-spread hunger, as well as the extreme weather conditions that the soldiers had to live through. He stated that he and other veterans fought to have the conflict in Korea as a war; it was always referred to as a peace-keeping mission. It took 35 years before he and other Korean veterans received a Korean Service Badge from the Canadian Minister of Veteran Affairs. In addition to this badge, he received the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea and the Syngman Rhee Medal. He also belongs to a group of Korean Veterans who meet on a regular basis and organize fundraisers; the money raised is sent to an orphanage in Korea.

Lawton, Stanley

2012-03-10T11:20:00.000-05:00

Stanley was born June 9 th , 1925 and at the age of 14 he left school. His widowed mother had taken in a lodger who worked on a ship and the man told her that he could get her son a job on his ship, the Thomas Holt, as a deck boy. The ship was sailing down the English Channel to Freedom town on the West Coast of Africa when war broke out. The service that Stanley joined was a silent service known as the Merchant Marine, which changed its name to the Merchant Navy. He sailed on many ships such as the Queen Mary and the Monarch of the Bermuda. In June 1942, he sailed from Liverpool, England on the Empire Governor - a captured ship. He was with the Merchant Marine for 8 years before he got married on April 9 th , 1944 at the age of 19. His greatest desire was to be close to his wife so he got a job first as a bus conductor and then a bus driver. He, his wife and their three children moved to Windsor, Ontario where he got a job working for McKinlay Transport for 30 years. His wife of 55 years passed away in May of 2000.

Scislowski, Stan

2012-03-10T11:19:00.001-05:00

"Too many veterans punish their families. Not intentionally, but they punish them and punish themselves, because they pretend that the war didn't happen. They pretend the war didn't happen, and it did. So, and I know one guy at our legion, he says "I don't wanna talk about it, Stan." and I said, Steve, that's the whole problem. You put those memories in the dark closet of your mind, pretend it didn't happen. But those memories are hammering on that door. They've been hammering since the day you put them there. And he looked at me, and put his hand out. And he's felt so much better since.
Like I said, God made me talkative, I guess. Maybe I'm able to write. But I let it all hang out. I've never had nightmares. If I dream about the war, I wake up exhilarated; "boy, I fought a good fight, that one."

I release any ghosts that might be in me through my writing. Tell it like it is."

Some articles Stan wrote:

World War II Memoirs from Canada by Stan Scislowski, "An Anniversary of Sorts"

"Cassino and the War Cemetery" An article written by Stan, where he recounts the bombing of the original Benedictine Abbey at Monte Cassino and visiting the cemetery there 30 years later.

Stan recounts the sinking of the Lancastria, which was the single greatest marine disaster suffered by the British in World War Two.

"Hurricane Hazel" On October 15, 1954 Hurricane Hazel ripped through the Toronto area, and in this article Stan describes what it was like to be in the area when it was happening.

Jones, Stan W.

2012-03-10T11:16:00.004-05:00

Stan was a wireless operator in the 101 Squadron of the Royal Air Force. He was born in London, England, where at the age of 18 young men were called to service. After basic training, he went down to #2 radio school where for eight months he learned Morse code and transmitting and receiving. He graduated as a sergeant and went to Northern Ireland to the Advanced Flying Unit.

After a month in Ireland he went back to England and was posted to Abbington, Yorkshire, where he found himself in a crew with Canadians. Though he was surprised to not be in a crew with his fellow Englishmen, he and the Canadians got along well. He had some difficulty after the war but he was able to get a job as a driver. He passed away after speaking to students at Vincent Massey High School in May of 2009.

Murray, Robert

2012-03-10T11:15:00.005-05:00

Robert served with the Royal Air Force from 1938-1950, enlisting at the age of 17. He enjoyed learning how to synchronize a machine gun to fire through the rotating propeller of a Bi-plane. He worked in the trade of the fitter armor, so once the war started, he began working 14-18 hour shifts in order to make sure the Lockhead Hudson bomber was fully equip with gun turrets, gun sights, bomb carriers etc. His last squadron was a Mosquito bomber squadron, which was the busiest during the war. During his time, he developed a practice bomb carrier which could be assembled in fifteen minutes rather than the usual hour or two. It was tested and approved by his Commanding Officer; one of the proudest moments of Robert's life.
He recalls when the war was declared over and he led his companions in a procession around the mess halls of the camp, while playing a sad lament for those to celebrate with them. He rightly states that "The navy, army, air force and merchant seaman deserve the recognition accorded to them on the 11th of November. Lest we forget."

Elford, Robert

2012-03-10T11:13:00.005-05:00

Robert Elford recalls being impressed with the Navy. He saw the battle ships and thought to himself that he would like to get on one of them and be a part of it. However, when Elford joined the Navy he was stationed with the Defensively Equipped Merchant Ships (DEMS). Once they were part of a small convoy in the North Sea, when a huge storm hit. The convoy scattered and in the morning no other ship could be seen. The storm continued to get worse, and by the time Elford and his shipmates were 150 miles off the coast of Iceland they were facing sixty foot waves. They were getting all kinds of S.O.S. calls, but with the boat close to capsizing, they could barely help themselves. All the lifeboats were torn off the ship, and everything on the port side of the boat was gone, almost "as if someone had taken a knife, cut everything loose and let it float away."

Served: 1943 - 1945 in Halifax, WWII

Denham, Robert

2012-03-10T11:13:00.000-05:00

Robert enlisted at the age of 19 and served with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserves for 4 years. He was station the Mediterranean and North Atlantic. He served aboard the H.M.S. Tumult, a British destroyer in the Mediterranean from 1942-1944. Then he was on a minesweeper, the H.M.S. Tattoo, in the North Atlantic from 1944-1946 where he sustained a head wound and thigh wounds. He said that "the most amazing thing to me on D-Day was the sky; you could not see it because there were hundreds of Allied planes."

Austin, Robert

2012-03-10T11:12:00.002-05:00

Bob was born February 11th, 1921 in Garston, a suburb of Liverpool England. He moved to Canada in 1930 and spent his life in Windsor. War-time service was something that ran in his family. His father Robert James Austin served in the British Royal Navy in WWI and his brother served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII as an air frame mechanic. Bob tried to join the Royal Canadian Airforce in 1940 but he was turned down. He had some army training but was more useful in Industry. He began working for the Ford Company in 1941 as an Engineer Technician; he was involved in the engineering and testing of experimental engines. He contiuned working for Ford even after the war, speninding a total of 39 years with the company.

Why Vimy Ridge?

2012-03-09T20:18:00.001-05:00

Written By: Jacob Miller

Your ears are at the mercy of what sounds like the thumping of a large drum in a local marching band. The low and heavy vibrations tickle your ears. But it doesn't bother you now; such a condition has persisted for the past week. The constant shelling illuminates the night sky as you cut chunks of bread with your bayonet blade, knowing this may serve as your last meal. You figure sleeping will not help you, because waking with dulled senses will only hinder your chances of survival on the following morning. Thoughts race through your head. Nobody plans on dying, but many will.

"Why we Canadians? Why do we have to risk slaughter? The Huns are no less prepared now then they were two years ago", and "Even if this seizure is successful, what's not to believe that it will be simply retaken days later and our efforts in vain?"

These questions that saturate your mind, coupled with thoughts of the home front, ambush your thinking at sporadic instances during your duty. While your mind is heavy, you mechanically lift yourself from the mud of the trenches and stand in formations that are all too familiar. Your commander reiterates the specific objectives which are assigned to you to accomplish, as the constant barrage of shells from your own artillery thunders overhead. This is soon to serve as cover for your advance into No Man's Land. No more simulation .No more practice. These were your last piece of bread, your last bowl of soup, your last canister of raisins and your last generous dose of rum--all have been consumed.

A sharp whistle followed by the holler, "Over the Top!" triggers the mass exit from the trenches into the mutilated landscape of war-torn France. There's the hill; you know it's your objective. However, the hard part is dodging the lead and shrapnel flying between you and safety. The mud shifts beneath your boots, hampering your ability to run at a desired pace. With abbreviated phrases, you try to communicate with your comrades. However such attempts are stonewalled by the language barrier between those running closely alongside.

It's no matter. Many drop around you. What would have been said is completely irrelevant. The columns of dust and smoke created by your own artillery fire mask both your ability to see the Hun in his fortifications and to use shell craters for refuge. You feel a sharp pain in your upper thigh but continue running until warm crimson soaks your khaki pant leg. You collapse, and crawl behind the skeletal remains of an artillery piece, realizing that you are at a loss for what action to take.

The ordeal mentioned above is only one of the many thousands of experiences Canadian soldiers endured at Vimy on Easter Monday, April 9th,1917. Much like the French wine which soldiers sipped during their breaks from duty, the decanting of the story of the Battle for Vimy Ridge gets better with age. The elements of British, German and Austro-Hungarian participation have long since been extracted. The rightful emphasis on Canadian sacrifice has come to the forefront. While the significance of the battle pertaining to the ultimate outcome of the war has been debated, Canadian authorities and citizens rarely spare reservation in hoisting the success at Vimy Ridge as the moment that sparked the era of modernity in Canadian nationalism. Previous to Vimy, Canadian identity is often seen as shackled to that of Great Britain.

As the Nation's Second World War Veterans age and fade into the past, Canada is scrambling to find a strong link and meaning to what occurred in the second as well as the first great global conflict. While many Canadian citizens are children and grandchildren of those who served between 1939 and 1945, what now for those who are the descendants the Veterans of the Great War? It often feels as though they were
downplayed to accommodate their sons and daughters who served in the second great conflict. To prevent such exclusion, accomplishments such as Vimy Ridge serve to remind us that Canada stood apart from Great Britain and broke through the shadow cast on our nation by the more populous United States. Vimy illustrated the nature of Canada's true potential on the world stage that so many young Canadians forget once existed. Vimy served as a beacon of national pride at a time when the nation was seen as an underachieving royal colony. Men and resources rose to the challenge when the world called upon Canada.

Today, the towering pillars of the Vimy Memorial pierce the sky atop Hill 145 in France. What was once a landscape like most others during the Great War, the Vimy Memorial has become a structure that illustrates Canada's obligation to remember those 11,285 soldiers whose names may be recorded but their final resting place is unknown. The memorial does not project the silver lining of victory but rather an image of sorrow, commemoration and meditation for those charging to their deaths for little other reason than serving their nation when called. Canada's history is not one to suggest that accomplishment is born through conflict, but rather one that distinguishes itself from royal and American influence in periods when volatile tensions erupt into open hostility.

In a time of ethnic plurality and religious as well as political division, Vimy Ridge stands as a testament to how strong Canada can be through emphasis on united action rather than internal division. If the solider in the opening segment were with Canada today, there is a good chance he would agree.

Written in memory of those who made their sacrifice and their descendants who no longer need to wonder why.

The H.M.S. Nabob

2012-03-09T20:17:00.001-05:00

Written By: Steven L. Dycha

During the Second World War there were two escort carriers that were manned by Canadians. They were the H.M.S. Nabob and the H.M.S. Puncher. The Nabob was torpedoed of North Cape Norway on the 22nd August, 1944. The British Destroyer Bickerton took a torpedo that was meant for the Nabob but missed. They had to sink the Destroyer Bickerton because it was too severally damaged.

Captain Lay gave orders for the ship's crew to assemble on the flight deck to get ready to abandon ship. Then he announced that there was a good chance to save the ship and they were going to try to do so. The engine room crew got the ventilator fans working, smoke and fumes were cleared from the engine room and for hours after the explosion the ship was slowly making way through the water. Across 1100 miles of unfriendly seas and through the ever present threat of enemy U-boats and enemy aircraft, Captain Lay brought her in.

After the explosion there were 11 Canadian dead or mission and 5 were injured. Also there were 10 British sailors killed and 1 injured.

After the war, the H.M.S. Nabob was sold to Germany. They converted her into a merchant ship and officer training ship of the Lloyd Line and sailed under the name of S.S. Nabob.

After 30 years of service in 1978 the Nabob was sent to the ship breaker where she was broken up.

The Great Escape

2012-03-09T20:13:00.004-05:00

Written By: Nathan Garland

This is a true story about my Grandfather, Melvin Garland, who fought in World War Two as a fighter pilot. When he was eighteen he was sent to the east coast to train for the war. He was then shipped off to Europe to join the Allied forces in battle.

It was an exciting strafing mission (to take out enemy gas trucks by swooping and firing) over the volatile landscape of France.

"I'm going in" blurted his wingman.

"I'm right behind you" confirmed Bing (my grandpa's code name)

Both allied and enemy machine guns were firing rapidly. BANG, BANG, BANG, SPLAT. "I'm hit" yelled Bing "I'm going back to base." as he radioed his wingman.

"Are you sure you can make it?" asked the wondrous wingman.

"Sure as I'll ever be." Bing replied.

"Over and out." Bang, bang, bang, waaaa waaaa waaaa the whole entire cockpit went red in a split second. Bing was hit and going down fast. No time to radio and not much room to get out. He punched the top of the cockpit out and hopped on to the seat. Just as he jumped the engine exploded sending a ton of scrap metal every where. Some of the metal hit him in the buttocks leaving a permanent mark. He frantically tried to open his first parachute, it wouldn't open. Then he pulled the reserve chute which caught him and slowed his fall to a gentle drop. As he landed safely on the ground, he instantly let go of the parachute and hopelessly began to run before he was aimed down by enemy guns. He was now a prisoner of war.

The prisoners were moved at night and were hid in barns during the day. They were fed meager rations of rice and water. Just enough to keep them alive. They suffered through dysentery and many other horrible diseases. If a prisoner fell behind, they weren't spared. While they were moved they put into enemy trucks, which were a favourite target of the allies, and were fired on. So at any given time he could be blown to pieces by his comrades, (pretty sneaky). They got to the camp three weeks later. As they were sleeping, the camp was raided by the allies and the prisoners escaped through as under ground way back to London where they were shipped back to Canada.

That is the story of my Grandpa who was a fighter pilot. If he wasn't the hero that is he is, my Dad, his five brothers and sisters or my fifteen cousins would not be here today.

Sgt. Jeff Gravel

2012-03-09T20:13:00.000-05:00

Written by: Unknown

Sergeant Jeff Gravel served two tours of duty in Afghanistan. His wartime experiences are indicative of both the changing nature of modern warfare and the sacrifices which our Canadian soldiers are making to help the people of Afghanistan.
Gravel enlisted in the army at the age of eighteen. Like many other young recruits, he joined both to serve his country and to provide for a college education. After ten weeks of basic training, during which Gravel forged strong friendships with his comrades that helped carry them through the rigors of the experience, he was deployed to Afghanistan in early 2002.

            Shortly after his arrival, Gravel's regiment was involved in the infamous friendly-fire incident of April 17, 2002 which claimed the lives of four Canadian soldiers. "That was a big wake-up call for a lot of people," Gravel states. In an effort to explain the incident Gravel says that, "what you're briefed on eight hours prior [to the mission] isn't necessarily the situation on the ground half a day later."

            Based out of Kandahar in the south of Afghanistan during his first tour, Gravel's regiment experienced sporadic fighting. "Warfare has changed," he says, "there were few instances of direct combat with the enemy." With long stretches of downtime, Gravel and his comrades passed the time playing dominoes, maintaining their base camp and talking with one another. "I had friendships fostered over two weeks that were stronger than friendships that developed over twenty years."

            One thing Gravel and the other soldiers had trouble adjusting to was the stifling heat of the Afghani summer. Temperatures were in excess of one hundred degrees Fahrenheit on a regular basis.

            Gravel's second tour of duty took him to Kabul, the bustling Afghan capital in the northeast of the country. In contrast to his first tour, Gravel's time in Kabul was more physically and psychologically taxing. The hectic and congested streets of the capital are ideal terrain for the Taliban to use tactics such as suicide bombers and rocket-propelled grenades. However, the links which the Canadian army forged with the local population eventually helped reduce the danger in some areas. "Not everything is done with bullets, we're building a lot of schools and wells."

            Gravel speaks warmly of the Afghan people, saying that they desire peace like anybody else. He says that for the most part the locals were friendly and accommodating, inviting the soldiers into their homes for a cup of tea. The one thing that stuck out in Sgt. Gravel's mind where the Afghan children. "Children are like children anywhere," Gravel says, "you try your best to make them smile." He sees the children as the key to the future of a peaceful Afghanistan, "Maybe we can all get along if we start with the kids.that way in the future they won't grow up to hate Westerners."

            Sgt. Gravel continues to serve the Canadian army as a member of the Essex-Kent Scottish regiment.   Gravel works as a veterans' counselor, helping other vets to cope with their wartime experiences.

Protecting the Sea Lane

2012-03-09T20:11:00.005-05:00

Written By: Martin Bondy

One seaman's personal account
Speaking in a family room festooned with Matane memorabilia, Martin Bondy told his story of being a seaman on the frigate HMCS Matane, and recalled with great pride how his beloved ship had, with assistance, sunk the German submarine U-311, on April 22, 1944, in the north Atlantic.

Near the end of May, Bondy said, the Matane had been ordered into "strike force" readiness. "The commander didn't give us any details. We knew we were going into a different operation. There was something big coming."

As it turned out, their new task took them right into the heart of battle. They were to protect the western approaches of the English Channel, off the French coast, intercepting and destroying any German submarines or ships that they encountered.

While patrolling the German-occupied French coast near the town of Brest, the Matane on occasion would move close to shore, immediately drawing fire from Nazi gun emplacements.

"The Germans were firing at us," said Bondy. "You could see the 16-inch shells falling in the water."

And then on June 6, 1944, the Allies launched their massive D-Day assault against Hitler's formidable military, landing on the nearby beaches of Normandy, France. This event evoked a mixture of euphoria and apprehension all across Nazi-occupied Europe.

When D-Day dawned, Bondy and his shipmates were still patrolling channel approaches. They now had the added responsibility of protecting the largest amphibious assault ever. More than 2 million Allied soldiers awaited transport from England to Normandy. They were supported by approximately 4,000 landing craft, 3,500 amphibious vehicles, 8,000 planes, and 284 major warships.

And later that day when word began to spread that the Allies had landed, the young men aboard the Matane felt both elation and trepidation. "We had a feeling it might shorten the war," reflected Bondy. "But there was no time for celebration. We knew our forces were now in France. But we didn't know if it would be a success."

The battle of Normandy was still raging and the Matane, along with Canadian frigates Swansea, Meon, and Stormont, were still providing cover, when, on July 20, 1944, the German Luftwaffe tried to destroy the convoy.

The HMCS Matane is hit!

That evening, while patrolling the French coast near Brest, Bondy was doing messenger duty and had just finished piping the ship's crew that "enemy action stations" would be held from 2100 hours until dusk, when suddenly and unexpectedly, three German "junkers" appeared and began releasing radio-controlled glider bombs-six in all. The first one hit the water near the HMCS Meon, situated on the Matane's starboard side, the explosion lifting its stern right out of the water.

Fire was immediately returned. "However, judging from the tracer shells from our 20mm Oerlikon antiaircraft guns," related Bondy, "we could not reach the planes, so we had to concentrate on hitting their incoming glider bombs instead. Suddenly we could see a bomb coming directly at us! It struck our ship's upper structure, then deflected downward into the sea, exploding near the waterline. The explosion blew a hole in the port side (left rear), flooding the engine room, and causing the boiler to burst. The latter caused a rush of hot steam to pour forth, shrouding us briefly in a fog. If the bomb had landed just 20 feet inboard it would have gone down our magazine hatch, and the ship would have been destroyed."

The bomb's blast exacted a high price. The officer's steward, Paul Aucoin, was killed instantly, and the signalman, Doug Waterhouse, was blown out to sea. Leading stoker Scotty Laing drowned with the flooding of the engine room, and the blast from the boiler scalded engine room artificer (mechanic) James Cole to death.

No. 4 Bombing and Gunnery School

2012-03-09T20:10:00.001-05:00

Written By: Paul Laforet

On February 16, 1944 I was posted to No. 4 Bombing Gunnery School, Fingal, as a staff officer to train Airmen.

We conducted ground school classes in bombing techniques and took two students at a time on bombing missions over targets at Dutton, Fromeand Melbourne, Ontario. When a bomb was dropped, two houses near the targets, at right angles to each other, recorded the location. Plotting of the two locations at a specific time indicated the margin of error. Results were phoned in to the station, and after landing,, we discussed the results of students bomb drops. Further instruction if necessary took place.

Our class sizes were 12 and we lectured on drifts, bombsight usage, wind settings, switches in bomb bays etc. As well, bombing teachers were used in hangars to familiarize students regarding map reading and targets. A map was projected on o screen some thirty feet down. The student in a bombaimer position with a map would direct the controls to an appointed target, release a light signal which when reaching the artificial ground, stopped at the position that had been selected by the student. The margin of error was evident at this point as a pinpoint light was visible on the screen.

Air gunners were also receiving training by firing as we had at Paulson. They flew over Lake Erie near Port Stanley. Parades of course were regular occurrences; Wing parades were held each month for Gunners.

There were many accidents at Fingal. Snow was cleared from runways and just pushed aside. Wing tips would strike the high drifts and twist the aircraft. We had fatal accidents as well. One I remember was with Ivan Rees and three others. He was a good friend.

I was involved in two flights where engines caught fire during approaches. One was extinguished as the pilot made a sharp left turn. The other was put out by station firefighters on landing.

The war in Europe was winding down and orders came through that training be curtailed and stations closed. The closing of Fingal began before I received a posting for overseas duties.

I had flown 113 flights in Ansons at Fingal for 171:00 hours. My log book now read 247:40 day and 63:50 night for 311:30 total hours.

I will remember my affiliation with that wonderful station forever.

My Mediterranean Cruise

2012-03-09T20:09:00.001-05:00

Written By: George Mock

I was born in Ford City, (East Windsor) and have lived in Windsor all my life except for during my army service. I remember sitting in class at Gordon McGregor School watching the Essex Scottish do training in the fields, which later became the Ford Test Track.

My parents emigrated here from England; Mother was a servant for the Parson family in Walkerville and at one time, Dad was a gardener at Willistead and also worked at Walker Farms. Mother used to tell me the war would be over before I turned 18, which wasn't the case.

I was 19 when I was sent to Italy as part of reinforcements for the Royal Canadian Signal Corps. I was hoping to go to France to be with my brother, but we had no control over that.

Our outfit boarded a troop train in Aldershot in Southern England and we all wondered where we were heading. Not long after the train pulled out we realized that we were heading north. Eventually we would arrive in Greenock, Scotland. That meant we were not going to northern Europe and they certainly were not sending us home, leaving us to believe we would be heading to the Mediterranean, probably Italy. Conditions on the train were terrible. We used our greatcoats to keep warm.

Anchored in the Firth of Clyde was our troopship, the SS Chitral. She wasn't very large, only 14,000 tons compared to the Queen Mary at 81,000 tons. We were assigned to E Deck, the lowest deck on the ship just above the engine room. Our compartment held over 200, with bunks stacked 4 to 6 high.

After three days on board, we finally pulled out to sea. By daybreak we were in a storm, with the ship rolling and pitching - nearly two thirds of the 2000 troops (I was spared fortunately) were seasick. What a mess! When we were finally allowed on deck, the sight of being in a huge convoy was overwhelming. There were ships as far as the eye could see, along with many Corvettes for protection.

Days later we saw the northern coast of Spain and Gibraltar. The convoy then began going through the Straits of Gibraltar in single file while PBY Catalina's flew overhead on the look out for submarines.

Three days later we arrived at our seaport in Italy amongst bombed out ships, submarines and even a sunken Red Cross ship. It was Christmas Eve. After 14 days my Mediterranean cruise was over.

After we disembarked we were taken by train and then by transport to our depot in a bombed out building half way up a snow covered mountain. We arrived late that night in unbelievable cold.

On Christmas day, I was assigned to return to our troopship to help unload supplies and I did not return to the depot until late that night. I hadn't eaten all day and had also missed out on Christmas dinner.

When I finally did get some food it was so dark I had no idea what I was eating. I guess this is why I enjoy being with our children and grandchildren every Christmas and why it means so much more to me than anyone can imagine.

Memories of a Long Ago War

2012-03-09T20:07:00.005-05:00

Written By: Stan Scislowski

SO LONG TO CIVVY STREET
It was the summer of 1942, a summer as hot as any summer I'd ever sweated through. Along with the stifling heat ... the high humidity made
things even more unbearable. Summers in Essex County, known as the sun-parlour of Canada, can get to be pretty damned hot at times. The summers of the dirty thirties, stretching even into the early forties were especially hot. The summer of '42 was one of the hotter ones. A scorcher, let me tell you. In the years between 1932 and 1942 we'd gone through some of the hottest summers on record for this part of the country. But we weren't alone in feeling the heat. The whole continent suffered through the long, drawn-out heat-waves that brought on drought so severe in the southern Midwest states that they were turned into vast acres of dust-bowls. The Oklahoma dust-bowl was an extreme example of what it was like in those days. Even our own prairies were hard hit by the long spell of blistering heat and almost no rain. Farmers in the prairie wheat-belt in Saskatchewan saw their precious top-soil dry up into dust and blown away by the winds swirling over the once verdant fields. Many of the farmers went belly-up as their wheat and oat crops drooped stunted and parched in the desiccated fields. They were hard and hot times indeed. The depression added to the misery everyone was suffering through.

What made it tough for all of us trying to put up with the heat-wave was the fact that we didn't have the luxury of air-conditioning, as we take for granted nowadays. This necessity was a good ten and more years yet in the future. Electric fans were about the only way anyone could ease their discomfort somewhat, and anyone who could afford one, laid down the money. Most, however, couldn't even afford the five dollars or thereabout needed to buy an electric fan. Just to prove how hot it was in the summer of '42, the Star had a picture on the front page of one of its editions showing a man frying eggs on the sidewalk in front of the Prince Edward Hotel. No one had to remind each other just how hot it really was; the sweat pouring down our faces after even the slightest physical effort told us so. But as unbearably uncomfortable as it was at home in that summer of '42 even with all the windows wide open, it was a lot tougher on the people at work in factories, especially the foundries at Walker Metal and Auto Specialties and those sweating it out at Dominion Forge.

I don't know how these people ever got through the day without collapsing. As for myself, I know I couldn't have lasted an hour in that kind of hellfire heat and atmosphere. In fact there were times on the Chrysler loading dock where I'd recently gotten a job that I thought for sure I was going to keel over and 'kick the bucket'.

The Dirty Thirties

Before the big Wall Street crash in 1929, that economic upheaval that ushered in the depression, my father was working in the Ford foundry in what was then known as Ford City, later changed to East Windsor. It was as tough, dirty, hot, and stinking a job as any could be. Foundries in those days were a far cry from what they are today, what with no government environmental regulations and safety guide-lines to protect the health and welfare of the workers. In those days they were nothing less than hellholes of health-ruining smoke, soot, sand, and evil smelling, toxic gases. It was a miracle that workers lasted on the job as long as they did. Inside those incredibly grimy walls and polluted air, the labourers literally worked their asses off. Most foundry workers in those days were either Polish, Hungarians, or Ukrainians, along with a smattering of other ethnic reeds. But you never heard any of them complain about working conditions like they do nowadays. Today, even when the people work under the best of conditions they complain like hell, beg off sick, stay home with a mere cold as an excuse. In those days, if you didn't like your job and made too much noise about it and the boss got wind of it, you'd get your ass booted out of the place so fast it'd make your head swim. Management in the thirties took no guff from the workman, that's for sure. It's no wonder the unions came along. No one could afford to to lose their job, so no one made any noise that someone in the front might get to hear. Anybody who did, spent one hell of a long time looking for another, and it was more than likely he'd never find one anyway. And there was no Unemployment Insurance to carry people through till they did get a job 'which was unlikely anyway. In other words you and your family damn near starved.

To get on Relief or Welfare, as it's called today, was the only means of keeping a family from literally starving. Anyone who had a job was one of the luckier ones, and there was no way the lucky one was about to risk losing it by being an absentee or a 'shit-disturber'. He stuck with it no matter what. I heard that in some of the big plants, Fords especially, a foreman or a superintendent would approach some of their workers and demand a night in bed with their wives. If the poor guy refused ' good-bye job. Just like that! Now I don't know how true that was, but I heard of it often enough to give some credence to it. I guess, to the poor guy and his wife, a job was a job and if that's what they'd have to put up with to keep it, then that's the way it had to be. A dirty, rotten, lousy game! The pay cheque they brought home every Friday, however, was much too important to give up.

On Welfare Day after day after day of labouring in the poisonous atmosphere of Ford foundry, it was only natural that men would sicken, and that in the end a lot of them would die from wasted and diseased lungs. So it was with my father. He came down with a lung problem, most likely silicosis, and had to go on sick leave. Our family was able to get by food-wise only through groceries benevolently provided by Ford Motor Company for its sick leave workers. Every second Friday my brother Joe and I (Joe was 10 and I was a little under 8) made the long trek from our home on Parent Avenue near Tecumseh Road to a Ford Motor Company warehouse at the foot of Drouillard Road at Riverside Drive, and later to what became St. Luke Road Barracks to pick up our allotment of food for that period. What we picked up was just enough to provide a family of seven kids and a mother with enough food to squeak by on until the next pickup some two weeks hence. It was an awfully long haul for a couple of little undernourished boys like ourselves. As it so happened, on one occasion we ran out of the very last morsel of food, not even a bread-crumb to nibble on. We had to go without breakfast on the day Joe and I made the long trek to the food warehouse, a good three miles at least, something not easy to do on an empty stomach and a blistering, steamy day. We hurried along the streets with our home-made wagon our little stomachs growling from emptiness. By the time we got back late that afternoon we were faint from hunger and completely whipped from the long walk in the high heat of the summer's day. Ma quickly whipped up a batch of pancakes just so we could get something into our stomachs until she could prepare something more substantial. Yeah! Those sure were hard times. But we got through them in fair shape.

And then of course, after Pa died in mid-July of 1932, we had to go on Welfare or Relief, as it was more often called in those days. There was no other way around our situation. Seven kids in the family ranging from Teddy at two years old, to Annie at 18, we had to get by on the help that the City's Relief Agency could supply, which was supplemented in a small way by a dollar or two here and there that Pete, Mike and Joe were able to make caddying at the golf courses, and what Annie and Olga made house-cleaning for people who were lucky enough to have jobs. Although the take wasn't all that much, it at least gave us the little extras in food we otherwise wouldn't have gotten through the Welfare administrators. Ma had to be careful though how much she bought because a Relief inspector came around periodically to check on our larder to make sure we didn't have any more extras than was allowed. What a crime! They took the attitude that it was their job to barely keep people alive 'not one morsel more. The Inspector would probe into every corner of our kitchen cupboards recording in a little black book how much food we had on hand, even going so far as to marking down how much corn flakes there was in a box, and then lift the lid on the pot on the stove to see how much soup or stew Ma had cooking. There was nothing we could do about it. The Relief Inspector was lord and master.

Liberation of Holland

2012-03-09T20:05:00.002-05:00

Written By: Ed Busby

I am, and was, Pte. Edward K. Busby, a member of the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade, the tank support for the 3rd Canadian infantry Division
during the Invasion of Normandy, and thereafter. I am not here to talk about the horror of battle and the scars we all carry in our memories, but of the love and affection the Dutch people have for Canada, for giving them back their country. There were previous celebrations for the fiftieth and fifty-fifth anniversaries, but I could not bring myself to go back. When it was decided that this was the last "Welcome Back Veterans" affair, I decided I had to go. As I was just old enough to be in the army for WW II, and as I am now 82 years old, in another 10 years there would be few left able to return.

The Royal Canadian Legion, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and a few selected Travel agencies worked out the paperwork, the costs, and logistics to get us there and back. Various Dutch committees had arrangements well in hand once we got there. Since my wife passed away last year, I asked for and was granted permission to take my daughter, Heather, with me, and seeing as how she spent seven years in the armed Forces of Canada before being honourably discharged, she was able to bring her husband, Greg. Just to clarify things, only those who served in Holland were eligible for any government subsidy, and there were strings attached.

Amelo April 30, 2005

We flew out of Toronto on Air France April 29 at 7:15 p.m., Arrived at Charles D. Gaul airport (Paris) at 8:05 am. We left Paris 12:35 mid day and arrived at Amsterdam at 2:45 p.m. At Amsterdam, there was plenty of help from the travel agencies to gather us up and get us aboard coaches going to our appointed cities. We were assigned to Almelo, a city I remember well, and remember it as very heavily destroyed. Today it is a bright, clean city, very modern with just enough older sections to let you remember.

As we left our coaches, we were introduced to our hosts. Heather and I were assigned to Elly and Rene Pallencoe. She runs a beauty salon out of what would be the garage of their fairly new home. Elly is a short, very pleasant person with long dark hair. Elegant would describe her manner. Rene is a short, dark Indonesian, Manager/Engineer at a waste disposal/electricity generating plant.

They have a seven-year old two storey brick and cement house with a lovely garden overlooking a small lake where some people fish for a type of carp. It also has ducks (Mallards) and heron living in it and song birds galore. They have an Audi sedan which they used to drive us everywhere.

Visiting friends and neighbours for a barbeque, and walking the beautiful residential areas are most pleasant pastimes. Stories and singing filled much of the time at the get-togethers. The men belong to an all-men choir. Some of the songs I knew so I joined in. Greg is not billeted with us, but he is only a short distance away.

We took some gifts with us for our hosts, Canadian Maple Syrup, Canadian Coin Sets, Canadian flags, pins and pencils and mugs and such which were much.
We just settled in the first day and took it easy. The next two days we were taken for coach tours around the area. Each coach had a tour representative to keep track of us and to point out different items of interest. They kept asking me if I recognized various points of interest. I don't think I got through to them that my memories was of a war-torn, devastated country-side and the new rebuilt and beautiful country I was seeing now had no relation to my memories. But I tried.

Larry Meets the Queen

2012-03-09T20:04:00.004-05:00

Written by: Unknown

Larry Costello of Windsor, Ont., knew it was going to be the trip of a lifetime when he flew with 60 other veterans to the Battle of the Atlantic
commemorative events in Liverpool, England, last week. But he didn't bargain on a chat with Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Costello and other members of the party were being honoured at a town hall reception in Bootle, near Liverpool. The Queen and Prince Philip were there to meet the veterans.

"The Prince came over first," said Costello. "He asked me about my Centennial Medal, which he didn't immediately recognize. then the Queen came over and said she was so touched that so many had come so far for the (Battle of the Atlantic) commemoratoin." Costello added that the queen charmed him completely. The meeting became a highlight of what was already a week of intense emotional highs.

At yet another reception for the vets, Costello went over the dizzying array of events and parties that had been laid on for them with his old shipmate, Clancy Payment from Montreal. They had sailed the Newfoundland-Londonerry run for years, escorting the convoys to and fro. The Battle of the Atlantic celebrations had brought them together again after 50 years--one of hundreds of reunions here between old friends and foes alike.

How do you sum it all up in a week of superlatives? Pretty well everyone was choked up. Larry Costello from Windsor admitted he was a bit sceptical before he arrived. And now that he'd done everything and met the Queen? "It was really a beautiful moment in my life," he said.

H.M.S. Puncher's First Crossing of the Atlantic

2012-03-09T20:03:00.004-05:00

Written By: Steven L. Dycha

This is a story about the escort aircraft carrier H.M.S. Puncher's first crossing of the Atlantic Ocean to Casablanca, Africa. The H.M.S. Puncher made ten Atlantic crossings and four naval operations along the Norwegian coast. Maverick was supposed to be a big operation but it did not happen due to a violent storm. It had to be abandoned due to a smaller ships running out of fuel.

We arrived in New York harbour on 22nd July, 1944 and loaded 50 aircraft on the flight deck from a pier on Stanton Island. On this trip over, the load consisted of 12 P61 Black Widows Night Fighters, 24 Thunderbolts, 14 P51 Mustangs and 1 Twin Engine Non Military Aircraft. We had the full crew of the Black Widows Night Fighter Squadron which included the pilots, mechanics, and the support crew and spare parts.

Being that the aircrafts were on the open flight deck all the aircrafts were completely covered in a portable cacoon about 3/8 an inch thick. If the plastic should be damaged they had the equipment to seal it. The reason for the cacoon was on account of the salty air and spray from heavy waves would damage the aircraft.

On the 26th July, 1944 we left New York for Hampton Roads, Virginia. On the 27th of July, 1944 we arrived at Hampton Roads and anchored and waited for orders to join a convoy. All that day there were continuous flashes of lightning but no thunder. On the 28th July, 1944 we left Hampton Roads and joined a convoy. We were told we were heading for Casablanca, Africa. The convoy consisted of 17 ships of various types, fuel tankers, supply ships, troop ships, etc. We were escorted by 8 destroyers, 1 cruiser, and 2 escort aircraft carriers - H.M.S. Puncher and Shamrock Bay, an American aircraft carrier. In this convoy there 22,000 troops being transported to the Mediterranean Sea plus 1,500 nurses. After about a day out of Hampton Roads the officer in charge of the convoy decided we would have a practice shoot. All the ships opened up with their anti-aircraft guns. It looked like the freedom festival on the Detroit River. In my estimation he was stupid because a sub could see the smoke and tracer shells way past the horizon and the noise would carry a long ways. The idiot was endangering the whole convoy.

On the 30th July, 1944, the escort figured they contacted a sub but everything turned out okay.

On the 3rd of August, 1944, we were called to action stations because the escorts figured there was sub in the vicinity but after a couple of hours the all clear was given.

On the 8th of August, 1944, our escort and 14 ships leave our convoy for the Mediterranean Sea. Carriers and tankers pick up and French escorts and a blimp. By 7 p.m. we arrived in Casablanca harbours and we got up to the dock for unloading the planes. As we entered the harbour we saw destroyers, submarines, and the types of vessels that had been blown up by the British Navy so that they would not fall into the hands of the Germans. We also saw the proud battle ships of the French navy and the Jean Bart with her main guns cut off next to the gun turret to make her useless.

Apparently when the Germans were closing in on North Africa, the British did not want to see their ships in the hands of the Germans, so they sent in their navy and destroyed every ship that was in and outside of the harbour and they did a good job because some of the ships were blown up so bad you could not tell what kind of ship it was.

On the 12th of August, 1944, after unloading all the aircraft we left Casablanca, picking up a convoy of 60 ships and 12 destroyers and were told we were heading for Norfolk, Virginia. We would be picking up more aircraft for delivery. This time we would be going to Glasgow, Scotland.

A Soldier Died Today

2012-03-09T18:53:00.002-05:00

Written By: A. Lawrence Vaincourt

He was getting old and paunchy and his hair was falling fast, and he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past of a war that he had fought in and the deeds that he had done, In his exploits with his buddies; they were heroes, every one.

And tho' sometimes, to his neighbors, his tales became a joke. All his Legion buddies listened, for they knew whereof he spoke but we'll hear his tales no longer for old Bill has passed away. And the world's a little poorer, for a soldier died today.

He will not be mourned by many, just his children and his wife, for he lived an ordinary and quite uneventful life. Held a job and raised a family, quietly going his own way, And the world won't note his passing, though a soldier died today. When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state, while thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great. Papers tell their whole life stories, from the time that they were young, But the passing of a soldier goes unnoticed and unsung.

Is the greatest contribution to the welfare of our land a guy who breaks his promises and cons his fellow man? Or the ordinary fellow who, in times of war and strife, Goes off to serve his Country and offers up his life?

A politician's stipend and the style in which he lives are sometimes disproportionate to the service that he gives while the ordinary soldier, who offered up his all is paid off with a medal and perhaps, a pension small.

It's so easy to forget them for it was so long ago, that the old Bills of our Country went to battle, but we know.It was not the politicians, with their compromise and ploys, who won for us the freedom that our Country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand, would you want a politician with his ever-shifting stand? Or would you prefer a soldier, who has sworn to defend His home, his kin and Country and would fight until the end?

He was just a common soldier and his ranks are growing thin, but his presence should remind us we may need his like again. For when countries are in conflict, then we find the soldier's part Is to clean up all the troubles that the politicians start.

If we cannot do him honour while he's here to hear the praise, then at least let's give him homage at the ending of his days. Perhaps just a simple headline in a paper that would say, our Country is in mourning, for a soldier died today.

Meek, Reginald

2012-03-08T12:29:00.000-05:00

Reginald was about 16 when he joined the militia to help out in WWII where he learnt how to march as well as specific exercises. Once he was enlisted in the army, he was sent to Hamilton and after some time in Hamilton, he was posted to England. He remembers how difficult it was to get around and they were living in camps. He also served in Southern France, Holland and Italy.

Denny, Reginald

2012-03-08T12:27:00.001-05:00

Following the example of his father, who fought in WWII, Reginald joined the Army in 1962. He drove an ambulance in Germany, and he remembers one day being wakened at two o'clock in the morning. A provost sergeant came over and said that there had been an accident, a Canadian was in an German hospital and they wanted him to be picked up. When they got to the hospital they discovered why the Canadian needed to be retrieved; his wound had been sewn up with butchers cord.

Beaune, Ray

2012-03-07T19:45:00.001-05:00

Ray served with the Air Force and was on 13 different stations in England. He flew an Oxford, Wellington, Sterling, and Lancaster. The first time he was shot down was on October 6 th , 1944; the second time he was captured and sent to Stalag Luft III, a German Prisoner of War Camp. He was later transferred to a prison camp called Luchenwalde, manned by Russians. On the march from Stalag Luft III to Luchenwalde, he saw two grandparents walking with their two small grandchildren who were two and three. He noticed that the children could hardly walk anymore, so the grandparents rolled the children in the snow and left them to die. It was the only choice they had left.
The Canadian POWs set up an escape plan with the Americans. And on May 7 th , Ray and others escaped to the rendezvous point in the woods and were picked up by the Americans and were taken home.

Scofield Earl, Ralph

2012-03-07T19:44:00.001-05:00

Ralph was born February 26 th , 1925 in Margo, Saskatchewan. He first joined the Algonquin Regiment Reserve Army and then volunteered for the Royal Canadian Air Force when he was 18. He was posted in Germany, Holland, France and England.
After the war, he worked at the Paymaster and Big Dome goldmines in the Porcupine area. He moved to Windsor in 1950 and worked at General Motors for 5 years in production. After attending an electronics school in Detroit, Michigan, he was hired by Chrysler as an electrician. He worked with Chrysler for 28 years and retired in 1982. He later joined the Métis Nation of Ontario in 1997 and was appointed Senator of the Windsor/ Essex Métis Council by President Tony Belcourt. In addition he was part of the National Métis Veterans Association serving on the Board of Committees, member of the Air Force Club of Windsor, Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre, and the NDP Aboriginal Commission. Most of all, he is a very proud Métis member of the elders of the National Aboriginal Health Organization.

Connolly, Priscilla

2012-03-07T19:43:00.001-05:00

Priscilla was 17 years old when she began serving with the British Royal Air Force, the WAAF; she served for 4 ½ years. One of the things she remembers most from the war was being London during the Blitz and the horrors of the sounds and the commotion that caused chaos around the city. It was one of the most terrifying moments of her life. She married her husband in 1945, who was a Radio Officer in the British Merchant Navy. They and their three children, moved to Canada in 1955. She was a stay at home mom, except for two years when she worked as a school secretary.
She is an active volunteer, especially with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (25 years) and is a life member of the Royal Canadian Legion. She was unfortunately widowed in 1974. She loves to spend her time gardening.

Ray, Margaret "Peggy"

2012-03-07T19:42:00.002-05:00

Peggy was born March 1923 in Liverpool, England and served in the Women's Royal Naval Service. She joined when she was 20 and worked mainly as a book-keeper. She was responsible for keeping track of the pay-roll, taking messages over London and helping to train the military groups of D-Day. While she served, her husband was training to be a pilot and he was stationed in England. She does not like the fact that young boys and men lost their lives in the war; she does not see the point of it all, even to this day - too much loss of life to be considered a good thing.

Oleynik, Paul

2012-03-07T19:41:00.001-05:00

Paul was born April 1, 1924 and he died June 29, 2008. He was a Canadian flying officer with the 76th Squadron of the Royal Air Force. His first "experience" of flying was when he was 9 years old. He had climbed a telephone pole while holding his mother's umbrella and he jumped off, spraining both of his ankles. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.) when he was 18 and wanted to be a pilot more than anything; he studied the manual all night. After two years with the R.C.A.F. he was stationed in England where he became a flying officer and was responsible for a bombing crew of six men. While in England he met his wife Maidie Mason who found the young soldier handsome but arrogant at their first meeting. But they soon fell in love and Maidie gave him a pinkie ring which was his lucky charm throughout the war; he even delayed a mission once because he lost it and would not leave until he found it. During Operation Gisela there was a surprise attack on the Allied bombers by German Luftwaffe fighters, who took down 20 bombers. Paul lost his mid-gunner, William Thomas Maltby, and because his plane's gears were destroyed he had to make a crash landing - colliding with two planes as he went down while trying to avoid bullets being sprayed past his face. Paul survived 23 bombing raids over England and three years after the war he married Maidie. They lived a happy life with their children, taking many family vacations. Maidie died of a heart attack in 2006 and Paul soon followed her after suffering a massive stroke in 2008.

Laforet, Paul

2012-03-07T19:40:00.002-05:00

Paul was born in Sandwich East, Ontario on April 20 th , 1921. He decided to join the Air Force, spending 3 months in Hamilton and then went to Toronto to complete his basic training at Manning Depot. He was later transferred to Thunder Bay but because he was not a very good pilot, he was transferred to Brandon, Manitoba. He trained as a navigator first but because his grades were not as high as they wanted, he soon began his training as a bomb aimer which combined all the skills he had previously learned and he graduated on January 13 th , 1944. He was later posted in England and was there by March 1945. He was in Wales for 2 months when the war came to an end. But he still continued his service to the military by volunteering for the Pacific Theatre; he helped discharge Canadians and was relocated to the Pacific for a very short time. He expressed that he had a guilty conscience for only being overseas for three and a half months while others had been there for 5-6 years. One of his most memorable experiences was at Fingal when the wing of the aircraft he was on caught on fire. He stated that they were much too close to the ground to jump out of the plane, so the pilot made a steep turn which brought the wing down quickly causing the fire to be extinguished and no one was injured.

Trakalo, Nick

2012-03-07T19:39:00.003-05:00

After the war broke out in 1939, he was drafted for 30 days at Fort Williams in Thunder Bay, Ontario. After the 30 days, he returned to the Gold Mine where he worked for 3 years. Following the closure of the mine, he moved to Windsor and was called to St. Luke's Barracks for an examination before being sent home. He was waiting for them to call him but he never got a call back. He felt very disappointed and because he was young, he felt that many people looked down on him and thought he did not want to serve. He ended up driving buses for Detroit-Windsor tunnel for 40 years.

Greenwood, Mel

2012-03-07T19:38:00.006-05:00

He and a friend left school and decided to sign up for the reserves on May 14 th , 1940 which was his birthday. In July 1940, he signed on to active service and he took a 6 month course in telegraphy; as a result he was promoted to a telegraphist, first class. He was shipped to Prince Rupert on the HMSC Standpoint where there was on an examination service for 5 months. On December 7 th , he was sent to Shagway, Alaska where they picked up 15-20 Japanese fishing ships and were instructed to tow them to Vancouver, British Columbia. He was often drafted from one ship to another because telegraphists were in short supply. During a trip from New York to Newfoundland, he became ill and spent 5 weeks in the hospital. While there, he met a young British soldier from Scotland by the name of Alec Nory and the two became good friends. When Mel was drafted onto the HMSC Gifford that was set to sail from Newfoundland to Londondelly Island, it could not. He was given vacation and he went to Glasgow where he met Alec's parents. Uknown to Mel, his father had written the Norys, thanking them for taking care of Mel. When Mel and Alex met up again, after the war, Alec presented Mel with the letter which the Norys had kept for 35 years.

Moyneur, Marcel

2012-03-07T19:38:00.003-05:00

He enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force at the age of 19 and served for 4 years. He was quite frightened when he landed on Normandy - they had to wait for heavy equipment to land on the beach before they could go anywhere. He states that "all hell broke loose" almost immediately and both him and his friends were hit. Fortunately for them, they were taken to the hospital where he spent a few months before he was sent home.

Morgan, Lloyd

2012-03-07T19:38:00.000-05:00

Lloyd was born June 23 rd , 1920 in Brantford, Ontario and died March 3, 2008. He served with the 220 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Force from 1941-1945. He was posted in Canada, the U.K and the Azores. He said he was drawn to enlist because of the employment opportunities available. He spent a month training in Brandon, then went to Calgary to finish his basic training. While learning to fly the air craft, Morgan remembers the many young soldiers who died during training.

One of his most memorable experiences involves an attack on a U-boat on March 7 th , 1943. It was a stormy night and the aircraft he was in had spotted a U-boat, which quickly dove back into the water. The aircraft dropped depth-charges and destroyed the U-boat, but the problem arose when they were going to return to the base. The wind was now blowing towards them so they had to change their course, but fuel became an issue. As they flew towards Ireland, their tank had just reached empty when they found themselves above an airfield which was under construction.

After the war, he was one of the fortunate few who had a job waiting for him when he returned home. He married his wife a week after his return and together they began their new life.

Burke, Lloyd

2012-03-07T19:37:00.001-05:00

Lloyd Burke recants experiences of his involvement on the ground during Canada's campaign in Italy. The accounts vividly mentioned are stirring in comparison to other veterans discussed due to Burke's high degree of personal connection to those who became casualties in his presence.

Burke captures the spirit of innovation and technology of his era by describing such material goods as the electric street car, electric razors in Europe and his first encounter with plastic in which a German soldier gave Burke as a souvenir. Due to the personal contact that Burke experienced with his comrades, the interview is saturated with the emotional side effects of war despite being over sixty years since the conclusion of conflict.

As a whole, Burke sheds light on the Italian campaign that is often overlooked in the present day due to the enormity of the D-day landings in June 1944. The capture of Rome, split allegiances among the Italian population and the damaging effects of heavy artillery on those who used it are given rightful attention within the interview. Also mentioned are the liberation of Holland and the return to Canada that so many other Canadians experienced in the final eighteen months of war.

Bevan, G. Lewis

2012-03-07T19:36:00.002-05:00

Lewis was nineteen years old when he enlisted and served in the Army for 3 ½ years. He was stationed in Canada, England, Italy and Continental Europe. He and his two brothers all went off for war, and he remembers meeting up with them when he was first deployed. He met one of them again while he was on leave in a town in Belgium. He trained as a driver and soon joined his regiment in Italy. While he was in Italy he learned that there was an urgent need for drivers. He and his friends discussed who would be the one to go and the decision ended in flipping a coin that favoured his friend Craig. Unfortunately Craig did not come back and Lewis was told he was killed by a sniper; something that has haunted his memory.

Ruddy, Leon

2012-03-07T19:35:00.006-05:00

His first choice for service was the Royal Canadian Air Force but he was rejected because he was deemed too short. So he joined the infantry; he served with them for 5 years. During his time of service he developed arthritis and fallen arches from stepping in the mud, as well as the cool and damp environment. Although he had volunteered to fight the Japanese, his bad back prevented him, so he was put in charge of training. Ruddy was almost shot because of his brutal honesty to a newspaper about the food they were given. His life was spared because he was valuable in laying phone lines down.

Ouellette, Lawrence

2012-03-07T19:35:00.002-05:00

Lawrence joined the army, served his three years, was discharged, took a six month break and then re-enlisted. He served in Korea, and on a trip back to the country in 2000, he and his group went to an outdoor market. A man came up to Lawrence and said that though he was too young to remember the Korean war, his parents had told him what veterans like Lawrence had done for his country and thanked him for his service.

Cybak, Larry

2012-03-07T19:34:00.006-05:00

Larry served with the Essex Scottish Regiment of Windsor-Kent for 3 years. He played the trumpet in the band and went to Ipperwash for 7 weeks as a cadet for basic training. He was ready to serve as a trained cadet, during the Korean War but he was kept back and stayed and entertained people.

Costello, Larry

2012-03-07T19:34:00.001-05:00

Larry Costello offers an image of a Veteran who not only served in war and peace with The Royal Canadian Navy, but he continues to serve an even greater purpose by promoting the cause of Veterans throughout the Windsor region. Costello's life as a working vagabond in the pre-war and post-war years show an image of a common man looking for work during the lows of the economic depression and surging job-market in the immediate post-war years.

In his interview, Larry gives an account of living and serving on board naval ships both during World War II and afterward. In addition, he outlines some of his tremendous deeds to keep the causes of Veterans in the forefront of Windsorites' minds.

In recognition of his years with the Windsor Veterans Memorial Services Committee, and all of his other charitable work, Larry was awarded the key to the city by the Mayor of Windsor in 2009.

Shuker, Lang

2012-03-07T19:33:00.003-05:00

Lang was 18 years old when he enlisted in the army and served from 1949 to 1983. He served in both Japan and Korea. One of his memorable experiences was having to shave and take a bath using a cup of water. There was also a time he was almost seen by the North Koreans. He had been on patrol when he heard someone coming so he and his comrades had to take cover. He jumped into a shell hole and the North Koreans came within a foot of where his head was but fortunately, they didn't see him.

White, John

2012-03-07T19:32:00.001-05:00

John was born in 1922 in Amherstburg, Ontario. On September 3 rd , 1939 a young John White went to Windsor, Ontario to enlist. He was rejected, however, due to his age but returned 9 months later in June of 1940 and was approved for service. He joined the Essex-Kent Scottish Regiment and began his training at Camp Borden. Later, he was transferred to McNabb Island outside of Halifax, Nova Scotia. In 1942, White was dispatched to the Gaspe region of Quebec where he was in charge of developing a coastal defense system to defend Canadian Merchant ships from German U-boats. He participated in the construction of Fort Preval which defended the opening of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. After the completion of the fort, he was assigned to fire off the largest battery; he was standing too close and was knocked unconscious by the force of the blast. In 1943, he was sent to England for the preparations of the invasion of Europe as part of the 3 rd Legion Artillery regiment. This regiment was later ordered for burial duty. While he was performing his tasks, which involved searching the wallets of German soldiers, he realized that the enemy wasn't that different from him and his own comrades. Later in 1944 and early 1945, his regiment was part of the Canadian liberation of Holland. After the war, he worked for Allied Chemical before taking a job in Amherstburg's Seagman's Brewery as a security guard. It was there that he fought for and secured a union for the security guards.

Murphy, John

2012-03-07T19:30:00.006-05:00

John enlisted when he was 18 years old, serving in the R.C.N.V from 1943-1946 and in the R.C.N from 1951-1956. Following his basic training in Queen Charlotte, P.E.I, he transferred to Cornwall, Nova Scotia, and then Stadacona, Nova Scotia. The first ship he served on was the H.M.C.S Lethridge, a corvette; sailing from Halifax to the North Atlantic. After only an hour of being out at sea, they came into contact with a German ship. John's station was the 4th Gun Ammunition, which supplied and removed the caps of Hedgehogs - anti-submarine weapons which exploded on contact. They began dropping depth charges and Hedgehogs and John was under the impression it was a drill until someone mentioned that fact that he hoped the German sub would surface so they could destroy it. Needless to say, the young John was frightened, but nothing happened as the submarine had managed to get away.

On D-Day, John was on a ship sailing back Nova Scotia for some repairs but was called back because a German vessel, U889, had surrendered. The Canadian ship escorted the U889 to Shelburn, Nova Scotia and the crew of the U889 were put into a gate vessel, which shipped them back to Germany. John was part of the Canadian crews who sailed with the British as they took the U889 around for trail runs once it was disarmed; he remembered being very happy to be selected.

Garlicki, John

2012-03-07T19:30:00.003-05:00

John was born and raised in Poland. He was in his first year of University studying Mechanical Engineering before WWII began. He became involved with the campaign in Poland in September 1939 but he was soon imprisoned in a Labor camp in Russia. In 1942 he joined the Polish Army which was organized in Russia and his unit was soon evacuated to Persia in April of 1942. While there, he was enlisted into the Polish Army under the British Command on April 5th of 1942. He was sent to Northern Iraq, Israel (at the time Palestine) and Egypt; he completed several military courses which included Officer School and graduated in December of 1943. His regiment was the first to be deployed to Italy; for 19 months he was in a First Line Combat service in an Artillery Regiment as a Lieutenant. He and his regiment spent an additional year in Italy after the war, as an occupation unit. In 1946 he was demobilized in England and had to find a job - he had completed a two year college degree in radio communication in Manchester, England. As it was difficult to find work, he migrated to Argentina where he remained for five years with his family; after which, he moved to Canada with his family to be with his mother and brother. For 30 years he had not returned to Poland but in 1974 he returned to visit cousins but at the time he was unable to visit his hometown of Lvov, as it was a Russian territory.

Collins, John

2012-03-07T19:29:00.004-05:00

John grew up in Wales and recalls during the war hearing the buzz of the V1 rockets as they flew over head and waiting to listen for the engine to stop and the bomb to drop. Sometimes the rocket would hit one of the barrage balloons over the harbour. When this happened, children would run to the site to try and get a piece of balloon plastic as a souvenir. After basic training in the military, John became a regimental driving instructor. And though he made little money, he made sure to send seven shillings a week home to his mother.

Johnston, Joseph

2012-03-07T19:28:00.006-05:00

Joseph was born 1932 in Galt (now known as Cambridge), Ontario. He was the 5 th out of 6 children in his family, but he lost a brother to polio. He had a brother who served from 1939 to 1946 in the 48 th Highlander as a dispatch rider. Joseph completed grade 10 but had to leave school because of family problems. However, when he joined the army he complete his high school degree by correspondence. In 1949, he enlisted into the Permanent Force and was transferred to the Special Forces in Korea in 1950. After serving in Korea, he rejoined the Permanent Force and stayed until 1961 when he had to leave due to a heart condition.
He married his wife Phyllis in 1961 and they have a daughter named Sandra and two granddaughters. After he was discharged from the army, he worked for the Federal Government in Ottawa until 1964. Following that, he moved to Western Ontario and worked in the Forklift Truck industry for 25 years; retiring in 1992. In addition, he helped found the Windsor Branch of Habitat for Humanity.

Caba, Jesse

2012-03-07T19:28:00.000-05:00

Jesse was born October 18th, 1923 in Poland before he and his family migrated to Canada. He served in the Armed forced for 4 years from December 7th, 1941 - February 11th, 1946. He was with the Army in the Essex Scottish as a signaler. He was deployed to England and France during the war and served in Germany after the war. As a signaler he was in charge of communications, stringing up wires for field phones and he was a radio operator also functioning in Morse code. He remembers landing in Normandy and seeing bodies loaded onto trucks. He recalls always being afraid during his time in France and wondering when the war would end. He and his brother met in France one last time before his brother was killed in action. He had met his wife Elise while he was in Manchester so after the war he proposed to her in September 1945 and they remained in England. While there, he became a corporal and volunteered for the post-war occupation in Germany. Unfortunately while he was there, he contracted TB and had to be hospitalized. He returned to Canada between November and December of 1945 and received the proper treatment at home.

Riddick, James

2012-03-07T19:26:00.005-05:00

He served with the Royal Canadian Air Force for 3 years. He was a radio technician because his eye sight was not good enough to be a pilot. As a radio technician, he would radio in whatever he saw. While stationed in England, the places that he and other soldiers stayed at had been bombed and he was lucky to be alive. He expressed that his experiences were "memorable and rewarding", and he is extremely proud of his part in the war effort.

Knight, James

2012-03-07T19:26:00.002-05:00

James joined the service when he was 23 years old and was in the Air Force. He served for 3 ½ year from March 9 th , 1945 to September 7 th , 1949. While he was with the Royal Air Force-T.C.45 Group known as "Ferry Command", he recalls an event in the spring of 1945. He had been servicing several aircrafts when he was ordered to scramble over piled crates to reach the pilot seat so he could "ride-the-brakes"as each one was towed from the North of the field at Dorval. A few crates from all 12 of the aircrafts were taken out before they were flown to England; many believed that the planes would not be able to make it to England but they did. It was not until after D-Day that he was told that those crates were ammunition and explosives used during the D-Day invasion.

Gray, James

2012-03-07T19:25:00.006-05:00

James enlisted in the R.C.A.F at the age of 17 and served from 1943-1946. His most memorable experience was meeting his late wife, who was part of the C.W.A.C, in Montreal. After the war, he returned to marry her and they raised two children together. His most frightening experience was while he was stationed in England. He was flying a Wellington Bomber at 22 AFU and overshot the runway. The plane's wheels were knocked out by a stone fence and it ended up nose-diving into the group but thankfully, no one was hurt.

Joyes, Jack

2012-03-07T19:25:00.002-05:00

Jack became part of the Navy Com Ops when he was 18. He served for 6 years from 1940 to 1945. He remembers an instance were an oil tanker carrying airplane fuel had been torpedoed, breaking it into two. There was a man who was on the stern waving his arms but he went down with the ship.

Anderson, Jack

2012-03-07T19:24:00.003-05:00

The lack of battle experience does not dilute the overall experience of war. Jack Anderson's experiences between the years of 1941 and 1945 are much like the experience of a true vagabond. Jack was a beneficiary of the new technology the war presented to its participants. Among these innovations was what we would come to recognize today as radar. Although its use was limited during the conflict, Jack's gifted ability to use such a groundbreaking tool of combat gave him a front-seat view of war in the North African, Sicilian and Italian regions of war. The burnt-out shells of war machines and the inevitable yet tragic administering of burial practices, illustrates the experiences all soldiers shared despite ideological disparities in a time of war.

Much of Jack's story depicts the leisure hours between periods of conflict. His lengthy tours of Rome, Florence and the Italian Alps are adventures only a young man in the military could enjoy at that particular time. His encounters with unique locations in Scotland and England give a glimpse into how many Canadians spent time well away from the zones of battle. The claiming of a war-bride, and a personal ambition to serve in the Pacific after victory in Europe gives the image of a man who did not see his service as that of national obligation, but that of moral and personal choice.

Synopsis by: Jacob Miller (Windsor Historical Society)

Furgal Fr., Ivan

2012-03-07T19:23:00.003-05:00

Ivan served with the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Musician (Sgt.). He was a volunteer because the war had finished and he was still too young to serve in the war. He served his contract but left once his contract was over. However some men were jealous of the fact that he saved his money while they squandered theirs. He received Sgt. Stripes right away because they were short Bassoon players, who usually came from England and Holland. He went overseas and performed in The NATO commitment in Europe. He states that "it was a very rewarding experience". He received a Canada Decoration Medal from Queen Elizabeth who he played for and he was on Parliament Hill when the Canadian national anthem was changed from "God Save the Queen" to "Oh, Canada". In addition he was in the reserves for 12 years and received a medal for that accomplishment.

Barnes, Herbert J.

2012-03-07T19:22:00.003-05:00

Herbert was 17 when he joined the Royal Air Force in 1941 and served until 1946. He was trained as an air gunner and flew in a Wellington in the U.K. He was later transferred to ferry command - 45 (AT) GP Dorval, in Montreal. He then went to the 113 Wing Nassau and ferried Lockhead P.V.I.S from U.S and Nassau to W.A.F.R.C.A. He then returned to Dorval where he ferried Lancasters and B25 Mitchells from Canada to the U.K. He returned to the U.K and had a jump-master course (paratroops). He also participated in parachute jumps, paratroop drops, glider tugging, and did several flights to Holland and Germany with supplies. In addition, he flew with the 96 SGDN to India. Following that, he returned to the U.K and then flew troops from the U.K through the Middle East to India and back, several times. He was in a hospital in Basra, Iraq and then he was discharged 1946.

Martinak, Henry

2012-03-07T19:22:00.000-05:00

He served in the army from 1950-1952. He was part of the United Nations' effort against the invasion of South Korea by the North Koreans and the Chinese. His trip from Seattle, Washington to Korea was one his most frightening experiences. He suffered from seasickness due to the rough and stormy weather; in addition he was unable to swim.

Marshall, Harry

2012-03-07T19:20:00.002-05:00

Harry Marshall was born in Liverpool England in 1922 and died November 2004 at the age of 82. He served in WWII on the front lines in Holland and the U.K. His son Tom Marshall explains that his father was an amazing athlete and excelled greatly in boxing; Harry Marshall joined the army because he knew he would do well due to his physical abilities. One of the haunting memories of the war that stayed with Harry was when the jeep carrying him and his two friends, drove over a landmine. Harry was fortunate to walk away with his life and a back injury that took just little over a month to recovery from. His two friends, however, were killed. Harry credited his survival to a heavy-duty leather jacket he had taken from a dead German soldier.
Following the war, Harry returned to his boxing career and did quite well despite the fact he made little money. After 3 to 4 years of boxing, he retired from the sport and began working at Chrysler. In 1969, Harry began a boxing club where he taught troubled teens boxing and life lessons; the club ran for 20 years. Harry's view of military service is that, "You're living in this great country of ours. I think the best country in the world, and you know if you can give something back to your country, give it back."

Major, Harry

2012-03-07T19:19:00.002-05:00

Although his parents wanted him to fight and defend Canada, they were reluctant to let him join the Air Force. Harry recalled one time when the Wellington he was on crash-landed, after taking down a number of apple trees. The crew was promptly placed on another aircraft and sent back up.

Harry also met the late King George and the Queen, as well as the Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, who were teenagers at the time. He had a fond memory of speaking to the Queen; she thanked him for being willing to fight to defend Britain and he recalls telling her that he was also fighting to defend Canada.

Colenutt, Harry

2012-03-07T19:18:00.002-05:00

Harry Colenutt recounts that the dangers of crossing the Atlantic were often as immediate as combat in Europe. Soldiers were at the mercy of their machines more so then at the mercy of the enemy which is shown when Harry describes how a troop transport ship on which he was a passenger with 3,500 others nearly capsized.

Harry casually relates the randomness of war through how shelling was more aimed at general locations than at specific targets, and how the likeliness of death did not often depend on training but the luck of the lottery, as a soldier lived day to day praying to be in the right place at the right time.

Vidler, Gerry

2012-03-07T19:17:00.003-05:00

Gerry served with the Navy during the Second World War. His VE Day memory is bitter sweet due to the loss of a shipmate. His shipmate was at the end of his shift and he was supposed to jump out the end of a truck. As he jumped, his head struck a steel part of the ship where life boats hung. Gerry recalls that he and others gave blood for three days to try and help him, but he died in the end. It made the day a happy day in the general scheme of the war, but a sad day for Gerry and his friends.

Fox, George

2012-03-07T19:09:00.004-05:00

He is categorized as one of the D-Day Dodgers because he was not part of the D-Day invasion at Normandy. He and his regiment were fighting on the Italian front. He joined the army in 1943 and was put in Lord Strathcona's Horse Regiment. Even though he was initially trained as a dispatch rider, he became a tank driver. He fought in Italy and Holland. In Italy he was burned when his tank was destroyed by enemy fire. While in Italy, he also served in a reconnaissance unit, becoming the eyes and ears of the Canadian forces there.
He gives a vivid account of being in combat, especially what it was like to be under enemy artillery fire and to be in a tank that had just been hit and blown up.

Chappell, Fred

2012-03-07T19:06:00.005-05:00

Fred Chappell joined the war on September 19 th , 1940. He served with the 417 Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron that was formed on November 27 th , 1941. He was deployed to England before he was later transferred to Egypt for service. He recalled the difficult conditions he and his comrades faced in England where they had poor accommodations with no water and inadequate sanitation - this was due to the large influx of soldiers and the inability to provide proper lodging quickly. Once in Egypt, he remarked that it was difficult to adjust to the hot climate after spending so much time in a cooler climate. Soon the soldiers received their proper equipment and planes and they were stationed near Alexandria.

Leeper, Ernie

2012-03-07T19:05:00.006-05:00

He served with the 5 th Airborne for about 4 years. While he had been in the jungle, he suffered from malaria and had to be sent England for a period of isolation. After recovering, he was sent to Germany. He recalls the a street was named after Major Fred Tilson who served with him, and Tilson lost his leg to a landmine and received the Victoria Cross. Ernie's war experience was extremely painful and he wants nothing more than to forget what he had to go through.

Moreland, Edward

2012-03-07T19:05:00.002-05:00

Edward was born June 17 th , 1924 and served with the British Royal Navy from 1942-1946. He was posted in the North Sea, the English Channel and the Far East. During the war, he remembers an instance when he was on watch in the engine room when his ship was hit by a "sister ship". He stated that the place where the sister ship pierced through was where he had been previously working.
He recalls coming back from the war and having no job to support his pregnant wife; he states that he is not ashamed to admit that he cried from despair. He and his wife left with their two little girls because there were no opportunities for them in England. They found their way to Canada and here they found happiness and a new way of life.

Busby, Edward Keith

2012-03-07T19:04:00.001-05:00

Ed was born April 20th 1923 in Windsor, Ontario. He served in the Army from 1941-1945 dividing his time between the U.K, France and Holland. As a civilian he worked as a truck driver and those skills were easily transferred into military service; he served with the 2nd Canadian Armour Brigades as a transport driver. He drove ammunition trucks to feed the tanks and at D-Day he delivered a 9 ton tank of ammunition to the allies. He met his wife Beryl, when she was 13 and he was 18, while he was in England; he returned to Scotland after the war and was pleased to find that she was single and boarding with his aunt. He married her and brought her back to Canada where they lived a good life with their three children.

One of his fondest memories was during the winter of 1945 in Holland. The Germans had taken all the food and the people were starving. He and his platoon volunteered to take food to the civilians. They reported to a hospital where they were met by the head nurse; she promptly burst into tears when she saw them off-loading a box of dried peas. Busby stated that she said happily "Now we can grind these up and feed the babies" and this was one of the most moving moments of his life.

Labonte, David

2012-03-07T19:03:00.001-05:00

David Labonte was born in 1931 in Tecumseh, Ontario. He served for three years in the Royal 22nd Regiment, which came to be known as Vingt-deux (twenty two in French). He completed basic and advanced training in Quebec at Camp Mount Prince, and left for Korea in April 1952.

One of his most memorable moments in Korea surrounds the death of his friend. A water shell landed about five feet from where David had been standing. He said that if it had exploded any further from him, he would have been buried alive by all the dirt that was thrown into the air. A friend of his who was standing about thirty feet away was not as lucky. He was impaled by shrapnel which pierced his arm and his heart, killing him instantly. David stayed in Korea for 13 months before returning to Canada to continue service with the military as an instructor.

He married his wife in 1958 and had four children. After his service, he worked at Chrysler for six years before spending the remainder of his work-life with Canada Customs. He retired in 1986 at the age of 58.

Looking back on his time in the war, David says, "If the time ever comes, it is a great honour to serve your country. And you look back on it with pride when you get older."

Davies, David

2012-03-07T19:00:00.002-05:00

David was born in Abertridwr, Wales before coming to Canada. He served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII. He was 18 and attending a Technical School when he signed up for service and he was sent to Moncton, New Brunswick as a security guard. He was later sent to Sydney, Nova Scotia as part of the 113 BR Squadron. They flew over the ocean doing special sweeps, patrols as well as special searches for submarines sightings and convoy patrols. He met his wife, Jean, while in Sydney during chaperone dances at the station. He left Halifax to Liverpool, England on December 24 th , 1943. He became stationed at Wellebourne, Warwickshire where he began flying Wellingtons. Besides their regular operations, they flew missions to confuse the Germans. There was an instance when two of the engines of the plane failed and the plane ended up in the mud. He and his crew members were arrested because the Officer-in-Charge thought they were being mischievous. The plane was towed and when the first engine was turned on, it burst into flames and the second had two bolts missing so the charges were dropped. He was later captured by German soldiers after parachuting out of his out of control plane. He and other POWs changed hands when the Germans vanished one day and Russians found them. He managed to escape when he ran away and found some Americans, who helped him and other Canadian POWs find their way home. He stated that he was about half-way across the Atlantic on VE Day. He went home to Windsor and then Nova Scotia to get married. He and Jean had two children. Sadly, David died on January 2 nd , 1990 from an aneurism.

Pudelek, Chester

2012-03-07T18:48:00.001-05:00

Chester was born April 21 st , 1923 in Detroit, Michigan. He served with the US Marine Corps directly following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. He went to basic training in San Diego, California for 7 weeks. He had further training in New Zealand and his first deployment was the invasion in Tarawa on Gilbert Island in December of 1943. He had to return to Hawaii due to an injury he sustained; he was shot in the elbow and had shrapnel in his leg. After recovering, he was posted in Spain in June 1944. Two specific events really made an impact on him while he was overseas. He stated that he often saw his comrades fall beside him but said "You just keep going. Later on it affects ya. And until this day it'll affect ya". He was also present in Nagasaki, Japan for four months after it was bombed. He said that all the eye could see was nothing. When he got home, he recalled that there was no fanfare for them, so he took a cab and went home to surprise his mother.

Johnston, Charles

2012-03-07T18:44:00.000-05:00

Charles was part of the Army from 1942-1947. While he was a Lance Corporal, they had some P.O.W.s at their camp. One young German man said to Charles "Later on, the beloved Führer will take care of you." He also remembers one New Years Eve while stationed in Belgium they got to sleep on the floor in a school house, rather than outside on the ground. Charles received the key to the city of Windsor in May 2004.

Davis, Charles

2012-03-07T18:41:00.003-05:00

Charles Davis was born on September 27 th , 1922. He joined the Artillery in Brantford in 1941 at 18 years of age and prior to that he worked at No.4 Bomb and Gunnery School at Jarvis. He trained in Woodstock, Ontario for a few months before being transferred to Sussex, New Brunswick. He was deployed to Greenwich, Scotland in August of 1941 but also spent some of his time serving in Holland. One of his memorable experiences was when he was planning to marry his wife in England. She had gone through her physical exam and he had the permission of the Army to get married. But when they reached Shortage Town Hall, they were unable to get married because he was not yet 21. So he had to have his mother wire her permission before they got married January 16 th , 1943. Another memory that stood out for him was when he and other soldiers were at a petrol dump. The Germans dropped wild bombs and caused a series of explosion; he remembered running out of there as fast as he could, not wanting to be caught on the fire. Charles Davis received a number of medal and awards: 1939 and 1945 stars, the France and German star, the Defense of Britain war medals, CVSM and clasp pin, Normandy medal, French medal, and the Dutch medal.
From all of his experiences he stated, "I believe it is great for them [young kids] to get into the Cadets.I think that experience is great for them but I believe war is a terrible thing and Canada can't afford to lose anymore people even if they are peace keepers."

Rustukla, Carl

2012-03-07T18:35:00.000-05:00

He enlisted in the army at the age of 18 and served for 6 years, 2 months and 12 days. While in France, he remembers crawling through wheat fields and every time he went to get up he was fired at. But after about a mile of crawling, he felt that it was safe to stand up. After the war he married an English girl and returned to Saskatchewan with his bride.

Austin, Bob

2012-03-07T18:34:00.002-05:00

Although Mr. Austin did not carry a rifle in France, fly in a Lancaster, or ply the North Atlantic on a destroyer, he still played an essential part in Canada's victory in World War II. He tried to join the air force but was considered too young; he was called up for the army, and due to his technical background it was deemed that he would be more valuable at home, in industry.

Bob Austin worked at the Ford motor company during the war years, helping to produce the essential supplies of war. He was an engineering technician who mainly worked on experimental engines during the war as an unsung contributor to Canada's military forces that helped save England and the free world from tyranny. Austin also gives an interesting account of what life was like in Windsor prior to the war.

O'Neill, Bill

2012-03-07T18:30:00.002-05:00

Bill had an interesting journey when it came time for him to sign up. He joined the military in 1943 when he was 18 years old and he originally wanted to join the ground crew of the Air Force. He thought he had been signed on the ground crew but at his medical, he realized they had signed him up for the air crew. He spoke to the Commander, who decided to give young Bill time to think about his decision (as an attempt to get Bill to stay with the air crew). Bill consented and stated that he would stay with the air crew in hopes that if he failed in the aircrew he could be placed in the ground crew. The commander realized what he was doing and told Bill that even if he failed air crew, there was no guarantee he would be placed in ground crew. As a result, Bill decided that he would join the army, as his stomach couldn't quite take flying in the Air Force. It turned out to be a good decision for him.

Hazael, Bill

2012-03-07T18:29:00.004-05:00

Bill joined the Merchant Marines in 1943/1944 before joining the navy's HMCS Hunter. He went to the training camp HMCS Chippewa in Winnipeg, Manitoba for basic training. He was trained in both the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. After that he was posted to the HMCS Laurier which was stationed on the Detroit River. He remembers that during the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as he was still in Detroit at the time.

Rajsigal, Anthony

2012-03-07T18:29:00.001-05:00

He served with the 21 st Regiment infantry for 1 ½ years and he was stationed in France, Belgium, Holland, England and Germany. He was never in active duty but moved around to help in different areas like guarding prisoners. He felt it was a good experience since he was able to serve his country and not experience "any emotional setbacks that came with active duty". He felt fortunate to travel about and learn of new cultures and people.

Cangiano, Andimo

2012-03-07T18:28:00.002-05:00

Andimo served in Japan and Korea in the 24 th Division of the Korean War Army band for two years. While playing for the Army band, he made extra money playing drums at extra engagements. His most exciting moment was when he travelled from San Franciso to Japan. He remembers seeing a woman in a Japanese wedding garb which he thought was quite beautiful. He was not too happy about going to Korea but he stated that they were "starved for entertainment". He soon became corporal because his drumming was liked and all the money he made he saved and brought a house with when he returned.

Hillan, Albert

2012-03-07T18:27:00.000-05:00

Albert served with the Essex-Scottish in Belgium, France and England. He was wounded while serving at had to remain in the hospital for a bit. He enjoyed travelling around and seeing the sights that the places had to offer. He received about 4 or 5 medals for his service. He was also quite a ladies' man and claims that he left a string of broken hearts behind him on his travels.

October 7, 2010 Report

2010-10-07T12:45:00.000-04:00

Advisory Committee Report

Windsor Historical Society - Veterans Memories Project

Minutes from Thursday, October 7, 2010

Advisory Committee Meeting

Meeting called to order 10:10 AM by Dann Bouzide, Chair

Attendees: Karl Lovett, Barb Catherine, Dan Beaudoin, Doris Kelly, Bob Kelly, Earl Scofield, Jim Jack, John Neville, Laura McMahon, Stan Scislowski, Tom Abrash, Sophia Linner, Don Doan, Craig Ericson, Harry Major, Shirley Afffleck, Dann Bouzide, Eva Bouzide and Kelsey Prosser

Regrets: Carrie Bouzide, Priscilla Connolly, Bernie Kelly, Helen Minovski, Gale Gagnier, Barry Horrobin, Julie Lawrence, Joyce Cherwak, Wayne Hillman, John White, Kathy Parks, Sandy Szocki

Reports:

Barb Catherine - Spoke on Devonshire Seniors Residences Honour Book Launch, A Tribute To Our WWII Veterans. The book launch will be held at 2PM until 4PM, We therefore will hold our Windsor Historical Society meeting at 12 noon until 2PM. Veterans will be in there Blues and Grays and a light lunch will be served.

Also the video of our presentation at St. Joseph's will be playing all day long for all guests to watch.

Stan Scislowski - On November 7th there will be a banquet in honour of the Veterans of the Italian Campaign at the Ciociaro Club. There will also be a week long celebration leading up to this event.

Chair spoke about our ads in the Windsor Star, The Biz X Magazine and The Penny Saver. Our ad was in the Windsor Star last Friday and will be put in again this Friday. Both Biz X and The Penny Saver have a relationship with us where we share advertisement's in each others' publications.

Veterans Appreciations Day - There were too many non-veterans last year.

We will be changing the entrance to the far right door, that way coats can be hung and no unexpected guests will be able to enter.

Chair - asked for a show of Veterans hands for those who thought we could eliminate Ditty bags for all Veterans this year. Majority felt we did not need them.

We are looking for volunteers for November 10th to help set up. Laura McMahon offered to rally up some of her workers to volunteer. Barb Catherine offered the same and Dan Beaudoin offered as well. Wine will be in the center pieces and also served to each table.

We will have a singer performing this year, singing songs of the war time era and also 60's and 70's.

Veterans Day Magazine - We discussed for this year, we review our price of $5.00 and possibly replace it with $5.00 Donation Appreciated.

Eva Bouzide suggested we dedicate a page in Veterans Day Magazine to explain all about the Windsor Historical Society.

Chair - We are looking for volunteers to help sell magazines at Wal-Mart around November 11th with Harry Major, Earl Scofield, Wayne Hillman, Bob Kelly and Larry Costello.

Chair - We received our yearly letter from the Mayor, this year's letter is the best yet. We have learned that Eddie Francis will be in office until December 1, 2010 or December 1, 2014 so it is okay for us to publish it.

Refresheverthing.ca - We will be letting go of this for this year, but we have until next year by April 1st to apply, we will begin this when the time comes. We will need to come up with a set system for others to vote for us daily. Example -Schools & Legions.

Christmas Truce - The Christmas Truce will be held at the Armouries, possibly the old Armouries. We are still unsure what the price of each ticket will be.

Amica at Windsor - We were looking to bring some students from Walkerville to put on a little show about the Christmas Truce for the residents at Amica, but because of the poor timing we have decided to have some Veterans present to speak to the residents of Amica at Windsor, on November 15th.

Bob Kelly - He was advised that the Canadian Core Commissioners have taken over the City of Windsor parking and there will be no charge to Veterans who have the poppy license to park anywhere in the city. Also Bob and Shirley have sent a special thanks to VIA RIAL for all they have done for the Windsor Historical Society. This year, they will be notified 30 days before about where the trips will be to.

John Neville & Karl Lovett - Spoke about the Veterans Memorial Services. They both mentioned they are very impressive ceremonies and if you have never been to one, it would be worth your while to view one. If you are looking to get involved with this committee, you can contact Wayne Hillman, President.

Karl, Wayne, Eva & Dann will discus video taping funeral set-ups and ceremonies, or if that is not possible then possibly do a mock-up of the visitation presentation. We would like to do this to show what the Windsor Veterans Memorial Services Committee does for these fallen Veterans. It is an absolutely phenomenal presentation and we could also display it on our website.

Meetings - Beginning in the new year we will having a meeting every second month. Also we would like everyone to be aware of the fire hydrant that is in front of Devonshire Seniors Residence, we would not like to see anyone getting tickets because of this.

Meeting adjourned at 11:27am

Respectfully Submitted by: Kelsey Prosser

September 2, 2010 Report

2010-09-02T12:46:00.000-04:00

Advisory Committee Report

Windsor Historical Society - Veterans Memories Project

Minutes from Thursday, September 02, 2010

Advisory Committee Meeting

Meeting called to order 10:02 AM by Dann Bouzide, Chair

Attendance: Dann Bouzide, Eva Bouzide, Larry Costello, Wayne Hillman , Kelsey Prosser, Nikki Wanklin, Brianne Tousignant, Barb Catherine, Percy Hatfield, Dan Beaudoin, Karl Lovett, Lorraine Wanklin, Bill Vivian, Art Anderson, Bernie Kelly, Doris Kelly, Earl Scofield, Jim Jack, John Neville, Shirley Neville, John White, Kathy Parks, Joyce Cherwak, Julie Lawrence, Laura McMahon, Stan Scislowski, Tom Abrash, Sophia Linner

Regrets: Harry Major, Barry Horrobin, Sandy Szocki, Paul Laforet, Helen Minovski, Lauren Hayward, Gale Gagnier, Carrie Bouzide

Reports:

Military Muster

Lack of co-ordination was a big issue as well as the busload not being on film like they were last year. Breakfast had mix ups with the price. Larry having to ask for donations on the bus ride home was not good. Mickey Moulder gave a generous donation to defray the costs.

Larry Costello talked about how great the Military Muster was and that it was the best thing that he had attended in months better yet years. Larry also commented on the fact that too many people cancelled at the last minute and that in the future people need to confirm and stick to their commitment to that event. He also said that something needs to be done about getting more financial support for these events.

Dieppe Monument II

It was fantastic with great attendance. Everything seem to be well organized. Donations to the HCMS

Comments were made that there must be more support by the Windsor Star covering these events and the rest of the media outlets as well. The public had a difficult time finding information regarding this event anywhere so that they could attend.

Air Show

The Chair welcomed Dan Beaudoin to the meeting. Dan commented on how happy he was being here and then he offered to help out any time that he could. Dann suggested Dan's service for helping people to and from their vehicles at events & meetings.

   Air Show side comment was that anyone who has no email please come into the office and Kelsey or Nikki will help you with that. George Mock was given recognition for his photos covering the air show. Comments that the media (photos) that were taken at this event was not nearly good enough. There should have been much more.

     Wayne Hillman agreed that the rain was terrible and that fact that golf carts had to be used to escort the veterans to the tented area was definitely not a positive thing.

Julie Lawrence explained that the reason the golf carts had to be used was that the ground was much too soft for the buses to drive on. That the food vendors had to cart everything there too.

The Chair then commented that the entrance that they used last year was much better because it was a much more direct route. That it was much to confusing and that they should open a direct route to the tarmac.

The Chair commented that Harry Major was rained on and now he has pneumonia which is a great concern. Car pooling could be an option instead of the buses.

The Chair also reported the management of the Air Show suffered from problems because of actions of a very few and said that next year, we should work closer together with Keith Baxter.

In the News

Percy Hatfield was introduced and he graciously accepted the task of emceeing our Veterans Appreciation Day Event.

Dan Beaudoin was recognized for being in the Windsor Star. Dann commented that the article should have been on the front page.

The Chair praised George Mock for the photos on the website for the Air show. It was then mentioned that Jenny, the wing walker, contacted George for photos from the air show that she'd seen at WindsorHistoricalSociety.com.   The office sent Jenny the requested pictures plus a number of others.

George Mock graciously stated he was proud to be invited to the meeting and expressed his desire to have more and more people view the albums available on line.

Larry Costello mentioned that he struck up a good relationship with the pilot and that he and his wife have invited Larry and his wife to Florida. Larry commented on how proud the pilot was to have been part of everything going on here in Windsor and that he was very pleased with us as a city.

Newsletter

The Chair reported 590 copies were mailed out costing $400 in postage and $380.00 for printing. 188 were emailed out to members. He commented on how thankful he was for Helen Minovski and Barb Catherine for putting their ads in the newsletter.

Volunteers are needed to make phone calls, make surveys and lists of people who may be interested in advertising with us.

Laura McMahon from Wal-Mart was introduced and she expressed her thanks for being here.

Karl Lovett was then asked to announce his idea regarding jugs in the schools to gather donations. It was suggested that the schools use this as a challenge against each other to see who can raise more money. That a video could be produced and shown to the students as to why this is important.

Doris Kelly let us know that from now until thanksgiving they are in the schools for the poster and literary contests. They are meeting on September 11th and that maybe bringing up this jug idea to the chair people would be good at this time.

Joyce Cherwak then responded to Doris' idea stating that being the main educator for the Humane Society she has found out that you must approach the Boards of Education before proceeding with any kind of fundraising in the schools.

Jim Jack suggested that we form a committee for things such as these. Dann suggested that Doris, Lorraine & Julie would be great candidates for this.

Doris Kelly asked that a business plan be put together to send to the Boards of Education. Volunteers were asked for this.

Julie Lawrence suggested that "this committee" work on getting these funds between January and June so that everything would be done for Nov. 11th next year.

The Christmas Truce

The Chair introduced this new project, Walkerville Collegiate High School will be putting this play on. Funds could be brought in by the students.

     Brianne Tousignant suggested that the Catholic schools have a contest against each other with a reward being a dress down day. For the public schools possibly they could compete against for a pizza day. The students need incentive to get this task done.

Dan Beaudoin asked if he could place the jugs that were talked about in bars so that people could put their spare change in. Dann commented that that would be a great idea!

Kathy Parks asked which schools would be included in this competition will it be Windsor only or the entire Windsor Essex County area? It will be all of Essex County.

Kelsey Prosser announced that the car wash was a success and that 25% of all funds raised by Spectra Solutions Car Wash are being donated to the Windsor Historical Society.

Side note: we need to let people know that it is the Windsor Historical Society that is putting on these functions especially the Veterans Appreciation Day at the Serbian Center.

Veterans Speak to Students Project

Eva Bouzide the past speaking engagements have been great at St. Joe's and Catholic Central and she suggested we get some additional Veterans up to speak and tell their stories. The Veterans that we have speaking now are great but we should spice it up a bit by adding some new faces in there.

Larry Costello attested to this commenting that last year he spoke to 11 schools. Central Public School in particular sent him a stack of letters coming from each student thanking him for the education that they received from him telling his story.

Other Comments/News

Jim Jack told how the Korean Veterans Association had to give up their charter and that these Veterans should be approached to be more involved with us and to participate in these new committees.   Jim also took this opportunity to ask us to be their major sponsor for their calendar. That he believes that with the reach that WHS has we could   have them distributed in no time. Dann agreed to discuss this with other coordinators and meet with Jim.

Barb Catherine announced that the Devonshire Seniors Residence along with it's parent company, Chartwell Seniors Housing Reit, will be launching a new book entitled "Honour" commemorating the veterans. The book includes 35 stories from veterans. The books will be delivered the first week of November to the Devonshire Seniors Residence and that on November 04th their will be a book launch @ 2:30 p.m. in the Crawford building. The books are being sold for $10.00 each.

Julie Lawrence suggested that since we meet on the first Thursday of the month she suggested that we move November's meeting to a later time that way the attendees can go straight from our meeting to the book launch.   Barb agreed to look into this possibility.

Phil Alexander, a Veteran was as a Devonshire Seniors Residence resident. He recommended that other veterans within the building be invited to attend the meetings.

Julie Lawrence referred back to the confusion at the Military Muster. She explained that she was in contact with Mikey Moulder and that he gave assurances that the veterans will be taken better care of next year. She would like to concentrate on becoming a member of their committee to ensure the events success next year.

Larry Costello then addressed the fact that he is finding that the volunteers at these events are not having enough respect for the veterans. That some were man-handled and spoken to in a derogatory manner. He would like to see them being addressed prior to events on how to approach and treat the veterans. It was suggested that tour maps be made available to everyone at each and every event. That way attendees will know where they are or where they need to be brining the confusion levels down.

Jim Jack stated that he was unaware until a few years ago that the Windsor Historical Society even had a Veterans Appreciation Day (dinner), and after he did get invited he was still unclear that it was us that was putting the event on.

Bill Vivian let us know that there are very few bricks still available. That if anyone is interested they need to contact him and get going on it soon. Bill also announced that the "Battle of Britain" is Sept 19th @ 2:00 p.m. in Jackson Park. Contact Bill @ 519-945-6146 for further information.

Meeting adjourned at 12:05 p.m.

Minutes respectfully submitted by: Nikki Wanklin and Brianne Tousignant

To request a full copy of the minutes from any general meeting, please e-mail the office.
Thank You

THANK A VET – WE DID

2009-09-01T11:10:00.003-04:00

The Windsor Historical Society – Veterans Memories Project had the honour and the great privilege of transporting Veterans to and from the amazing Windsor International Air Show.

To us the show was exciting, stunning and beautiful but the most rewarding was observing Veterans from every war after WWI reliving war time experiences, especially our WWII Veterans.

At the show, with a tear or two they shared tales of their own war-time experiences while narrators provided history with descriptions of the planes.

Let's hope that in 2010 the City of Windsor and the rest of the towns in Canada South come together to support a show of this magnitude and world-class caliber. Hundreds of participating air show support personnel all needed hotel rooms, food, and rental cars and this certainly helped our local economy.

The Veterans have thanked us, but thanks and praise goes to the organizers Keith Baxter, Bill Reilly, Michael Beale, Denis Schryer, Mickey Moulder, Mary Guthrie and so many, many more who shared the responsibilities of organizing this magnificent production. You and an army of thousands (or maybe several hundred) of yellow-shirted volunteers did yourselves proud particularly Joyce, Julie, Terry, Pauline, Colin, Andrea, Heidi and all the young student volunteers stationed at the Veterans VIP tent. Your slogan on the back of every shirt, “THANK A VET – WE DID” put smiles on the Veterans faces, lumps in their throats and a tear in their eyes. People of all ages including the police and other men and women in uniform waved, smiled and saluted Veterans on the bus. Wow, what a beautiful sight.

Thank you all and God Bless all of you! Well Done Indeed!
Dann Bouzide, Eva Bouzide, Coordinators

Watch a slide show of the event by clicking here

Windsor Air Show 2009 Commercial

2009-09-01T01:03:00.002-04:00

Veterans Appreciation Day in the city of Windsor

2009-07-27T09:53:00.002-04:00

It was fitting that the ceremony to proclaim July 7 as Veteran Appreciation Day should take place at Windsor’s Cenotaph, itself a testimony of the ages to the fallen of the Great War of 1914-1918. It started with a ‘March on the Colours,’ followed by Canada’s national anthem and a moment of silence punctuated by bugle and bagpipe, reflecting the sober mood among the good crowd of over a hundred people who gathered that morning out of respect. Widely represented were the many local military services and community organizations. So did veterans, seniors, students, photographers from the press, as well as those who had family members that faithfully served. Most of them would have showed up rain or snow. Thankfully, it was a sunny summer day. The ceremony proceeded without a snag.

Several representatives from a spectrum of political parties had found the time to attend from their busy schedule. Bruce Crozier, MPP for Essex, thanked all the veterans in the rows for “preserving our values and freedom.” No doubt, the veterans appreciated his kind remarks. They had been waiting for decades to receive this second day outside Remembrance Day.

Our own Mayor Eddie Francis was on hand to make the proclamation officially binding. It was the Mayor’s hope that new generations would be inspired to “pick up and serve with the same valour.” Then he asked Larry Costello, C.D. Director of the Windsor Historical Society, to step up and accept a special certificate on behalf of all the veterans from the Windsor-Essex region. “It should really be 365 days a year,” Costello felt the need to add.

Of all the speakers that morning, Michael Beale, past President of the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association, spoke most directly to the heart. Beale was determined not to let us off lightly. Looking all the way into the audience, Beale asked us not to forget those who died in Korea, and then asked the Vietnam Veterans present and those who were no longer physically present to “please forgive us.” In his view, they had “given” his “generation life.” In that truth-telling line he was able to sum up what many in the audience was feeling. You could see his effect on the long demeanour of that Vietnam Veteran with the POW-MIA flag and patch. Coming off the annual Run to the North Wall only a short week before, he must have been one of those veterans who had endured a cold collective shoulder.

Beale boldly returned to what MP Joe Comartin had previously noted about “that time in 1970’s and 1980’s when we let it lapse.” Too many of us back then had failed to uphold our duty to remember our heroes.

The need to preserve the memory of their effort was a major reason why the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association was restoring the De Havilland Mosquito and Lancaster bombers. Beale spoke in particular about the ‘Bad Penny’ Lancaster with its magnificent history of service in the Second World War. On April 29, 1945, a seven-man RAF/RCAF crew -- nicknamed the ‘Bad Penny’ because it keeps coming back -- dropped food bundles that saved the “starving children of Holland.” By remembering our heroes, we were remembering whom they had done it for. In the bad news, it was possible to find the good news.

For those at the ceremony who might have thought we were only honouring the past, Beale corrected them. For those who were still unaware, Veteran Appreciation Day was also about honouring the future and had nothing to do with nostalgia. War is always a serious business. Canadians, Beale reminded us, are still serving with distinction in Afghanistan. Their presence in that other part of the world was “allowing young girls to experience an education.” Canada’s commitment to the people of Afghanistan went beyond hunting down the Taliban, although the defeat of their radical agenda would be essential to any future peace process.

Larry Costello took a final moment to offer us a small poem in remembrance of those who had fallen “for the freedom of the world.” Once again, he was emphasizing the importance of Veteran Appreciation Day to Canada’s heroes and their families. He was inviting us to stop being spectators and join the campaign to turn it into a nation-wide event.

The ceremony concluded with “God Save the Queen,” and with the Parade Commander and bag-piper in highland kilt from The Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment leading out in a ‘March off the Colours.’

The event had proven to be a success. That morning no one was allowed to forget the price of freedom.

Windsorites are increasingly becoming “aware of their military history,” Marc Chalifoux of the Dominion Institute said afterwards. Through The Memory Project Speakers Bureau, an initiative of the Dominion Institute, 175, 000 students were able to connect with veteran volunteers in the previous year. Chalifoux optimistically predicted that they would reach the “one-millionth student” mark no later than fall 2009. The Memory Project has been able to “create a definitive record of Canada’s participation in the Second World War.” (See their website below for more information).

Chalifoux believed we were taking considerable ground from those who were ignoring the contributions of our veterans. In fact, the Dominion Institute was now offering tool kits to those who wanted to get Veteran Appreciation Day proclaimed in their communities. “We don’t take enough opportunities” to recognize our veterans, Chalifoux noted.

By loaning a military jeep to the event, the Canadian Transportation Museum was doing its job of reaching out to the public. More than a few people quizzed Mickey Moulder on the jeep’s specs. Built at the Ford Plant in Detroit, the jeep saw ample action on D-Day, and yet managed to stay in good condition over the long years.

Larry Costello sat in the jeep with the special certificate given to him by Windsor's Mayor Eddie Francis. Minutes later, several reporters rushed over to him, interviewed him and took his photo.

Costello’s driver then took him to the Reception held at the Windsor Armouries on University Avenue East. Not that long afterwards, Larry Costello and Marc Chalifoux offered some introductory remarks. Because the event was largely over, they kept it as short as possible.

The Dominion Institute, however, was continuing its presence through the Memory Project billboards placed at strategic corners in the room. So that its internet address www.thememoryproject.com could be readily accessible to the eye that wished to find it. Several people from the Dominion Institute stood nearby to answer questions from the press or anyone else who needed to ask. They even gave out Memory Project hats to the wives.
It was mostly an older crowd, no doubt reflecting their years of dedication and service. When interviewed, Elaine Dunn from the House Committee of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #255 noted with some sadness that it was proving harder to pull in young members. She emphasized “young” several times in our conversation. She was putting out the message that the Legion was open to youth.

The Lady Auxiliary of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #255 donated the food and cake.

Michael Beale fascinated this reporter on his extensive knowledge of military history. It felt amazing to know that I was in the old home of the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment. The Windsor Armouries, he pointed out, was a bastardization of the original name of Major F.A. Tilston Armoury.

Recently visiting his family in Windsor, Andrew Martel excitedly pronounced, “It’s been one of the best mornings I’ve ever had. I've just been with one of the best people.”

As the event was unfolding that morning at the Cenotaph, Martel was just across the street in Burger King, staring out the window. Seeing all the uniforms got him wondering about what they were organizing. Therefore, he quickly finished what he was eating.

He has since been happy with his decision to cross over to the Cenotaph.

Obviously, Martel felt at home in both the United States and Canada. The Windsor born Martel had always seen himself as Canada’s “ambassador” in the United States Air Force. His presence that day confirmed that Canadians had fought alongside Americans in many wars, including Korea and Vietnam. These two conflicts often explained away as only ‘American wars,’ as if having nothing to do with us. Tell that to the North Wall Riders who honoured their brothers at the Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Martel was a living example of the military's emphasis on fostering a close-knit community that would come together to help its own. Spending a combined 41 years in the United States Air Force, twenty-one of those years active duty and the other twenty in the civilian wing, Martel has since retired to the equivalent of a full-bird Colonel. He was in his own words: “the shortest, smallest Chief around.” Even as a retiree, he could never really allow himself to quit on his soldiers. Today, he sits on a committee comprising the Army, Navy and Air Force, which organizes various forms of aid for the wives of lower-ranked soldiers or Privates. It could be as simple as doing the laundry or trimming the lawn.

Martel sympathized with those at the lower end of the military structure. In his view, they performed a necessary duty. They should always be respected. That is why he was very dedicated to making their family life easier. He wanted this reporter to understand that military people often “lived in two different dimensions” and that it was sometimes hard for them to “slide back into civilian peaceful existence when they came back from a war.”

In describing himself as a “Warrior” Martel was drawing attention to his sense of a noble calling. It was something he had always wanted to do. No one twisted his arm into joining the military. For Martel it turned out to be far more than a career choice. He had gained a life. The only trade-off was that he had to face the possibility that he could one day physically lose his life. This very knowledge allowed him to be painfully aware of the sacrifices of his soldiers. This seemingly tough shell of a man who once wielded the powerful authority of a No. 2 pencil to send subordinates to pick up garbage or to jail – suddenly broke into tears. His special plea was that we visit the badly injured in the military hospitals.

I got his message: we cannot allow ourselves to forget the living or the dead.

Written by Pierre Beaumier
Video by Sam Meddaka

To watch a picture slide show of the event please click here