Volume XVII, 2022 MILITARY SERVICE RECOGNITION BOOK August 19, 1942 In the Service of Canada 80Operation Jubilee years
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1 Introduction A message to our readers from author and editor, John Goheen and graphic designer, Markus Fahrner. As we cautiously come out from under the COVID restrictions that prevented holding commemorative events, it was so good to see a handful of veterans from the Dieppe Raid return to France inAugust to attend eightieth anniversary ceremonies. Viewing the events live on television, I was struck by the frailty and age of these Jubilee veterans and reminded at just how much I missed seeing these heroes since COVID. This latest edition of the BC/Yukon Command’s, In the Service of Canada: Military Service Recognition Book highlights Operation Jubilee, now eighty years past, with two features. Inaddition, readerswill findawide rangeof topics and themes. We are thrilled to include articles by some leading Canadian military historians again. Dr. TimCook discusses the medical services in the Great War, the subject of his soon to be released book, Lifesavers and Body Snatchers: Medical Care and the Struggle for Survival in the Great War. Dr. William F. Stewart looks at the critical role prewar Canadian Militia officers played in the future success of the Canadian Corps in his, More than ‘Play at Soldiers:’ Profiles of Militia Officers in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Dr Irene Gammel returns to the 2022 edition with her, The Operation Canada Digital War Diaries Project feature which examines the thoughts and attitudes expressed in soldiers’ written diary accounts. As well, a proud Newfoundlander, Allison Wilcox, introduces us to her relative who was killed at Beaumont Hamel on 1 July 1916, in Come From Away, Discovering and Honouring Family War History. Throughout these pages you will find stories of men and women, in war and peace, from today and yesterday who, in the service of Canada, created a strong legacy worthy of remembrance. From the eightieth anniversary of the Dieppe Raid to the passing of one of Canada’s greatest fighter pilots, to the forgotten memorials in Normandy, we hope that you find something in the words and images presented in this volume that resonates with you. Lest we Forget With appreciation John Goheen, author & editor and Markus Fahrner, layout & design.
Military Service Recognition Book 2 We Remember
3 Contents In the Service of Canada Introduction ............................................................................. 1 Messages Message from the Prime Minister ...................................... 7 Message from the Minister of Veterans Affairs.............. 9 Message from the Lieutenant Governor of BC ............. 11 Message from the Premier BC............................................13 Message from the Commissioner of the Yukon.............15 Message from the Premier Yukon......................................17 Message from the Commanding Officer RCMP...........19 Message from the Command President ...........................21 About the Legion A Note to the Reader ............................................................23 Open to Everyone Legion Membership ..........................25 Did You Know.........................................................................27 Legion Foundation ................................................................29 Youth Contest ...................................................................... 249 Poster Winners .....................................................................253 LiteraryWinners ..................................................................301 Legion Conference 2022....................................................351 Features Dieppe 80 Years of Remembering ................................... 31 The Voice of an Angel ........................................................49 Preventative Medicine in the Great War.......................57 The Operation Canada Digital War Diaries Project .69 More than ‘Play at Soldiers:’..............................................87 William Rider-Rider ............................................................99 In Their Own Voices...........................................................129 Come from Away .................................................................143 Forgotten Memorials in Normandy ................................ 159 71st Anniversary of Battle of Kapyong .......................... 187 ATribute to a Great Aviator .............................................203 Missing No Longer............................................................. 209 Farewell to a Hero................................................................225 Dulce et Decorum Est ........................................................245 The Great Pilgrimage ..........................................................341 Honouring Veterans Navy Biographies .................................................................367 Army Biographies ................................................................371 Air Force Biographies. ........................................................381 Researching your Second World War Family Member.....................................................................393 Advertisers’ Index ..............................................................402 How to Submit a Biography ..............................................407 Biography Submission Form.............................................408
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7 2022 Dear Friends: I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to the readers of the 2022 edition of In the Service of Canada, The Royal Canadian Legion British Columbia/Yukon Command Military Service Recognition Book. The annual publication pays tribute to the Veterans, current military and RCMP of British Columbia and Yukon service members. Through a compilation of biographies, personal stories and photographs, each edition honours the brave Canadians in uniform who have served our country throughout history and helps to ensure that their contributions, and sacrifices, are never forgotten. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Veterans and serving members for all they have done, and continue to do, to secure a better future for Canada and the world. I would also like to commend the British Columbia/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion for their hard work and dedication in preserving these memories for future generations. I am certain that readers will find the stories of courage and sacrifice in these pages both moving and inspiring. Sincerely, The Rt. Hon. Justin P. J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P. Prime Minister of Canada
Military Service Recognition Book 8 Thank You For Your Service On November 11th The Tumbler Ridge Firefighters Are Proud to Honour Our Veterans
9 Message from the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence On behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada, I am pleased to extend my heartfelt greetings to all readers of the Royal Canadian Legion’s BC/Yukon Command’s latest publication of In the Service of Canada. Around the world, Canada’s brave Veterans have made tremendous contributions in service during times of war, armed conflict and peace. Veterans Affairs Canada is striving to do more to recognize all Veterans, including modern-era Veterans, women, Indigenous, racialized, and LGBTQ2+ service personnel, and include Canadians of all ages and walks of life in remembrance. Our country is changing. As our demographics continue to evolve, we are working to find new ways to engage everyone in paying tribute to those who have served throughout our history. Veterans Affairs Canada’s 10-year strategic plan for commemoration highlights the contributions of Canadian military members, police officers and other skilled personnel to international peace, security and humanitarian efforts through a regional “Canadian Armed Forces around the world” approach. As Minister of Veterans Affairs, I am always pleased to see others engaged in commemorating those who have served and would like to commend the Royal Canadian Legion’s BC/Yukon Command for its dedicated commitment to remembrance. The fascinating stories presented in this edition of In the Service of Canada highlight the tremendous sacrifices of our Veterans who have answered the call of duty both at home and abroad, and I hope you will enjoy reading them as much as I have. As Canadians, we owe a debt of gratitude to those who defended the peace that we enjoy today, and this publication is a true testament to their legacy. Lest we forget. get. Lawrence MacAulay, PC, MP
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11 A Message from the Lieutenant Governor As Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, it is my great honour to mark the publication of this volume of In the Service of Canada. In the Service of Canada is vital resource for Canadians to become familiar with those who fought for our freedom. It is because of their great sacrifices— the difficulties endured, the injuries they suffered both physical and mental, and, in many cases, the ultimate sacrifice of their lives— that we pay respect and honour veterans and those in uniform today. Through the biographies captured in this book, we can ensure future generations know the stories of the hundreds of thousands of men and women who served this country and continue to serve today, in defense of our right to be afforded life, freedom and security without fear. Throughout In the Service of Canada, unique histories will be told, spanning unimaginable experiences across the world, giving the stories of our veterans further longevity. On behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, I share my utmost gratitude to those devoted to recording these histories and biographies. Your work ensures we will never forget their service. Sincerely, The Honourable Janet Austin, OBC Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
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13 A MESSAGE FROM PREMIER JOHN HORGAN As Premier of the Province of British Columbia, I extend my warmest welcome to readers of the 2022 edition of In the Service of Canada, published by the BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion. This annual publication shares the stories of those who have served our country with great valour and excellence. Many of them did not return home and those who did, returned with both visible and invisible injuries. For generations, Canadians have bravely risked their lives to defend our freedoms, and we must never forget their courage, commitment and sacrifice. As British Columbians, we are united in gratitude as we thank these heroes for their incredible dedication to protecting our values and helping make Canada and the world a better, safer place for all. I would also like to express my appreciation to the BC/Yukon Command for its efforts in supporting service members and their families, as well as promoting remembrance by celebrating and honouring those who have served and those who continue to serve. Thank you for taking the time to reflect on the important legacies between these pages. HONOURABLE JOHN HORGAN PREMIER OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
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15 5<G<*l$>UEl<XC>l+^ 5<>l>` ?l ,4DI^Fl $GE5ULG`l LB>l:EXlU5<E5`l 6Vl /E7EMGl bUl EXl2bMXUl Xe>\UR>U`l %X[aF>[Vl-c`;FXV>l 7jE5Ul!@i>7l<5fl !f5UL>l (Xc`F>[Vl.c`;FXV>l YSSG__8I[Al =dl2dMYWl g7^M>>ilGHUlg7ElE E>>il 0ZZ>[l,4V4V4l 2bMXUl 7RR7Ul)E97<>l 9UGl ,OIVDI`l 7RJUlC&<G:El<>C>l2bMXUl`^ Kl "4^N4l Xe>]UR>U`lU<XXl:EG`lUGPGGl fI;F IVl As Commissioner of Yukon, it is my greatest pleasure to contribute to this year's edition of the British Columbia/Yukon Command in the Service of Canada book. Civic pride is one of my pillars as Commissioner and it is always a pleasure to honour deserving Canadians and Yukoners. This year marks the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II and her 70 years of dedication and service to the Commonwealth. Closer to home, telling the stories of the Canadian men and women who have kept our nation strong and free, and helped bring peace and security to the world is a unique way of recognizing their contributions and service. On behalf of Yukoners, I would like to recognize the hard work of the BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion. Thank you for highlighting the contributions and sacrifice of many Canadians, including British Columbians and Yukoners, towards peace in our country and around the world. Regards, A titre de commissaire du Yukon, je suis tres heureuse de contribuer a cette edition du Livre du souvenir -Au service du Canada de la Direction de la Colombie-Britannique et du Yukon. La fierte civique etant l'un de mes piliers, c'est toujours un plaisir d'honorer les Canadiens et Canadiennes et les Yukonnais et Yukonnaises de merite. Cette an nee marque le ju bile de platine de Sa Majeste la reine Elizabeth II et ses 70 ans de devouement et de service envers le Commonwealth. Plus pres de nous, raconter l'histoire des Canadiens et des Canadiennes qui ont contribue a garder notre pays fort et libre et a apporter la paix et la securite dans le monde est une fac;:on exceptionnelle de reconna7tre leur engagement et leurs services. Au nom de tous les Yukonnais et de toutes les Yukonnaises, je tiens a souligner !'excellent travail de la Direction de la Colombie-Britannique et du Yukon de la Legion royale canadienne. Je vous remercie de souligner l'apport et les sacrifices de nombreux Canadiens et Canadiennes, dont les Britanno-Colombiens et les Britanno-Colombiennes et les Yukonnais et les Yukonnaises, pour la paix dans notre pays et dans le monde. Cordialement, l#4IVl(`[>>` l1FI`>FX[^> l3cNXVl 3Q l l 'FXV> l l kl 4h l lkl;XTTI^^IXV>[ DXe iN ;4l As Commissioner of Yukon, it is my greatest pleasure to contribute to this year's edition of the British Columbia/Yukon Command in the Service of Canada book. Civic pride is one of my pillars as Commissioner and it is always a pleasure to honour deserving Canadians and Yukoners. This year marks the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II and her 70 years of dedication and service to the Commonwealth. Closer to home, telling the stories of the Canadian men and women who have kept our nation strong and free, and helped bring peace and security to the world is a unique way of recognizing their contributions and service. On behalf of Yukoners, I would like to recognize the hard work of the BC/ Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion. Thank you for highlighting the contributions and sacrifice of many Canadians, including British Columbians and Yukoners, towards peace in our country and around the world. gards, À titre de commissaire du Yukon, je suis très heureuse de contribuer à cette édition du Livre du souvenir -Au service du Canada de la Direction de la Colombie-Britannique et du Yukon. La fierté civique étant l'un de mes piliers, c'est toujours un plaisir d'hon rer les Canadiens et Canadiennes et les Yukonnais et Yukon aises de mérite. te a née marque l jubilé de pl tine d Sa Majesté la reine Elizabeth II et ses 70 ans d dévou m nt et de service envers le Commonwealth. Plus près de nous, raconter l'histoire des Canadiens et des Canadi nnes qui ont contribué à garder notre pays fort et libre et à apporter l paix et l sécurité dans le monde est une façon exceptionnelle de reconnaître leur engagement et leurs services. Au nom de tous les Yukonnais et de toutes les Yukonnaises, je tiens à souligner l'excellent travail de la Direction de la Colombie-Britannique et du Yukon de la Légion royale canadienne. Je vous remercie de souligner l'apport et les sacrifices de nombreux Canadiens et Canadiennes, dont les Britanno-Colombiens et les Britanno-Colombiennes et les Yukonnais et les Yukonnaises, pour la paix dans notre pays et dans le monde. Cordialement,
Military Service Recognition Book 16 The Officers and Members of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, Local 82 (BC & Yukon), say Thank You to the Men and Women who served in Canada’s Armed Forces.
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19 As the Commanding Officer of the British Columbia Royal Canadian Mounted Police, I am pleased to extend my greetings and best regards to the readers of the Royal Canadian Legion’s BC/Yukon Command’s Military Service Recognition Book. There is no greater sacrifice than making the choice to put one’s life on the line in service of country. For generations, Canadians have served overseas and at home as members of our armed forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This publication recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of those currently serving, and our veterans. The work of the Royal Canadian Legion is commendable. Their efforts in areas of charity, advocacy, and support help ensure that our service members and veterans are taken care of and not forgotten. I hope that as you read through this year’s edition of the Military Service Recognition Book, you pause to consider the proud legacy of our veterans and all our active members that are currently serving Canadians today. Lest we forget. Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald Commanding Officer – BC RCMP
Military Service Recognition Book 20 604-736-2841 belmontproperties.ca Belmont Properties is a very proud supporter of our Veterans and Military Service Personnel. Thank you to the Men and Women who have protected our country. The place we call HOME.
21 A Message from the Command President The Royal Canadian Legion is the foremost institution in Canada, providing and championing services to Veterans. No organization works harder and more diligently than the Legion for Veterans, either still serving, or having given their all while wearing the uniform. As President of BC Yukon Command, I salute all who have served our country either in a military or Royal Canadian Mounted Police capacity. Not to be forgotten, are the countless non-Veteran members of this great organization. It is only through the membership and the willingness of all Legion members, that we continue to strive and serve after 95 years. 2022 marks the 17th year this Military Service Recognition Book has been published as a tribute to Veterans, and it is truly a remarkable way to recognize our women and men who have served. Veterans tend to be thought about during the Remembrance period each year, but the publication of this book allows us to reflect on Veterans each and every time we see or open the book. To our publisher, thank you for your continued efforts and the contributions, both monetarily and spiritually, that you provide. To all Legion members and friends, I challenge everyone to make contributions to future publications of this book by submitting a photo and story from a Veteran in your family, or a Veteran who was a close friend. As much as many Veterans do not seek recognition, it is important that their stories be told and remembered. Last, but not least, a great round of applause for the persons, groups, companies, and organizations who advertise in this publication. Through your contributions, BC Yukon Command receives funds which allow us to continue to support programs for Veterans in our communities. To all contributors, advertisers and supporters..........BRAVO ZULU In comradeship, Craig Thomson
Military Service Recognition Book 22 Developing Marijuana Breathalyzer Technology for Law Enforcement www.cannabixtechnologies.com Remembering the Fallen
23 A Note to the Reader Dear Reader, This book is the seventeenth in a series of Military Service Recognition Books that we have been publishing since 2005. Thank you to the Legion Branches, members and individuals who collected, composed, and submitted stories that contributed to the great success of these publications. The professional expertise of Fenety Marketing has raised funds through the selling of advertising in these books and through a public telephone solicitation. The proceeds raised are being used to improve our services to Veterans and Legion programs in more than 146 communities that we serve throughout BC and the Yukon. This unique publication is dedicated to the thousands of Veterans and ex-service personnel who have served their country so well during times of war and peace. This book will help future generations better understand the sacrifices made during these times of great conflict, and to better understand the purpose and objectives of The Royal Canadian Legion. You can use the submission form at the back of this book to send us additional stories. We encourage everyone to submit stories about their family members and friends with military backgrounds. When a story is received it will be deemed submitted for inclusion and may be edited and used without any further permission required. The maximum length of these submissions should be no longer than 200 words, and a separate sheet of paper can be attached to this form, as well as a photo. We retain the right to edit, but will not make any changes to content; if you misspell your name or give the wrong information, we may not make the necessary changes. All submissions should be sent to the BC/Yukon Command office by Canada Post or email. Email to info@legionbcyukon.ca is the preferred method. Please send stories and photos together in the same email. If photographs are emailed, please ensure they have a resolution of 300dpi or higher. If you are mailing in your submission, please send to: Military Service Recognition Book 101 – 17618 58th Avenue Surrey, BC V3S 1L3 Photographs will not be returned, so if you mail one, mail a copy. We hope this information and form are of assistance in preparation of your histories and stories and we look forward to receiving your submissions. If you have any questions about the book or your submission, contact the Command Office at 604.575.8840 or 1.888.261.2211 Recognition of our Veterans is very important to all of us, so let’s get behind this project and make it another successful and memorable publication!
Military Service Recognition Book 24 If you rent and are over the age of 60, the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program could be for you. SAFER helps make rent more affordable for eligible low and moderate income seniors. www.bchousing.org/safer 1-800-257-7756 Are you a renter over 60? You could get help paying rent. Learn more at bchousing.org/BC-RAHA Need adaptations to increase safety and accessibility? Get up to $17,500 in rebates for adaptations to your home.
25 Open to Everyone Legion membership is open to anyone over 18 years of age. Becoming a member of The Royal Canadian Legion is a meaningful way to serve the community in a social setting with a respected non-profit organization. Steeped in history, the Legion has a long and distinguished presence in the community. Be part of this exciting organization and enjoy being involved with: community charitable work; social activities; sports tournaments; and leadership opportunities. “…The Royal Canadian Legion is mandated to serve Veterans and their dependents, promote Remembrance and to act in the service of Canada and its communities…” BC/Yukon Command has a membership of 41,000, serving 146 Branches with 41 Ladies Auxiliaries. The annual Poppy Campaign raises approximately $4 million in BC and the Yukon alone, with proceeds going to support Veterans, Canadian Forces, ex-service personnel and their families. Legions do fantastic things for the communities they serve. Here are some great things our members do: Service to Veterans past and present • Health and longevity programs • Education and mental wellness programs • Assistance from Provincial Service Officers • Affordable housing and assisted living Educational Outreach to Youth • History and heritage learning materials • Youth multimedia contests • Bursaries and scholarships • Competitive youth athletics Recreational Activities • Competitive sporting tournaments • Sponsorship of community youth clubs Community Partnerships • Sponsorship of local community programs Leadership Opportunities • Opportunities to lead at the community, regional, provincial, and national levels Member Benefits • Special rates from a diverse range of corporate partners Do you have a passion for helping Veterans and ex-service personnel while making a meaningful difference in our communities? If so, join us! Visit legionbcyukon.ca or call BC/Yukon Command toll free at 1.888.261.2211
Military Service Recognition Book 26 The Granada Gold deposit is located in western Quebec near Rouyn-Noranda on the prolific Cadillac Break where more than 75 million ounces of gold have already been produced. With numerous high-grade gold veins already discovered and 80% of the strike length still to be explored, Granada has the potential to be the next major gold producer in the area. For more information on Granada (TSXV: GGM), please see the company's website at www.granadagoldmine.com. We are a proud supporter of our Veterans Lest We Forget Transforming into a 100,000 ounce per year Gold Producer with Numerous High-Grade Exploration Targets granadagoldmine.com CEO Frank Basa viewing gold-bearing rock The drill core room at Granada Gold Mine Visible gold veins, at the Granada deposit
27 Is the sole supporter of the BC/Yukon Team participating at the annual National Youth Track and Field Championships. Supports over 300 youth groups and is the largest contributor supporting Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and Cadets. Contributes to innovative methods of treating PTSD. Has contributed in excess of $425,000 annually for medical research and special medical equipment in health care facilities. Ladies Auxiliaries Membership of No. of Branches Did you know? The Legion At Work In Your Community 41 146 41,000 The Royal Canadian Legion, founded in 1926 is Canada's largest non-governmental service organization open to membership for all Canadians, sharing in the commitment of "Remembrance" and a strong, united Canada. BC/Yukon Command has a membership of 41,000, serving 146 Branches with 41 Ladies Auxiliaries. Through annual fundraising and the Poppy Campaign, approximately $4 million has been contributed to communities, supporting programs, and improving the quality of life for all citizens. Is one of the critical points of contact in many communities for emergency preparedness and response. The BC/Yukon Command awards more than $300,000 annually in bursaries to students across BC and the Yukon to further their education. Volunteers have collectively dedicated over 600,000 hours in communities supporting health, social, educational and athletic programs. your Legion contributes to your community Raises over $3.9 million annually with the Poppy Campaign that supports Veterans and Veteran's families in their local communities in BC and the Yukon.
Military Service Recognition Book 28 We are proud to honour our Veterans For more information, visit translink.ca or call 604.953.3333 Veterans ride free on SeaBus and SkyTrain on Remembrance Day from start of service until 6 p.m. and free all day on buses.
29 Legion Foundation The Foundation was formed in 1997 to be the charitable arm of BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion. As a registered charitable organization the Legion Foundation continues to support Veterans and strengthen communities. We are able to give more than $500,000 in support this year thanks to the generosity of all those who donate. Some of the ways BC/Yukon Command Legion Foundation helps: • Funds key initiatives in research and treatment of trauma and PTSD; • Contributes to the acquisition of medical and other necessary equipment. • Supports a diverse range of youth, academic, athletic and social programs; • Distributes funds for Veterans’ programs like Service Dogs and initiatives to stop homelessness. • Provides housing support for Veterans and seniors. • And much more. Some of the ways you can help: • Make a one-time donation in memory of a loved one. • Commit to a monthly donation. • Remember the Legion Foundation in your Will. • Support our Key Tag program this Fall. For more information visit our website at www.legionbcyukonfoundation.ca Looking back through the years, we are proud of the good work we have been able to do. Our hope is to continue this work and to create an even greater positive impact on communities across British Columbia and the Yukon. This would not be possible without the kindness of those who donate. Our ability to support our veterans and communities depends on you and we thank those who have helped.
Military Service Recognition Book 30 St. John’s • Dartmouth • Oromocto • Petawawa • Ottawa • Kingston Trenton • Toronto • Winnipeg • Saskatoon • Edmonton • Victoria info@cannaconnect.ca 888-779-8462 Today, and every day, we are grateful for the immeasurable sacrifices so many have made for our great country. Thank you for our past, present, and future freedoms. Lest we forget.
31 The number of eyewitnesses to the events of 19 August 1942 grows smaller each year. Soon there will be no more Canadians with living memory of what transpired on, above, or before the beaches at Dieppe, Puys, and Pourville now eighty years ago. The 80th anniversary commemorations at Dieppe’s Square du Canada this past August highlighted the age and fragility of those few survivors. Part of the official Canadian delegation at the ceremony was one hundred-year-old Gordon Fennell. As a twenty-year-old, he landed at Dieppe with the Calgary Tank Regiment. He survived the day and was one of the lucky ones in his Regiment to make it back to England that day. 157 others remained in France as POW’s; thirteen others never came home. Recalling that day, Fennell said, “I escaped being made a prisoner of war by DIEPPE 80 YEARS OF REMEMBERING By John Goheen August 19, 1942 80 Operation Jubilee years Gordon Fennell.
Military Service Recognition Book 32 Mailing Address: 3050 Highway 93/95, Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 Tel: (250) 342-6301 • Fax: (250) 342-9693 info@akisqnuk.org • www.akisqnuk.org Lest We Forget
33 accepting to be towed back to England in a leaking boat.” Codenamed Operation Jubilee, the raid on the port town of Dieppe and the villages of Puys and Pourville on either flank, marked but a single day, nine hours in fact, in a long six-year war. It proved to be the single costliest day for Canada in that conflict with 3367 casualties out of the 4963 Canadians involved, a 68% casualty rate including 907 killed and 1946 taken prisoner.1 While largely a Canadian operation Top - Canadian dead on Blue Beach Puys 19 August 1942. Below - Puys Today.
Military Service Recognition Book 34 SentinelStorage.ca Thank you to those who served and continue to serve for our freedom
35 it must be remembered that 1075 British, fifty US Rangers, and fifteen French were involved in the raid. 247 Royal Marine Commandos and British Army commandos were killed. As well, seventy-five Royal Navy sailors were killed and another 475 wounded. The RAF fought its single largest daytime air battle of the war that day and lost 106 aircraft with sixty-seven airmen reported as killed in action including ten Canadians.2 The need to account for the high cost has sparked much debate over the years. Even days after the Raid, the need for a scapegoat had begun; the need to assign responsibility for the high cost over the last eighty years seems to motivate much of this energy. This pursuit has coloured how historians, generations of the public, and even veterans who were there, have considered Dieppe in the years since. Dieppe, perhaps more than any day in Canadian military history, has generated more discussion and controversy and prompted gener-
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37 ations of historians to seek, and sometimes claim, to have “the definitive answer” for why the Raid was mounted. There is no question that the day was a disaster despite the incredible heroism and effort by those sailors, soldiers, and airmen involved in the landings at Dieppe, Puys, Pourville, and the flanking Commando operations. The plan was complex with a multitude of objectives and sub objectives. Planners relied too heavily on precise timings and the element of surprise with success at each stage of the operation contingent on the success of preceding phases. Failure at any phase of the operation had domino effect of disaster for what came next. Nobody plans for failure, and Dieppe failed not for any single reason but for a collusion of many reasons. I have guided manyCanadians to Dieppe over the last quarter century, most seeing it for the first time. As they encounter those imposing thirty-meter headlands and consider the stony Red Beach on Left, White Beach on right. Dieppe main beach looking east.
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39 Abandoned Dingo Scout Car, Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-362-2211-04 / Jörgensen / CC-BY-SA 3.0 Pourville today.
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41 beach, they often express thoughts like, “what were they thinking” and “how could anyone get off this beach?” It is difficult to understand today the realities, motivations, and pressures of eighty plus years ago. But hindsight is too easy. Any assessment of the Raid must consider the context of those earlier times and appreciate that Jubilee made sense, then, given the global realities faced by the British and ultimately her Russian then American allies in the last months of 1941 and the first part of 1942. The British had little good news in the months preceding Jubilee. In December 1941, the Japanese sunk the pride of the Royal Navy, the battleship HMS Prince of Wales and her escorting battle cruiser HMS Repulse in the South China Sea. Two weeks later, Hong Kong fell to the Japanese and in February so too did Singapore. In the Atlantic, German U-Boats experienced their second “happy time” beginning in January. Over the course of the next seven months, they would sink 609 Allied ships totaling more than 3.1 Landing CraftMechanisedMark 1 returning from the beaches during the raid. Source: Imperial War Museum, Wiki Commons.
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43 million tons – amounting to about one quarter of all Allied shipping lost during the war. The Arctic convoys to Russia were also suspended in July after Convoy PQ 17 lost twenty-four of its thirty-five ships. In June in the Western Desert, the British lost Tobruk while Churchill was attending a conference in Washington. It was a humiliating blow and not one to boost US confidence in their new British ally. The following month, Rommel reached El Alamein threatening to oust the British out of Egypt and the entire Middle East. Things were equally grim on the eastern front when the Germans renewed their offensive, Case Blue, against the Soviet Union in June. By the summer of 1942, the Russians were suffering 10,000 casualties per day. Churchill faced mounting pressure at home by organized labour and abroad from Stalin to mount a “Second Front Now” to aid the Soviets. The pursuit to assign blame often fails to take into account these circumstances faced by Britain in the months preceding Jubilee. The British “needed” to do something. Launching the Raid, from a strategic level, made sense in the summer of 1942 and that is a hard aspect to accept when we know today the tragic cost of what transpired. Watching Gordon Fennel last August, I recall wondering what images went through his mind on his first visit to Dieppe since that fateful day. Did he recall faces of friends, relive actions, or hear again, the incredible sounds of battle? I am Dieppe Canadian War Cemetery.
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45 fortunate to have known a number of Jubilee veterans. They are all gone now but those veterans were always marked as extra special people to me. Somehow, those whose first experience of battle, and for some also their last, was this single day stand out as both tragic and heroic figures. Hopefully we will never know another Dieppe but may we never forget those Canadians and that day. ❇ 1. Mark Zuehlke, Tragedy at Dieppe (Toronto: Douglas and McIntyre, 2012), 3. 2. Ibid., 4. Footnotes Dieppe Dawn 19 August 1942 stained glass 1967 Currie Hall Royal Military College of Canada. Donated by classes of 1948-52. Source: Victoriaedwards, Wiki Commons.
Military Service Recognition Book 46 We are proud to support the Veterans of British Columbia and the Yukon who serve our country. Thank you. We are proud to support and honour the t f iti l i t t .
47 Aerial photograph of Dieppe taken in June, 1945, showing the Red beach. August 19, 1942 80 Operation Jubilee years
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49 The sound of her voice was unmistakable. Ed Bennett instantly recognized that voice even though he had never seen her face and decades had passed since her gentle sweet words gave so much needed comfort on that terrible day – August 19,1942 – the Day Ed Bennett first came to Dieppe. Almost forty years later, Ed was back along with a large contingent of Canadian veterans to commemorate and remember the Raid – Operation Jubilee. Almost 5000 Canadians of the 2nd Division set out to land at Dieppe, Puys, and Pourville – 907 were killed and just over 2500 were either wounded, taken prisoner or both in a matter of hours. Ed Bennett belonged to these last two categories. Bennett survived the day but was severely wounded and would spend almost three years of captivity as a POW. It wasn’t supposed to happen that way. In those final pre-dawn moments of August 19, Lieutenant Bennett, in command of No. 10 Troop’s three Churchill tanks in the CalgaryTank Regiment’s “B” THE VOICE OFANANGEL By John Goheen Bennett’s Churchill Tank, Bellicose knocked on on the beach. August 19, 1942 80 Operation Jubilee years
Military Service Recognition Book 50 A message from your BC Liberal MLAs To all who fought for our freedom and to those who continue to serve to defend it. THANK YOU. JORDAN STURDY WESTVANCOUVER-SEATOSKY JACKIE TEGART FRASER-NICOLA TERESA WAT RICHMOND NORTH CENTRE TODD STONE KAMLOOPS-SOUTHTHOMPSON BEN STEWART KELOWNA WEST DAN ASHTON PENTICTON BRUCE BANMAN ABBOTSFORD SOUTH MIKE BERNIER PEACE RIVER SOUTH KEVIN FALCON, LEADER OF THE OFFICIAL OPPOSITION MLA| VANCOUVER-QUILCHENA SHIRLEY BOND PRINCE GEORGE - VALEMOUNT MICHAEL DE JONG ABBOTSFORD WEST LORNE DOERKSON CARIBOO-CHILCOTIN TREVOR HALFORD SURREY-WHITE ROCK KARIN KIRKPATRICK WEST VANCOUVER-CAPILANO DAN DAVIES PEACE RIVER NORTH DOUG CLOVECHOK COLUMBIA RIVER-REVELSTOKE MIKE MORRIS PRINCE GEORGE-MACKENZIE PETER MILOBAR KAMLOOPS-NORTHTHOMPSON GREG KYLLO SHUSWAP NORM LETNICK KELOWNA-LAKE COUNTRY RENEE MERRIFIELD KELOWNA-MISSION MICHAEL LEE VANCOUVER-LANGARA CORALEE OAKES CARIBOO NORTH TOM SHYPITKA KOOTENAY EAST IAN PATON DELTA SOUTH ELLIS ROSS SKEENA
51 Squadron, readied his tank crews as LCT 124 (Landing Craft Tank) headed for the main beach at Dieppe. Bennett climbed on top of his tank, dubbed Bellicose, to get a better view of their approach. A smokescreen just put down by the RAF obscured much of the main beach and now the challenge was to figure out which way to come in. Bennnett could see little more than the tops of buildings rising up out of the smoke but he knew there was plenty of action on the beach because he “could hear all the firing.”1 As the twenty-nine-year-old Lieutenant scanned the beach and considered his landing options, a shell tore through the LCT’s left side and exploded the landing craft’s store of hydrogen cylinders. Bennett was caught in the middle of the fireball. Now on fire and fast approaching the hostile shore, Trooper Anderson, one of Bennett’s crew members, climbed up onto the turret and put out the flames with a fire extinguisher. Bennett remembers, “’my face was burnt – all my hair gone…but we were coming into action and I picked myself up and we went into shore.”2 Bennett’s right eye was also blinded by a sliver of shrapnel. As well, the explosion damaged Bellicose’s radio equipment and jammed the turret so that the tank’s six-pounder gun could only fire in one direction. With fire blackened face and blinded in his right eye, Bennett’s day of war was just beginning. No. 10 Troop managed to land and made their way off the beach and onto the promenade but the street entries into the town were barricaded; the engineers who were supposed to clear these obstacles were mostly dead by this time. Regardless, Bellicose’s crew pressed on performing admirably despite its damaged turret by firing on enemy positions that were raking the infantry on the beach. In the heat of battle Bennett initially ignored his wounds but Bennett’s burns were Canadian Prisoners on the Grounds of l’hotel Dieu, the hospital at Rouen. Lt. Edwin Bennett before the Raid.
Military Service Recognition Book 52 On behalf of PrimeMinister JustinTrudeau andBCLiberalMPs, we thank those who have served and continue to serve our country with bravery, honour and dignity. Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau Papineau John Aldag Cloverdale—Langley City John.Aldag@parl.gc.ca Parm Bains Steveston—Richmond East Parm.Bains@parl.gc.ca Terry Beech Burnaby North—Seymour Terry.Beech@parl.gc.ca Hon. Joyce Murray Vancouver Quadra Joyce.Murray@parl.gc.ca Taleeb Noormohamed Vancouver Granville Taleeb.Noormohamed@parl.gc.ca Hon. Carla Qualtrough Delta Carla.Qualtrough@parl.gc.ca Hon. Harjit Sajjan Vancouver South Harjit.Sajjan@parl.gc.ca Randeep Sarai Surrey Centre Randeep.Sarai@parl.gc.ca Patrick Weiler West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country Patrick.Weiler@parl.gc.ca Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson North Vancouver Jonathan.Wilkinson@parl.gc.ca Sukh Dhaliwal Surrey—Newton Sukh.Dhaliwal@parl.gc.ca Hon. Hedy Fry Vancouver Centre Hedy.Fry@parl.gc.ca Ken Hardie Fleetwood—Port Kells Ken.Hardie@parl.gc.ca Ron McKinnon Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam Ron.McKinnon@parl.gc.ca Wilson Miao Richmond Centre Wilson.Miao@parl.gc.ca
53 more severe than he realized. By this time, swelling from his burns closed his left eye shut. Bennett could only see by lifting his left eyelid with his fingers. It didn’t matter much now anyway, the withdraw order came through and all remaining tanks were ordered back onto the beach to support the evacuation of the infantry. Bellicose, still living up to its name, made its way onto the beach but was hit again this time in the tread which immobilized the tank. Unable to move but still able to fire, albeit in only one direction, the tank’s six-pounder gun happened to be aimed at an enemy machine gun position high on the western headland. Bellicose’s gunner took out the machine gun and continued firing until exhausting all the ammunition. For Bennett and his crew, the war was over. It became clear that no more landing craft were going to come to rescue those still stranded on the shore. Bennett, who must have been in agony with his face almost burned away and blinded in both eyes, still led his men. He told them that when the Germans come, “give only your name, rank and number.” 3 The Germans descended on the beach and groups of Canadians were rounded up marched through the streets of Dieppe into captivity. The more severely wounded, including Ed Bennett, were transported to l’hotel Dieu, a hospital in nearby Rouen, for treatment. There, the hospital’s order of St. Augustin nuns tended to the wounded… On the evening of the 19th of August…we received about fifty badly wounded Canadians from the landing at Dieppe – all were very young…all were very badly wounded….I especially remember one badly wounded on the face, horribly wounded…he suffered terribly, his eyes Sister Agnes. l’Hôtel-Dieu de Rouen, the hospital today. .
Military Service Recognition Book 54 ADAMS LAKE INDIAN BANDWAR VETERANS WORLDWAR I (1914-1918) Alex Joseph Arnouse Frank Baptiste Sampolio Able Sampolio August Soulle Sr. WORLDWAR II (1939 -1945) Tony Anthony Peter Arnouse David Edward Charles Sr. Willie Johnny Charlie Leon-Kenoras Wilfred Kenoras Francis Michel George Michel Nazaire Sampolio Harry Sampson Joe Sampson August Soulle, Jr. Chuck Williams David Charles KOREANWAR (1950- 1953) Roy Johnny Frank Sampson Raymond Narcisse HOME GUARDS Michael Anthony (WWII); Nick Paul (WWII); & Nels Kenoras adamslakeindianband.org
55 watered, he was bandaged all over and his face terribly burned….”4 The nun’s recollection of Ed Bennett was as clear as Bennett’s memory of her voice. Almost forty years later, his eyes now healed, Bennett could finally see the face of Sister Marie-Agnès Valois, Sister Agnes, one of the nuns who cared for him during that terrible period. Many other Canadian Dieppe Raid veterans also fondly recalled Sister Agnes over the years. The French Augustin nun became known as ‘the Angel of Dieppe’ for her care of numerous soldiers following the Raid. One wounded Canadian asked Sister Agnes to kiss him the same way his mother would have done. She granted his request just before the young Canadian died. She became a fixture at commemorative ceremonies in Dieppe for years after. She was there in 2012 at the age of ninety-six at the 70th anniversary of the Raid and reunited with the old Canadian soldiers once again. Time however had taken its toll; sadly, there were so few of the them left at this occasion. Sister Agnes outlived most of the “boys” she treated including Ed Bennett who died in 2010, fittingly on November 11th. Too ill to attend the 75th commemorations five years ago in August 2017, Sister Agnes’ absence and the mere handful of Dieppe veterans there in attendance truly revealed the long passage of time since that fateful day. She would never get to attend another commemoration. On 19 April 2018 Sister Agnes, the Angel of Dieppe, died. She was 103. Sister Agnes at the 70th Anniversary Reception. Ed Bennett in 2010. 1. Mark Zuehlke, Tragedy at Dieppe (Vancouver: Douglas and McIntyre, 2012), 300. 2. Ibid.,300. 3. Mark Zuehlke, Tragedy at Dieppe (Vancouver: Douglas and McIntyre, 2012), 357. 4. CBC Documentary, Dieppe 1942, 1979.
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