Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 111 On arrival overseas he joined the 18th Battalion under Captain Hughes, son of Sir Sam Hughes, Minister of militia. From time to time he has sent home to his parents’ bright letters making light of all the hardships incident to life in the trenches yet reading between the lines those who received them could easily perceive that the lad of 15 was “enduring hardness.” Shortly after his older brother, Robert, was taken prisoner, (June 16), he wrote his parents a letter of which the following is an extract: “Dear Mother and Dad – Just a line to let you know that I know Bob is captured, as some of the ______ were, so you can let your mind rest, for more than probable he is one of them. I am going to get over and see his battalion officer as soon as I can and will let you know where he is. Don’t worry over him too much. He is safe, at least he is out of the fighting and he won’t be killed. I am writing to tell Allie too. I have lots of hope for him myself so don’t let a thought enter your mind, but that our Bob is alright. God will look after us and bring us safely home to you. Oh, mother, home has such a sweet, sweet sound to us out here. Don’t worry over me for Mr. Maxwell is doing his best to get me on the staff of the Y.M.C.A. with him. For your sake I will take it if I get the chance, but for myself I am not afraid. My leg is still weak, tho I am in good health alright. But you hope for the best, but I know you will bear it the best and feel it the worst.” “Well dear I am sending you a Belgian rose picked on the banks of the ________ , keep it for my sake.” “Good-bye for now, lots of love and kisses. From your loving son. FRED.” Editor’s note: In Private Storey’s letter to his parents there are 2 instances, noted by __________, where the censors of the day eliminated a Battalion name or a location in order to protect the various troop movements. continued ... We will Remember
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