VETERANS’ SERVICE RECOGNITION BOOK - Volume Twenty One The Royal Canadian Legion NOVA SCOTIA / NUNAVUT COMMAND HA L I F AX GRAND PARADE
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 1 Nova Scotia’s historic connection to the military is woven into the cultural fabric of our province. As Minister responsible for Military Relations, the MLA of Eastern Passage (home of 12 Wing Shearwater), co-chair of the Seamless Canada Steering Committee, and as a mother to a son who is currently in the Canadian Armed Forces, I have witnessed this firsthand. I am grateful to all of you for your contribution to the province and country. In today’s world, threats to our way of life and national sovereignty are numerous. International geopolitical uncertainty has reignited discussions around our armed forces and the need to do more in support of those who serve. Canadians are coming together with a sense of national pride and unity. Nova Scotia stands united with all Canadians and recognizes the critical role that our military will play in the years to come; ensuring a safe, independent, and prosperous country. The CanadianArmed Forces also represent the true potential of our nation and are a symbol of pride. Nova Scotians have a long history of making personal sacrifices to protect their home, their loved ones and their country. This fact is not lost on me, and I am committed to telling these stories where, and whenever, I am able. Be that through supporting memorial projects recognizing the actions of our veterans, recognizing Nova Scotians who served as United Nations Peacekeepers, or highlighting these inspiring tales in our Military Relations Newsletter. I am committed to ensuring that this province continues to pave the way for others when it comes to support for our military-connected community. I am also proud to work with Chris Palmer, MLA for Kings West, as ministerial assistant for Military Relations. His role with Nova Scotia’s Standing Committee for Veteran Affairs, along with having 14 Wing Greenwood in his constituency, provide him with an extensive understanding of the challenges faced by CAF members and their families. I have the honour of serving as the Provincial co-chair for the Seamless Canada Steering Committee. In this role, I continue to work with the Federal co-chair, the Parliamentary Secretary for National Defence, as well as with my provincial and territorial colleagues, to discuss how we can work collaboratively to improve the lives of Canada’s service members and their families. Our current priorities include health care, spousal employment, housing, and childcare/dependent education. On behalf of all Nova Scotians and the Government of Nova Scotia, I extend our sincere appreciation to military members, veterans and their families for the tremendous contributions and sacrifices they have and continue to make to ensure the safety of all Canadians, at home and abroad. A sincere thanks to the Nova Scotia Nunavut Command of the Royal Canadian Legion for honouring the members of our military community. I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure Nova Scotia’s military members are recognized, supported and celebrated. Honourable Barbara Adams, MLA Deputy Premier Minister responsible for Military Relations Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care NS Department of Intergovernmental Affairs Message from Deputy Premier Barbara Adams
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 2 Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion Table of Contents - Volume 21 Deputy Minister Responsible for Military Relations Message . . . . . . . . . .1 President's Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Project Chairman/Editor's Message . . . . . . .7 Features Poster and Literary Contest Winners – 2025 . .9 Warrant Officer (Ret'd) George Couture . . .29 CWO (Ret’d) Claude “Ollie” Cromwell . . . . .33 Captain Harry DeWolf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Major (Ret’d) Lynn Doucette . . . . . . . . . . . .41 A Mi’kmaq Tunneller's Story - Sgt Sam Glode, DCM . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Lieutenant (N) Yuna Hur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Lieutenant-Commander Isabel MacNeill . . .61 Cpl (Ret’d) Kate MacEachern . . . . . . . . . . .65 Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret’d) Robert “Bob” Maxwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Mona Parsons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Kevin ‘Sammy’ Sampson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Sergeant (Ret’d) Bill Toussaint . . . . . . . . . .85 MV (Motor Tanker) Victolite . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 SS Lady Hawkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 The 1st Nova Scotia casualty of WW II . . .101 The Nova Scotia troopers of the Kangaroo Regiment . . . . . . . . . .105 Flushing (Vlissingen) Northern Cemetery . .127 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Dunkirk . . .133 The Scheldt “an unnecessary campaign” . . .139 VE-Day 80th Anniversary . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157 VJ Day and the end of the 2nd WW . . . . .171 Veterans ABRAMSON, Roderick William . . . . . . . . .139 ACKER, Gordon William . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 ADAMS, William Douglas . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 AMBROSE, John Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 AMIRO, Albert Marc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 ANDERSON, Herbert Carlton . . . . . . . . . .137 ANDRECYK, Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 ANDREWS, Leonard Charles . . . . . . . . . .135 ANNIS, Lawrence Herbert . . . . . . . . . . . .151 APBLETT, John Andrew . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 ARAB, Edward Francis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 ARENBURG, Bertram Leo . . . . . . . . . . . .145 ATKINSON, Carl Vernon . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 ATWELL, Alvin Ross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183 BACKMAN, William Charles Henry . . . . . .137 BAILEY (BAILY), John Bernard . . . . . . . .137 BAILEY (BAILY), W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 BAIRD, Edward Walter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 BAKER, Robert Earl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 BARKHOUSE, Loris Keith . . . . . . . . . . . .111 BARTER, George W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183 BARTLETT, Stanley Lloyd . . . . . . . . . . . . .183 BATES, Albert Leo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 BEATTIE, George Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185 BEAZLEY, Vincent William . . . . . . . . . . . .143 BELLEFONTAINE, Lawrence Frederick . .111 BELLMAN, Wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139 BENERE, Raymond Francis . . . . . . . . . . .147 BENT, Douglas Edmund . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 BEST, Ralph Herbert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 BLACKADAR, Burgess Malcom . . . . . . . .113 BOLIVAR, Charles Sydney . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 BORTHWICK, John James . . . . . . . . . . . .145 BOUDREAU, Herbert Andrew . . . . . . . . .151 BOUTILIER, Allister Franklin . . . . . . . . . .113 BOUTILIER, Burton Isaac . . . . . . . . . . . .145 BOUTILIER, Gordon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 BREWER, Gordon Thomas . . . . . . . . . . .153 BRIAND, Albert Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 BROWN, Earl James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 BROWN, Norman Leslie . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 BUCKINGHAM, Thomas J. . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 BUGLEY, Gordon Ernest . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 BURKE, John Warren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 BUSH, Henry Benjamin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 CAMERON, Campbell William . . . . . . . . .185 CAMERON, V. F. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 CARVER, Arnold William . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 CHARLTON, Edwin Michael . . . . . . . . . . .147 CHESSUN, L. H. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 CHISHOLM, Edward Dalton . . . . . . . . . . .153 CHISHOLM, Edwin Macdonald . . . . . . . . .91 CHURCHILL, Gordon Minto . . . . . . . . . . .107 CLARE, Wallace Wesley . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187 CLARKE, Joseph Kinsman . . . . . . . . . . . .189 CLAYTON-SMITHSON, Carol Anne . . . . .189 CLAYTON-THERIAULT, Marina Ann . . . . .189 COCHRANE, Leo John . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 COLBOURNE, William . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 COMEAU, Kenneth Joseph . . . . . . . . . . .155 COOK, Donald Whitman . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 COOK, Winton Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 COOK-GORBELL, Lillie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 COOLEN, Carl Hastings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 COPPELL, Melville William . . . . . . . . . . . .137 COULSON, S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 COULSTRING, Carl Robert . . . . . . . . . . .135 CROFT, Signalman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 CROSS, Judson James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 CROUSE, Gerald Lorraine . . . . . . . . . . . .137 CRUICKSHANKS, Clyde Reginald . . . . . .135 CULLEN, R. J. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 CURRAN, Everett Gerald . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 DAGLEY, Wayne S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190 DANIELS, John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 DAUPHINEE, Wilfred Eldon . . . . . . . . . . . .91 DELANEY, William Patrick . . . . . . . . . . . .135 DESMARAIS, Michel Etienne . . . . . . . . . .191 DICKERSON, Signalman . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 DOBSON, Charles Henry . . . . . . . . . . . . .192 DODGE, Carl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192 DORRINGTON, Daniel William . . . . . . . . .143 DRISCOLL, Kenneth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 DUFFEY, Cecil Laurence . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 DUNNE, James Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 DWINDELL, J. E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 EARLE, Douglas Andrew . . . . . . . . . . . . .192 EISENER, Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 EISENER, Ralph Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 ELLIS, Gerald Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 ETTINGER, Claude W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 EWING, Amos Milton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193 F, Hayden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 FALKENHAM, Earl Wilfred . . . . . . . . . . . .135 FEINSTEIN, Nathan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 FOSTER, John Noble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 FRAIL, Richard Osbourne . . . . . . . . . . . .135 FRASER, David Archibald . . . . . . . . . . . .115 FRASER, John Robert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 FRASER, Muriel Nutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 FRAZEE, John Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 FROST, Garfield Eugene . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 FRY, James Ernest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139 FULLER, Maurice Ralph . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194 GALLANT, Theodore Joseph . . . . . . . . . .155 GEHUE, James Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . .151 GEORGE, John Kingston . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 GETSON, Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 GETSON, Harold Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 GIFFIN, Huntley Osborne . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 GILLIS, Daniel John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 GOODHEW, Thomas Raymond . . . . . . . .135 GOODMAN, Sydney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 GOULDING, David King . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 GRANT, Gordon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 HACKETT, Michael . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194 HALL, Lloyd Kenneth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 HALL, Martin Randall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 HANSFORD, Cecil Hambley . . . . . . . . . . .195 HARPER, Grover Winford . . . . . . . . . . . . .155 HARRISON, J. H. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 HARRISON, Reginald Ratchford . . . . . . .155 HATFIELD, Jack Elmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 HAWBOLDT, Donald Roger . . . . . . . . . . .195 HAYMAN, Donald Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 HEMMINGS, George William . . . . . . . . . .117 HENNIGAR, Clyde Straughn . . . . . . . . . .117 HILCHEY, Eugene A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 HILLIER, Robert Wellsworth . . . . . . . . . . .155 HOARE, Dennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 HOLLETT, William Lloyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 HOOK, Clarence Arthur . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 HORNER, Clyde Joseph . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 HOUGHTON, Harry P. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 HOWELL, Henry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 HUMPHERY, Percy Gordon . . . . . . . . . . .117 ILLINGWORTH, A. M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 ING, A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 INGRAHAM, Harold Stanley . . . . . . . . . . .153 INNES, Christopher Sean . . . . . . . . . . . . .195 JACKSON, Harry Harvey . . . . . . . . . . . . .196 JOHNSON, Roderick Thurston . . . . . . . . .196 JOHNSTON, Robert Marnie . . . . . . . . . . .141 JOUDREY, Chester Ernest . . . . . . . . . . . .196 KEHOE, Neil William . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 KELLY, Percy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 KELLY, Donald Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 KELLY, Percy Ambrose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 KELLY, William Christopher . . . . . . . . . . . .197 KINNEY, Allan Millard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197 KNOCK, June Angeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 KUHL, Rene Arnold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 KULIK, Nicholas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197 LAHEY, Charles Walter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199 LAMBERT, William Edward . . . . . . . . . . . .135 LAMPIER, George Ernest . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 LANGILLE, Robert Rayould . . . . . . . . . . .117
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 3 Table of Contents - Volume 21 Halifax Grand Parade Cenotaph - Cover Photo The Halifax Grand Parade Cenotaph was unveiled and dedicated on 1 July 1929, by former Prime Minister, Robert Borden. It commemorates Halifax's 1360 men and women who had died in the Great War. Thousands lined the rails around the Parade and crowded into surrounding streets, even mounting roof tops seeking better vantage points. At two minutes of 11 o'clock, a single gun sounded from Citadel Hill, followed by two minutes of respectful silence. The oration was given by then Minister of National Defence, James Layton Ralston. He commanded the 85th Battalion, known as the Nova Scotia Highlanders, during the great war. The Grand Parade, sometimes incorrectly referred to as Parade Square, is an historic military parade square dating from the founding of Halifax in 1749. Through the efforts of the War Memorial Committee, the cenotaph was originally erected in the middle of the Grand Parade to commemorate the soldiers who served in the First World War. The sculpture was designed by J. Massey Rhind, a Scottish-American sculptor. After the First World War, Rhind lived in Chester, Nova Scotia. He developed a love for the area and decided to design and donate this memorial that stands on the Parade Grounds today. His work in Nova Scotia includes the New Glasgow Cenotaph, Chester Cenotaph and Cornwallis Statue. The cenotaph is nine-meters tall, the granite is Nova Scotian and the original elements are all cast bronze. The sculpture on the cenotaph depicts a victorious but grieving Britannia representing Nova Scotia’s mothers. Known as the Highlander, the bronze figure was valued at $6,500. Russell Zinck was chosen to model for the Highlander as he was perceived to have a face representative of the people of the area. The base and steps of the memorial were cut from a single piece of granite by Wakefield Zinck. At the base of the cenotaph is the Canada Coat of Arms with the Silver Cross below it. There is a large laurel leaf at the top of the back of the cenotaph, and bronze laurel leaves on each side of the cenotaph. After the Second World War, the cenotaph was rededicated and inscriptions were incised in the granite to honor those Veterans and again after the Korean War, an inscription was incised on the rear of the cenotaph below the Second World War inscription. In 2015, the Afghanistan Conflict inscription was added to the back of the cenotaph. LAWRENCE, Joseph Julius Augustus . . .151 LEIGHTON, Roy William . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139 LEWIS, Robie Sproule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 LEWIS, Sidney Carleton . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 LOGAN, John Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 LOWE, Frank Arnold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 LOWE, Peter Innes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 MacDONALD, Adam Joseph . . . . . . . . . .155 MacDONALD, Alexander Fraser . . . . . . . .147 MacDONALD, John James . . . . . . . . . . . .119 MacDONALD, Lloyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 MacDONALD, Murdock Alex . . . . . . . . . . .149 MACDOUGALL, John Dougald . . . . . . . . .141 MacISAAC, Duncan Joseph . . . . . . . . . . .199 MacIVER, Lorway Dunbar . . . . . . . . . . . .201 MacKENZIE, Alexander George . . . . . . . .143 MacKENZIE, George William . . . . . . . . . .201 MacKENZIE, Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 MacNEIL, John Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . .141 MACOUN, Julie Maude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 MacPHERSON, Samuel Harvey . . . . . . . .141 MALONE, Burnley Malcolm . . . . . . . . . . .119 MARKIE, William Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 MARRYATT, Ralph Emerson . . . . . . . . . . . .97 MARTELL, Gerard Roy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 MATTATALL, Albert Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 McAULAY, Allan John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119 McBRIDE, Eugene Frederick . . . . . . . . . .147 McCARTHY, Francis William . . . . . . . . . . .137 McCARTHY, Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 McCREA, Victor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 McDONALD, Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 McKENZIE, Kenneth Clifford . . . . . . . . . .135 McKEOWN, Clarence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 McKEOWN, Ronald Arutur . . . . . . . . . . . .135 McLELLAND, Angus Shanhan . . . . . . . . .149 McNEIL, Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 McNEIL, Theodore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155 McPHERSON, Ronald Dennis . . . . . . . . .155 McSWEEN, John Alexander . . . . . . . . . . .117 MELANSON, Leo John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 MERCER, Gordon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 MERRICK, George Broadhurst . . . . . . . . .155 MILLER, Curtis Harrison . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 MILLER, John Jacob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 MORRIS, Harold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 MORRIS, Thomas James . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 MORRISON, Donald How . . . . . . . . . . . .135 MORRISON, Lewis Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 MOSSMAN, Walter Eric . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 MURDOCH, Reginald English . . . . . . . . .131 MURPHY, Donald Walter . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 MURPHY, John Patrick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 NEVILLE, G. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 NEWELL, Ephraim Eugene . . . . . . . . . . . .97 NICHOLSON, Basil Boyd . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 NICKERSON, George Alfred . . . . . . . . . .141 NICKERSON, Gordon Sydney . . . . . . . . .143 NICKERSON, Oran Eugene . . . . . . . . . . .201 NOLAN, Thomas Hubert . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 NOWE, Gerald Leroy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 NUTTALL, Gerald Morton . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 O'HANDLEY, George Roderick . . . . . . . . .135 PARKER, John Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 PASCOE, Philip Jocelyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203 PATE, Simon Amble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 PEPPERDINE, Trueman . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 PIERS, Desmond William . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 PLOEG, Winston Charles Henrick . . . . . .135 RAMPTON, Ernest Frederick . . . . . . . . . .135 RAWCLIFFE, P. W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 REDDEN, John Wallace . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 REILLY, Edmund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 RILEY, George W. H. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149 RINGER, Charles George . . . . . . . . . . . .121 RODGERS, Arthur Vincent . . . . . . . . . . . .135 ROSS, Donald Brenton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 ROSS, Lawson D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 ROSS, W F . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 ROZEE, James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 RUGGLES, Issac Wilkins . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 RUTHERFORD, James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 SAWLER, Joel Gary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203 SCHOFIELD, Elmer Daniel . . . . . . . . . . . .153 SEARS, Ronald Dayson . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 SEGARD, François . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205 SERRICK, Daniel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 SERRICK, Richard Charles . . . . . . . . . . .135 SHEEHY, Vernon Phillip . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205 SIMMS, Carmel Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 SINGER, Allan Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 SMALE, Arthur John Caleb . . . . . . . . . . .135 SMITH, Albert Osborne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 SMITH, Clifford Leroy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 SMITH, Earl Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 SMITH, Edison Reynolds . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 SMITH, H. D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 SMITH, J. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 SMITH, Rex Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 SPICER, Harold Victor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 SPOFFORTH, Thomas Joseph . . . . . . . . .91 SPROULE, Noble Goulding . . . . . . . . . . .135 STONE, Daniel Ralph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 STONE, Philip Matthew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 SUMARA, Albin Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 TAYLOR, Samuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 TETRAULT, Anne-Marie Therese . . . . . . .207 THOMPSON, Harold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 THOMPSON, John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 THOMPSON, Leo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 TOOKER, Charles H. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 TYRRELL, Harold Edward . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 ULOTH, Ray Douglas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155 VANBUSKIRK, Douglas Laurt . . . . . . . . .151 VAUGHAN, Owen Havelock . . . . . . . . . . . .91 VERE-HOLLOWAY, Edward John . . . . . . .135 VIDITO, Robert Kenneth . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155 WALKER, Gerald Edwin . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 WALLACE, Frederick Borden . . . . . . . . . .207 WALTON, Ernest Euberto . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 WATERHOUSE, Ronald Sidney . . . . . . . .153 WATSON, David Drady Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . .137 WESTAWAY, Joseph Orin . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 WHALEN, Harold Ignatius . . . . . . . . . . . .155 WHITE, James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 WHITE, Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 WHITE, William Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 WHYNOT, Francis Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 WILDSMITH, William Ralph . . . . . . . . . . .147 WILSON, James George . . . . . . . . . . . . .207 WIND, Johannes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209 WOOF, Reginald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 WRIGHT, John William . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 WRIGHT, Maurice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209 WRIGHT, Sydney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209 ZINCK, Gerald Robert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 Advertisers' Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .210 Submission Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214 Halifax Grand Parade Cenotaph – Cover Photo
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 4
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 5 President’s Message As President of the Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command, I am honoured to present the 21st edition of the Veteran's Service Recognition Book. This year, 2025, holds profound significance as we mark the 80th Anniversaries of pivotal moments in history: the Battle of the Atlantic, the Liberation of the Netherlands, Victory in Europe, Victory over Japan, and the conclusion of the Second World War. We also commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa; a solemn tribute to all those who served and sacrificed without recognition. This publication stands as a testament to the courage and commitment of our Veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP, in both wartime and peacetime. Their unwavering dedication has safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy today, and we remain deeply proud and grateful for their service. Sharing these stories and biographies throughout our communities is not only a tribute, but also a responsibility. These personal accounts ensure that the legacy of our Veterans lives on, inspiring future generations and reinforcing the values of peace and democracy. On behalf of the Executive, Staff, and Members of Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command, I extend heartfelt thanks to our advertisers, private donors, and contributors whose generosity has made this edition possible. Special appreciation goes to our Editor and VSRB Chairman, Comrade Steve Wessel, for his steadfast commitment and leadership in promoting this vital publication. We also acknowledge Fenety Marketing and Mark Fenety for their continued partnership and professionalism in producing this and previous editions over the past 21 years. Comrades, I encourage you to keep submitting stories, photographs, and articles that honour our Veterans and RCMP members. Through your contributions, we ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. Please enjoy this 21st Edition. Yours in Comradeship. George Della Valle, MMM,CD President , Nova Scotia/ Nunavut Command
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 7 Project Chairman/Editor’s Message As project Chairman/Editor, it is an honour and a privilege to present the 2025 edition, the 21st book in our Veteran Service Recognition Book (VSRB) series. These books are produced in an effort to honour, acknowledge and remember the contributions made by so many brave Canadians who have served, not only in times of war, but also during many peacekeeping and peacemaking missions. We also recognize and support those men and women who continue the proud tradition of service to Canada throughout the world in the Canadian Forces and the RCMP. Unfortunately, contributions from our branches, and the general public have decreased dramatically over the past few years. Please remember there are many currently serving Veterans in our communities who deserve to be recognized in these books and I encourage you to reach out to them and record their stories for posterity. As always, I wish to thank all those at Fenety Marketing, especially Mark and Lisa (we miss you Kathy), for their continued partnership, their patience and shared expertise in the production of these books. I would also like to recognize and thank Comrade Gary Silliker, CD, for his in-depth research and continued contributions to these publications. Thanks Gary! In closing, we look forward to issuing the 22nd edition of the VSRB series in the fall of 2026, and if you would like to contribute to the 2026 edition, I encourage you to use the form at the back of this book and send it to our Command office, or use the fill-in form on our website at www.ns.legion.ca. In Comradeship, Stephen Wessel Project Chairman / Editor Veterans’ Service Recognition Book
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 8 World Link Food Distributors Inc. 902-423-0787 www.atlanticlobster.ca We Remember
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 9 Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command Poster and Literary Contest Winners – 2025 1st Place Senior Colour Poster, Kayley Bainbridge Submitted by Shubenacadie Br 111 2nd Place Senior Colour Poster, Amber Davis Submitted by Hants County Br 009 continued ... Through the annual National Youth Remembrance Contests, the Legion National Foundation, with the support of The Royal Canadian Legion and schools across the country, invite Canadian youth and children to honour Canada’s Veterans and foster the tradition of Remembrance through visual art, writing, and video. The contests include multiple levels of competition. Poster and literary works compete first at the Legion Branch local level, with winning entries moving forward until they reach the provincial level. Video entries compete first at the Legion Command provincial level. Provincial finalists of all contests then move forward for final judging by the Legion National Foundation to determine the national winners. All winners at the national level are awarded a cash prize for their work. First Place Senior Winners are eligible for our most prestigious award – a trip to Ottawa and an opportunity to represent the youth of Canada at the National Remembrance Day Ceremony. The following are the NS/NU Command provincial winners for 2024.
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 11 2nd Place Intermediate Colour Poster, Bridgette Sheppard Submitted by Dr. C.B. Lumsden Br 074 1st Place Intermediate Colour Poster, Layla (Fin) Roop Submitted by Courcelette Br 058 continued ... continued ... 1st Place Junior Colour Poster, Carrie-Ann Connors Submitted by Elmsdale Br 048 2nd Place Junior Colour Poster, Ally Boyce Submitted by Colchester Br 026
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 13 continued ... continued ... 1st Place Primary Colour Poster, Anna Neima Submitted by Elmsdale Br 048 2nd Place Primary Colour Poster, Hanvesh Kanniapan Sampath Kumar Submitted by Centennial Br 160 1st Place Senior B&W Poster, Elandra Kennie Submitted by Habitant Br 074 2nd Place Senior B&W Poster, Amber Davis Submitted by Hants County Br 009
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 14 SHAG HARBOUR, NOVA SCOTIA Proud to Honour and Support our Veterans. Thank you for your service. Lest We Forget
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 15 1st Place Intermediate B&W Poster, Joy Aguilar Submitted by Oxford Br 036 continued ... 2nd Place Intermediate B&W Poster, Jack Murphy Submitted by Dr.C.B.Lumsden Br 074 1st Place Junior B&W Poster, Addison Blois Submitted by Colchester Br 026 2nd Place Junior B&W Poster, Oliver Caruthers Submitted by Habitant Br 073 continued ...
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 17 1st Place Primary B&W Poster, Lila Keizer, Submitted by Habitant Br 073 continued ... 2nd Place Primary B&W Poster, Graham Windsor, Submitted by Somme Br 031 The following are a selection of the 1st place Poetry and Essay submissions as well as a listing of 2nd place in each category: THE WAR IN MY HEAD A whistle deep in the back of my mind. A constant ringing of my past, pushing on my mind, Waiting to poke me with its horror. A memory I’m not fond of, that whistle of history. Nights haunted by the ghosts of my past. A muddy rain, become ghostly images of a stained rain, That filter into the back of my mind, a constant terror that I’ll never get to outlive. Those days, spent on a field that meant to be lonesome. A wish far from met, the tragedy that was displayed will never be forgotten. The history of war haunts close to as many souls as it took. That shoulder that aches at a certain angle. A memory of heartache flashing back. The days they long to stare out of the window and admire the peace They sacrificed so much for. Forever haunted by the memories it took them to get there, They come in silence but never bring peace. A dreaded dream they long to overtake, the sights they’ve seen a memory, they don’t wait. The wreckage left will never leave them be, men and women who wish for peace, To be proud of what they wished for, their past to no longer terrorize them. They wish for that whistle of history to leave them for peace. 1st Place Senior Poetry, Ella Cowley, Submitted by Arras Br 059 2nd Place Senior Poetry, Leto Russell, Submitted by Hants County Br 009 continued ...
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 18 12 TUPPER BLVD., AMHERST, NS B4H 4S7 (902) 667-7241 Lest We Forget
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 19 continued ... continued ... 2nd Place Intermediate Poetry, Molly McKenna, Submitted by Arras Br 059 What Remembrance Day Means to Me Poppy seeds lie in the fields watered by blood their petals glow red memories of screams soaked up by the leaves until veins simply became roots bones crumbled to dust bullets turned to rust soaked up by the poppy seeds bloody flowers empty promises of return families still yearn but all they have is the poppy seeds 1st Place Intermediate Poetry, Claire Anne Nauss Downey, Submitted by Colchester Br 026 1st Place Junior Poetry, Mayla Greenough, Submitted by Hants County Br 009 The Last Day in the Dirt The last day in the desert The last day in the dirt I never wanna come back To this barren land again Many cold days Many sleepless nights I don’t want to fight in This war anymore I want to rest at last I want to come home To my family that waits for me But I must fight I’ll be home soon enough To kiss you asleep I love you my darling I’ll come home safe 2nd Place Junior Poetry, Merrigan Monk, Submitted by Somme Br 031
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 21 continued ... continued ... This story is inspired by the journey of my Great-Grandparents who met in Europe during the war. My Great-Grandmother was a war bride. Canada, September 1940 We have gotten the letter to leave behind our mothers and sisters to go fight overseas. My three brothers and I have said our long-awaited goodbyes. As we embark on this journey, we are reminded as to why we decided to volunteer and fight for our country as we wave goodbye to our loved ones. Ireland, September 1940 I feel overwhelmed with guilt as a woman during war times. I feel like there must be more I can do to help with the war efforts. I joined the ATS with the Nursing Sisters of London to help out in any way that I can. I couldn’t imagine saying goodbye to a loved one at such desperate times. Europe, October 1940 We have just finished training camps and just hit land, my brothers and I are split up and sent across Europe. War is not as patriotic as the posters make it seem but still we must fight for our freedom and the freedom of our children. London, October 1940 When I arrived at the hospital on the outskirts of the city, no one could have prepared me for the damage people can do to each other. We all work long hard days helping sons, brothers, fathers and heroes all get better one day at a time. We remind them who they’re fighting for. Italy, January 1941 I’ve been hit in my right shoulder! At first it feels hot like someone poured warm water on your arm and you’re still in shock so the pain hasn’t hit you yet but once it does, the pain is indescribable. An emergency nurse patches me up as best she can and gets me ready for transport to a hospital in London. London, January 1941 We are getting more and more patients everyday, we’re running out of space. We’ve asked other hospitals to help take some of our long-term patients in order to make space for more soldiers. London, January 1941 I finally arrived at the hospital. The nurse I have is very patient and kind to me. I try to get to know her. I ask about her family and if she is married. She tells me she’s from Dublin and that she was orphaned as a young child. She spent a lot of her childhood moving from relative to relative. She also tells me that she isn’t married and she just joined the nursing sisters to help out as much as she could. 1st Place Senior Essay, Bridget Murphy, Submitted by Arras Br 059
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 23 continued ... continued ... London, January 1941 I’ve made a new friend, a Canadian soldier wounded in action that has arrived at the hospital. He’s very kind to me and I often wonder in a world filled with so much death and darkness how are some able to continue to shine so bright, even though tomorrow is never guaranteed. London, February 1941 I’m still in hospital in London. At least I have good company though. My nurse is like a ray of sunshine, something I desperately need these days. I wonder if she knows how fond I am of her. London, February 1941 A letter has come about my Canadian soldier, he must go back to battle now that his shoulder is healed. I am happy to see him better but sad to think about not getting the chance to see him again. London, March 1941 The time has come for me to return to battle. I have to say goodbye to my nurse and before I even think the words “will you come back to Canada with me?” are out of my mouth and to my absolute shock she says “Yes”! London, March 1941 My Canadian soldier has asked me to come to Canada and I said yes! A chance to have a family and see a whole new world. Ireland, September 1943 After many visits and hundreds of letters we got married. We were wed in Dublin. There were only a few things to do before I could go back home. Over the Atlantic, September 1943 I was on the Queen Mary heading to Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The boat was extremely dirty and I couldn’t wait to see the new world. Once I arrived it was not what I expected the new world to be. The house I’m staying at has no electricity or roads. When is my soldier coming back? London, November 1943 I’m officially discharged from active duty and can finally reunite with my wife in Canada. After a long trip over the Atlantic I’m finally back home with my lovely nurse. I’m working on getting us a house so we can start our family together. Who knew that the thing that pulled us together caused so much tragedy in the world. 2nd Place Senior Essay, Raylee True Swanson, Submitted by Habitant Br 073
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 25 continued ... continued ... 1st Place Intermediate Essay, Mayla Hobbs, Submitted by Oxford Br 036 2nd Place Intermediate Essay, Molly McKenna, Submitted by Arras Br 059 My Dear Husband, I hope you are faring well and the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division is making good time. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. My heart grows weary with everyday that goes by without a word from you while you fight bravely on. Day after day I hear good news about the Liberation of the Netherlands. My heart swells with pride. Last I heard from you, you were by the Scheldt river and making good time. I am writing to you on November 22, 1944 and the snow is starting to cover Nova Scotia in a cold, thick blanket. I am doing as well as can be expected. Our son is doing wonderfully, his smile seems to light up these long, dark winter days. He took his first strides on ice last week. I deeply wish you could have been there to see it. Now he is saying he wants to be an NHL player. Today he asked if you would be home for Christmas. A silent tear crept down my face for I had no idea what to tell him. There is so much hope in his bright blue eyes and I know you would have hated to let him down. With every day that passes he grows to look more and more like you. Today for dinner we had liver again since all the good meat has been sent overseas. I know it is not much but at least it is a warm meal. I can’t imagine what kind of food you have in those “composite ration packs”. I look forward to cooking up your favorite meal upon your return. I have poured over your last letter time and time again and it makes me smile every time. I thank God every day for the country that we live in and the freedom that we have. My mind knows that you did what had to be done, and what you’re doing is very honorable but my heart has trouble facing the fact that you are not here with us. I know you’re fighting for us, your family, your country and freedom for all. I just hope you make it back. I still remember that look in you eyes when I last saw you. Not the look of fear or hatred but the look of someone who has seen the bigger picture. The look of someone who puts other lives before his own, the look of someone who will fight for justice no matter the cost. I can’t be more proud of you, my love. I have heard from another that the last phase of the plan started with heavy German opposition near Walcheren Island. It sounded horrible. I dread to think about the obstacles Canada had to overcome to win the day. My heart goes out to you and all the good you are doing. Please stay safe. I love you so much and we miss you dearly. Sincerely, Your loving Wife
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Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 27 continued ... continued ... The War Diary It is Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1942. World War 2 continues to go on and women and children at home are working hard to help the soldiers. Imagine you are a girl, writing in her diary during this time… Dear Diary, It is December 6th and I am scared. So many soldiers are coming to town, it makes me fell afraid. Every night, more come in. They don’t stay long. They are tired, some are hurt, and they are sad. I can tell by their faces. Dear Diary, It is March 13th, and my sister is now working to help with the war effort. She is making ammunition in the factory. I am collecting scap metal for the factory, and Grandma is teaching me how to knit. We are making socks and quilts from fabric scraps to send over to the troops. Mom is baking and trying to keep busy. She has been gathering magazines and decks of cards to donate, and making her special egg salad sandwiches for the Canteen. When she’s not making food, she is at the hall. Our neighbours are all helping to make food and entertaining the soldiers. We are all doing our part. Dear Diary, We are all missing Dad. Mom says keeping busy helps distract her from thinking about him all the time. He has been gone 26 weeks and 3 days. We write to him, but we never really hear back. We’re keeping busy but we are tired and not getting good sleep. We are doing everything we can for the people fighting in this war. It feels like it will never end, but we can’t give up! Their lives depend on us. So many children lost their dads, grandfathers, brothers, uncles and neighbours. Many people were hurt and came back wounded and scarred. Some came back and couldn’t walk or see. Their wounds on the outside are easy to see, but on the inside people suffered too. At home people worried everyday. On November 11th, we remember all the bad things and suffering caused by war. Let us never forget and be grateful we live in peace. 1st Place Junior Essay, Merrigan Monk, Submitted by Somme Br 031 2nd Place Junior Essay, Waylon Smith, Submitted by Hants County Br 009
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 28 • Close proximity to the South Shore Regional Hospital, and a one hour drive from Halifax’s healthcare facilities • A 40,000 sqft. facility with spacious dining rooms, recreation facilities, and a comfortable community living area • 24 hour personal care and assistance (including medication administration) • Care packages to accommodate through to end of life care as resident needs change • Suite rentals include: all meals, housekeeping, laundry, medication administration, 24 hour care, daily recreation & leisure activities - music & physical fitness & activities to stimulate the mind, plus access to exterior recreation amenities. • Also internet, phone services & North American long distance calling & cable television included with every suite 372 Aberdeen Road, Bridgewater, Nova Scotia A cutting edge, Certified Nxtgen Care Community offering Independent Living in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia For leasing inquires contact: Kat Foster Crouse General Manager 902-543-9304 ext 2 ● info@ridgewoodbridgewater.ca We look forward to meeting you & welcoming you to our community!
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 29 "I arrived at Pier 21, in the darkness of night under the cloak of secrecy, boarded a ship, the Ile de France. We were kept in the dark for six days before arriving in Scotland," recalled George Couture. This is just part of a story Couture shared at an event in Halifax to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. Couture has fond memories of the crossing to Scotland. "Here was my brother - he was younger than me - in charge of a craps game making money. He cut me in, and we made a little bit of money. We had a good time and talked things over," he recalls. "I never saw him from that night, when we docked in Greenock, until after the war." On the morning of 6 June, 1944 - D-Day - George Couture was on a ship in the English Channel, preparing to land on the Normandy coast." They held a church service that morning - early - and you could see in the distance, ship after ship." Couture described how he watched soldiers load into the assault boats, waiting his turn. "They just threw a scramble net over the side from the big ship to try and go down to the little ones. Some of the men fell in the sea or fell between the boats and got crushed. That was quite hard on the nerves watching that." Warrant Officer (Ret'd) George Couture continued ... Seventy-seven years after he began his military career, George Couture found himself at Pier 21 reminiscing about one of the last times he was there. He was boarding a ship with his younger brother and was headed for Europe, and war.
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 30 CONSTRUCTION www.rysonconstruction.com WE’RE BUILDING BUSINESS
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 31 After landing in France, Couture's company made its way inland securing positions in the countryside. He had only been there for three days when he and his comrade Jack Chemeracki became prisoners of war. They were travelling in a truck with four other soldiers when they were hit by a shell. "The Germans were only about a couple of hundred yards away, on the other side of the railroad tracks," Couture says. "Two of them crawled over and shot the guys that were badly wounded. They were going to shoot Jack because he had a head wound, but I bound that up and looked after him." Liberation only came after he - along with thousands of other POW's - were forced to march miles in what is now known as the Death Marches. "I was dirty, rundown, and I hardly weighed 100 pounds when I was liberated. It took me quite a while to recover in hospital," he says. Couture returned to Canada in 1945 and remained in the military. "Well, you know, I made a career of it." He spent 15 months in Korea as a part of the United Nations forces from 1952-1953 and was later part of a UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus. A few years later, his sons would also serve in Cyprus. "My boys were both over in Cyprus with the Princess Patricia’s Airborne when the Turkish invaded, so they were in the middle of the fight," he explained. "They got through it." When he retired in 1972, Couture was a 30 year Veteran, who had seen action in both the Second World War and the Korean War. For his military service, Couture was awarded the France and Germany Star, Canadian Korea Medal, United Nations Service Medal (Korea), United Nations Forces in Cyprus and Canadian Forces Decoration with Clasp. In honour of the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, George Couture is one of our Faces of Freedom. He participated in commemorative ceremonies in Halifax as a member of our delegation. Warrant Officer (Ret'd) George Couture continued ...
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 32 152 Dorey Avenue Dartmouth, NS (902) 434-4428 Velocity also offers the following services: • Laser Cutting • 3-D Printing • Waterjet Cutting • Laser Engraving • CNC Machining • Manual Machining • Tube and Pipe Bending • CWB Certified Welding (TIG, MIG, SMAW) in Shop and Portable • Certified Pressure Pipe Welding • Shearing and Bending of Plate • Boiler Repair
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 33 Early life Claude “Ollie” Cromwell was born in Digby, Nova Scotia, and moved to Montréal as a young teenager. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1979 and began a long career in military logistics. If our men and women in uniform are not effectively supported with the required resources, they cannot fulfill their duties - a fact that makes the logistical trades vital. Serving across Canada Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Cromwell's military career would see him serve across Canada in places like Calgary, Alberta; Summerside, Prince Edward Island; Kingston, Ontario; Edmonton, Alberta; and the Ottawa, Ontario area. He also took part in domestic operations such as assisting in the aftermath of the massive ice storm in eastern Canada in 1998, contributing to security efforts for the G8 Summit meetings in Alberta in 2002, and fighting forest fires in British Columbia in 2003. Serving overseas CWO Cromwell would also serve overseas. He was posted in Lahr, West Germany, with Canada's NATO forces in Europe (1984 - 1990) and took part in international peace support efforts in the Golan Heights (1983), Cyprus (1993), Kosovo (1999) and Afghanistan (2006). As well, he was named Camp Sergeant Major for the Canadian Armed Forces contingent at the Nijmegen Marches in the Netherlands in 2012. As the Task Force Sergeant Major of the Disaster Assistance Relief Team (DART), CWO Cromwell deployed to Nepal to help provide humanitarian relief after a major earthquake (2015). Later career Through it all, he rose through the non-commissioned officer ranks while also remaining active in the curling clubs and community service organizations where he was posted. Over the years, CWO Cromwell has received numerous awards, most notably being inducted into the Order of Military Merit as a member in 2017. He retired from the Canadian Armed Forces as a Divisional Sergeant Major within Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel) Group in 2019 after 40 years of distinguished service. CWO (Ret’d) Claude “Ollie” Cromwell Digby, Nova Scotia Claude “Ollie” Cromwell joined the Canadian Armed forces in 1979 and served in numerous conflicts overseas. He retired in 2019 after 40 years of service.
Veterans’ Service Recognition Book – Volume 21 34 5784 Eastbay Hwy, Ben Eoin, NS B1J 1P4 (902) 270-3195 Proud to Honour and Support our Veterans Thank you for your sacrifices.
Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 35 In the face of extreme danger and in the dead of night on April 29, 1944, DeWolf and His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Haida’s crew rescued 42 sailors from HMCS Athabaskan after it had been torpedoed. DeWolf was Captain of HMCS Haida, patrolling with Athabaskan in the English Channel when they received orders to intercept German warships. At 0359 hours they made contact with enemy ships. DeWolf’s report: Captain Harry DeWolf Born 26 June 1903, Bedford, N.S. Died 18 Dec 2000 in Ottawa, Ont. continued ... At 0411 hours Athabaskan reported echoes from three enemy ships. They closed distance from 11.8 km (13,000 yards) to 6.7 km (7,300 yards) before opening fire with star shell to illuminate the enemy ships in the dark. DeWolf’s report continues…
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