REMEMBERING the REMEMBERING the FALLEN FALLEN a Tribute to the Soldiers Remembered a Tribute to the Soldiers Remembered on the Rockwood Cenotaph

REMEMBERING THE REMEMBERING THE FALLEN FALLEN A tribute to the soldiers remembered A tribute to the soldiers remembered on the Rockwood Cenotaph. on the Rockwood Cenotaph.

The Memorial Cross

This gift of Canada, was issued as a memento of personal loss and sacrifice on the part of widows and mothers of Canadian sailors, soldiers and airmen who died for their country during war. Also TheThe Memorial Memorialknown as Cross the Cross “Silver Cross”.

This gift of Canada, was issued as a memento of personal loss andThis sacrifice gift of on Canada, the part of widowswas issued and mothers as a of memento Canadian of sailors,personal soldiers loss and andairmen sacrifice who died for on their the country part duringof widows and motherswar. Also of known Canadian as the “Silver sailors, Cross”. soldiers and airmen who died for their country during war. Also known as the “Silver Cross”. Heritage Heritage Guelph/EramosaGuelph/Eramosa Remembering the Fallen A Tribute to the Soldiers remembered on the Rockwood Cenotaph Heritage Guelph/Eramosa World War I World War I INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

Remembering the Fallen - A Tribute to the Soldiers on the Rockwood Cenotaph, is a project Remembering the Fallen - A Tribute to the Soldiers on the Rockwood Cenotaph, is a project lead by Heritage Guelph/Eramosa. The names on the cenotaph include eleven men who died lead by Heritage Guelph/Eramosa. The names on the cenotaph include eleven men who died overseas in World War I and thirteen men in World War II. Collaborative research efforts have made overseas in World War I and thirteen men in World War II. Collaborative research efforts have made this project possible with information received from community members and families of the fallen. this project possible with information received from community members and families of the fallen.

Rockwood Cenotaph Rockwood Cenotaph

The Rockwood Cenotaph The Rockwood Cenotaph was unveiled on Thursday, was unveiled on Thursday, the 28th of August 1919. the 28th of August 1919. According to a contemporary According to a contemporary newspaper account in the newspaper account in the 18th of September 1919 18th of September 1919 edition of the Mount Forest edition of the Mount Forest Representative, Representative, be unveiled which has been be unveiled which has been erected by a municipality.” Post WWI Unveiling of the Rockwood Cenotaph erected by a municipality.” Post WWI Unveiling of the Rockwood Cenotaph

The Cenotaph was subsequently modified to include the names of 13 more men from the Township The Cenotaph was subsequently modified to include the names of 13 more men from the Township who fought and died in World War II who fought and died in World War II cenotaph - noun: cenotaph - noun: Oxford English Dictionary Oxford English Dictionary

A monument to someone A monument to someone buried elsewhere, especially buried elsewhere, especially one commemorating people one commemorating people who died in a war. who died in a war.

Origin: early 17th century: from Origin: early 17th century: from French cénotaphe, from late French cénotaphe, from late Latin cenotaphium, from Greek Latin cenotaphium, from Greek kenos ‘empty’ + taphos ‘tomb’ kenos ‘empty’ + taphos ‘tomb’

Post WWII Unveilling of the Rockwood Cenotaph Post WWII Unveilling of the Rockwood Cenotaph

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 3 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 3 World War I World War I INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

Rockwood Cenotaph Rockwood Cenotaph

A monument to someone A monument to someone buried elsewhere, especially buried elsewhere, especially one commemorating people one commemorating people who died in a war. who died in a war.

Post WWII Unveilling of the Rockwood Cenotaph Post WWII Unveilling of the Rockwood Cenotaph

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 3 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 3 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I JOHN S. COKER, MM, MiD JOHNaccomplished S. marksman.COKER, By MM, July 1915, MiD the 3rd Bn had moved to the Walloon (French speaking) accomplished marksman. By July 1915, the 3rd Bn had moved to the Walloon (French speaking) Region in Belgium. They were located at Piggeries near the town of Ploegsteert and approximately Region in Belgium. They were located at Piggeries near the town of Ploegsteert and approximately 18027 Sergeant 180272 kms north Sergeant of the border with France. Ploegsteert Wood was the site of fierce WWI fighting. The 2 kms north of the border with France. Ploegsteert Wood was the site of fierce WWI fighting. The Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing commemorates more than 11,000 missing and assumed killed Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing commemorates more than 11,000 missing and assumed killed Born: 2 March 1885 in Eramosa Township, Ontario inBorn: action 2 MarchCommonwealth 1885 in Eramosa soldiers Township, who died inOntario the area during that time. in action Commonwealth soldiers who died in the area during that time. Previous Occupation: Carpenter Previous Occupation: Carpenter By early 1917, Sergeant Coker’s regiment was near Arras, in northern France. On 9 April, he was By early 1917, Sergeant Coker’s regiment was near Arras, in northern France. On 9 April, he was Enlisted: 18 August 1914 in Edmonton, Alberta mentionedEnlisted: 18 in Augustthe dispatches 1914 in (MiD)Edmonton, of Field Alberta Marshall Sir Douglas Haig for his gallant actions during mentioned in the dispatches (MiD) of Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig for his gallant actions during Died: 3 May 1917 at the age of 32 theDied: opening 3 May day1917 of atthe the Battle age of 32Vimy Ridge. The Canadian Corps succeeded in capturing Vimy the opening day of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The Canadian Corps succeeded in capturing Vimy Ridge on 12 April. Less than two weeks later and within less than 10 kms of Vimy, his bravery in Ridge on 12 April. Less than two weeks later and within less than 10 kms of Vimy, his bravery in Buried: Aubigny Communal Cemetery, at Pas de actionBuried: was Aubigny again Communalrecognized Cemetery,and he was at recommended Pas de for the Military Medal. Unfortunately, on action was again recognized and he was recommended for the Military Medal. Unfortunately, on Calais, France 3Calais, May 1917, France at the age of 32 years and 4 months, Sergeant John Coker died of wounds that he 3 May 1917, at the age of 32 years and 4 months, Sergeant John Coker died of wounds that he received in action during what was known as the Fresnoy Engagement. After his death on 18 July received in action during what was known as the Fresnoy Engagement. After his death on 18 July John S. Coker was born on 2 March 1885 to John John S. Coker was born on 2 March 1885 to John 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for gallantry for his earlier actions on 23/26 April. 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for gallantry for his earlier actions on 23/26 April. and Hannah (nee Bolton) Coker of RR #3 Eramosa. and Hannah (nee Bolton) Coker of RR #3 Eramosa. He was the youngest of their four children (William He was the youngest of their four children (William The citation reads: The citation reads: b.1874, James Thomas b.1876 and Mary b.?). b.1874, James Thomas b.1876 and Mary b.?). His grandparents immigrated to Eramosa Township from Scotland before the birth of his father in His grandparents“This N.C.O. immigratedis recommended to Eramosa for conspicuous Township from gallantry Scotland at before ARLEUX the birthon the of hisafternoon father in of “This N.C.O. is recommended for conspicuous gallantry at ARLEUX on the afternoon of 1860. John was raised in Eramosa Township and after his education, became a carpenter and 1860.April John 24, was 1917, raised when in Eramosahis platoon Township was subjected and after tohis extremely education, heavy became enemy a carpenter bombardment. and April 24, 1917, when his platoon was subjected to extremely heavy enemy bombardment. had a reputation as an accomplished woodsman. He was a member of the local militia – the 30th had aSergeant reputation Coker as an by accomplished his good judgment woodsman. (sic) He and was personal a member supervision of the local placed militia his– the platoon 30th Sergeant Coker by his good judgment (sic) and personal supervision placed his platoon Canadian Regiment (Wellington Rifles) for 5 years. Around 1912, John and a friend travelled west to Canadianso that Regiment it suffered (Wellington only four Rifles) casualties.” for 5 years. Around 1912, John and a friend travelled west to so that it suffered only four casualties.” the Peace River District of Alberta. the Peace River District of Alberta. “Again on 23/24 April 1917, this N.C.O. showed great dash and determination in leading “Again on 23/24 April 1917, this N.C.O. showed great dash and determination in leading a Battle patrol of twelve men into the enemy line, obtaining much valuable information a Battle patrol of twelve men into the enemy line, obtaining much valuable information The evolved from the 1st Battalion Wellington Rifles. They The evolved from the 1st Battalion Wellington Rifles. They 30th Regiment Wellington Rifles as30th regards Regiment to the Wellington state of his Rifles defences and again on the night of 25/26 April he was of as regards to the state of his defences and again on the night of 25/26 April he was of were organized in 1857 from the local militia within Wellington County and were headquartered in were organized in 1857 from the local militia within Wellington County and were headquartered in invaluable assistance to his Company Commander in siting and digging a new line of invaluable assistance to his Company Commander in siting and digging a new line of Guelph. In 1866, because of the fear of the Fenian Raids (1866-1871) they were re-organized as Guelph. In 1866, because of the fear of the Fenian Raids (1866-1871) they were re-organized as trench, 500 yards in advance of his own line. This was under heavy artillery and machine trench, 500 yards in advance of his own line. This was under heavy artillery and machine an infantry unit (30th Regiment Wellington Rifles) and a separate artillery unit (Guelph Garrison an infantry unit (30th Regiment Wellington Rifles) and a separate artillery unit (Guelph Garrison gun fire.” gun fire.” Battery, later Wellington Field Battery). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many men joined Battery, later Wellington Field Battery). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many men joined their local militia. In addition to the camaraderie of weekly training, rank achieved within the militia Hetheir was local buried militia. in the In Aubigny addition Communal to the camaraderie Cemetery, of atweekly Pas de training, Calais, rank France achieved and his within name the is militia He was buried in the Aubigny Communal Cemetery, at Pas de Calais, France and his name is tended to have a corresponding level of prestige within the local community. alsotended memorialized to have a incorresponding the Books of levelRemembrance, of prestige inwithin the Peacethe local Tower community. of the Canadian Parliament also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. His Military Medal, 1914-1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal were Buildings, Ottawa. His Military Medal, 1914-1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal were The 30th Wellington Rifles were never mobilized as a unit for WWI. Instead, they performed sentThe to 30th his motherWellington at RR Rifles #1 Eramosa. were never mobilized as a unit for WWI. Instead, they performed sent to his mother at RR #1 Eramosa. recruiting duties locally. After training in Canada, their recruits were assigned to operational recruiting duties locally. After training in Canada, their recruits were assigned to operational regiments for overseas service. Seventy years after they were separated, these two Wellington regiments for overseas service. Seventy years after they were separated, these two Wellington County regiments were merged back into a larger artillery battery that has continued through to CountyThe Military regiments Medal were merged back into a larger artillery battery that has continued through to The Military Medal today as the 11th Field, Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. today as the 11th Field, Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. The Military Medal (MM) is awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned The Military Medal (MM) is awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned officers and men for individual or associated acts of bravery on the officers and men for individual or associated acts of bravery on the While living in Alberta, John joined the 101st Regiment (Edmonton Fusiliers) on 18 August 1914. Whilerecommendation living in Alberta, of a John Commander-in-Chief joined the 101st Regimentin the field. (Edmonton The regimental Fusiliers) or on 18 August 1914. recommendation of a Commander-in-Chief in the field. The regimental or Ten days later, the Regiment arrived in Valcartier, Quebec for short and strenuous basic training. Tenequivalent days later, number, the Regiment rank, initials, arrived surname in Valcartier, and unit Quebec of the for recipient short and appear strenuous in basic training. equivalent number, rank, initials, surname and unit of the recipient appear in During this time, his attestation papers show that he volunteered for overseas service on 22 Duringplain blockthis time, capitals his attestation around the papers edge of show the medal.that he volunteered for overseas service on 22 plain block capitals around the edge of the medal. September. At Quebec City on 3 October, the regiment boarded the S.S. Zeeland for the crossing to September. At Quebec City on 3 October, the regiment boarded the S.S. Zeeland for the crossing to England. After arriving on the 18th in Devonport (Plymouth) England, they were moved to Salisbury England. After arriving on the 18th in Devonport (Plymouth) England, they were moved to Salisbury Plain for more intensive training during which they lived in tents through a cold and miserable Plain for more intensive training during which they lived in tents through a cold and miserable winter. The regiment’s name was changed to the 9th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (9th winter. The regiment’s name was changed to the 9th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (9th Bn CEF) but was designated a reserve unit to train and provide replacement soldiers for those lost Bn CEF) but was designated a reserve unit to train and provide replacement soldiers for those lost in battle at the front. At this time, Private Coker was transferred to the 3rd (Toronto) Battalion and in battle at the front. At this time, Private Coker was transferred to the 3rd (Toronto) Battalion and in February 1915, he attended the Divisional Training School. He was subsequently promoted in February 1915, he attended the Divisional Training School. He was subsequently promoted to Corporal and then on 11 June, he was promoted to Sergeant. He earned a reputation as an to Corporal and then on 11 June, he was promoted to Sergeant. He earned a reputation as an

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 4 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 54 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 5 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I JOHN S. COKER, MM, MiD JOHNaccomplished S. marksman.COKER, By MM, July 1915, MiD the 3rd Bn had moved to the Walloon (French speaking) accomplished marksman. By July 1915, the 3rd Bn had moved to the Walloon (French speaking) Region in Belgium. They were located at Piggeries near the town of Ploegsteert and approximately Region in Belgium. They were located at Piggeries near the town of Ploegsteert and approximately 18027 Sergeant 180272 kms north Sergeant of the border with France. Ploegsteert Wood was the site of fierce WWI fighting. The 2 kms north of the border with France. Ploegsteert Wood was the site of fierce WWI fighting. The Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing commemorates more than 11,000 missing and assumed killed Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing commemorates more than 11,000 missing and assumed killed Born: 2 March 1885 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born:in action 2 MarchCommonwealth 1885 in Eramosa soldiers Township, who died inOntario the area during that time. in action Commonwealth soldiers who died in the area during that time. Previous Occupation: Carpenter Previous Occupation: Carpenter By early 1917, Sergeant Coker’s regiment was near Arras, in northern France. On 9 April, he was By early 1917, Sergeant Coker’s regiment was near Arras, in northern France. On 9 April, he was Enlisted: 18 August 1914 in Edmonton, Alberta mentionedEnlisted: 18 in Augustthe dispatches 1914 in (MiD)Edmonton, of Field Alberta Marshall Sir Douglas Haig for his gallant actions during mentioned in the dispatches (MiD) of Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig for his gallant actions during Died: 3 May 1917 at the age of 32 theDied: opening 3 May day1917 of atthe the Battle age of 32Vimy Ridge. The Canadian Corps succeeded in capturing Vimy the opening day of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The Canadian Corps succeeded in capturing Vimy Ridge on 12 April. Less than two weeks later and within less than 10 kms of Vimy, his bravery in Ridge on 12 April. Less than two weeks later and within less than 10 kms of Vimy, his bravery in Buried: Aubigny Communal Cemetery, at Pas de actionBuried: was Aubigny again Communalrecognized Cemetery,and he was at recommended Pas de for the Military Medal. Unfortunately, on action was again recognized and he was recommended for the Military Medal. Unfortunately, on Calais, France 3Calais, May 1917, France at the age of 32 years and 4 months, Sergeant John Coker died of wounds that he 3 May 1917, at the age of 32 years and 4 months, Sergeant John Coker died of wounds that he received in action during what was known as the Fresnoy Engagement. After his death on 18 July received in action during what was known as the Fresnoy Engagement. After his death on 18 July John S. Coker was born on 2 March 1885 to John John S. Coker was born on 2 March 1885 to John 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for gallantry for his earlier actions on 23/26 April. 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for gallantry for his earlier actions on 23/26 April. and Hannah (nee Bolton) Coker of RR #3 Eramosa. and Hannah (nee Bolton) Coker of RR #3 Eramosa. He was the youngest of their four children (William He was the youngest of their four children (William The citation reads: The citation reads: b.1874, James Thomas b.1876 and Mary b.?). b.1874, James Thomas b.1876 and Mary b.?). His grandparents immigrated to Eramosa Township from Scotland before the birth of his father in His grandparents“This N.C.O. immigratedis recommended to Eramosa for conspicuous Township from gallantry Scotland at before ARLEUX the birthon the of hisafternoon father in of “This N.C.O. is recommended for conspicuous gallantry at ARLEUX on the afternoon of 1860. John was raised in Eramosa Township and after his education, became a carpenter and 1860.April John 24, was 1917, raised when in Eramosahis platoon Township was subjected and after tohis extremely education, heavy became enemy a carpenter bombardment. and April 24, 1917, when his platoon was subjected to extremely heavy enemy bombardment. had a reputation as an accomplished woodsman. He was a member of the local militia – the 30th had aSergeant reputation Coker as an by accomplished his good judgment woodsman. (sic) He and was personal a member supervision of the local placed militia his– the platoon 30th Sergeant Coker by his good judgment (sic) and personal supervision placed his platoon Canadian Regiment (Wellington Rifles) for 5 years. Around 1912, John and a friend travelled west to Canadianso that Regiment it suffered (Wellington only four Rifles) casualties.” for 5 years. Around 1912, John and a friend travelled west to so that it suffered only four casualties.” the Peace River District of Alberta. the Peace River District of Alberta. “Again on 23/24 April 1917, this N.C.O. showed great dash and determination in leading “Again on 23/24 April 1917, this N.C.O. showed great dash and determination in leading a Battle patrol of twelve men into the enemy line, obtaining much valuable information a Battle patrol of twelve men into the enemy line, obtaining much valuable information The evolved from the 1st Battalion Wellington Rifles. They The evolved from the 1st Battalion Wellington Rifles. They 30th Regiment Wellington Rifles as30th regards Regiment to the Wellington state of his Rifles defences and again on the night of 25/26 April he was of as regards to the state of his defences and again on the night of 25/26 April he was of were organized in 1857 from the local militia within Wellington County and were headquartered in were organized in 1857 from the local militia within Wellington County and were headquartered in invaluable assistance to his Company Commander in siting and digging a new line of invaluable assistance to his Company Commander in siting and digging a new line of Guelph. In 1866, because of the fear of the Fenian Raids (1866-1871) they were re-organized as Guelph. In 1866, because of the fear of the Fenian Raids (1866-1871) they were re-organized as trench, 500 yards in advance of his own line. This was under heavy artillery and machine trench, 500 yards in advance of his own line. This was under heavy artillery and machine an infantry unit (30th Regiment Wellington Rifles) and a separate artillery unit (Guelph Garrison an infantry unit (30th Regiment Wellington Rifles) and a separate artillery unit (Guelph Garrison gun fire.” gun fire.” Battery, later Wellington Field Battery). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many men joined Battery, later Wellington Field Battery). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many men joined their local militia. In addition to the camaraderie of weekly training, rank achieved within the militia Hetheir was local buried militia. in the In Aubigny addition Communal to the camaraderie Cemetery, of atweekly Pas de training, Calais, rank France achieved and his within name the is militia He was buried in the Aubigny Communal Cemetery, at Pas de Calais, France and his name is tended to have a corresponding level of prestige within the local community. alsotended memorialized to have a incorresponding the Books of levelRemembrance, of prestige inwithin the Peacethe local Tower community. of the Canadian Parliament also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. His Military Medal, 1914-1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal were Buildings, Ottawa. His Military Medal, 1914-1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal were The 30th Wellington Rifles were never mobilized as a unit for WWI. Instead, they performed sentThe to 30th his motherWellington at RR Rifles #1 Eramosa. were never mobilized as a unit for WWI. Instead, they performed sent to his mother at RR #1 Eramosa. recruiting duties locally. After training in Canada, their recruits were assigned to operational recruiting duties locally. After training in Canada, their recruits were assigned to operational regiments for overseas service. Seventy years after they were separated, these two Wellington regiments for overseas service. Seventy years after they were separated, these two Wellington County regiments were merged back into a larger artillery battery that has continued through to CountyThe Military regiments Medal were merged back into a larger artillery battery that has continued through to The Military Medal today as the 11th Field, Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. today as the 11th Field, Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. The Military Medal (MM) is awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned The Military Medal (MM) is awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned officers and men for individual or associated acts of bravery on the officers and men for individual or associated acts of bravery on the While living in Alberta, John joined the 101st Regiment (Edmonton Fusiliers) on 18 August 1914. Whilerecommendation living in Alberta, of a John Commander-in-Chief joined the 101st Regimentin the field. (Edmonton The regimental Fusiliers) or on 18 August 1914. recommendation of a Commander-in-Chief in the field. The regimental or Ten days later, the Regiment arrived in Valcartier, Quebec for short and strenuous basic training. Tenequivalent days later, number, the Regiment rank, initials, arrived surname in Valcartier, and unit Quebec of the for recipient short and appear strenuous in basic training. equivalent number, rank, initials, surname and unit of the recipient appear in During this time, his attestation papers show that he volunteered for overseas service on 22 Duringplain blockthis time, capitals his attestation around the papers edge of show the medal.that he volunteered for overseas service on 22 plain block capitals around the edge of the medal. September. At Quebec City on 3 October, the regiment boarded the S.S. Zeeland for the crossing to September. At Quebec City on 3 October, the regiment boarded the S.S. Zeeland for the crossing to England. After arriving on the 18th in Devonport (Plymouth) England, they were moved to Salisbury England. After arriving on the 18th in Devonport (Plymouth) England, they were moved to Salisbury Plain for more intensive training during which they lived in tents through a cold and miserable Plain for more intensive training during which they lived in tents through a cold and miserable winter. The regiment’s name was changed to the 9th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (9th winter. The regiment’s name was changed to the 9th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (9th Bn CEF) but was designated a reserve unit to train and provide replacement soldiers for those lost Bn CEF) but was designated a reserve unit to train and provide replacement soldiers for those lost in battle at the front. At this time, Private Coker was transferred to the 3rd (Toronto) Battalion and in battle at the front. At this time, Private Coker was transferred to the 3rd (Toronto) Battalion and in February 1915, he attended the Divisional Training School. He was subsequently promoted in February 1915, he attended the Divisional Training School. He was subsequently promoted to Corporal and then on 11 June, he was promoted to Sergeant. He earned a reputation as an to Corporal and then on 11 June, he was promoted to Sergeant. He earned a reputation as an

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 4 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 45 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 5 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I THOMAS LENTON EDWARDS THOMAS LENTON EDWARDS Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Vimy Memorial Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Vimy Memorial 850549 Private 850549 Private The Battle of Vimy Ridge, France, April 1917, was the first time the Canadians fought as a Corps, The Battle of Vimy Ridge, France, April 1917, was the first time the Canadians fought as a Corps, under a Canadian General (Gen. Arthur Currie) and followed a Canadian battle plan. The Canadian underBorn: a15 Canadian September General 1899 in(Gen. Halifax, Arthur Nova Currie) Scotia and followed a Canadian battle plan. The Canadian Born: 15 September 1899 in Halifax, Nova Scotia force succeeded in taking Vimy Ridge, a task that had previously been unsuccessfully attempted Familyforce succeeded moved to Carrolin taking Street Vimy in Ridge, Rockwood, a task Ontario that had previously been unsuccessfully attempted Family moved to Carrol Street in Rockwood, Ontario by first the French Army and later the British Army. An extract from the official Canadian War by first the French Army and later the British Army. An extract from the official Canadian War Diary reads “The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a military engagement fought primarily as part of the DiaryPrevious reads Occupation: “The Battle ofFarming Vimy Ridge (Edwards was lieda military about engagement his age to enlist fought at theprimarily age of as 16) part of the Previous Occupation: Farming (Edwards lied about his age to enlist at the age of 16) Battle of Arras, in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France, during the First World War. The main Enlisted:Battle of Arras, 27 April in the1916 Nord-Pas-de-Calais in St. Catharines, Ontarioregion of France, during the First World War. The main Enlisted: 27 April 1916 in St. Catharines, Ontario combatants were the Canadian Corps of four divisions, against three divisions of the German Sixth combatants were the Canadian Corps of four divisions, against three divisions of the German Sixth Died: 19 August 1917 at the age of 17 Died: 19 August 1917 at the age of 17 Army. The battle, which took place from 9 to 12 April 1917, was part of the opening phase of the Army. The battle, which took place from 9 to 12 April 1917, was part of the opening phase of the British-led Battle of Arras, a diversionary attack for the French Nivelle Offensive.” British-ledBuried: Body Battle never of Arras, found a / diversionaryNo known grave attack for the French Nivelle Offensive.” Buried: Body never found / No known grave Thomas Edwards was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on 15 September 1899 to William J. and Alice Thomas Edwards was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on 15 September 1899 to William J. and Alice The VIMY MEMORIAL is located near Pas de Calais, France. It is Canada’s most impressive tribute MaudeThe VIMY (nee MEMORIAL Murley) Edwards. is located He near was Pas the desecond Calais, oldest France. of their It is nineCanada’s children most (William impressive b.1898, tribute Maude (nee Murley) Edwards. He was the second oldest of their nine children (William b.1898, overseas to those Canadians who fought and gave their lives in the First World War. This majestic Edwardoverseas b.1901, to those Fredrick Canadians b.1903, who Flora fought b.1904, and gave Constance their lives b.1907, in the Geraldine First World b.1908, War. ThisAlexander majestic b. Edward b.1901, Fredrick b.1903, Flora b.1904, Constance b.1907, Geraldine b.1908, Alexander b. and inspiring Memorial overlooks the Douai Plain from the highest point of Vimy Ridge, about eight 1910and inspiring and Alfred Memorial b.1916). overlooks His family the subsequently Douai Plain from moved the to highest Carrol point St. in of Rockwood, Vimy Ridge, Ontario about when eight 1910 and Alfred b.1916). His family subsequently moved to Carrol St. in Rockwood, Ontario when kilometres northeast of Arras on the N17 towards Lens. The Memorial is signposted from this road Williamkilometres started northeast work atof oneArras of on the the local N17 stone towards quarries. Lens. ThomasThe Memorial was working is signposted on the fromfarm thisof John road William started work at one of the local stone quarries. Thomas was working on the farm of John to the left, just before you enter the village of Vimy from the south. The memorial itself is some way Lister,to the left,a short just distancebefore you south enter of theRockwood, village of when Vimy on from 27 theApril south. 1916 Thehe volunteered memorial itself in St. is Catharinessome way Lister, a short distance south of Rockwood, when on 27 April 1916 he volunteered in St. Catharines inside the memorial park, but again it is well signposted. At the base of the memorial, these words forinside overseas the memorial service park,at the but age again of 16 it yearsis well and signposted. 7 months. At Thethe baseminimum of the age memorial, to enlist these was 18 words for overseas service at the age of 16 years and 7 months. The minimum age to enlist was 18 appear in French and in English: soappear he declared in French that and he in was English: two years older than his true age by stating that he was born on 15 so he declared that he was two years older than his true age by stating that he was born on 15 September 1897 on his Attestation Papers (his true age was not discovered until later). Immediately September 1897 on his Attestation Papers (his true age was not discovered until later). Immediately TO THE VALOUR OF THEIR COUNTRYMEN IN THE GREAT WAR AND IN MEMORY OF THEIR afterTO THE joining VALOUR he was OF referred THEIR to COUNTRYMEN the Dental Corps IN for THE treatment. GREAT WAR When AND that INwas MEMORY completed, OF heTHEIR was after joining he was referred to the Dental Corps for treatment. When that was completed, he was SIXTY THOUSAND DEAD THIS MONUMENT IS RAISED BY THE PEOPLE OF CANADA assignedSIXTY THOUSAND to the 176th DEAD Ontario THIS Battalion. MONUMENT After aIS short RAISED period BY of THE basic PEOPLE training, OF he CANADA left Halifax on 8 assigned to the 176th Ontario Battalion. After a short period of basic training, he left Halifax on 8 July 1916 on board the S.S. Lapland and arrived in England on the 25th of July. In September 1916 July 1916 on board the S.S. Lapland and arrived in England on the 25th of July. In September 1916 Inscribed on the ramparts of the Vimy Memorial are the names of over 11,000 Canadian soldiers itInscribed was discovered on the ramparts that he was of the underage Vimy Memorial and prohibited are the fromnames proceeding of over 11,000 to the CanadianContinent soldiers(France it was discovered that he was underage and prohibited from proceeding to the Continent (France who were posted as ‘missing, presumed dead’ in France. A plaque at the entrance to the memorial andwho Belgium)were posted and assent ‘missing, to the 78thpresumed Battalion. dead’ He in wasFrance. still inA plaqueEngland at when the entrance five months to the later memorial he and Belgium) and sent to the 78th Battalion. He was still in England when five months later he states that the land for the battlefield park, 91.18 hectares in extent, was the free gift in perpetuity of wasstates admitted that the to land the forWestcliffe the battlefield Hospital park, after 91.18becoming hectares ill. Inin extent,May he was returned the free to servicegift in perpetuity and was of was admitted to the Westcliffe Hospital after becoming ill. In May he returned to service and was the French nation to the people of Canada. Construction of the massive work began in 1925, and 11 transferredthe French nationto the 5thto the Battalion people and of Canada. subsequently Construction Company of theB of massive the 3rd Battalionwork began in France.in 1925, and 11 transferred to the 5th Battalion and subsequently Company B of the 3rd Battalion in France. years later, on 26 July 1936, the monument was unveiled by King Edward VIII. years later, on 26 July 1936, the monument was unveiled by King Edward VIII. On 19 August 1917, at the age of 17 years and 11 months, he was reported Killed in Action at Hill On 19 August 1917, at the age of 17 years and 11 months, he was reported Killed in Action at Hill The park surrounding the Vimy Memorial was created by horticultural experts. Canadian trees 70,The the park result surrounding of German the mining Vimy Memorial activity. Hiswas body created was by never horticultural found and experts. he has Canadian no known trees grave. His 70, the result of German mining activity. His body was never found and he has no known grave. His and shrubs were planted in great masses to resemble the woods and forests of Canada. Wooded nameand shrubs is engraved were planted on the inVimy great Memorial masses near to resemble Pas de Calais,the woods France and and forests is also of Canada. memorialized Wooded in the name is engraved on the Vimy Memorial near Pas de Calais, France and is also memorialized in the parklands surround the grassy slopes of the approaches around the Vimy Memorial. Trenches and Booksparklands of Remembrance, surround the grassy in the slopesPeace ofTower the approaches of the Canadian around Parliament the Vimy Buildings, Memorial. Ottawa. Trenches and Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. tunnels have been restored and preserved and the visitor can picture the magnitude of the task that tunnels have been restored and preserved and the visitor can picture the magnitude of the task that faced the Canadian Corps on that Sadly,faced thePrivate Canadian Thomas Corps Lenton on that Edwards was the older brother of Alfred James Edwards, whose Sadly, Private Thomas Lenton Edwards was the older brother of Alfred James Edwards, whose distant dawn when history was namedistant is dawn also engravedwhen history on thewas Rockwood Cenotaph under the 1939 – 1945 Names of the Fallen. name is also engraved on the Rockwood Cenotaph under the 1939 – 1945 Names of the Fallen. made. made. Battle for HILL 70 Battle for HILL 70 On 3 April 2003, the Government On 3 April 2003, the Government of Canada designated the 9th of ofThe Canada Battle designatedfor HILL 70, the near 9th Lens, of France, took place during August 1917and has sometimes been The Battle for HILL 70, near Lens, France, took place during August 1917and has sometimes been April of each year as a national Apriloverlooked of each because year as ait nationaltook place between the Canadian Corps’ success at Vimy Ridge and the overlooked because it took place between the Canadian Corps’ success at Vimy Ridge and the day of remembrance of the Battle dayhorrors of remembrance of Passchendaele. of the BattleThe Germans held this prominent hill and had fortified it heavily. This horrors of Passchendaele. The Germans held this prominent hill and had fortified it heavily. This of Vimy Ridge. ofgave Vimy them Ridge. control over a wide area, including the Town of Lens. The German fortifications were gave them control over a wide area, including the Town of Lens. The German fortifications were so heavy they were considered impregnable. The Canadian attack started on the evening of 14 so heavy they were considered impregnable. The Canadian attack started on the evening of 14 August and by 18 August, they had succeeded in gaining control of Hill 70. During these 4 days, August and by 18 August, they had succeeded in gaining control of Hill 70. During these 4 days, they had successfully fought off 21 German counterattacks. The Canadian losses were 1,505 killed, they had successfully fought off 21 German counterattacks. The Canadian losses were 1,505 killed, 4,297 wounded and 41 prisoners. The German casualties were approximately 20,000 men plus 970 4,297 wounded and 41 prisoners. The German casualties were approximately 20,000 men plus 970 prisoners. The Canadian troops earned five Victoria Crosses during this 4 day period. prisoners. The Canadian troops earned five Victoria Crosses during this 4 day period.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 6 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 76 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 7 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I THOMAS LENTON EDWARDS THOMAS LENTON EDWARDS Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Vimy Memorial Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Vimy Memorial 850549 Private 850549 Private The Battle of Vimy Ridge, France, April 1917, was the first time the Canadians fought as a Corps, The Battle of Vimy Ridge, France, April 1917, was the first time the Canadians fought as a Corps, under a Canadian General (Gen. Arthur Currie) and followed a Canadian battle plan. The Canadian underBorn: a15 Canadian September General 1899 in(Gen. Halifax, Arthur Nova Currie) Scotia and followed a Canadian battle plan. The Canadian Born: 15 September 1899 in Halifax, Nova Scotia force succeeded in taking Vimy Ridge, a task that had previously been unsuccessfully attempted Familyforce succeeded moved to Carrolin taking Street Vimy in Ridge, Rockwood, a task Ontario that had previously been unsuccessfully attempted Family moved to Carrol Street in Rockwood, Ontario by first the French Army and later the British Army. An extract from the official Canadian War by first the French Army and later the British Army. An extract from the official Canadian War Diary reads “The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a military engagement fought primarily as part of the DiaryPrevious reads Occupation: “The Battle ofFarming Vimy Ridge (Edwards was lieda military about engagement his age to enlist fought at theprimarily age of as 16) part of the Previous Occupation: Farming (Edwards lied about his age to enlist at the age of 16) Battle of Arras, in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France, during the First World War. The main Enlisted:Battle of Arras, 27 April in the1916 Nord-Pas-de-Calais in St. Catharines, Ontarioregion of France, during the First World War. The main Enlisted: 27 April 1916 in St. Catharines, Ontario combatants were the Canadian Corps of four divisions, against three divisions of the German Sixth combatants were the Canadian Corps of four divisions, against three divisions of the German Sixth Died: 19 August 1917 at the age of 17 Died: 19 August 1917 at the age of 17 Army. The battle, which took place from 9 to 12 April 1917, was part of the opening phase of the Army. The battle, which took place from 9 to 12 April 1917, was part of the opening phase of the British-led Battle of Arras, a diversionary attack for the French Nivelle Offensive.” British-ledBuried: Body Battle never of Arras, found a / diversionaryNo known grave attack for the French Nivelle Offensive.” Buried: Body never found / No known grave Thomas Edwards was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on 15 September 1899 to William J. and Alice Thomas Edwards was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on 15 September 1899 to William J. and Alice The VIMY MEMORIAL is located near Pas de Calais, France. It is Canada’s most impressive tribute MaudeThe VIMY (nee MEMORIAL Murley) Edwards. is located He near was Pas the desecond Calais, oldest France. of their It is nineCanada’s children most (William impressive b.1898, tribute Maude (nee Murley) Edwards. He was the second oldest of their nine children (William b.1898, overseas to those Canadians who fought and gave their lives in the First World War. This majestic Edwardoverseas b.1901, to those Fredrick Canadians b.1903, who Flora fought b.1904, and gave Constance their lives b.1907, in the Geraldine First World b.1908, War. ThisAlexander majestic b. Edward b.1901, Fredrick b.1903, Flora b.1904, Constance b.1907, Geraldine b.1908, Alexander b. and inspiring Memorial overlooks the Douai Plain from the highest point of Vimy Ridge, about eight 1910and inspiring and Alfred Memorial b.1916). overlooks His family the subsequently Douai Plain from moved the to highest Carrol point St. in of Rockwood, Vimy Ridge, Ontario about when eight 1910 and Alfred b.1916). His family subsequently moved to Carrol St. in Rockwood, Ontario when kilometres northeast of Arras on the N17 towards Lens. The Memorial is signposted from this road Williamkilometres started northeast work atof oneArras of on the the local N17 stone towards quarries. Lens. ThomasThe Memorial was working is signposted on the fromfarm thisof John road William started work at one of the local stone quarries. Thomas was working on the farm of John to the left, just before you enter the village of Vimy from the south. The memorial itself is some way Lister,to the left,a short just distancebefore you south enter of theRockwood, village of when Vimy on from 27 theApril south. 1916 Thehe volunteered memorial itself in St. is Catharinessome way Lister, a short distance south of Rockwood, when on 27 April 1916 he volunteered in St. Catharines inside the memorial park, but again it is well signposted. At the base of the memorial, these words forinside overseas the memorial service park,at the but age again of 16 it yearsis well and signposted. 7 months. At Thethe baseminimum of the age memorial, to enlist these was 18 words for overseas service at the age of 16 years and 7 months. The minimum age to enlist was 18 appear in French and in English: soappear he declared in French that and he in was English: two years older than his true age by stating that he was born on 15 so he declared that he was two years older than his true age by stating that he was born on 15 September 1897 on his Attestation Papers (his true age was not discovered until later). Immediately September 1897 on his Attestation Papers (his true age was not discovered until later). Immediately TO THE VALOUR OF THEIR COUNTRYMEN IN THE GREAT WAR AND IN MEMORY OF THEIR afterTO THE joining VALOUR he was OF referred THEIR to COUNTRYMEN the Dental Corps IN for THE treatment. GREAT WAR When AND that INwas MEMORY completed, OF heTHEIR was after joining he was referred to the Dental Corps for treatment. When that was completed, he was SIXTY THOUSAND DEAD THIS MONUMENT IS RAISED BY THE PEOPLE OF CANADA assignedSIXTY THOUSAND to the 176th DEAD Ontario THIS Battalion. MONUMENT After aIS short RAISED period BY of THE basic PEOPLE training, OF he CANADA left Halifax on 8 assigned to the 176th Ontario Battalion. After a short period of basic training, he left Halifax on 8 July 1916 on board the S.S. Lapland and arrived in England on the 25th of July. In September 1916 July 1916 on board the S.S. Lapland and arrived in England on the 25th of July. In September 1916 Inscribed on the ramparts of the Vimy Memorial are the names of over 11,000 Canadian soldiers itInscribed was discovered on the ramparts that he was of the underage Vimy Memorial and prohibited are the fromnames proceeding of over 11,000 to the CanadianContinent soldiers(France it was discovered that he was underage and prohibited from proceeding to the Continent (France who were posted as ‘missing, presumed dead’ in France. A plaque at the entrance to the memorial andwho Belgium)were posted and assent ‘missing, to the 78thpresumed Battalion. dead’ He in wasFrance. still inA plaqueEngland at when the entrance five months to the later memorial he and Belgium) and sent to the 78th Battalion. He was still in England when five months later he states that the land for the battlefield park, 91.18 hectares in extent, was the free gift in perpetuity of wasstates admitted that the to land the forWestcliffe the battlefield Hospital park, after 91.18becoming hectares ill. Inin extent,May he was returned the free to servicegift in perpetuity and was of was admitted to the Westcliffe Hospital after becoming ill. In May he returned to service and was the French nation to the people of Canada. Construction of the massive work began in 1925, and 11 transferredthe French nationto the 5thto the Battalion people and of Canada. subsequently Construction Company of theB of massive the 3rd Battalionwork began in France.in 1925, and 11 transferred to the 5th Battalion and subsequently Company B of the 3rd Battalion in France. years later, on 26 July 1936, the monument was unveiled by King Edward VIII. years later, on 26 July 1936, the monument was unveiled by King Edward VIII. On 19 August 1917, at the age of 17 years and 11 months, he was reported Killed in Action at Hill On 19 August 1917, at the age of 17 years and 11 months, he was reported Killed in Action at Hill The park surrounding the Vimy Memorial was created by horticultural experts. Canadian trees 70,The the park result surrounding of German the mining Vimy Memorial activity. Hiswas body created was by never horticultural found and experts. he has Canadian no known trees grave. His 70, the result of German mining activity. His body was never found and he has no known grave. His and shrubs were planted in great masses to resemble the woods and forests of Canada. Wooded nameand shrubs is engraved were planted on the inVimy great Memorial masses near to resemble Pas de Calais,the woods France and and forests is also of Canada. memorialized Wooded in the name is engraved on the Vimy Memorial near Pas de Calais, France and is also memorialized in the parklands surround the grassy slopes of the approaches around the Vimy Memorial. Trenches and Booksparklands of Remembrance, surround the grassy in the slopesPeace ofTower the approaches of the Canadian around Parliament the Vimy Buildings, Memorial. Ottawa. Trenches and Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. tunnels have been restored and preserved and the visitor can picture the magnitude of the task that tunnels have been restored and preserved and the visitor can picture the magnitude of the task that faced the Canadian Corps on that Sadly,faced thePrivate Canadian Thomas Corps Lenton on that Edwards was the older brother of Alfred James Edwards, whose Sadly, Private Thomas Lenton Edwards was the older brother of Alfred James Edwards, whose distant dawn when history was namedistant is dawn also engravedwhen history on thewas Rockwood Cenotaph under the 1939 – 1945 Names of the Fallen. name is also engraved on the Rockwood Cenotaph under the 1939 – 1945 Names of the Fallen. made. made. Battle for HILL 70 Battle for HILL 70 On 3 April 2003, the Government On 3 April 2003, the Government of Canada designated the 9th of ofThe Canada Battle designatedfor HILL 70, the near 9th Lens, of France, took place during August 1917and has sometimes been The Battle for HILL 70, near Lens, France, took place during August 1917and has sometimes been April of each year as a national Apriloverlooked of each because year as ait nationaltook place between the Canadian Corps’ success at Vimy Ridge and the overlooked because it took place between the Canadian Corps’ success at Vimy Ridge and the day of remembrance of the Battle dayhorrors of remembrance of Passchendaele. of the BattleThe Germans held this prominent hill and had fortified it heavily. This horrors of Passchendaele. The Germans held this prominent hill and had fortified it heavily. This of Vimy Ridge. ofgave Vimy them Ridge. control over a wide area, including the Town of Lens. The German fortifications were gave them control over a wide area, including the Town of Lens. The German fortifications were so heavy they were considered impregnable. The Canadian attack started on the evening of 14 so heavy they were considered impregnable. The Canadian attack started on the evening of 14 August and by 18 August, they had succeeded in gaining control of Hill 70. During these 4 days, August and by 18 August, they had succeeded in gaining control of Hill 70. During these 4 days, they had successfully fought off 21 German counterattacks. The Canadian losses were 1,505 killed, they had successfully fought off 21 German counterattacks. The Canadian losses were 1,505 killed, 4,297 wounded and 41 prisoners. The German casualties were approximately 20,000 men plus 970 4,297 wounded and 41 prisoners. The German casualties were approximately 20,000 men plus 970 prisoners. The Canadian troops earned five Victoria Crosses during this 4 day period. prisoners. The Canadian troops earned five Victoria Crosses during this 4 day period.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 6 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 67 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 7 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I JAMES ALBERT GAMBLE HENRYJAMES (“HARRY”)ALBERT GAMBLE HAMPSON HENRY (“HARRY”) HAMPSON 127203 Private 126452127203 Private 126452 Private Born: 18 March 1897 in Tweed, Ontario Born: 1814 March 18971885 in Tweed,Eden Mills, Ontario Ontario Born: 14 March 1885 in Eden Mills, Ontario Previous Occupation: Musician (Harper) Previous Occupation: MusicianButcher (Harper) Previous Occupation: Butcher Enlisted: 8 October 1915 in Rockwood, Ontario Enlisted: 813 October September 1915 1915 in Rockwood, in Guelph, Ontario Ontario Enlisted: 13 September 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 19 Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 1931 Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 31 Buried: No known burial site Buried: NoLost known and never burial found. site Memorial grave marker in Flanders, Belgium Buried: Lost and never found. Memorial grave marker in Flanders, Belgium

James Albert Gamble was born in Tweed, Ontario on 18 March 1897 (although his attestation HarryJames Hampson Albert Gamble was born was on born 14 inMarch Tweed, 1885 Ontario to William on 18 and March Hannah 1897 (nee (although Taylor) his Hampson attestation of Harry Hampson was born on 14 March 1885 to William and Hannah (nee Taylor) Hampson of papers indicate 1847) to Peter and Maggie Gamble of Rockwood, Ontario (later Toronto). He was Edenpapers Mills, indicate Ontario. 1847) He to wasPeter the and fourth Maggie of their Gamble five ofchildren Rockwood, (Clarissa Ontario Jane (laterb.1879, Toronto). George He Thomas was Eden Mills, Ontario. He was the fourth of their five children (Clarissa Jane b.1879, George Thomas the oldest of their seven children (Bertie May b.1898, William b.1901, Norman b.1903, Rita b.1905, b.1880,the oldest Alice of their Maud seven b.1883 children and Helen (Bertie b.1891). May b.1898, After Williamhis schooling b.1901, he Norman became b.1903, a butcher Rita until, b.1905, on b.1880, Alice Maud b.1883 and Helen b.1891). After his schooling he became a butcher until, on Harold b.1907 and Harry b.1911). James was 18 years and 7 months old when he volunteered 13Harold September b.1907 1915,and Harry at the b.1911). age of 30James years was and 18 5 months,years and he 7 volunteered months old whenwith the he 71st volunteered Overseas 13 September 1915, at the age of 30 years and 5 months, he volunteered with the 71st Overseas for service on 8 October 1915, in Rockwood. Interestingly, the Magistrate who signed James’ Battalionfor service in on Guelph. 8 October 1915, in Rockwood. Interestingly, the Magistrate who signed James’ Battalion in Guelph. Attestation Paper was John Mutrie – the father of Major Robert Mutrie. His trade was listed as Attestation Paper was John Mutrie – the father of Major Robert Mutrie. His trade was listed as “Harper”, which was a term generally used to describe a folk musician who played the harp. After“Harper”, training, which Private was a Hampson term generally was shipped used to todescribe a folk musician who played the harp. After training, Private Hampson was shipped to Halifax where he boarded HMT (Hired Military Halifax where he boarded HMT (Hired Military Interestingly, both James Albert Gamble and John Wilfred Oakes volunteered on the same day, in Transport)Interestingly, Olympic, both James nicknamed Albert “OldGamble Reliable” and John Wilfred Oakes volunteered on the same day, in Transport) Olympic, nicknamed “Old Reliable” the same recruitment office and their regimental numbers are consecutive. forthe hersame many recruitment war time officevoyages and loaded their regimental with up numbers are consecutive. for her many war time voyages loaded with up to 6,000 troops – a much better record than her to 6,000 troops – a much better record than her Private Gamble was assigned to the 42nd Battalion of the Canadian Infantry (Quebec Regiment). sisterPrivate ship, Gamble the Titanic. was assigned During toWorld the 42ndWar I,Battalion she of the Canadian Infantry (Quebec Regiment). sister ship, the Titanic. During World War I, she Few details have been found about his military training between when he volunteered for overseas carriedFew details a total have of 132,000 been found troops about to Europe his military from training between when he volunteered for overseas carried a total of 132,000 troops to Europe from service until 16 of September 1916, when at the age of 19 years and 6 months, he was killed in Northservice America until 16 plus of September she carried 1916, 58,000 when troops at the age of 19 years and 6 months, he was killed in North America plus she carried 58,000 troops action during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette. backaction to during Canada. the BattleShe departed of Flers-Courcelette. from Halifax on back to Canada. She departed from Halifax on 1 April 1916 and arrived in Liverpool, England on 1 April 1916 and arrived in Liverpool, England on Private James Albert Gamble has no known burial site but his name is engraved on the Vimy Ridge 11Private April. James Records Albert state Gamble that during has no the known voyage, burial site HMT but Olympic his name - Wartime is engraved Configuration on the Vimy Ridge 11 April. Records state that during the voyage, HMT Olympic - Wartime Configuration Memorial at Pas de Calais France and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the thereMemorial was atan Pas outbreak de Calais of rubella France (German and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the there was an outbreak of rubella (German Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. measles)Peace Tower and ofPrivate the Canadian Hampson Parliament became infected. Buildings, Shortly Ottawa. after arrival in Liverpool, England, he was measles) and Private Hampson became infected. Shortly after arrival in Liverpool, England, he was admitted to Aldershot Isolation Hospital on 19 April and discharged three weeks later. He was then admitted to Aldershot Isolation Hospital on 19 April and discharged three weeks later. He was then The Battle of Flers-Courcelette, France, took place in September 1916. It was a battle within transferredThe Battle to of the Flers-Courcelette 54th Infantry Battalion, France, (C Division)took place of in the September Canadian 1916. Expeditionary It was a Forcebattle (CEF),within transferred to the 54th Infantry Battalion (C Division) of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), the much larger and longer Franco-British Somme Offensive which took place in the summer and 11ththe Infantrymuch larger Brigade, and longer4th Division, Franco-British in Bramshott. Somme After Offensive additional which training, took placehe departed in the summer for France and and 11th Infantry Brigade, 4th Division, in Bramshott. After additional training, he departed for France and fall of 1916. The battle for Flers-Courcelette started on 15 September and lasted one week. Its arrivedfall of 1916.at Le Havre The battleon 14 for August Flers-Courcelette 1916. started on 15 September and lasted one week. Its arrived at Le Havre on 14 August 1916. objective was to break through the German line by using massed artillery and infantry attacks. objective was to break through the German line by using massed artillery and infantry attacks. Once through, the plan was to use cavalry to overrun the Germans. It was the third and final OnOnce 25 August,through, the the newly plan wasformed to use 4th cavalryCanadian to overrunDivision the(of Germanwhich thes. 54th It was Battalion the third was and part) final arrived On 25 August, the newly formed 4th Canadian Division (of which the 54th Battalion was part) arrived general offensive mounted by the British Army during the Battle of the Somme (in which over 1 ongeneral the line offensive of what becamemounted known by the asBritish the BattleArmy duringof the Somme.the Battle The of the 4th Somme Division (in remained which over in the 1 Ypres on the line of what became known as the Battle of the Somme. The 4th Division remained in the Ypres million men on both sides were killed). Unfortunately, by its conclusion on 22 September, the Salient,million asmen part on of both the sidesinternational were killed). “Frank’s Unfortunately, Force” to provide by its conclusiona diversion onto the22 September,fighting in the the south at Salient, as part of the international “Frank’s Force” to provide a diversion to the fighting in the south at strategic objective of a breakthrough had not been achieved; however, tactical gains were made Flers-Courcelette.strategic objective The of a54th breakthrough Battalion was had onenot beenof 6 Canadian achieved; units however, that carried tactical out gains 7 raids were on made the night Flers-Courcelette. The 54th Battalion was one of 6 Canadian units that carried out 7 raids on the night with the capture of the villages of Courcelette, Martinpuich and Flers. In some places, the front ofwith 16th-17th the capture September of the villages1916, when of Courcelette, Private Hampson Martinpuich was killed.and Flers. The OfficialIn some places,Canadian the War front Diary of 16th-17th September 1916, when Private Hampson was killed. The Official Canadian War Diary lines were advanced by over 2,500 yards (2,300 m) by the Allied attacks. The battle is significant recordslines were that advancedby the end by of over the raid,2,500 4 yardsLieutenants (2,300 and m) by21 theother Allied ranks attacks. were missing The battle and is 1 significant Lieutenant records that by the end of the raid, 4 Lieutenants and 21 other ranks were missing and 1 Lieutenant for the first use of the tank in warfare. It also marked the debut of the Canadian and New Zealand andfor 7the other first ranks use ofwere the tankreported in warfare. killed in Itaction. also markedOver the the next debut few of thedays, Canadian searches and for New the missing Zealand and 7 other ranks were reported killed in action. Over the next few days, searches for the missing Divisions on the Somme battlefield. On a nearby memorial, the Canadians are commemorated for continuedDivisions withouton the Sommesuccess. battlefield. Private Hampson On a nearby was onememorial, of the 21the who Canadians were lost are and commemorated never found and for continued without success. Private Hampson was one of the 21 who were lost and never found and their part in breaking the German lines from 3 September to 18 November 1916. presumedtheir part killedin breaking in action. the GermanHis memorial lines fromgrave 3 markerSeptember is located to 18 Novemberin the Menin 1916. Gate (Ypres) Memorial presumed killed in action. His memorial grave marker is located in the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Flanders, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace in Flanders, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

His mother, Hannah Hampson, received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government. His mother, Hannah Hampson, received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 8 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 98 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 9 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I JAMES ALBERT GAMBLE HENRYJAMES (“HARRY”)ALBERT GAMBLE HAMPSON HENRY (“HARRY”) HAMPSON 127203 Private 126452127203 Private 126452 Private Born: 18 March 1897 in Tweed, Ontario Born: 1814 March 18971885 in Tweed,Eden Mills, Ontario Ontario Born: 14 March 1885 in Eden Mills, Ontario Previous Occupation: Musician (Harper) Previous Occupation: MusicianButcher (Harper) Previous Occupation: Butcher Enlisted: 8 October 1915 in Rockwood, Ontario Enlisted: 813 October September 1915 1915 in Rockwood, in Guelph, Ontario Ontario Enlisted: 13 September 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 19 Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 1931 Died: 16 September 1916 at the age of 31 Buried: No known burial site Buried: NoLost known and never burial found. site Memorial grave marker in Flanders, Belgium Buried: Lost and never found. Memorial grave marker in Flanders, Belgium

His mother, Hannah Hampson, received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government. His mother, Hannah Hampson, received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 8 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 89 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 9 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I ROBERT JOHN MUTRIE ROBERT JOHN MUTRIE

The Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Flanders, Belgium MajorThe Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Flanders, Belgium Major Born: 2 April 1883 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born: 2 April 1883 in Eramosa Township, Ontario This memorial bears the names of more than 54,400 men who were lost without trace during the This memorial bears the names of more than 54,400 men who were lost without trace during the Previous Occupation: Financial Agent Previous Occupation: Financial Agent defence of the Ypres Salient in the First World War. defence of the Ypres Salient in the First World War. Enlisted: 9 December 1914 in Victoria, British Columbia Enlisted: 9 December 1914 in Victoria, British Columbia Carved in stone above the central arch are the words: Died:Carved 5 April in stone 1916 aboveat the agethe centralof 33 arch are the words: Died: 5 April 1916 at the age of 33 TO THE ARMIES OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE WHO STOOD HERE FROM 1914 TO 1918 AND Buried:TO THE Poperinghe ARMIES New OF THEMilitary BRITISH Cemetery EMPIRE in Belgium WHO STOOD HERE FROM 1914 TO 1918 AND Buried: Poperinghe New Military Cemetery in Belgium TO THOSE OF THEIR DEAD WHO HAVE NO KNOWN GRAVE. Robert John MutrieTO was THOSE born on OF 2 THEIRApril 1883 DEAD in Eramosa WHO HAVE Township NO KNOWN to Col. JohnGRAVE. and Margaret (nee Robert John Mutrie was born on 2 April 1883 in Eramosa Township to Col. John and Margaret (nee Dow) Mutrie. He was their only child. His parents, grandparents and great grandparents all lived Dow) Mutrie. He was their only child. His parents, grandparents and great grandparents all lived in Wellington County. His father served in the militia, and ultimately commanded the local regiment in Wellington County. His father served in the militia, and ultimately commanded the local regiment (30th Wellington Rifles). During WWI, Col. Mutrie was the Chief Recruiting Officer for the area. He (30th Wellington Rifles). During WWI, Col. Mutrie was the Chief Recruiting Officer for the area. He was also the Postmaster for Rockwood and politically, served as an Eramosa Township Councillor, was also the Postmaster for Rockwood and politically, served as an Eramosa Township Councillor, Deputy Reeve and Reeve, Wellington County Warden and ultimately, two terms as the Liberal MPP Deputy Reeve and Reeve, Wellington County Warden and ultimately, two terms as the Liberal MPP for the constituency. for the constituency.

Robert’s grandparents, William Mutrie and his first wife Jane (Beattie) and his second wife Elizabeth Robert’s grandparents, William Mutrie and his first wife Jane (Beattie) and his second wife Elizabeth (McDonald) farmed 200 acres along the 3rd Line from 1843 until William’s death in 1870. In the (McDonald) farmed 200 acres along the 3rd Line from 1843 until William’s death in 1870. In the early 19th century, his great-grandparents, John Mutrie and Janet (Wilson) Mutrie, emigrated early 19th century, his great-grandparents, John Mutrie and Janet (Wilson) Mutrie, emigrated from Scotland with their young son William, and settled and farmed on 100 acres of land in Nichol from Scotland with their young son William, and settled and farmed on 100 acres of land in Nichol Township. Township. Menin Gate Arch Memorial, Ypres Belgium Menin Gate Arch Memorial, Ypres Belgium Robert John Mutrie completed his schooling and became a financial agent. Like his father, he joined Robert John Mutrie completed his schooling and became a financial agent. Like his father, he joined the 30th Wellington Rifles. He married Alice Tolton of Guelph and they moved to British Columbia, the 30th Wellington Rifles. He married Alice Tolton of Guelph and they moved to British Columbia, Over the two staircases leading from the main Hall is the inscription: where he joined theOver Canadian the two staircasesMounted Rifles leading for from 3 years the mainand aHall further is the 4 years inscription: after it was where he joined the Canadian Mounted Rifles for 3 years and a further 4 years after it was amalgamated and re-named the 30th Regiment BC Horse (CMR). Because the 30th Horse was amalgamated and re-named the 30th Regiment BC Horse (CMR). Because the 30th Horse was HERE ARE RECORDED NAMES OF OFFICERS AND MEN not mobilized for actionHERE when ARE war RECORDED was declared, NAMES Robert OF volunteered OFFICERS in ANDVictoria, MEN B.C. for overseas not mobilized for action when war was declared, Robert volunteered in Victoria, B.C. for overseas WHO FELL IN YPRES SALIENT BUT TO WHOM service with the newly formedWHO 2nd FELL Regiment IN YPRES SALIENT BUT TO WHOM service with the newly formed 2nd Regiment THE FORTUNE OF WAR DENIED THE KNOWN AND Canadian Mounted RiflesTHE on FORTUNE 9 December OF 1914 WAR at DENIED THE KNOWN AND Canadian Mounted Rifles on 9 December 1914 at HONOURED BURIAL GIVEN TO THEIR COMRADES IN DEATH. the age of 31 yearsHONOURED and 8 months. BURIAL He was GIVEN joined TO THEIR COMRADES IN DEATH. the age of 31 years and 8 months. He was joined by many other volunteers from his former regiment. by many other volunteers from his former regiment. After enlisting, he was attached to 2 CMR (BC Horse) After enlisting, he was attached to 2 CMR (BC Horse) and, because of his experience, was promoted to and, because of his experience, was promoted to 2nd In Charge of the Regiment. His unit sailed on 2nd In Charge of the Regiment. His unit sailed on 12 June 1915 from Halifax to England and, after a 12 June 1915 from Halifax to England and, after a few months of additional training in England, arrived few months of additional training in England, arrived at Le Havre, France on 22 September. Around this at Le Havre, France on 22 September. Around this time, his wife and four small children left B.C. and time, his wife and four small children left B.C. and moved back to Guelph to live with her parents for the moved back to Guelph to live with her parents for the duration of the war. duration of the war.

Records of the No. 2 Canadian Field Ambulance Records of the No. 2 Canadian Field Ambulance main dressing station show Robert Mutrie died on 5 main dressing station show Robert Mutrie died on 5 April 1916 of wounds sustained in action during the April 1916 of wounds sustained in action during the Battle of the St. Eloi Craters, near the Belgian towns Poperinghe New Military Cemetery Photo Battle of the St. Eloi Craters, near the Belgian towns Poperinghe New Military Cemetery Photo

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 10 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1110 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 11 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I ROBERT JOHN MUTRIE ROBERT JOHN MUTRIE

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 10 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1011 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 11 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I (JOHN) WILFRED OAKES (JOHN) WILFRED OAKES of Ploegstreet and Ypres. He was survived by his widow, Alice Elizabeth Mutrie, of 44 Bellevue of127204 Ploegstreet Private and Ypres. He was survived by his widow, Alice Elizabeth Mutrie, of 44 Bellevue 127204 Private Place, Guelph and his four children, the eldest being an 8 year old son. Mrs. Mutrie received the Place, Guelph and his four children, the eldest being an 8 year old son. Mrs. Mutrie received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government. Later, one of his sons, Eric (1912-2003), became MemorialBorn: 29 CrossDecember from 1897the Canadian in Oustic, Government. 10 km north of Later, Rockwood, one of hisOntario sons, Eric (1912-2003), became Born: 29 December 1897 in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood, Ontario a well known physician in Guelph. a well known physician in Guelph. Previous Occupation: Weaver Previous Occupation: Weaver Major Robert J. Mutrie is buried at Poperinghe New Military Cemetery in Belgium and his name is MajorEnlisted: Robert 8 October J. Mutrie 1915 is buried in Rockwood, at Poperinghe Ontario New Military Cemetery in Belgium and his name is Enlisted: 8 October 1915 in Rockwood, Ontario also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament alsoDied: memorialized 12 August 1918 in the at Booksthe age of of Remembrance, 20 in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Died: 12 August 1918 at the age of 20 Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. Missing and considered Killed in Action Missing and considered Killed in Action Wilfred Oakes was born in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood to George and Mary Ann (nee Mellon) Wilfred Oakes was born in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood to George and Mary Ann (nee Mellon) The Battle of the St. Eloi Craters TheOakes Battle on 29 of December the St. Eloi 1897. Craters He was the ninth of his father’s eleven children. Three children Oakes on 29 December 1897. He was the ninth of his father’s eleven children. Three children with Mary Easton (James Watson b.1875, Annie Ellen b.1877 and William Albert b.1879) and with Mary Easton (James Watson b.1875, Annie Ellen b.1877 and William Albert b.1879) and eight children with his second wife, Mary Ann Mellon (Francis b.1882, George Ambrose b.1887, eight children with his second wife, Mary Ann Mellon (Francis b.1882, George Ambrose b.1887, The Battle of the St. Eloi Craters was that first major engagement for the 2nd Canadian Division, TheCharles Battle Edwin of the b. St.1890, Eloi Mary Craters Kathleen was that b.1892, first Margaretmajor engageme Irene b.1895,nt for the Owen 2nd CanadianStanley b.1900 Division, and Charles Edwin b. 1890, Mary Kathleen b.1892, Margaret Irene b.1895, Owen Stanley b.1900 and shortly after their arrival from England. After two weeks of confused fighting, it ended in disaster with shortlyChristian after Lawrence their arrival b.1902). from England.His grandparents After two were weeks the of original confused settlers fighting, of all itof endedLot 25, in Concession disaster with Christian Lawrence b.1902). His grandparents were the original settlers of all of Lot 25, Concession the loss of 1,373 men and a change of command. the5 of loss Eramosa of 1,373 Township, men and from a change the 5th of Line command. to the 6th Line. He was a weaver by trade before he 5 of Eramosa Township, from the 5th Line to the 6th Line. He was a weaver by trade before he volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on 8 October 1915. volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on 8 October 1915. Previously, British forces had blown a series of underground mines that were filled with a large Previously, British forces had blown a series of underground mines that were filled with a large amount of explosives to destroy the sector’s German defences. This left massive, mud-filled craters amountInterestingly, of explosives both John to Wilfreddestroy Oakes the sector’s and James German Albert defences. Gamble This volunteered left massive, on the mud-filled same day, craters in Interestingly, both John Wilfred Oakes and James Albert Gamble volunteered on the same day, in for the attackers to occupy. When the Canadians relieved the British troops on the night of 3 April, forthe thesame attackers recruitment to occupy. office Whenand their the regimentalCanadians numbersrelieved theare Britishconsecutive. troops on the night of 3 April, the same recruitment office and their regimental numbers are consecutive. they found few actual trenches in which to take cover, with most of them filled waist deep with they found few actual trenches in which to take cover, with most of them filled waist deep with water. The Germans could observe the Canadian positions and bombarded them continuously in water.His attestation The Germans papers could state observethat he was the Canadian17 years and positions 10 months and bombarded old when they them were continuously signed by in His attestation papers state that he was 17 years and 10 months old when they were signed by preparation for a series of German counterattacks on 6 April that drove the Canadians out of the preparationCol. John Mutrie. for a series He was of Germanoriginally counterattacks assigned to the on 71st 6 April Battalion, that drove D Company. the Canadians After completing out of the Col. John Mutrie. He was originally assigned to the 71st Battalion, D Company. After completing muddy craters. The battlefield conditions were so bad and confusing, the Canadian commanders muddyhis basic craters. training, The he battlefielddeparted from conditions Halifax wereon 1 Aprilso bad 1916 and aboardconfusing, HMT the Olympic Canadian and commandersarrived in his basic training, he departed from Halifax on 1 April 1916 aboard HMT Olympic and arrived in were often uncertain as to the location of both the Canadian and German forces. wereLiverpool, often England uncertain on as 11 to April. the location Upon arrival of both in theEngland, Canadian Private and Oakes German was forces. transferred to 53rd Liverpool, England on 11 April. Upon arrival in England, Private Oakes was transferred to 53rd Battalion C Company, and subsequently transferred to 11th Brigade Trench Mortar Battery on Battalion C Company, and subsequently transferred to 11th Brigade Trench Mortar Battery on Eventually, with the aid of aerial photography, they were able to see the true Canadian and German Eventually,28 May 1916. with By the the aid time of aerial he landed photography, in France they on 9were June able 1916, to seehe wasthe trueassigned Canadian to the and 42nd German 28 May 1916. By the time he landed in France on 9 June 1916, he was assigned to the 42nd positions. On 16 April, the battle ground to a halt with enemy forces holding most of the key points. positions.Brigade. DuringOn 16 April,August the 1916, battle Private ground Phillips to a halt was with struck enemy with forces tonsillitis holding and mostsince ofthis the was key before points. Brigade. During August 1916, Private Phillips was struck with tonsillitis and since this was before the discovery of antibiotics, his condition deteriorated to the point that he was sent back to England the discovery of antibiotics, his condition deteriorated to the point that he was sent back to England to recover. By March 1917, he was transferred to the 42nd Regiment at the Casualty Care Hospital to recover. By March 1917, he was transferred to the 42nd Regiment at the Casualty Care Hospital in Bromley, Shoreham, England. In November 1917 he was deemed well enough to return to in Bromley, Shoreham, England. In November 1917 he was deemed well enough to return to active service with the 42nd Battalion and arrived back in France again on 21 November 1917. active service with the 42nd Battalion and arrived back in France again on 21 November 1917. He saw action in the Battle of the Somme (July – November 1916), Vimy Ridge (April 1917) and He saw action in the Battle of the Somme (July – November 1916), Vimy Ridge (April 1917) and Passchendaele (October 1917). During the later stages of the Battle of Amiens, it is reported that on Passchendaele (October 1917). During the later stages of the Battle of Amiens, it is reported that on 12 August 1918, while performing his duties as a message runner, he was shot by an enemy sniper 12 August 1918, while performing his duties as a message runner, he was shot by an enemy sniper and died instantly. and died instantly.

His name is engraved on the Vimy Memorial at Pas de Calais, France and his name is also His name is engraved on the Vimy Memorial at Pas de Calais, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. His family received his Victory Medal and the British War medal. Buildings, Ottawa. His family received his Victory Medal and the British War medal.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 12 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1312 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 13 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I (JOHN) WILFRED OAKES (JOHN) WILFRED OAKES of Ploegstreet and Ypres. He was survived by his widow, Alice Elizabeth Mutrie, of 44 Bellevue of127204 Ploegstreet Private and Ypres. He was survived by his widow, Alice Elizabeth Mutrie, of 44 Bellevue 127204 Private Place, Guelph and his four children, the eldest being an 8 year old son. Mrs. Mutrie received the Place, Guelph and his four children, the eldest being an 8 year old son. Mrs. Mutrie received the Memorial Cross from the Canadian Government. Later, one of his sons, Eric (1912-2003), became MemorialBorn: 29 CrossDecember from 1897the Canadian in Oustic, Government. 10 km north of Later, Rockwood, one of hisOntario sons, Eric (1912-2003), became Born: 29 December 1897 in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood, Ontario a well known physician in Guelph. a well known physician in Guelph. Previous Occupation: Weaver Previous Occupation: Weaver Major Robert J. Mutrie is buried at Poperinghe New Military Cemetery in Belgium and his name is MajorEnlisted: Robert 8 October J. Mutrie 1915 is buried in Rockwood, at Poperinghe Ontario New Military Cemetery in Belgium and his name is Enlisted: 8 October 1915 in Rockwood, Ontario also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament alsoDied: memorialized 12 August 1918 in the at Booksthe age of of Remembrance, 20 in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Died: 12 August 1918 at the age of 20 Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. Missing and considered Killed in Action Missing and considered Killed in Action Wilfred Oakes was born in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood to George and Mary Ann (nee Mellon) Wilfred Oakes was born in Oustic, 10 km north of Rockwood to George and Mary Ann (nee Mellon) The Battle of the St. Eloi Craters TheOakes Battle on 29 of December the St. Eloi 1897. Craters He was the ninth of his father’s eleven children. Three children Oakes on 29 December 1897. He was the ninth of his father’s eleven children. Three children with Mary Easton (James Watson b.1875, Annie Ellen b.1877 and William Albert b.1879) and with Mary Easton (James Watson b.1875, Annie Ellen b.1877 and William Albert b.1879) and eight children with his second wife, Mary Ann Mellon (Francis b.1882, George Ambrose b.1887, eight children with his second wife, Mary Ann Mellon (Francis b.1882, George Ambrose b.1887, The Battle of the St. Eloi Craters was that first major engagement for the 2nd Canadian Division, TheCharles Battle Edwin of the b. St.1890, Eloi Mary Craters Kathleen was that b.1892, first Margaretmajor engageme Irene b.1895,nt for the Owen 2nd CanadianStanley b.1900 Division, and Charles Edwin b. 1890, Mary Kathleen b.1892, Margaret Irene b.1895, Owen Stanley b.1900 and shortly after their arrival from England. After two weeks of confused fighting, it ended in disaster with shortlyChristian after Lawrence their arrival b.1902). from England.His grandparents After two were weeks the of original confused settlers fighting, of all itof endedLot 25, in Concession disaster with Christian Lawrence b.1902). His grandparents were the original settlers of all of Lot 25, Concession the loss of 1,373 men and a change of command. the5 of loss Eramosa of 1,373 Township, men and from a change the 5th of Line command. to the 6th Line. He was a weaver by trade before he 5 of Eramosa Township, from the 5th Line to the 6th Line. He was a weaver by trade before he volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on 8 October 1915. volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on 8 October 1915. Previously, British forces had blown a series of underground mines that were filled with a large Previously, British forces had blown a series of underground mines that were filled with a large amount of explosives to destroy the sector’s German defences. This left massive, mud-filled craters amountInterestingly, of explosives both John to Wilfreddestroy Oakes the sector’s and James German Albert defences. Gamble This volunteered left massive, on the mud-filled same day, craters in Interestingly, both John Wilfred Oakes and James Albert Gamble volunteered on the same day, in for the attackers to occupy. When the Canadians relieved the British troops on the night of 3 April, forthe thesame attackers recruitment to occupy. office Whenand their the regimentalCanadians numbersrelieved theare Britishconsecutive. troops on the night of 3 April, the same recruitment office and their regimental numbers are consecutive. they found few actual trenches in which to take cover, with most of them filled waist deep with they found few actual trenches in which to take cover, with most of them filled waist deep with water. The Germans could observe the Canadian positions and bombarded them continuously in water.His attestation The Germans papers could state observethat he was the Canadian17 years and positions 10 months and bombarded old when they them were continuously signed by in His attestation papers state that he was 17 years and 10 months old when they were signed by preparation for a series of German counterattacks on 6 April that drove the Canadians out of the preparationCol. John Mutrie. for a series He was of Germanoriginally counterattacks assigned to the on 71st 6 April Battalion, that drove D Company. the Canadians After completing out of the Col. John Mutrie. He was originally assigned to the 71st Battalion, D Company. After completing muddy craters. The battlefield conditions were so bad and confusing, the Canadian commanders muddyhis basic craters. training, The he battlefielddeparted from conditions Halifax wereon 1 Aprilso bad 1916 and aboardconfusing, HMT the Olympic Canadian and commandersarrived in his basic training, he departed from Halifax on 1 April 1916 aboard HMT Olympic and arrived in were often uncertain as to the location of both the Canadian and German forces. wereLiverpool, often England uncertain on as 11 to April. the location Upon arrival of both in theEngland, Canadian Private and Oakes German was forces. transferred to 53rd Liverpool, England on 11 April. Upon arrival in England, Private Oakes was transferred to 53rd Battalion C Company, and subsequently transferred to 11th Brigade Trench Mortar Battery on Battalion C Company, and subsequently transferred to 11th Brigade Trench Mortar Battery on Eventually, with the aid of aerial photography, they were able to see the true Canadian and German Eventually,28 May 1916. with By the the aid time of aerial he landed photography, in France they on 9were June able 1916, to seehe wasthe trueassigned Canadian to the and 42nd German 28 May 1916. By the time he landed in France on 9 June 1916, he was assigned to the 42nd positions. On 16 April, the battle ground to a halt with enemy forces holding most of the key points. positions.Brigade. DuringOn 16 April,August the 1916, battle Private ground Phillips to a halt was with struck enemy with forces tonsillitis holding and mostsince ofthis the was key before points. Brigade. During August 1916, Private Phillips was struck with tonsillitis and since this was before the discovery of antibiotics, his condition deteriorated to the point that he was sent back to England the discovery of antibiotics, his condition deteriorated to the point that he was sent back to England to recover. By March 1917, he was transferred to the 42nd Regiment at the Casualty Care Hospital to recover. By March 1917, he was transferred to the 42nd Regiment at the Casualty Care Hospital in Bromley, Shoreham, England. In November 1917 he was deemed well enough to return to in Bromley, Shoreham, England. In November 1917 he was deemed well enough to return to active service with the 42nd Battalion and arrived back in France again on 21 November 1917. active service with the 42nd Battalion and arrived back in France again on 21 November 1917. He saw action in the Battle of the Somme (July – November 1916), Vimy Ridge (April 1917) and He saw action in the Battle of the Somme (July – November 1916), Vimy Ridge (April 1917) and Passchendaele (October 1917). During the later stages of the Battle of Amiens, it is reported that on Passchendaele (October 1917). During the later stages of the Battle of Amiens, it is reported that on 12 August 1918, while performing his duties as a message runner, he was shot by an enemy sniper 12 August 1918, while performing his duties as a message runner, he was shot by an enemy sniper and died instantly. and died instantly.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 12 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1213 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 13 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I PETER WILSON PICK PETER WILSON PICK The Battle of Amiens, August 1918, marked the beginning of the end for the German armies and CaptainThe Battle of Amiens, August 1918, marked the beginning of the end for the German armies and Captain it would prove to be one of most successful battles of the war for the Allies. it would prove to be one of most successful battles of the war for the Allies. Born: 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Ontario Born: 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Ontario After the failure of the German offensives during the spring of 1918, the Allies regrouped and PreviousAfter the failureOccupation: of the German Foreman offensives in the woodworking during the springshop at of Beatty 1918, the Allies regrouped and Previous Occupation: Foreman in the woodworking shop at Beatty counterattacked along the Western Front. It was prepared in secret, with a major counter- Brotherscounterattacked in Fergus along the Western Front. It was prepared in secret, with a major counter- Brothers in Fergus intelligence operation to deceive the Germans as to the real location of Canadian and Australian intelligence operation to deceive the Germans as to the real location of Canadian and Australian 23 September 1914 in Valcartier, Quebec 23 September 1914 in Valcartier, Quebec troops who were to spearhead the assault at Amiens. The assault was based upon a combined Enlisted:troops who were to spearhead the assault at Amiens. The assault was based upon a combined Enlisted: army approach to war with the infantry attacking behind a creeping artillery barrage, supported by Died:army approach15 June 1915 to war at withthe age the ofinfantry 32 attacking behind a creeping artillery barrage, supported by Died: 15 June 1915 at the age of 32 tanks, cavalry, armoured cars, and tactical airpower. tanks, cavalry, armoured cars, and tactical airpower. Buried: Beuvry Communal Cemetery in Pas de Calais, France Buried: Beuvry Communal Cemetery in Pas de Calais, France On 8 August, the Canadians advanced 13 kilometres through the German defences, the most On 8 August, the Canadians advanced 13 kilometres through the German defences, the most Peter Wilson Pick was born on 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Wellington County, Ontario to Peter Wilson Pick was born on 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Wellington County, Ontario to successful day of combat for the Allies along the Western Front, but the Germans rushed successful day of combat for the Allies along the Western Front, but the Germans rushed Richard and Isabella (nee Wilson) Pick. He was the youngest of their three children (William b.1879 Richard and Isabella (nee Wilson) Pick. He was the youngest of their three children (William b.1879 reinforcements to the battlefield to prevent the hoped for Allied breakthrough. Subsequently, reinforcements to the battlefield to prevent the hoped for Allied breakthrough. Subsequently, and Barbara Scott b.1881). His father had emigrated from England to RR #2 Elora and his mother and Barbara Scott b.1881). His father had emigrated from England to RR #2 Elora and his mother fighting became far more difficult and costly, especially since the attacking forces were moving fighting became far more difficult and costly, especially since the attacking forces were moving emigrated from Scotland with her parents and was raised in Eden Mills. Richard and Isabella were emigrated from Scotland with her parents and was raised in Eden Mills. Richard and Isabella were beyond the range of their own artillery. By the night of 11 August, most offensive operations had beyond the range of their own artillery. By the night of 11 August, most offensive operations had married in 1878. Around 1900, at the age of 17 years, Peter joined the local Militia - 30th Wellington married in 1878. Around 1900, at the age of 17 years, Peter joined the local Militia - 30th Wellington ground to a halt. The battle had been exceedingly costly and the Canadians suffered more than ground to a halt. The battle had been exceedingly costly and the Canadians suffered more than Rifles and rose to the rank of Lieutenant by the time he volunteered for overseas service. Outside of Rifles and rose to the rank of Lieutenant by the time he volunteered for overseas service. Outside of 11,800 casualties in total, including nearly 4,000 on 8 August alone. 11,800 casualties in total, including nearly 4,000 on 8 August alone. the militia, he was employed at Beatty Brothers in Fergus as the Foreman in the woodworking shop. the militia, he was employed at Beatty Brothers in Fergus as the Foreman in the woodworking shop. He volunteered for overseas service in Valcartier, Quebec on 23 September 1914, at the age of He volunteered for overseas service in Valcartier, Quebec on 23 September 1914, at the age of The Battle of Amiens was called the ‘black day’ by one of the German Army commanders. It shook The Battle of Amiens was called the ‘black day’ by one of the German Army commanders. It shook 31 years and 5 months. He was assigned to the 30th Regiment (Overseas Contingent) Wellington 31 years and 5 months. He was assigned to the 30th Regiment (Overseas Contingent) Wellington German faith in the outcome of the war and raised the morale of the Allies. Previously, most Allied German faith in the outcome of the war and raised the morale of the Allies. Previously, most Allied Rifles. The Regiment arrived at Avonmouth (Bristol) England on 2 September 1914. During his time Rifles. The Regiment arrived at Avonmouth (Bristol) England on 2 September 1914. During his time commanders had predicted the war would continue well into 1919 and possibly into 1920. Amiens commanders had predicted the war would continue well into 1919 and possibly into 1920. Amiens in England, he was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, of the Western Ontario Regiment and in England, he was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, of the Western Ontario Regiment and demonstrated that the German army was weakening under the strain of four years of warfare and demonstrated that the German army was weakening under the strain of four years of warfare and was promoted to the rank of Temporary Captain on 5 March 1915. He arrived with the regiment in was promoted to the rank of Temporary Captain on 5 March 1915. He arrived with the regiment in was closer to defeat than anyone had predicted. was closer to defeat than anyone had predicted. France on 1 April 1915. On 25 April he was admitted to the 85th Field Ambulance station and sent France on 1 April 1915. On 25 April he was admitted to the 85th Field Ambulance station and sent to Casualty Clearance, No. 7 Stat. Hospital in Boulogne, with a scalp wound. He was treated and to Casualty Clearance, No. 7 Stat. Hospital in Boulogne, with a scalp wound. He was treated and released back to active duty with his regiment on 27 April 1915. Captain Pick fought in the battles released back to active duty with his regiment on 27 April 1915. Captain Pick fought in the battles of Ypres, Festubert and finally, Givenchy, where he was struck by a shell on 15 June 1915 and killed of Ypres, Festubert and finally, Givenchy, where he was struck by a shell on 15 June 1915 and killed The Battles of Festubert Givenchy, June 1915. Following the Battle of Ypres, the decimated The Battles of Festubert Givenchy, June 1915. Following the Battle of Ypres, the decimated instantly. instantly. units of the 1st Canadian Division were reinforced with volunteers from the Cavalry Brigade units of the 1st Canadian Division were reinforced with volunteers from the Cavalry Brigade before marching south to join in the Allied offensives which were already under way. They joined before marching south to join in the Allied offensives which were already under way. They joined Captain Peter Wilson Pick was buried with full military honours at the Beuvry Communal Cemetery Captain Peter Wilson Pick was buried with full military honours at the Beuvry Communal Cemetery the fighting at Festubert in May 1915 and Givenchy in June. These battles followed the grim the fighting at Festubert in May 1915 and Givenchy in June. These battles followed the grim in Pas de Calais, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the in Pas de Calais, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the pattern of using a frontal assault against powerful enemy defences. Although the Canadians pattern of using a frontal assault against powerful enemy defences. Although the Canadians Peace Tower of the Peace Tower of the achieved some of their objectives, the gains were negligible and the loss of life was extremely achieved some of their objectives, the gains were negligible and the loss of life was extremely Canadian Parliament Canadian Parliament high with 2,468 casualties at Festubert and a further 400 at Givenchy. high with 2,468 casualties at Festubert and a further 400 at Givenchy. Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. See Peter Wilson Pick’s biography. See Peter Wilson Pick’s biography. He was awarded the He was awarded the Star, Victory Medal, Star, Victory Medal, and British War Medal and British War Medal which were sent to his which were sent to his sister Barbara S. Pick, of sister Barbara S. Pick, of Fergus. Fergus.

Beuvry Communal Cemetery Beuvry Communal Cemetery

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 14 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1514 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 15 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I PETER WILSON PICK PETER WILSON PICK The Battle of Amiens, August 1918, marked the beginning of the end for the German armies and CaptainThe Battle of Amiens, August 1918, marked the beginning of the end for the German armies and Captain it would prove to be one of most successful battles of the war for the Allies. it would prove to be one of most successful battles of the war for the Allies. Born: 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Ontario Born: 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Ontario After the failure of the German offensives during the spring of 1918, the Allies regrouped and PreviousAfter the failureOccupation: of the German Foreman offensives in the woodworking during the springshop at of Beatty 1918, the Allies regrouped and Previous Occupation: Foreman in the woodworking shop at Beatty counterattacked along the Western Front. It was prepared in secret, with a major counter- Brotherscounterattacked in Fergus along the Western Front. It was prepared in secret, with a major counter- Brothers in Fergus intelligence operation to deceive the Germans as to the real location of Canadian and Australian intelligence operation to deceive the Germans as to the real location of Canadian and Australian 23 September 1914 in Valcartier, Quebec 23 September 1914 in Valcartier, Quebec troops who were to spearhead the assault at Amiens. The assault was based upon a combined Enlisted:troops who were to spearhead the assault at Amiens. The assault was based upon a combined Enlisted: army approach to war with the infantry attacking behind a creeping artillery barrage, supported by Died:army approach15 June 1915 to war at withthe age the ofinfantry 32 attacking behind a creeping artillery barrage, supported by Died: 15 June 1915 at the age of 32 tanks, cavalry, armoured cars, and tactical airpower. tanks, cavalry, armoured cars, and tactical airpower. Buried: Beuvry Communal Cemetery in Pas de Calais, France Buried: Beuvry Communal Cemetery in Pas de Calais, France On 8 August, the Canadians advanced 13 kilometres through the German defences, the most On 8 August, the Canadians advanced 13 kilometres through the German defences, the most Peter Wilson Pick was born on 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Wellington County, Ontario to Peter Wilson Pick was born on 15 April 1883 in Guelph Township, Wellington County, Ontario to successful day of combat for the Allies along the Western Front, but the Germans rushed successful day of combat for the Allies along the Western Front, but the Germans rushed Richard and Isabella (nee Wilson) Pick. He was the youngest of their three children (William b.1879 Richard and Isabella (nee Wilson) Pick. He was the youngest of their three children (William b.1879 reinforcements to the battlefield to prevent the hoped for Allied breakthrough. Subsequently, reinforcements to the battlefield to prevent the hoped for Allied breakthrough. Subsequently, and Barbara Scott b.1881). His father had emigrated from England to RR #2 Elora and his mother and Barbara Scott b.1881). His father had emigrated from England to RR #2 Elora and his mother fighting became far more difficult and costly, especially since the attacking forces were moving fighting became far more difficult and costly, especially since the attacking forces were moving emigrated from Scotland with her parents and was raised in Eden Mills. Richard and Isabella were emigrated from Scotland with her parents and was raised in Eden Mills. Richard and Isabella were beyond the range of their own artillery. By the night of 11 August, most offensive operations had beyond the range of their own artillery. By the night of 11 August, most offensive operations had married in 1878. Around 1900, at the age of 17 years, Peter joined the local Militia - 30th Wellington married in 1878. Around 1900, at the age of 17 years, Peter joined the local Militia - 30th Wellington ground to a halt. The battle had been exceedingly costly and the Canadians suffered more than ground to a halt. The battle had been exceedingly costly and the Canadians suffered more than Rifles and rose to the rank of Lieutenant by the time he volunteered for overseas service. Outside of Rifles and rose to the rank of Lieutenant by the time he volunteered for overseas service. Outside of 11,800 casualties in total, including nearly 4,000 on 8 August alone. 11,800 casualties in total, including nearly 4,000 on 8 August alone. the militia, he was employed at Beatty Brothers in Fergus as the Foreman in the woodworking shop. the militia, he was employed at Beatty Brothers in Fergus as the Foreman in the woodworking shop. He volunteered for overseas service in Valcartier, Quebec on 23 September 1914, at the age of He volunteered for overseas service in Valcartier, Quebec on 23 September 1914, at the age of The Battle of Amiens was called the ‘black day’ by one of the German Army commanders. It shook The Battle of Amiens was called the ‘black day’ by one of the German Army commanders. It shook 31 years and 5 months. He was assigned to the 30th Regiment (Overseas Contingent) Wellington 31 years and 5 months. He was assigned to the 30th Regiment (Overseas Contingent) Wellington German faith in the outcome of the war and raised the morale of the Allies. Previously, most Allied German faith in the outcome of the war and raised the morale of the Allies. Previously, most Allied Rifles. The Regiment arrived at Avonmouth (Bristol) England on 2 September 1914. During his time Rifles. The Regiment arrived at Avonmouth (Bristol) England on 2 September 1914. During his time commanders had predicted the war would continue well into 1919 and possibly into 1920. Amiens commanders had predicted the war would continue well into 1919 and possibly into 1920. Amiens in England, he was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, of the Western Ontario Regiment and in England, he was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, of the Western Ontario Regiment and demonstrated that the German army was weakening under the strain of four years of warfare and demonstrated that the German army was weakening under the strain of four years of warfare and was promoted to the rank of Temporary Captain on 5 March 1915. He arrived with the regiment in was promoted to the rank of Temporary Captain on 5 March 1915. He arrived with the regiment in was closer to defeat than anyone had predicted. was closer to defeat than anyone had predicted. France on 1 April 1915. On 25 April he was admitted to the 85th Field Ambulance station and sent France on 1 April 1915. On 25 April he was admitted to the 85th Field Ambulance station and sent to Casualty Clearance, No. 7 Stat. Hospital in Boulogne, with a scalp wound. He was treated and to Casualty Clearance, No. 7 Stat. Hospital in Boulogne, with a scalp wound. He was treated and released back to active duty with his regiment on 27 April 1915. Captain Pick fought in the battles released back to active duty with his regiment on 27 April 1915. Captain Pick fought in the battles of Ypres, Festubert and finally, Givenchy, where he was struck by a shell on 15 June 1915 and killed of Ypres, Festubert and finally, Givenchy, where he was struck by a shell on 15 June 1915 and killed The Battles of Festubert Givenchy, June 1915. Following the Battle of Ypres, the decimated The Battles of Festubert Givenchy, June 1915. Following the Battle of Ypres, the decimated instantly. instantly. units of the 1st Canadian Division were reinforced with volunteers from the Cavalry Brigade units of the 1st Canadian Division were reinforced with volunteers from the Cavalry Brigade before marching south to join in the Allied offensives which were already under way. They joined before marching south to join in the Allied offensives which were already under way. They joined Captain Peter Wilson Pick was buried with full military honours at the Beuvry Communal Cemetery Captain Peter Wilson Pick was buried with full military honours at the Beuvry Communal Cemetery the fighting at Festubert in May 1915 and Givenchy in June. These battles followed the grim the fighting at Festubert in May 1915 and Givenchy in June. These battles followed the grim in Pas de Calais, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the in Pas de Calais, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the pattern of using a frontal assault against powerful enemy defences. Although the Canadians pattern of using a frontal assault against powerful enemy defences. Although the Canadians Peace Tower of the Peace Tower of the achieved some of their objectives, the gains were negligible and the loss of life was extremely achieved some of their objectives, the gains were negligible and the loss of life was extremely Canadian Parliament Canadian Parliament high with 2,468 casualties at Festubert and a further 400 at Givenchy. high with 2,468 casualties at Festubert and a further 400 at Givenchy. Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. See Peter Wilson Pick’s biography. See Peter Wilson Pick’s biography. He was awarded the He was awarded the Star, Victory Medal, Star, Victory Medal, and British War Medal and British War Medal which were sent to his which were sent to his sister Barbara S. Pick, of sister Barbara S. Pick, of Fergus. Fergus.

Beuvry Communal Cemetery Beuvry Communal Cemetery

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Fergus News-Record Thursday, June 24, 1915: Captain Pick Killed in Action. Fergus(FRANCIS) News-Record ARNOLD Thursday, PHILLIPS June 24, 1915: Captain Pick Killed in Action. (FRANCIS) ARNOLD PHILLIPS 602306 Private 602306 Private Monday’s rural mail brought sad news to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pick for it contained a telegram from Monday’s rural mail brought sad news to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pick for it contained a telegram from Ottawa notifying them that their son, Capt. Peter W. Pick, was killed in action in France on June OttawaBorn: 18 notifying September them 1896 that theirin Eramosa son, Capt. Township, Peter W. Ontario Pick, was killed in action in France on June Born: 18 September 1896 in Eramosa Township, Ontario 15th, 1915. The news quickly spread around town where Capt. Pick was well known, and cast a 15th,Previous 1915. Occupation: The news quickly Telegraph spread Operator around town where Capt. Pick was well known, and cast a Previous Occupation: Telegraph Operator gloom over the entire neighbourhood. gloom over the entire neighbourhood. Enlisted: 3 February 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 3 February 1915 in Guelph, Ontario The war has been brought home very close to us in the deaths of Mess’rs Gregson and Pick, the TheDied: war 26 has Oct been 1917 brought at the age home of 21 very close to us in the deaths of Mess’rs Gregson and Pick, the Died: 26 Oct 1917 at the age of 21 only two Canadian-born boys who left here with the first contingent. They did nobly, gave up their only two Canadian-born boys who left here with the first contingent. They did nobly, gave up their Buried: Aubigny Community Cemetery near Pas de Calais, France Buried: Aubigny Community Cemetery near Pas de Calais, France lives for their country, and are honored by all. Capt. Pick was born in Guelph Tp. 31 years ago, lives for their country, and are honored by all. Capt. Pick was born in Guelph Tp. 31 years ago, being the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pick. The family later moved near Barrie’s Church, beingFrancis the Arnold youngest Phillips son was of Mr. born and on Mrs. 18 September Richard Pick. 1896. The Hefamily was later the firstmoved son near of FrancisBarrie’s and Church, Mary Francis Arnold Phillips was born on 18 September 1896. He was the first son of Francis and Mary and finally to Lower Nichol, near Ennotville, where the father and mother, and one daughter, andJ. (nee finally Darby) to LowerPhillips, Nichol, who farmednear Ennotville, the western where half the of Lotfather 5, Concessionand mother, and2, between one daughter, Eden Mills and J. (nee Darby) Phillips, who farmed the western half of Lot 5, Concession 2, between Eden Mills and Barbara, still reside. The only surviving son lives at Davidson, Sask. Barbara,Rockwood. still He reside. was Thethe third only ofsurviving their four son children lives at (Ethel Davidson, b.1886, Sask. Isla b.1894 and Gerald b.1900). Rockwood. He was the third of their four children (Ethel b.1886, Isla b.1894 and Gerald b.1900). After his father’s death in 1903, his mother continued to run the family farm with hired help. Arnold After his father’s death in 1903, his mother continued to run the family farm with hired help. Arnold When Capt. Pick enlisted he did so as a lieutenant, and was the first officer of the 30th to volunteer Whenworked Capt. as a Picktelegraph enlisted operator he did until so as at athe lieutenant, age of 18 and years, was he the volunteered first officer for of overseasthe 30th serviceto volunteer on worked as a telegraph operator until at the age of 18 years, he volunteered for overseas service on his services. He was foreman in the wood-working department of Beatty Bros. lower shops and was his3 February services. 1915 He was in Guelph. foreman in the wood-working department of Beatty Bros. lower shops and was 3 February 1915 in Guelph. exceedingly popular with his men, as he was with all who knew him. exceedingly popular with his men, as he was with all who knew him. Private Phillips was assigned to the 34th Battalion and subsequently transferred to the 5th Canadian Private Phillips was assigned to the 34th Battalion and subsequently transferred to the 5th Canadian Private letters from our soldier boys at the front do not fail to mention Capt. Pick’s bravery and his PrivateMotorized letters Rifles from (Quebec our soldier Regiment boys at 5CMR). the front Privatedo not failPhillips to mention Capt. Pick’s bravery and his Motorized Rifles (Quebec Regiment 5CMR). Private Phillips loss will be deeply deplored by them also. He was wounded in the arm in the severe fighting at St. lossis reported will be todeeply have sustaineddeplored by a skull them fracture also. He and was injuries wounded to his in the arm in the severe fighting at St. is reported to have sustained a skull fracture and injuries to his Julien, but fought on, not even going to the hospital until the worst of the engagement was over. He Julien,left eye, but a woundfought on,to his not left even ankle going and to a the fractured hospital right until ankle the worst of the engagement was over. He left eye, a wound to his left ankle and a fractured right ankle later returned to the trenches. After the terrible fight at Langemarck, where he distinguished himself, laterwhen returned he fell into to the a damaged trenches. well After on the the terrible night of fight 12 Octoberat Langemarck, where he distinguished himself, when he fell into a damaged well on the night of 12 October he was promoted to the captaincy. In a letter received by his parents this week he stated that he he1917. was Apromoted Board of to Inquiry the captaincy. was convened In a letter to investigatereceived by this his parents this week he stated that he 1917. A Board of Inquiry was convened to investigate this had been lately on the transport service, in which he probably met his death. hadincident. been latelyWitness on thetestimony transport from service, patrol inmembers which he revealed probably met his death. incident. Witness testimony from patrol members revealed that Phillips and one other soldier (Private Aldridge) had that Phillips and one other soldier (Private Aldridge) had Capt. Pick was a model young man in every way, and his parents have the sincere sympathy of a Capt.been Pickmoving was in a themodel dark young towards man ain smallevery building.way, and Privatehis parents have the sincere sympathy of a been moving in the dark towards a small building. Private very large number of friends in this locality, in their sudden bereavement. veryPhillips large was number in the oflead friends by about in this ten locality, paces. in their Aldridge, sudden who bereavement. Phillips was in the lead by about ten paces. Aldridge, who had stopped to light a cigarette, heard a scream and found had stopped to light a cigarette, heard a scream and found Phillips had fallen some 80 feet down the well. Apparently, a Phillips had fallen some 80 feet down the well. Apparently, a Fergus News-Record Thursday, July 1, 1915: MEMORIAL SERVICE Fergusrunaway News-Record General Service Thursday, wagon at July some 1, 1915:time had MEMORIAL knocked SERVICE Aubigny Communal Cemetery runaway General Service wagon at some time had knocked Aubigny Communal Cemetery some of the boards and the wooden top off the well, leaving it unguarded on one side. some of the boards and the wooden top off the well, leaving it unguarded on one side. The memorial service last Sunday afternoon for Capt. Peter Pick, killed in action in France, held The memorial service last Sunday afternoon for Capt. Peter Pick, killed in action in France, held at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pick at Ennotville, will not soon be forgotten by atAt thethe homeage of of 21 his years, parents, Private Mr. Phillipsand Mrs. succumbed Richard Pick to hisat Ennotville, injuries on will26 Octobernot soon 1917 be forgotten and was by listed At the age of 21 years, Private Phillips succumbed to his injuries on 26 October 1917 and was listed the large number present. Shortly after dinner vehicles of all kinds left town for Capt. Pick’s former theas ‘Died large of number Wounds’ present. later modified Shortly after to ‘Died dinner of vehiclesAccidental of Injuries’.all kinds left town for Capt. Pick’s former as ‘Died of Wounds’ later modified to ‘Died of Accidental Injuries’. home, several of them containing many of the employees of Beatty Bros. Works where the Captain home, several of them containing many of the employees of Beatty Bros. Works where the Captain was engaged as foreman at the lower factory, at the time he enlisted, and in whose hearts he ever wasHe is engaged buried in as Aubigny foreman Community at the lower Cemetery factory, atnear the Pas time de he Calais, enlisted, France and inand whose his name hearts is healso ever He is buried in Aubigny Community Cemetery near Pas de Calais, France and his name is also held a warm place. heldmemorialized a warm place. in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. Rev. J. A. Brown opened the service with prayer, after which Rev. R. W. Craw made the address, Rev. J. A. Brown opened the service with prayer, after which Rev. R. W. Craw made the address, speaking in the highest terms of the bravery of Capt. Pick, of the clean life he lived, of his untiring speaking in the highest terms of the bravery of Capt. Pick, of the clean life he lived, of his untiring devotion to duty, and finally the laying down of his life for King and Country, in a worthy cause. He devotion to duty, and finally the laying down of his life for King and Country, in a worthy cause. He appealed to the young men of the vicinity to volunteer to fill the vacancy caused by the death of appealed5th Canadian to the Motorized young men Rifles of the vicinity to volunteer to fill the vacancy caused by the death of 5th Canadian Motorized Rifles Capt. Pick. Rev. Mr. Kaye of Barrie Hill church read the scripture. It was at this church that the late Capt. Pick. Rev. Mr. Kaye of Barrie Hill church read the scripture. It was at this church that the late Capt. Pick when but 14 years of age had taken communion and became one of its members. When Capt.The 5th Pick Canadian when but Motorized 14 years Riflesof age (Quebechad taken Regimentcommunion 5CMR) and becamewas formed one in of 1915, its members. and were When sent to The 5th Canadian Motorized Rifles (Quebec Regiment 5CMR) was formed in 1915, and were sent to 16 years old he joined the 30th regiment, and gradually rose until he became Captain. 16England years oldfor additionalhe joined thetraining 30th laterregiment, that year. and gradually In 1916, theyrose wereuntil heconverted became to Captain. an infantry battalion England for additional training later that year. In 1916, they were converted to an infantry battalion which was then attached to the 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division, CEF (later the which was then attached to the 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division, CEF (later the Much sympathy is expressed for the aged parents and particularly for Mrs. Pick at this time as on MuchCanadian sympathy Corps). is expressed The battalion for thesaw aged action parents in France and andparticularly Flanders for between Mrs. Pick 1916 at this and time 1918. as on Canadian Corps). The battalion saw action in France and Flanders between 1916 and 1918. Friday last she had the misfortune to stumble and break her leg. Friday last she had the misfortune to stumble and break her leg.

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Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 16 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1617 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 17 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I WILLIAM WALLIS SAMMON (ROBERT)WILLIAM WALLIS JOHN STUMPF SAMMON (ROBERT) JOHN STUMPF 292256 Private 402833292256 Private 402833 Private Born: 22 April 1889 in Chatham, Kent, England, emigrating to Canada and living near Rockwood, Born: 2122 AprilMay 18931889 in Milton,Chatham, Ontario Kent, England, emigrating to Canada and living near Rockwood, Born: 21 May 1893 in Milton, Ontario Ontario Ontario Previous Occupation: Clerk Previous Occupation: Clerk Farmer Farmer Previous Occupation: Enlisted:Previous 16Occupation: January 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 16 January 1915 in Guelph, Ontario 17 March 1916 in Manitoba 17 March 1916 in Manitoba Enlisted: Died:Enlisted: 28 September 1916 at age 23 Died: 28 September 1916 at age 23 12 April 1917 at the age of 27 12 April 1917 at the age of 27 Died: Buried:Died: Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France Buried: Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France Buried: Canadian Cemetery No. 2, Pas de Calais, France Buried: Canadian Cemetery No. 2, Pas de Calais, France Robert Stumpf was born in Milton, Ontario on 21 May 1893, Robert Stumpf was born in Milton, Ontario on 21 May 1893, William Sammon was born in Chatham, Kent, England on 22 April 1889 to William and Nellie (nee theWilliam son Sammonof Robert was Reuben born andin Chatham, Margaret Kent, Annie England Stumpf on 22 April 1889 to William and Nellie (nee the son of Robert Reuben and Margaret Annie Stumpf Phillips) Sammon. He was the older of their two children (Maud Pearl b.1891). He emigrated to (ofPhillips) Rockwood). Sammon. He Hewas was their the only older child. of their The two family children later (Maud Pearl b.1891). He emigrated to (of Rockwood). He was their only child. The family later Canada in 1905 and lived with the family of George and Isabella Gordon and worked on their farm movedCanada to in Rockwood, 1905 and lived where with Robert the family was raised. of George Prior and to Isabella Gordon and worked on their farm moved to Rockwood, where Robert was raised. Prior to near Rockwood, in Nassagaweya Township. In 1912, he married Sarah Agnes Glendenning of volunteeringnear Rockwood, for overseas in Nassagaweya service, Township.Robert worked In 1912, as a heclerk married Sarah Agnes Glendenning of volunteering for overseas service, Robert worked as a clerk Rockwood. William and Sarah moved to their own farm near Miami, Manitoba, which is south-west of andRockwood. had served William three and years Sarah in the moved Infantry. to their own farm near Miami, Manitoba, which is south-west of and had served three years in the Infantry. Winnipeg, at the foot of the Pembina Hills. Winnipeg, at the foot of the Pembina Hills. Robert Stumpf volunteered for overseas service in Guelph Robert Stumpf volunteered for overseas service in Guelph While living in Manitoba, William volunteered for overseas service on 17 March 1916, at the age of 26 onWhile 16 Januaryliving in Manitoba,1915 at the William age of volunteered 22 years and for 9 overseas months. service on 17 March 1916, at the age of 26 on 16 January 1915 at the age of 22 years and 9 months. years, 11 months. He joined the Winnipeg based 222nd Overseas Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Privateyears, 11 Stumpf months. was He initially joined assigned the Winnipeg to the based9th Reserve 222nd Overseas Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Private Stumpf was initially assigned to the 9th Reserve Force (CEF) and his Attestation Papers list his occupation as a farmer and that he was married to BattalionForce (CEF) on 27and August his Attestation 1915 for basicPapers training. list his occupationHe was as a farmer and that he was married to Battalion on 27 August 1915 for basic training. He was Sarah Agnes Sammon of Rockwood. On 1 November 1916, Sarah returned to Rockwood to wait subsequentlySarah Agnes Sammontransferred of toRockwood. the 34th Reserve On 1 November Battalion 1916,and Sarah returned to Rockwood to wait subsequently transferred to the 34th Reserve Battalion and for William to return home. After completing his basic training, Private Sammon sailed with his unit thenfor William the 10th to returnBattalion home. of the After Canadian completing Infantry his (Albertabasic training, Private Sammon sailed with his unit then the 10th Battalion of the Canadian Infantry (Alberta aboard HMT Olympic, arriving in England on 20 November 1916. After undergoing further training in Regiment).aboard HMT There Olympic, is no arriving record inof England his deployment on 20 November overseas 1916. After undergoing further training in Regiment). There is no record of his deployment overseas England, he departed for France toEngland, England; he however, departed recordsfor France indicate that he arrived in to England; however, records indicate that he arrived in on 29 December 1916. Upon his Franceon 29 December at Le Havre 1916. on 17 Upon March his 1916. Records show that France at Le Havre on 17 March 1916. Records show that arrival in France on 9 February onarrival 16 Mayin France he was on being 9 February treated for influenza at the 2nd Field Ambulance Station (2 CFA). After on 16 May he was being treated for influenza at the 2nd Field Ambulance Station (2 CFA). After 1917, he was transferred to the recovering,1917, he was he transferred rejoined the to 10th the Battalion on 16 June 1916. On 27 September 1916 Private Stumpf recovering, he rejoined the 10th Battalion on 16 June 1916. On 27 September 1916 Private Stumpf 44th Battalion (New Brunswick was44th admittedBattalion to(New 3 CFA Brunswick in Rouen suffering from wounds. The Official Canadian War Diary lists that was admitted to 3 CFA in Rouen suffering from wounds. The Official Canadian War Diary lists that Regiment). heRegiment). died on 28 September 1916 at age 23 years and 4 months. He is buried in the Contay British he died on 28 September 1916 at age 23 years and 4 months. He is buried in the Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Cemetery in Somme, France and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Unfortunately, little additional TowerUnfortunately, of the Canadian little Parliamentadditional Buildings, Ottawa. Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. information has been found at information has been found at this time about Private Sammon this time about Private Sammon except that he was killed in action Contayexcept that British he was Cemetery killed in action Contay British Cemetery on 12 April 1917 during the Battle on 12 April 1917 during the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Theof Vimy Contay Ridge. British Cemetery in Somme, France, was chosen in August 1916 for burials from the The Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France, was chosen in August 1916 for burials from the 49th Casualty Clearing Station, which arrived at Contay at the end of August. All the burials in Plots 49th Casualty Clearing Station, which arrived at Contay at the end of August. All the burials in Plots Private William Wallis Sammon is IPrivate to IV, and William the majority Wallis Sammon of those inis Plots VII and VIII (the plot numbers V and VI were not used), I to IV, and the majority of those in Plots VII and VIII (the plot numbers V and VI were not used), buried in Canadian Cemetery No. coverburied the in Canadianperiod August Cemetery 1916 toNo. March 1917. The German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in cover the period August 1916 to March 1917. The German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in 2, Pas de Calais, France, about 1 the2, Pas spring de Calais,of 1917 France, brought aboutthe medical 1 units further east and it was not until April 1918, when the the spring of 1917 brought the medical units further east and it was not until April 1918, when the kilometer south of the Canadian Germanskilometer advancedsouth of theto Albert, Canadian that the 38th and other Divisions used the cemetery again. Germans advanced to Albert, that the 38th and other Divisions used the cemetery again. Memorial at Vimy. His name is Memorial at Vimy. His name is also memorialized in the Books also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Canadian Cemetery Number 2 Tower of the Canadian Parliament Canadian Cemetery Number 2 Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 18 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1918 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 19 World War I WorldWorld WarWar II World War I WILLIAM WALLIS SAMMON WILLIAM(ROBERT) WALLIS JOHN STUMPF SAMMON (ROBERT) JOHN STUMPF 292256 Private 292256402833 Private 402833 Private Born: 22 April 1889 in Chatham, Kent, England, emigrating to Canada and living near Rockwood, Born: 2221 AprilMay 18931889 in Milton,Chatham, Ontario Kent, England, emigrating to Canada and living near Rockwood, Born: 21 May 1893 in Milton, Ontario Ontario Ontario Previous Occupation: Clerk Previous Occupation: Clerk Farmer Farmer Previous Occupation: Enlisted:Previous 16Occupation: January 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 16 January 1915 in Guelph, Ontario 17 March 1916 in Manitoba 17 March 1916 in Manitoba Enlisted: Died:Enlisted: 28 September 1916 at age 23 Died: 28 September 1916 at age 23 12 April 1917 at the age of 27 12 April 1917 at the age of 27 Died: Buried:Died: Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France Buried: Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France Buried: Canadian Cemetery No. 2, Pas de Calais, France Buried: Canadian Cemetery No. 2, Pas de Calais, France Robert Stumpf was born in Milton, Ontario on 21 May 1893, Robert Stumpf was born in Milton, Ontario on 21 May 1893, William Sammon was born in Chatham, Kent, England on 22 April 1889 to William and Nellie (nee theWilliam son Sammonof Robert was Reuben born andin Chatham, Margaret Kent, Annie England Stumpf on 22 April 1889 to William and Nellie (nee the son of Robert Reuben and Margaret Annie Stumpf Phillips) Sammon. He was the older of their two children (Maud Pearl b.1891). He emigrated to (ofPhillips) Rockwood). Sammon. He Hewas was their the only older child. of their The two family children later (Maud Pearl b.1891). He emigrated to (of Rockwood). He was their only child. The family later Canada in 1905 and lived with the family of George and Isabella Gordon and worked on their farm movedCanada to in Rockwood, 1905 and lived where with Robert the family was raised. of George Prior and to Isabella Gordon and worked on their farm moved to Rockwood, where Robert was raised. Prior to near Rockwood, in Nassagaweya Township. In 1912, he married Sarah Agnes Glendenning of volunteeringnear Rockwood, for overseas in Nassagaweya service, Township.Robert worked In 1912, as a heclerk married Sarah Agnes Glendenning of volunteering for overseas service, Robert worked as a clerk Rockwood. William and Sarah moved to their own farm near Miami, Manitoba, which is south-west of andRockwood. had served William three and years Sarah in the moved Infantry. to their own farm near Miami, Manitoba, which is south-west of and had served three years in the Infantry. Winnipeg, at the foot of the Pembina Hills. Winnipeg, at the foot of the Pembina Hills. Robert Stumpf volunteered for overseas service in Guelph Robert Stumpf volunteered for overseas service in Guelph While living in Manitoba, William volunteered for overseas service on 17 March 1916, at the age of 26 onWhile 16 Januaryliving in Manitoba,1915 at the William age of volunteered 22 years and for 9 overseas months. service on 17 March 1916, at the age of 26 on 16 January 1915 at the age of 22 years and 9 months. years, 11 months. He joined the Winnipeg based 222nd Overseas Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Privateyears, 11 Stumpf months. was He initially joined assigned the Winnipeg to the based9th Reserve 222nd Overseas Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Private Stumpf was initially assigned to the 9th Reserve Force (CEF) and his Attestation Papers list his occupation as a farmer and that he was married to BattalionForce (CEF) on 27and August his Attestation 1915 for basicPapers training. list his occupationHe was as a farmer and that he was married to Battalion on 27 August 1915 for basic training. He was Sarah Agnes Sammon of Rockwood. On 1 November 1916, Sarah returned to Rockwood to wait subsequentlySarah Agnes Sammontransferred of toRockwood. the 34th Reserve On 1 November Battalion 1916,and Sarah returned to Rockwood to wait subsequently transferred to the 34th Reserve Battalion and for William to return home. After completing his basic training, Private Sammon sailed with his unit thenfor William the 10th to returnBattalion home. of the After Canadian completing Infantry his (Albertabasic training, Private Sammon sailed with his unit then the 10th Battalion of the Canadian Infantry (Alberta aboard HMT Olympic, arriving in England on 20 November 1916. After undergoing further training in Regiment).aboard HMT There Olympic, is no arriving record inof England his deployment on 20 November overseas 1916. After undergoing further training in Regiment). There is no record of his deployment overseas England, he departed for France toEngland, England; he however, departed recordsfor France indicate that he arrived in to England; however, records indicate that he arrived in on 29 December 1916. Upon his Franceon 29 December at Le Havre 1916. on 17 Upon March his 1916. Records show that France at Le Havre on 17 March 1916. Records show that arrival in France on 9 February onarrival 16 Mayin France he was on being 9 February treated for influenza at the 2nd Field Ambulance Station (2 CFA). After on 16 May he was being treated for influenza at the 2nd Field Ambulance Station (2 CFA). After 1917, he was transferred to the recovering,1917, he was he transferred rejoined the to 10th the Battalion on 16 June 1916. On 27 September 1916 Private Stumpf recovering, he rejoined the 10th Battalion on 16 June 1916. On 27 September 1916 Private Stumpf 44th Battalion (New Brunswick was44th admittedBattalion to(New 3 CFA Brunswick in Rouen suffering from wounds. The Official Canadian War Diary lists that was admitted to 3 CFA in Rouen suffering from wounds. The Official Canadian War Diary lists that Regiment). heRegiment). died on 28 September 1916 at age 23 years and 4 months. He is buried in the Contay British he died on 28 September 1916 at age 23 years and 4 months. He is buried in the Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Cemetery in Somme, France and is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Unfortunately, little additional TowerUnfortunately, of the Canadian little Parliamentadditional Buildings, Ottawa. Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. information has been found at information has been found at this time about Private Sammon this time about Private Sammon except that he was killed in action Contayexcept that British he was Cemetery killed in action Contay British Cemetery on 12 April 1917 during the Battle on 12 April 1917 during the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Theof Vimy Contay Ridge. British Cemetery in Somme, France, was chosen in August 1916 for burials from the The Contay British Cemetery in Somme, France, was chosen in August 1916 for burials from the 49th Casualty Clearing Station, which arrived at Contay at the end of August. All the burials in Plots 49th Casualty Clearing Station, which arrived at Contay at the end of August. All the burials in Plots Private William Wallis Sammon is IPrivate to IV, and William the majority Wallis Sammon of those inis Plots VII and VIII (the plot numbers V and VI were not used), I to IV, and the majority of those in Plots VII and VIII (the plot numbers V and VI were not used), buried in Canadian Cemetery No. coverburied the in Canadianperiod August Cemetery 1916 toNo. March 1917. The German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in cover the period August 1916 to March 1917. The German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in 2, Pas de Calais, France, about 1 the2, Pas spring de Calais,of 1917 France, brought aboutthe medical 1 units further east and it was not until April 1918, when the the spring of 1917 brought the medical units further east and it was not until April 1918, when the kilometer south of the Canadian Germanskilometer advancedsouth of theto Albert, Canadian that the 38th and other Divisions used the cemetery again. Germans advanced to Albert, that the 38th and other Divisions used the cemetery again. Memorial at Vimy. His name is Memorial at Vimy. His name is also memorialized in the Books also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Canadian Cemetery Number 2 Tower of the Canadian Parliament Canadian Cemetery Number 2 Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 18 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 1819 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 19 World War I WorldWorld WarWar III World War II GORDON DAVID WINSTON JAMESGORDON ALFRED DAVID (“Alf”)WINSTON EDWARDS JAMES ALFRED (“Alf”) EDWARDS 928055 Private B149650928055 Private Private/Gunner B149650 Private/Gunner Born: 27 June 1897 in Guelph, Ontario Born: 927 May June 1916 1897 in inRockwood, Guelph, Ontario Ontario Born: 9 May 1916 in Rockwood, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farming Previous Occupations:Occupation: Farming Crane Operator and Truck Driver Previous Occupations: Crane Operator and Truck Driver Enlisted: 4 December 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 234 December July 1943 1915at the in age Guelph, of 27 Ontarioin Toronto, Ontario Enlisted: 23 July 1943 at the age of 27 in Toronto, Ontario Died: 29 September 1918 at the age of 21 Died: 829 March September 1945 at1918 the atage the of age 28 of 21 Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 28 Buried: Drummond Cemetery in Nord, France Buried: CanadianDrummond Military Cemetery Cemetery, in Nord, Nijmegen, France Holland Buried: Canadian Military Cemetery, Nijmegen, Holland

Gordon Winston was born in Guelph on 27 June 1897 to Ephram and Elsie (nee Watt) Wilson. He GordonJames Alfred Winston Edwards was born was in born Guelph on 9 on May 27 1916June to1897 William to Ephram J. and andAlice Elsie (nee Watt) Wilson. He James Alfred Edwards was born on 9 May 1916 to William J. and Alice was the older of their two children (Agnes b.1905). Both of his parents were of Scottish descent. wasMaude the (nee older Murley) of their Edwards two children of Main (Agnes Street, b.1905). Rockwood. Both of He his was parents were of Scottish descent. Maude (nee Murley) Edwards of Main Street, Rockwood. He was The family lived in the City of Guelph with Elsie’s parents, Lawrence and Jessie Watt. Sometime Thethe youngest family lived of theirin the nine City children of Guelph (William with Elsie’s b.1898, parents, Thomas Lawrence Lenton and Jessie Watt. Sometime the youngest of their nine children (William b.1898, Thomas Lenton after 1911, the family moved to RR#3 Rockwood where, after his education, Gordon was employed afterb.1899, 1911, Edward the family b.1901, moved Fredrick to RR#3 b.1903, Rockwood Flora b.1904, where, Constance after his education, Gordon was employed b.1899, Edward b.1901, Fredrick b.1903, Flora b.1904, Constance in farming. inb.1907, farming. Geraldine b.1908, Alexander b.1910). His older brother b.1907, Geraldine b.1908, Alexander b.1910). His older brother Thomas was killed during WWI and is also memorialized on the Thomas was killed during WWI and is also memorialized on the He was only 18 years and 7 months old when he volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on HeRockwood was only Cenotaph. 18 years and 7 months old when he volunteered for overseas service in Guelph on Rockwood Cenotaph. 4 December 1915. Col. John Mutrie signed his Attestation Papers. Private Winston was initially 4 December 1915. Col. John Mutrie signed his Attestation Papers. Private Winston was initially assigned to the 153rd Battalion (Western Ontario Regiment). After basic training, he departed from assignedIn June 1930, to the Alf 153rd graduated Battalion from (Western Grade 10 Ontario at the Regiment).Rockwood Continuation After basic training, School. he During departed this fromtime, In June 1930, Alf graduated from Grade 10 at the Rockwood Continuation School. During this time, Halifax on 29 June 1917 aboard HMT Olympic, arriving in Liverpool 5 July 1917. He remained in Halifaxhe was ona leader 29 June in the1917 Boy aboard Scouts HMT and Olympic, enjoyed arrivingplaying inthe Liverpool guitar. He 5 July went 1917. to work He for remained the Atlas in he was a leader in the Boy Scouts and enjoyed playing the guitar. He went to work for the Atlas England for additional training until he was sent to France in March 1918. In August 1918 he was EnglandSteel Company for additional in Port training Colborne until as he a 5was Ton sent Crane to FranceOperator in andMarch a Truck 1918. Driver. In August He served 1918 he as was an Steel Company in Port Colborne as a 5 Ton Crane Operator and a Truck Driver. He served as an transferred to the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles - British Columbia Regiment (2CMR). He was transferredActing Sergeant to the in 2nd the Canadian “Non-Permanent Mounted Active Rifles Military” - British 63rd Columbi Batterya Regiment of the Royal (2CMR). Canadian He was Artillery Acting Sergeant in the “Non-Permanent Active Military” 63rd Battery of the Royal Canadian Artillery reported Killed in Action on 29 September 1918. During Gordon’s service overseas, his parents reportedfrom 1935 Killed to 1939. in Action He nexton 29 served September in the 2nd1918. Battalion During LincolnGordon’s and service Welland overseas, Regiment his from parents June from 1935 to 1939. He next served in the 2nd Battalion Lincoln and Welland Regiment from June moved back to Guelph and there they learned that their son had died overseas at the age of 21 moved1940 to back July to1943. Guelph In Toronto and there on 23they July learned 1943, thatAlf enlisted their son for had overseas died overseas service atin the Armyage of and 21 1940 to July 1943. In Toronto on 23 July 1943, Alf enlisted for overseas service in the Army and years and 3 months. yearsinterestingly, and 3 months. gave his nationality as “Newfoundlander”. Before joining Canada as a Province in interestingly, gave his nationality as “Newfoundlander”. Before joining Canada as a Province in 1949, Newfoundland was a British Dominion and after 1933, was directly ruled from London. 1949, Newfoundland was a British Dominion and after 1933, was directly ruled from London. Private Gordon David Winston is buried at the Drummond Cemetery in Nord, France and his name Private Gordon David Winston is buried at the Drummond Cemetery in Nord, France and his name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance, in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament isAfter also enlisting, memorialized Alf was in sent the Booksto Shilo, of ManitobaRemembrance, from August in the Peaceto December Tower offor the training, Canadian followed Parliament by After enlisting, Alf was sent to Shilo, Manitoba from August to December for training, followed by Buildings, Ottawa. His name is also inscribed on his parents’ headstone in Woodlawn Cemetery, Buildings,one and a Ottawa.half months His ofname additional is also specialized inscribed on training his parents’ in Red headstone Deer, Alberta in Woodlawn to become Cemetery, a Qualified one and a half months of additional specialized training in Red Deer, Alberta to become a Qualified Guelph. Guelph.Driver and Motorman. He then returned to Shilo until embarking for a seven day voyage to England Driver and Motorman. He then returned to Shilo until embarking for a seven day voyage to England on 21 November 1944. Upon arrival in England, he was transferred to the Canadian Infantry Corps. on 21 November 1944. Upon arrival in England, he was transferred to the Canadian Infantry Corps. The Memorial Cross was presented to his mother. TheOn 28 Memorial January Cross 1945, was he was presented transferred to his to mother. the 1st Battalion Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (RHLI) On 28 January 1945, he was transferred to the 1st Battalion Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (RHLI) and embarked for the European Front. On 21 February, he was re-classified as an Infantry Private/ and embarked for the European Front. On 21 February, he was re-classified as an Infantry Private/ Gunner. Gunner.

Less than one month later, Private Edwards was killed in action as part of Operation Blockbuster on Less than one month later, Private Edwards was killed in action as part of Operation Blockbuster on 8 March 1945, near the German town of Xanten, just inside the pre-1939 German Border with the 8 March 1945, near the German town of Xanten, just inside the pre-1939 German Border with the Netherlands. Both Private James Alfred Edwards’ and Private Charles Humphrey Wilson’s names Netherlands. Both Private James Alfred Edwards’ and Private Charles Humphrey Wilson’s names are on the Rockwood Cenotaph and both were killed on the same day, within 10 kms of each other, are on the Rockwood Cenotaph and both were killed on the same day, within 10 kms of each other, in Germany. Private/Gunner James Alfred Edwards was initially buried on the outskirts of Xanten, in Germany. Private/Gunner James Alfred Edwards was initially buried on the outskirts of Xanten, Germany. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Germany. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Canadian Military Cemetery, Nijmegen, Holland. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Canadian Military Cemetery, Nijmegen, Holland. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

Many exhumations occurred post war as General Guy Simmons decreed that no Canadian soldier Many exhumations occurred post war as General Guy Simmons decreed that no Canadian soldier Drummond Cemetery orDrummond airman Cemeterywould be left in German soil. or airman would be left in German soil.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 20 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2120 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 21 World War I WorldWorld WarWar III World War II GORDON DAVID WINSTON JAMESGORDON ALFRED DAVID (“Alf”)WINSTON EDWARDS JAMES ALFRED (“Alf”) EDWARDS 928055 Private B149650928055 Private Private/Gunner B149650 Private/Gunner Born: 27 June 1897 in Guelph, Ontario Born: 927 May June 1916 1897 in inRockwood, Guelph, Ontario Ontario Born: 9 May 1916 in Rockwood, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farming Previous Occupations:Occupation: Farming Crane Operator and Truck Driver Previous Occupations: Crane Operator and Truck Driver Enlisted: 4 December 1915 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 234 December July 1943 1915at the in age Guelph, of 27 Ontarioin Toronto, Ontario Enlisted: 23 July 1943 at the age of 27 in Toronto, Ontario Died: 29 September 1918 at the age of 21 Died: 829 March September 1945 at1918 the atage the of age 28 of 21 Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 28 Buried: Drummond Cemetery in Nord, France Buried: CanadianDrummond Military Cemetery Cemetery, in Nord, Nijmegen, France Holland Buried: Canadian Military Cemetery, Nijmegen, Holland

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 20 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2021 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 21 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II ERNEST HENRY GERRIE ERNEST HENRY GERRIE

Operation Blockbuster took place between 22 February and 10 March 1945 and was part of the OperationB156042 Blockbuster Gunner took place between 22 February and 10 March 1945 and was part of the B156042 Gunner larger Battle of the Rhineland which marked the advance of the Allied Armies through the “Siegfried Born:larger Battle30 December of the Rhineland 1923 in Erin which Township, marked Ontariothe advance of the Allied Armies through the “Siegfried Born: 30 December 1923 in Erin Township, Ontario Line” of defences and into the German homeland as far as the Rhine River. Operation Blockbuster Line” of defences and into the German homeland as far as the Rhine River. Operation Blockbuster involved some of the fiercest fighting of the War. involvedPrevious some Occupations: of the fiercest Farming fighting and Machinist’sof the War. Helper Previous Occupations: Farming and Machinist’s Helper Enlisted: 1 May 1943 and volunteered overseas on 20 November Enlisted: 1 May 1943 and volunteered overseas on 20 November “The Battle of the Rhineland was fought in Feb-Mar 1945 between Allied forces from Canada, 1943“The Battlein Newfoundland of the Rhineland was fought in Feb-Mar 1945 between Allied forces from Canada, 1943 in Newfoundland the United Kingdom, and the United States (as well as smaller national contingents), and the the United Kingdom, and the United States (as well as smaller national contingents), and the Died: 4 April 1945 at the age of 21 Died: 4 April 1945 at the age of 21 German forces occupying territory south and west of the Rhine River during the North-West Europe German forces occupying territory south and west of the Rhine River during the North-West Europe campaign of the Second World War.” campaignBuried: Canadian of the Second Military World Cemetery, War.” Holten, Netherlands Buried: Canadian Military Cemetery, Holten, Netherlands

“The initial goal was to reach the Rhine River, the last significant natural barrier between Allied “TheErnest initial Henry goal Gerrie was towas reach born the on Rhine30 December River, the 1923 last insignificant Erin natural barrier between Allied Ernest Henry Gerrie was born on 30 December 1923 in Erin forces and Germany. From their winter positions in the Nijmegen Salient, the First Canadian Army forcesTownship and to Germany. David Henry From and their Annie winter Winifred positions (nee in Sanderson) the Nijmegen Salient, the First Canadian Army Township to David Henry and Annie Winifred (nee Sanderson) reinforced by elements of the British 2nd Army, began operations to advance south east, clearing reinforcedGerrie. He by was elements the youngest of the Britishson of 2ndtheir Army, six children began (Luellaoperations to advance south east, clearing Gerrie. He was the youngest son of their six children (Luella all land west of the river. Operation VERITABLE was a costly advance through flooded terrain and allb.1908, land westEvelyn, of the Edna, river. Hugh, Operation and Elwin). VERITABLE Sometime was after a costly his birth,advance through flooded terrain and b.1908, Evelyn, Edna, Hugh, and Elwin). Sometime after his birth, German defensive lines, followed by Operation BLOCKBUSTER which succeeded in driving through Germanhis family defensive moved to lines, Rockwood. followed After by Operation graduating BLOCKBUSTER from Grade 8 at whichthe age succeeded of 13 from in Eramosa driving through his family moved to Rockwood. After graduating from Grade 8 at the age of 13 from Eramosa (German lines) almost to the banks of the Rhine River. Operation BLOCKBUSTER II cleared the (GermanS.S.#9 in lines)Rockwood, almost he to workedthe banks as aof farm the Rhine labourer River. before Operation moving BLOCKBUSTERto Hamilton to work II cleared as a the S.S.#9 in Rockwood, he worked as a farm labourer before moving to Hamilton to work as a town of Xanten to end the fighting in the Rhineland.” - canadiansoldiers.com townMachinist’s of Xanten Helper to end at the the Westinghouse fighting in the plant. Rhineland.” - canadiansoldiers.com Machinist’s Helper at the Westinghouse plant.

Two Victoria Crosses were earned during these operations and Canadian losses were high, but they TwoAt the Victoria age of Crosses19, on 1 wereMay 1943,earned he during enrolled these in theoperations Army (Artillery and Canadian Corps) underlosses the were National high, but they At the age of 19, on 1 May 1943, he enrolled in the Army (Artillery Corps) under the National marked a major turning point of the War. Germany surrendered less than eight months later to end markedResource a majorMobilization turning Act point (NRMA): of the War. “Conscription, Germany orsurrendered compulsory less military than service,eight months divided later the to end Resource Mobilization Act (NRMA): “Conscription, or compulsory military service, divided the the European portion of WWII. thenation European in the Second portion Worldof WWII. War and threatened the survival of political leaders. In 1939 Prime nation in the Second World War and threatened the survival of political leaders. In 1939 Prime Minister Mackenzie King, conscious of the opposition of French-speaking Quebec to conscription Minister Mackenzie King, conscious of the opposition of French-speaking Quebec to conscription in the First World War, promised that there would be no conscription for overseas service. By in the First World War, promised that there would be no conscription for overseas service. By mid-1940, however, there was enormous pressure from English Canada for total mobilization of mid-1940, however, there was enormous pressure from English Canada for total mobilization of manpower. King introduced the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA), which called for a manpower. King introduced the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA), which called for a national registration of eligible men and authorized conscription for home defence. From April 1941, national registration of eligible men and authorized conscription for home defence. From April 1941, The Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment returned to France on 5 July 1944 as part of the 4th The Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment returned to France on 5 July 1944 as part of the 4th the young men called up were required to serve for the rest of the war on home defence duties.” - the young men called up were required to serve for the rest of the war on home defence duties.” - Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. They moved to Normandy in time to serve with the Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. They moved to Normandy in time to serve with the Canadian War Museum article - Democracy at War / Canadian Newspapers and the Second World Canadian War Museum article - Democracy at War / Canadian Newspapers and the Second World British 2nd Army. They advanced along the Channel coast with the Canadian 1st Army and helped British 2nd Army. They advanced along the Channel coast with the Canadian 1st Army and helped War / Canada and World War 2 / Politics and Government / Conscription War / Canada and World War 2 / Politics and Government / Conscription to liberate Dieppe. The division saw heavy action in the Netherlands in late 1944 and took part in the to liberate Dieppe. The division saw heavy action in the Netherlands in late 1944 and took part in the final offensives in 1945. The Essex Scottish Regiment was a part of: Bourguebus Ridge; St. André- final offensives in 1945. The Essex Scottish Regiment was a part of: Bourguebus Ridge; St. André- He enlisted into the 26th Anti-Aircraft Battery in Newfoundland from 20 November 1943 through He enlisted into the 26th Anti-Aircraft Battery in Newfoundland from 20 November 1943 through sur-Orne; Falaise; Falaise Road; Clair Tizon; Forêt de la Londe; The Scheldt; Woensdrecht; South sur-Orne; Falaise; Falaise Road; Clair Tizon; Forêt de la Londe; The Scheldt; Woensdrecht; South May 1944 when he volunteered for overseas service. By October 1944, he had qualified as a May 1944 when he volunteered for overseas service. By October 1944, he had qualified as a Beveland; The Rhineland; Goch-Calcar Road; The Hochwald; Xanten; Twente Canal; Groningen; Beveland; The Rhineland; Goch-Calcar Road; The Hochwald; Xanten; Twente Canal; Groningen; radar operator at Barriefield Camp, near Kingston, Ontario (now known as CFB Kingston). On 25 radar operator at Barriefield Camp, near Kingston, Ontario (now known as CFB Kingston). On 25 Oldenburg; North West Europe, 1942, 1944-1945. By the end of the war in Europe, the Essex Oldenburg; North West Europe, 1942, 1944-1945. By the end of the war in Europe, the Essex November, he embarked from Canada by ship and arrived in England 5 days later, where he was November, he embarked from Canada by ship and arrived in England 5 days later, where he was Scottish Regiment had suffered the highest losses of the Canadian Army with over 2,000 men Scottish Regiment had suffered the highest losses of the Canadian Army with over 2,000 men transferred into the Canadian Infantry Corps as a member of the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment transferred into the Canadian Infantry Corps as a member of the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment wounded and more than 550 killed. wounded and more than 550 killed. with the rank of Gunner. After completing a six week training course, he was flown directly to the with the rank of Gunner. After completing a six week training course, he was flown directly to the See Ernest Henry Gerrie’s biography. See Ernest Henry Gerrie’s biography. Belgian Front where he joined the same Canadian Division where his brother Hugh was serving in Belgian Front where he joined the same Canadian Division where his brother Hugh was serving in the Provost Corps. the Provost Corps.

Gunner Ernest Henry Gerrie was killed in action on 4 April 1945, at the beginning of the Battle of Gunner Ernest Henry Gerrie was killed in action on 4 April 1945, at the beginning of the Battle of Zutphen and Deventer, in North-East Netherlands. He was initially buried near Zutphen. Shortly Zutphen and Deventer, in North-East Netherlands. He was initially buried near Zutphen. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Canadian Military after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Canadian Military Cemetery, Holten, Netherlands. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Cemetery, Holten, Netherlands. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 22 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2322 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 23 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II ERNEST HENRY GERRIE ERNEST HENRY GERRIE

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 22 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2223 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 23 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II LAWRENCE NELLIS GRAHAM JERRYLAWRENCE TAYLOR NELLIS GUTHRIE GRAHAM JERRY TAYLOR GUTHRIE A58918 Craftsman R183851/J29230A58918 Craftsman Flying Officer R183851/J29230 Flying Officer Born: 14 March 1920 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born: 1421 MarchMay 1922 1920 in Acton,in Eramosa Ontario Township, Ontario Born: 21 May 1922 in Acton, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farmer Previous Occupation:Occupations: Farmer Farming and Leather Factory Worker Previous Occupations: Farming and Leather Factory Worker Enlisted: 9 January 1942 Enlisted: 91 JanuarySeptember 1942 1942 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 1 September 1942 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 16 December 1944 at the age of 24 Died: 1628/29 December July 1944 1944 in Hamburg, at the age Germany of 24 Died: 28/29 July 1944 in Hamburg, Germany Buried: Schoonselhof Cemetery, near Antwerp, Belgium Buried: SchoonselhofNordfriedhof, official Cemetery, British near Military Antwerp, Cemetery Belgium in Kiel, Buried: Nordfriedhof, official British Military Cemetery in Kiel, Germany Germany

Lawrence Nellis Graham was born in Eramosa Township on 14 March JerryLawrence Taylor Nellis Guthrie Graham was bornwas bornon 21 in May Eramosa 1922 toTownship Thomas on Park 14 andMarch Margaret Stewart (nee Mackie) Jerry Taylor Guthrie was born on 21 May 1922 to Thomas Park and Margaret Stewart (nee Mackie) 1920 to John Wingfield and Eliza Mary Jane (nee Nellis) Graham. Guthrie1920 to ofJohn RR#1 Wingfield Acton. Heand was Eliza the Mary youngest Jane (nee son ofNellis) their fourGraham. children (Hector Campbell b.1909, Guthrie of RR#1 Acton. He was the youngest son of their four children (Hector Campbell b.1909, He was the only surviving son of their ten children (Jessie Agnes, BarbaraHe was theMitchell only survivingb.1912 and son Douglas of their Tobinten children b.1918). (Jessie They Agnes, were raised on the family farm on the Barbara Mitchell b.1912 and Douglas Tobin b.1918). They were raised on the family farm on the Ellen Elizabeth, Colena Edna, Margaret Lillian, Evelyn Irene, plus EastEllen PartElizabeth, of Lot Colena1, Concession Edna, MargaretVII, at Crewson’s Lillian, Evelyn Corners. Irene, After plus graduating from S.S.#12 Esquesing East Part of Lot 1, Concession VII, at Crewson’s Corners. After graduating from S.S.#12 Esquesing four children who died as babies: Marion Eliza, Gertrude, Una and Schoolfour children in 1935, who he died attended as babies: Acton Marion Continuation Eliza, Gertrude, School until Una he and left in 1937 to work as a farmhand School in 1935, he attended Acton Continuation School until he left in 1937 to work as a farmhand Benjamin). Along with his sisters, he was raised on the family farm on Lot 2, east half of Concession forBenjamin). his father. Along He alsowith workedhis sisters, for thehe wasBeardmore raised onLeather the family Company farm onin Acton.Lot 2, east He enjoyedhalf of Concession hunting for his father. He also worked for the Beardmore Leather Company in Acton. He enjoyed hunting VI & west half of Con.VII of Eramosa Township. His mother was incapacitated with Myocarditis and andVI & waswest interested half of Con.VII in becoming of Eramosa a gunsmith. Township. His mother was incapacitated with Myocarditis and and was interested in becoming a gunsmith. he left school at the age of 15 to work with his father on the farm. he left school at the age of 15 to work with his father on the farm. In Guelph on 1 September 1942, Jerry enlisted into the Royal Canadian Air Force. He initially In Guelph on 1 September 1942, Jerry enlisted into the Royal Canadian Air Force. He initially On 4 December 1941, under the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA), he was conscripted wasOn 4 posted December to London 1941, andunder then the Hamilton National forResources basic training Mobilization before Actbeing (NRMA), sent to hethe was University conscripted of was posted to London and then Hamilton for basic training before being sent to the University of into home defence service. At this time, there was an increasing shortage of farm labour and his Torontointo home for defence pre-aircrew service. education At this and time, exams. there wasUpon an graduation, increasing heshortage was sent of farmto the labour #9 Bombing and his Toronto for pre-aircrew education and exams. Upon graduation, he was sent to the #9 Bombing parents’ health was deteriorating. It is alleged that the officers of the #10 Basic Training Course andparents’ Gunnery health School was deteriorating. in Mont Joli, QuebecIt is alleged where that he the graduated officers secondof the #10 out Basicof 109 Training fellow students.Course and Gunnery School in Mont Joli, Quebec where he graduated second out of 109 fellow students. advised him that he would not be able to go back home to the farm until the war was over and they Onadvised 26 June him 1943,that he Jerry would was not promoted be able toto gothe back rank home of Leading to the Aircraftsman. farm until the warOn 3was August over 1943, and they he On 26 June 1943, Jerry was promoted to the rank of Leading Aircraftsman. On 3 August 1943, he encouraged him to volunteer for Overseas service, which he did on 9 January 1942. During his receivedencouraged a laceration him to volunteer to his right for legOverseas while trying service, to “jump which the he fence”did on to9 Januarysneak out 1942. to the During opera his house received a laceration to his right leg while trying to “jump the fence” to sneak out to the opera house medical, Private Graham was found to have asthma and rhinitis but was deemed fit. About eleven formedical, an evening. Private ThisGraham did not was appear found toto gethave him asthma into much and rhinitistrouble bbecauseut was deemed three days fit. later,About he eleven was for an evening. This did not appear to get him into much trouble because three days later, he was months later, his father suffered a stroke that left one side of his body paralyzed and with a speech promotedmonths later, to Sergeant, his father atsuffered the same a stroke time beingthat left recognized one side offor his his body skill byparalyzed receiving and his with Air Gunnera speech promoted to Sergeant, at the same time being recognized for his skill by receiving his Air Gunner impediment. His mother tried to work the farm with the help of one of his sisters and neighbours Badge.impediment. He was His promoted mother tried to Pilot to work Officer the lessfarm than with threethe help weeks of one before of his shipping sisters out and to neighbours England from Badge. He was promoted to Pilot Officer less than three weeks before shipping out to England from (who also had their own farms to look after). He was granted compassionate leave from 15 Halifax(who also on had26 August their own 1943. farms After to lookarrival after). in England He was five granted days compassionatelater, P/O Guthrie leave was from assigned 15 to #82 Halifax on 26 August 1943. After arrival in England five days later, P/O Guthrie was assigned to #82 December 1942 to 3 May 1943 to help care for his parents and prepare the farm for spring planting. OperationalDecember 1942 Training to 3 UnitMay -1943 RAF toOssington help care in for Nottinghamshire, his parents and whereprepare they the reported farm for “Guthriespring planting. was Operational Training Unit - RAF Ossington in Nottinghamshire, where they reported “Guthrie was He was granted an extension to plant the crops but on 16 May, his mother died of a cerebral anHe exceptionallywas granted angood extension gunner”. to Onplant New the Year’s crops Eve,but on he 16 was May, posted his mother to #61 diedOperational of a cerebral Training an exceptionally good gunner”. On New Year’s Eve, he was posted to #61 Operational Training hemorrhage. On compassionate grounds, he applied for a discharge (or at least further leave). His Unithemorrhage. - RAF Heston, On compassionate just west of London. grounds, During he applied this time, for ahe discharge was promoted (or at leastto Flying further Officer leave). on His6 Unit - RAF Heston, just west of London. During this time, he was promoted to Flying Officer on 6 application was supported by the family doctor (who had previously served as a Major in the Medical Februaryapplication 1944 was and supported a month by later, the familyF/O Guthrie doctor was(who posted had previously to an operational served as unit, a Major RCAF in 408 the “Goose”Medical February 1944 and a month later, F/O Guthrie was posted to an operational unit, RCAF 408 “Goose” Corps) who wrote “Lawrence was the only one left to work this prosperous farm but it has now gone SquadronCorps) who based wrote in “Lawrence Yorkshire. was the only one left to work this prosperous farm but it has now gone Squadron based in Yorkshire. to weeds. The 110 acres sustained 12 milk cows, 9 young cows, 3 work horses, 2 brood sows, 10 to weeds. The 110 acres sustained 12 milk cows, 9 young cows, 3 work horses, 2 brood sows, 10 suckling pigs, 400 hens and cockerels and about 20 geese.” Senior Officers reviewed his situation Thesuckling night pigs, of 28/29 400 hensJuly 1944,and cockerels on his 21st and operational about 20 geese.” trip, F/O SenGuthrie’sior Officers squadron reviewed was part his ofsituation an The night of 28/29 July 1944, on his 21st operational trip, F/O Guthrie’s squadron was part of an but did not want to allow “farmers’ sons dispensation” and turned down his request. attackbut did on not the want German to allow port “farmers’ city of Hamburg. sons dispensation” During this and trip, turned his Halifax down hisVII request.bomber was shot down attack on the German port city of Hamburg. During this trip, his Halifax VII bomber was shot down and all seven crew were killed. They were initially buried in a mass grave marked with a single white and all seven crew were killed. They were initially buried in a mass grave marked with a single white Private Graham returned to the Army and qualified as a driver/mechanic and was assigned to cross,Private in Graham a field returnednear the toNorth the ArmySea Coast,and qualified outside ofas the a driver/mechanictown of Meldorf. andThe wascross assigned was marked to cross, in a field near the North Sea Coast, outside of the town of Meldorf. The cross was marked the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, 4th Armoured Troops Workshop as a inthe French Royal “IciCanadian reposent Electrical sept aviateurs and Mechanical Canadians(sic) Engineers, bombes(sic) 4th Armoured dans Troopsla nuit, leWorkshop 28 au le(sic) as a 29 in French “Ici reposent sept aviateurs Canadians(sic) bombes(sic) dans la nuit, le 28 au le(sic) 29 Craftsman. He departed Canada on 24 April 1944 and after spending one month in England was juilletCraftsman. 1944” –He “Here departed lie seven Canada airmen on 24Canadian April 1944 bombs(sic) and after at spending night, 28 one to 29 month July 1944”.in England Shortly was juillet 1944” – “Here lie seven airmen Canadian bombs(sic) at night, 28 to 29 July 1944”. Shortly shipped to France on 28 July. aftershipped the toWar, France their onbodies 28 July. were exhumed and reburied in the Nordfriedhof, official British Military after the War, their bodies were exhumed and reburied in the Nordfriedhof, official British Military Cemetery in Kiel, Germany. F/O Jerry Taylor Guthrie and F/O C.F. McDougall were reburied in the Cemetery in Kiel, Germany. F/O Jerry Taylor Guthrie and F/O C.F. McDougall were reburied in the Craftsman Lawrence Nellis Graham was killed by a V2 rocket on 16 December 1944 in Belgium. He sameCraftsman grave Lawrence and share Nellis a common Graham marker. was killed Jerry by Taylor a V2 rocketGuthrie’s on name16 December is also memorialized 1944 in Belgium. in the He same grave and share a common marker. Jerry Taylor Guthrie’s name is also memorialized in the is buried at Schoonselhof Cemetery, near Antwerp, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Booksis buried of atRemembrance Schoonselhof in Cemetery, the Peace near Tower Antwerp, of the CanadianBelgium. HisParliament name is Buildings,also memorialized Ottawa. inHis the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. His Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. MilitaryBooks of Medals Remembrance including: in 1939-45 the Peace Star, Tower Air Crew of the Europe Canadian Star Parliament with France Buildings, and Germany Ottawa. Clasp, Military Medals including: 1939-45 Star, Air Crew Europe Star with France and Germany Clasp, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, War Medal (1939-1945), the Operational Wings, Memorial Bar Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, War Medal (1939-1945), the Operational Wings, Memorial Bar and Memorial Cross were sent to his mother at RR #1 Acton. and Memorial Cross were sent to his mother at RR #1 Acton.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 24 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2524 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 25 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II LAWRENCE NELLIS GRAHAM LAWRENCEJERRY TAYLOR NELLIS GUTHRIE GRAHAM JERRY TAYLOR GUTHRIE A58918 Craftsman A58918R183851/J29230 Craftsman Flying Officer R183851/J29230 Flying Officer Born: 14 March 1920 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born: 1421 MarchMay 1922 1920 in Acton,in Eramosa Ontario Township, Ontario Born: 21 May 1922 in Acton, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farmer Previous Occupation:Occupations: Farmer Farming and Leather Factory Worker Previous Occupations: Farming and Leather Factory Worker Enlisted: 9 January 1942 Enlisted: 91 JanuarySeptember 1942 1942 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 1 September 1942 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 16 December 1944 at the age of 24 Died: 1628/29 December July 1944 1944 in Hamburg, at the age Germany of 24 Died: 28/29 July 1944 in Hamburg, Germany Buried: Schoonselhof Cemetery, near Antwerp, Belgium Buried: SchoonselhofNordfriedhof, official Cemetery, British near Military Antwerp, Cemetery Belgium in Kiel, Buried: Nordfriedhof, official British Military Cemetery in Kiel, Germany Germany

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 24 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2425 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 25 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II WASLEY PASMORE HARRIS WASLEY PASMORE HARRIS Pilot Officer (P/O)is the lowest commissioned officer rank in the RCAF and RAF. It can be J28300 Pilot Officer Pilot (P/O) is Officer the lowest commissioned officer rank in the RCAF and RAF. It can be J28300 Pilot Officer confusing because it does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot. is confusing because it does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot. is Flying Officer (F/O) Born: 16 February 1917 in Toronto, raised in Rockwood, Ontario Flying Officer (F/O) Born: 16 February 1917 in Toronto, raised in Rockwood, Ontario the next highest rank and it too does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot, but it usually the next highest rank and it too does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot, but it usually means the holder is an aircrew member. Previousmeans the Occupation: holder is an aircrewEngineer member. Previous Occupation: Engineer Enlisted: 18 May 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario Enlisted: 18 May 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario 408 “Goose” Squadron was part of the RCAF Group 6 of Bomber Command. At this time, they 408 “Goose” Squadron was part of the RCAF Group 6 of Bomber Command. At this time, they were flying Lancaster and Halifax bombers on night missions over occupied Europe and Germany. wereDied: flying 6 November Lancaster 1943 and at Halifaxthe age bombers of 26 on night missions over occupied Europe and Germany. Died: 6 November 1943 at the age of 26 By Victory in Europe Day (“VE Day”) the 5,700 airmen and the aircraft of the RCAF had flown over Buried:By Victory Rockwood in Europe Cemetery Day (“VE Day”) the 5,700 airmen and the aircraft of the RCAF had flown over Buried: Rockwood Cemetery 40,000 operational missions with the loss of 814 aircraft and 4,277 airmen, for an operational loss 40,000 operational missions with the loss of 814 aircraft and 4,277 airmen, for an operational loss rate of 75%. Only the German U-Boat crews suffered higher loss rates during WWII. During this rateWasley of 75%. Pasmore Only Harris the German was born U-Boat in Toronto crews on suffered 16 February higher 1917loss ratesto his during WWII. During this Wasley Pasmore Harris was born in Toronto on 16 February 1917 to his time, approximately eight thousand decorations for bravery were awarded to Group VI aircrew, time,recently approximately widowed mother, eight thousandAnnie Matilda decorations (nee Pasmore) for bravery Harris. were His awarded father, to Group VI aircrew, recently widowed mother, Annie Matilda (nee Pasmore) Harris. His father, including two Victoria Crosses. Canada’s Bomber Command Memorial lists the names of 10,659 includingWesley Harris, two Victoria farmed Crosses. near Rockwood Canada’s and Bomber later near Command Font Hill, Memorial in the lists the names of 10,659 Wesley Harris, farmed near Rockwood and later near Font Hill, in the men who were killed due to all causes while serving with Bomber Command during the war. menNiagara who Peninsula, were killed where due to he all died causes in a whilefarming serving accident with on Bomber 8 July Command1916. during the war. Niagara Peninsula, where he died in a farming accident on 8 July 1916. Wasley’s paternal grandparents were Samuel and Susanna (nee Starr) Wasley’s paternal grandparents were Samuel and Susanna (nee Starr) Harris of Rockwood, and his paternal great-grandparents were some of Rockwood’s first 1821 Harris of Rockwood, and his paternal great-grandparents were some of Rockwood’s first 1821 The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP) was conceived by Prime Minister Thesettlers, British John Commonwealth and Jane (nee Weatherald) Air Training Harris. Plan (BCATP) His great-grandmother was conceived wasby Prime the sister Minister of William settlers, John and Jane (nee Weatherald) Harris. His great-grandmother was the sister of William Mackenzie King in 1939. MackenzieWeatherald, King the founderin 1939. of the Rockwood Academy. His maternal grandparents were Robert and Weatherald, the founder of the Rockwood Academy. His maternal grandparents were Robert and Sarah (nee Mickle) Pasmore of Rockwood. Wasley and his older sister, Clara Laura, were raised Sarah (nee Mickle) Pasmore of Rockwood. Wasley and his older sister, Clara Laura, were raised “Across the country, Canadians mobilized to take part in this gigantic undertaking—an army of “Acrossin Rockwood. the country, Since Canadianshe was a small mobilized boy, he to wastake alwayspart in thisinterested gigantic in undertaking—an flying and was knownarmy ofas in Rockwood. Since he was a small boy, he was always interested in flying and was known as experts had to be assembled, airfields developed and equipment, including airplanes, had to be expertsan expert had builder to be of assembled, model aircraft. airfields As adeveloped young man and in Rockwood,equipment, includinghe was very airplanes, popular had and to had be an expert builder of model aircraft. As a young man in Rockwood, he was very popular and had obtained. Between 1940 and 1945, some 151 schools had been established across Canada with a obtained.a reputation Between of having 1940 “particularly and 1945, fine some character”. 151 schools After had High been School, established Wasley across graduated Canada from with the a a reputation of having “particularly fine character”. After High School, Wasley graduated from the ground organization of 104,113 men and women. groundUniversity organization of Toronto ofin 104,1131941 with men his andBASc. women. degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at the UofT, University of Toronto in 1941 with his BASc. degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at the UofT, he joined the Non-Permanent Active Military Cadet Officer Training Corps (NPAM COTC) and then he joined the Non-Permanent Active Military Cadet Officer Training Corps (NPAM COTC) and then By the end of the Second World War, the BCATP had produced 131,553 aircrew, including pilots, Byits Auxiliarythe end ofBattalion the Second from World1937 untilWar, 1941. the BCATP He then had moved produced to Hamilton 131,553 to aircrew, work for including Proctor pilots,and its Auxiliary Battalion from 1937 until 1941. He then moved to Hamilton to work for Proctor and wireless operators, air gunners, and navigators for the Air Forces of Great Britain, Australia, New wirelessGamble untiloperators, enlisting air theregunners, in the and Royal navigators Canadian for Airthe ForceAir Forces on 18 of May Great 1942. Britain, About Australia, the time New of his Gamble until enlisting there in the Royal Canadian Air Force on 18 May 1942. About the time of his Zealand and Canada.” Zealandenlistment, and he Canada.” married Katherine Louise Whitehead (1923-2007) of Toronto. enlistment, he married Katherine Louise Whitehead (1923-2007) of Toronto.

Pilots were also trained from Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Free French, Norway and Poland. PilotsHe was were posted also to trained the newly from created Belgium, RCAF Czechoslovakia, No. 9 Service Free Flying French, Training Norway School and (No.9 Poland. SFTS) He was posted to the newly created RCAF No. 9 Service Flying Training School (No.9 SFTS) Centralia, Ontario (part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan). After receiving his pilot Centralia, Ontario (part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan). After receiving his pilot In all, 107 schools and 184 other supporting units at 231 locations across Canada were constructed. Inwings all, 107and schoolsthe rank and of Flight 184 other Sergeant, supporting he was units recognized at 231 locations as being across conscientious, Canada wereeager constructed. to learn wings and the rank of Flight Sergeant, he was recognized as being conscientious, eager to learn This created a network of airports across Canada and many of them still exist today, along with their Thisand possessingcreated a network above averageof airports skills across to become Canada a andpilot many instructor. of them He still went exist through today, further along withinstructor their and possessing above average skills to become a pilot instructor. He went through further instructor characteristic triangular runway pattern. characteristictraining and was triangular promoted runway to the pattern. rank of Pilot Officer. At this same time, on 16 February 1943, his training and was promoted to the rank of Pilot Officer. At this same time, on 16 February 1943, his wife Katherine gave birth to their twins (Gordon Wasley and Katherine Louise). Seven months later, wife Katherine gave birth to their twins (Gordon Wasley and Katherine Louise). Seven months later, P/O Wasley Harris was transferred to another newly opened RCAF No. 17 SFTS in Souris, Manitoba P/O Wasley Harris was transferred to another newly opened RCAF No. 17 SFTS in Souris, Manitoba as an instructor in single engine Harvard and twin engine Anson aircraft. His wife Katherine and as an instructor in single engine Harvard and twin engine Anson aircraft. His wife Katherine and their young twins moved to Souris to join him. their young twins moved to Souris to join him.

On 6 November 1943, P/O Harris was killed along with two trainee pilots in a crash near Eden, On 6 November 1943, P/O Harris was killed along with two trainee pilots in a crash near Eden, Manitoba during a cross-country instrument training flight in a twin engine Anson aircraft. The Manitoba during a cross-country instrument training flight in a twin engine Anson aircraft. The subsequent accident review concluded that they likely encountered aircraft icing while training to fly subsequent accident review concluded that they likely encountered aircraft icing while training to fly on instruments only, became disoriented and crashed. on instruments only, became disoriented and crashed.

P/O Wasley Pasmore Harris is buried in Rockwood Cemetery. His name is also memorialized in the P/O Wasley Pasmore Harris is buried in Rockwood Cemetery. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 26 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2726 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 27 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II WASLEY PASMORE HARRIS WASLEY PASMORE HARRIS Pilot Officer (P/O)is the lowest commissioned officer rank in the RCAF and RAF. It can be J28300 Pilot Officer Pilot (P/O) is Officer the lowest commissioned officer rank in the RCAF and RAF. It can be J28300 Pilot Officer confusing because it does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot. is confusing because it does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot. is Flying Officer (F/O) Born: 16 February 1917 in Toronto, raised in Rockwood, Ontario Flying Officer (F/O) Born: 16 February 1917 in Toronto, raised in Rockwood, Ontario the next highest rank and it too does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot, but it usually the next highest rank and it too does not always mean the holder is a qualified pilot, but it usually means the holder is an aircrew member. Previousmeans the Occupation: holder is an aircrewEngineer member. Previous Occupation: Engineer Enlisted: 18 May 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario Enlisted: 18 May 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario 408 “Goose” Squadron was part of the RCAF Group 6 of Bomber Command. At this time, they 408 “Goose” Squadron was part of the RCAF Group 6 of Bomber Command. At this time, they were flying Lancaster and Halifax bombers on night missions over occupied Europe and Germany. wereDied: flying 6 November Lancaster 1943 and at Halifaxthe age bombers of 26 on night missions over occupied Europe and Germany. Died: 6 November 1943 at the age of 26 By Victory in Europe Day (“VE Day”) the 5,700 airmen and the aircraft of the RCAF had flown over ByBuried: Victory Rockwood in Europe Cemetery Day (“VE Day”) the 5,700 airmen and the aircraft of the RCAF had flown over Buried: Rockwood Cemetery 40,000 operational missions with the loss of 814 aircraft and 4,277 airmen, for an operational loss 40,000 operational missions with the loss of 814 aircraft and 4,277 airmen, for an operational loss rate of 75%. Only the German U-Boat crews suffered higher loss rates during WWII. During this rateWasley of 75%. Pasmore Only Harris the German was born U-Boat in Toronto crews on suffered 16 February higher 1917loss ratesto his during WWII. During this Wasley Pasmore Harris was born in Toronto on 16 February 1917 to his time, approximately eight thousand decorations for bravery were awarded to Group VI aircrew, time,recently approximately widowed mother, eight thousandAnnie Matilda decorations (nee Pasmore) for bravery Harris. were His awarded father, to Group VI aircrew, recently widowed mother, Annie Matilda (nee Pasmore) Harris. His father, including two Victoria Crosses. Canada’s Bomber Command Memorial lists the names of 10,659 includingWesley Harris, two Victoria farmed Crosses. near Rockwood Canada’s and Bomber later near Command Font Hill, Memorial in the lists the names of 10,659 Wesley Harris, farmed near Rockwood and later near Font Hill, in the men who were killed due to all causes while serving with Bomber Command during the war. menNiagara who Peninsula, were killed where due to he all died causes in a whilefarming serving accident with on Bomber 8 July Command1916. during the war. Niagara Peninsula, where he died in a farming accident on 8 July 1916. Wasley’s paternal grandparents were Samuel and Susanna (nee Starr) Wasley’s paternal grandparents were Samuel and Susanna (nee Starr) Harris of Rockwood, and his paternal great-grandparents were some of Rockwood’s first 1821 Harris of Rockwood, and his paternal great-grandparents were some of Rockwood’s first 1821 The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP) was conceived by Prime Minister Thesettlers, British John Commonwealth and Jane (nee Weatherald) Air Training Harris. Plan (BCATP) His great-grandmother was conceived wasby Prime the sister Minister of William settlers, John and Jane (nee Weatherald) Harris. His great-grandmother was the sister of William Mackenzie King in 1939. MackenzieWeatherald, King the founderin 1939. of the Rockwood Academy. His maternal grandparents were Robert and Weatherald, the founder of the Rockwood Academy. His maternal grandparents were Robert and Sarah (nee Mickle) Pasmore of Rockwood. Wasley and his older sister, Clara Laura, were raised Sarah (nee Mickle) Pasmore of Rockwood. Wasley and his older sister, Clara Laura, were raised “Across the country, Canadians mobilized to take part in this gigantic undertaking—an army of “Acrossin Rockwood. the country, Since Canadianshe was a small mobilized boy, he to wastake alwayspart in thisinterested gigantic in undertaking—an flying and was knownarmy ofas in Rockwood. Since he was a small boy, he was always interested in flying and was known as experts had to be assembled, airfields developed and equipment, including airplanes, had to be expertsan expert had builder to be of assembled, model aircraft. airfields As adeveloped young man and in Rockwood,equipment, includinghe was very airplanes, popular had and to had be an expert builder of model aircraft. As a young man in Rockwood, he was very popular and had obtained. Between 1940 and 1945, some 151 schools had been established across Canada with a obtained.a reputation Between of having 1940 “particularly and 1945, fine some character”. 151 schools After had High been School, established Wasley across graduated Canada from with the a a reputation of having “particularly fine character”. After High School, Wasley graduated from the ground organization of 104,113 men and women. groundUniversity organization of Toronto ofin 104,1131941 with men his andBASc. women. degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at the UofT, University of Toronto in 1941 with his BASc. degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at the UofT, he joined the Non-Permanent Active Military Cadet Officer Training Corps (NPAM COTC) and then he joined the Non-Permanent Active Military Cadet Officer Training Corps (NPAM COTC) and then By the end of the Second World War, the BCATP had produced 131,553 aircrew, including pilots, Byits Auxiliarythe end ofBattalion the Second from World1937 untilWar, 1941. the BCATP He then had moved produced to Hamilton 131,553 to aircrew, work for including Proctor pilots,and its Auxiliary Battalion from 1937 until 1941. He then moved to Hamilton to work for Proctor and wireless operators, air gunners, and navigators for the Air Forces of Great Britain, Australia, New wirelessGamble untiloperators, enlisting air theregunners, in the and Royal navigators Canadian for Airthe ForceAir Forces on 18 of May Great 1942. Britain, About Australia, the time New of his Gamble until enlisting there in the Royal Canadian Air Force on 18 May 1942. About the time of his Zealand and Canada.” Zealandenlistment, and he Canada.” married Katherine Louise Whitehead (1923-2007) of Toronto. enlistment, he married Katherine Louise Whitehead (1923-2007) of Toronto.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 26 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2627 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 27 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II THOMAS EDWIN HAYWARD JOHNTHOMAS DUNCAN EDWIN HILTS HAYWARD JOHN DUNCAN HILTS B143124 Private A109555B143124 PrivatePrivate A109555 Private Born: 16 June 1924 in Toronto, Ontario Born:Born: 816 May June 1925 1924 in inRockwood, Toronto, Ontario Ontario Born: 8 May 1925 in Rockwood, Ontario Previous Occupations: Farming and Carpenter’s Helper PreviousPrevious Occupation:Occupations: Factory Farming Employee and Carpenter’s Helper Previous Occupation: Factory Employee Enlisted: 24 February 1943 in an unknown location Enlisted:Enlisted: December24 February 1943 1943 in inGuelph, an unknown Ontario location Enlisted: December 1943 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 6 August 1944 at the age of 20 Died:Died: 226 August February 1944 1945 at the at theage age of 20 of 19 Died: 22 February 1945 at the age of 19 Buried: Bayeux British Military Cemetery, Normandy, France Buried:Buried: Groesbeek Bayeux British Canadian Military War Cemetery, Cemetery, Normandy, near Nijmegen, France Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands Netherlands Thomas Edwin Hayward was born in the Mount Denis part of Toronto, Thomas Edwin Hayward was born in the Mount Denis part of Toronto, on 16 June 1924 to Thomas and Ruby Adeline Hayward of RR# 5 onJohn 16 Duncan June 1924 Hilts to was Thomas born andon 8 Ruby May 1925Adeline to AlbertHayward Bertram of RR# (Bert) 5 John Duncan Hilts was born on 8 May 1925 to Albert Bertram (Bert) Belwood, in the north east part of Eramosa Township. He was the only Belwood,and Alice (neein the MacLennan) north east part Hilts of of Eramosa Rockwood. Township. He was He the was second the only and Alice (nee MacLennan) Hilts of Rockwood. He was the second son of their three children (Clara and Florence Ellen). His father Thomas sonoldest of oftheir their three six children (Donald(Clara and John Florence b.1922, Ellen). Louie HisVictor, father Margaret Thomas oldest of their six children (Donald John b.1922, Louie Victor, Margaret was disabled from wounds while serving in WWI. Edwin grew up on the family’s farm and he also wasDeline, disabled Annie fromMay woundsand Gertrude). while serving In 1939, in WWI.after completing Edwin grew Grade up on 7 theat family’s farm and he also Deline, Annie May and Gertrude). In 1939, after completing Grade 7 at worked as a carpenter’s helper at Rayner Construction. Little else is known about him before he workedEramosa as S.S.#9 a carpenter’s in Rockwood, helper Johnat Rayner started Construction. to work at the Little Wonderful else is knownSoap Company about him in before Guelph, he to Eramosa S.S.#9 in Rockwood, John started to work at the Wonderful Soap Company in Guelph, to enlisted into the army on 24 February 1943 (location unknown). enlistedhelp support into thehis armyfamily. on 24 February 1943 (location unknown). help support his family.

After completing his basic training, he was granted leave until mid-June to return home and help his AfterIn December completing 1943, his hebasic enlisted training, in the he reservewas granted battalion leave of untilthe Guelph mid-June Headquartered to return home 11th and Field help his In December 1943, he enlisted in the reserve battalion of the Guelph Headquartered 11th Field father with spring planting and tending the fields. On 24 August 1943, he embarked by ship from fatherAmbulance with spring Royal plantingCanadian and Artillery tending Medical the fields. Corps. On One 24 monthAugust later,1943, he he volunteered embarked byfor ship overseas from Ambulance Royal Canadian Artillery Medical Corps. One month later, he volunteered for overseas Canada and arrived in England eight days later. Upon arrival, he was transferred with the rank of Canadaservice in and London, arrived Ontario. in England He waseight sent days to later. Chatham Upon for arrival, basic hetraining was transferred before embarking with the for rank of service in London, Ontario. He was sent to Chatham for basic training before embarking for Private to the Hamilton based regiment, the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada (Princess PrivateEngland to in the August Hamilton 1944. based Nine regiment, days later, the he Argyll arrived and in SutherlandEngland where Highlanders he was transferredof Canada (Princessto the England in August 1944. Nine days later, he arrived in England where he was transferred to the Louise’s). Louise’s).Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, 13th Battalion. By September, he was in France taking part in the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, 13th Battalion. By September, he was in France taking part in the Canadian Army advance along the coast and into Belgium. On 4 October, during the early stages of Canadian Army advance along the coast and into Belgium. On 4 October, during the early stages of The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders arrived in England in July 1943, where it trained with the Thethe Battle Argyll of and the SutherlandScheldt, he wasHighlanders wounded arrivednear the in BelgianEngland port in July city 1943,of Antwerp. where Afterit trained five withweeks the of the Battle of the Scheldt, he was wounded near the Belgian port city of Antwerp. After five weeks of 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division. 10thtreatment Canadian and recuperation, Infantry Brigade he rejoinedof the 4th his Canadian regiment Armoured in early November Division. as they continued to clear treatment and recuperation, he rejoined his regiment in early November as they continued to clear the Dutch coastal area up to the pre-war border of Germany. By 22 February 1945, he was attached the Dutch coastal area up to the pre-war border of Germany. By 22 February 1945, he was attached to the Fusiliers Mount Royal as they were involved in Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February) and the to the Fusiliers Mount Royal as they were involved in Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February) and the On 21 July 1944, Private Edwin Hayward arrived with his regiment in Normandy and almost Onbeginning 21 July of 1944, Operation Private Blockbuster Edwin Hayward (22 February arrived withto 10 his March). regiment Private in Normandy John Duncan and almost Hilts was killed beginning of Operation Blockbuster (22 February to 10 March). Private John Duncan Hilts was killed immediately saw action in the final stages of the Battle of Normandy. immediatelyin action on thesaw opening action in day the of final Operation stages Blockbuster of the Battle in of except Normandy.ionally heavy fighting near the Kalkar in action on the opening day of Operation Blockbuster in exceptionally heavy fighting near the Kalkar (Calcar) Goch Road. (Calcar) Goch Road. The Falaise Gap / Falaise Pocket (also known as the Chambois pocket) described the area The Falaise Gap / Falaise Pocket (also known as the Chambois pocket) described the area between the four Norman cities of Argentan, Chambois, Trun and Vimoutiers. The combined Allied betweenPrivate John the fourDuncan Norman Hilts citieswas initially of Argentan, buried Chambois, in the same Trun cemetery and Vimoutiers. in the nearby The small combined village Allied of Private John Duncan Hilts was initially buried in the same cemetery in the nearby small village of Armies attempted to encircle and destroy the withdrawing German Seventh Army and Fifth Panzer ArmiesLouisendorf attempted where to Trooper encircle Gordon and destroy Earl Mack the withdrawing was also buried. German Two Seventh young men,Army whoand Fifthgrew Panzerup within Louisendorf where Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was also buried. Two young men, who grew up within Army during August 1944. Tough resistance by the Germans delayed the closing of the gap and Armya few duringmiles of August each other,1944. died Tough half resistance a world away by the within Germans a few delayedmiles of eachthe closing other, ofwithin the gapone andday of a few miles of each other, died half a world away within a few miles of each other, within one day of while 150,000 German soldiers were captured and the roads were littered with their destroyed whileeach other.150,000 Shortly German after soldiers the end were of the captured War in andEurope, the roadshis body were was littered exhumed with theirand reburieddestroyed in the each other. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the vehicles and tanks, about 100,000 soldiers escaped the Allied trap. While Germany’s losses were vehiclesGroesbeek and Canadian tanks, about War 100,000Cemetery, soldiers near Nijmegen, escaped the Netherlands. Allied trap. HisWhile name Germany’s is also memorialized losses were Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is also memorialized over 10,000 dead, Canadian losses were heavy with over 18,000 dead or wounded. overin the 10,000 Books dead,of Remembrance Canadian losses in the were Peace heavy Tower with of overthe Canadian 18,000 dead Parliament or wounded. Buildings, Ottawa. in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

On 5 August, Private Hayward was severely wounded by a mortar bomb during the prelude to On 5 August, Private Hayward was severely wounded by a mortar bomb during the prelude to the Battle of the Falais Gap and taken to a field hospital. On 6 August he was transferred to #30 the Battle of the Falais Gap and taken to a field hospital. On 6 August he was transferred to #30 General Hospital in Bayeux, Normandy, France but died from his wounds. General Hospital in Bayeux, Normandy, France but died from his wounds.

He was buried in the Bayeux British Military Cemetery in Normandy, France. His name is also He was buried in the Bayeux British Military Cemetery in Normandy, France. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 28 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2928 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 29 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II THOMAS EDWIN HAYWARD JOHNTHOMAS DUNCAN EDWIN HILTS HAYWARD JOHN DUNCAN HILTS B143124 Private A109555B143124 PrivatePrivate A109555 Private Born: 16 June 1924 in Toronto, Ontario Born:Born: 816 May June 1925 1924 in inRockwood, Toronto, Ontario Ontario Born: 8 May 1925 in Rockwood, Ontario Previous Occupations: Farming and Carpenter’s Helper PreviousPrevious Occupation:Occupations: Factory Farming Employee and Carpenter’s Helper Previous Occupation: Factory Employee Enlisted: 24 February 1943 in an unknown location Enlisted:Enlisted: December24 February 1943 1943 in inGuelph, an unknown Ontario location Enlisted: December 1943 in Guelph, Ontario Died: 6 August 1944 at the age of 20 Died:Died: 226 August February 1944 1945 at the at theage age of 20 of 19 Died: 22 February 1945 at the age of 19 Buried: Bayeux British Military Cemetery, Normandy, France Buried:Buried: Groesbeek Bayeux British Canadian Military War Cemetery, Cemetery, Normandy, near Nijmegen, France Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands Netherlands Thomas Edwin Hayward was born in the Mount Denis part of Toronto, Thomas Edwin Hayward was born in the Mount Denis part of Toronto, on 16 June 1924 to Thomas and Ruby Adeline Hayward of RR# 5 onJohn 16 Duncan June 1924 Hilts to was Thomas born andon 8 Ruby May 1925Adeline to AlbertHayward Bertram of RR# (Bert) 5 John Duncan Hilts was born on 8 May 1925 to Albert Bertram (Bert) Belwood, in the north east part of Eramosa Township. He was the only Belwood,and Alice (neein the MacLennan) north east part Hilts of of Eramosa Rockwood. Township. He was He the was second the only and Alice (nee MacLennan) Hilts of Rockwood. He was the second son of their three children (Clara and Florence Ellen). His father Thomas sonoldest of oftheir their three six children (Donald(Clara and John Florence b.1922, Ellen). Louie HisVictor, father Margaret Thomas oldest of their six children (Donald John b.1922, Louie Victor, Margaret was disabled from wounds while serving in WWI. Edwin grew up on the family’s farm and he also wasDeline, disabled Annie fromMay woundsand Gertrude). while serving In 1939, in WWI.after completing Edwin grew Grade up on 7 theat family’s farm and he also Deline, Annie May and Gertrude). In 1939, after completing Grade 7 at worked as a carpenter’s helper at Rayner Construction. Little else is known about him before he workedEramosa as S.S.#9 a carpenter’s in Rockwood, helper Johnat Rayner started Construction. to work at the Little Wonderful else is knownSoap Company about him in before Guelph, he to Eramosa S.S.#9 in Rockwood, John started to work at the Wonderful Soap Company in Guelph, to enlisted into the army on 24 February 1943 (location unknown). enlistedhelp support into thehis armyfamily. on 24 February 1943 (location unknown). help support his family.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 28 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 2829 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 29 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II GORDON EARL MACK WILLIAMGORDON HENRYEARL MACK PARKINSON WILLIAM HENRY PARKINSON B115290 Trooper J24930B115290 Flying Trooper Officer WO/AG J24930 Flying Officer WO/AG Born: 28 April 1925 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born: 828 March April 19251915 inin EramosaEramosa, Township, Ontario Ontario Born: 8 March 1915 in Eramosa, Ontario Previous Occupations: Farmering, Barn Construction and Carpenter Previous Occupation:Occupations: Mining Farmering, - Diamond Barn ConstructionDrill Operator and Carpenter Previous Occupation: Mining - Diamond Drill Operator Enlisted: 14 August 1943 in Orillia, Ontario Enlisted: 1429 AugustApril 1942 1943 in Hamilton,in Orillia, OntarioOntario Enlisted: 29 April 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario Died: 21 February 1945 at the age of 19 Died: 821 May February 1944 at 1945 the ageat the of age29 of 19 Died: 8 May 1944 at the age of 29 Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Nether- Buried: GroesbeekGosselies Communal Canadian WarCemetery, Cemetery, near nearCharleroi, Nijmegen, Belgium Nether- Buried: Gosselies Communal Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium lands lands William Henry Parkinson was born on 8 March 1915 to William H. William Henry Parkinson was born on 8 March 1915 to William H. and Eliza Jane (nee Coker) Parkinson in the village of Eramosa. His and Eliza Jane (nee Coker) Parkinson in the village of Eramosa. His Gordon Earl Mack was born on 28 April 1925 to George Ernest and Jennie May (nee Lillie) Mack of Gordon Earl Mack was born on 28 April 1925 to George Ernest and Jennie May (nee Lillie) Mack of father died just eight days after his birth. He was the youngest of their father died just eight days after his birth. He was the youngest of their Lot 16, east half of Con.VI, Eramosa Township. He was the third of their four sons (Lloyd George Lot 16, east half of Con.VI, Eramosa Township. He was the third of their four sons (Lloyd George three sons (Archibald W. b.1908 and George R. b.1910). His mother three sons (Archibald W. b.1908 and George R. b.1910). His mother b.1919, Donald Thomas b.1921, and James A. b.1928). After graduating from Grade 8 from b.1919, Donald Thomas b.1921, and James A. b.1928). After graduating from Grade 8 from subsequently re-married William Hodgkinson. After graduating from Guelph Collegiate at the age of subsequently re-married William Hodgkinson. After graduating from Guelph Collegiate at the age of Eramosa S.S. #7, he went to work with his father and brothers on the farm and building barns in Eramosa S.S. #7, he went to work with his father and brothers on the farm and building barns in 17, he worked in an interesting variety of farming, including working on a ranch and a fur farm. Early 17, he worked in an interesting variety of farming, including working on a ranch and a fur farm. Early the area. He also worked as a carpenter for William McCutcheon in various locations throughout the area. He also worked as a carpenter for William McCutcheon in various locations throughout in 1942, William moved to the gold mining town of Timmins, Ontario, to work in the Coniaurum Mine in 1942, William moved to the gold mining town of Timmins, Ontario, to work in the Coniaurum Mine Erin and Eramosa Townships. His hobbies were fishing, hunting, trapping and reading Zane Grey Erin and Eramosa Townships. His hobbies were fishing, hunting, trapping and reading Zane Grey as a diamond drill operator for a short time before enlisting at Hamilton on 29 April 1942. as a diamond drill operator for a short time before enlisting at Hamilton on 29 April 1942. western novels. When he was 17, he joined the militia of the 29th Battery of the 11th Field Regiment western novels. When he was 17, he joined the militia of the 29th Battery of the 11th Field Regiment (Artillery), headquartered in Guelph. He attended a training camp from May to November 1942. (Artillery), headquartered in Guelph. He attended a training camp from May to November 1942. William Henry Parkinson joined the RCAF at Hamilton and after completing his basic training, he William Henry Parkinson joined the RCAF at Hamilton and after completing his basic training, he was sent to the #4 Wireless (radio) School in Guelph on 21 July 1942 and received his aircraft was sent to the #4 Wireless (radio) School in Guelph on 21 July 1942 and received his aircraft On 14 August 1943 in Orillia, he enlisted in the same regiment and went through basic training On 14 August 1943 in Orillia, he enlisted in the same regiment and went through basic training Wireless Operator badge - WO. On 21 February 1943, Henry was sent to #2 Bombing and Gunnery Wireless Operator badge - WO. On 21 February 1943, Henry was sent to #2 Bombing and Gunnery and additional training in Windsor, Nova Scotia. On 26 June 1944, Gordon embarked for England and additional training in Windsor, Nova Scotia. On 26 June 1944, Gordon embarked for England School in Mossbank, Saskatchewan where he then received his Air Gunner badge – AG. One School in Mossbank, Saskatchewan where he then received his Air Gunner badge – AG. One from Halifax, arriving seven days later. At this time, he was in a tank regiment but on 31 August, from Halifax, arriving seven days later. At this time, he was in a tank regiment but on 31 August, month later, on 21 March 1943, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer (P/O) in the RCAF Special month later, on 21 March 1943, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer (P/O) in the RCAF Special he transferred into the Canadian Base Reinforcement Battalion of the Canadian Infantry Corps, he transferred into the Canadian Base Reinforcement Battalion of the Canadian Infantry Corps, Reserve. After two weeks leave, he was sent to #32 Operational Training Unit (OTU), Patricia Bay Reserve. After two weeks leave, he was sent to #32 Operational Training Unit (OTU), Patricia Bay in response to the urgent need for infantry to replace heavy losses while fighting along the coast in response to the urgent need for infantry to replace heavy losses while fighting along the coast Airbase (now Victoria Airport) in British Columbia until he embarked on a six day trip to England on Airbase (now Victoria Airport) in British Columbia until he embarked on a six day trip to England on of France and into Belgium. Upon arrival in Belgium on 17 October, he was assigned to the of France and into Belgium. Upon arrival in Belgium on 17 October, he was assigned to the 16 July 1943. On 21 September 1943, P/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to the 24 OTU and 16 July 1943. On 21 September 1943, P/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to the 24 OTU and Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Regiment (RHLI), Anti-Tank Support Unit. This was shortly after the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Regiment (RHLI), Anti-Tank Support Unit. This was shortly after the promoted to the rank of Flying Officer (F/O). promoted to the rank of Flying Officer (F/O). beginning of the Battle of the Scheldt (where the Rhine River enters the North Sea). At this time, beginning of the Battle of the Scheldt (where the Rhine River enters the North Sea). At this time, the RHLI was involved in fighting on the islands north of the Belgian port city of Antwerp, and for the RHLI was involved in fighting on the islands north of the Belgian port city of Antwerp, and for On 10 January 1944 F/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group On 10 January 1944 F/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group the next months was involved in the liberation of the Netherlands. His letters home mentioned the the next months was involved in the liberation of the Netherlands. His letters home mentioned the (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England. On 21 February, he (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England. On 21 February, he grim conditions at the front. On 25 January 1945, he wrote to his parents about his hope to live in grim conditions at the front. On 25 January 1945, he wrote to his parents about his hope to live in was transferred to RCAF 432 (Leaside) Squadron, flying Halifax III bombers. The evening of 8 May was transferred to RCAF 432 (Leaside) Squadron, flying Halifax III bombers. The evening of 8 May southern Wales and join the Royal Navy when the war ended. southern Wales and join the Royal Navy when the war ended. 1944, his squadron took part in a raid on the rail yards near Haine-Saint-Pierre in German Occupied 1944, his squadron took part in a raid on the rail yards near Haine-Saint-Pierre in German Occupied Belgium. Near the French town of Maubeuge, their Halifax was hit by a night fighter and their pilot Belgium. Near the French town of Maubeuge, their Halifax was hit by a night fighter and their pilot In the final days of Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February 1945), the RHLI was involved in In the final days of Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February 1945), the RHLI was involved in (P/O Ibbotson, RAF) ordered all crew to bail-out before attempting an emergency landing. Four (P/O Ibbotson, RAF) ordered all crew to bail-out before attempting an emergency landing. Four exceptionally heavy fighting along the Kalkar (Calcar) Goch Road. Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was exceptionally heavy fighting along the Kalkar (Calcar) Goch Road. Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was crew members were able to bail-out before the aircraft crashed and burned upon impact with the crew members were able to bail-out before the aircraft crashed and burned upon impact with the killed in action on 21 February 1945 near the town of Keppelen, Germany. In a letter to his parents, killed in action on 21 February 1945 near the town of Keppelen, Germany. In a letter to his parents, loss of the remaining three crew members, including P/O Ibbotson. loss of the remaining three crew members, including P/O Ibbotson. his Captain spoke highly of Trooper Mack and described how his four-man squad was advancing his Captain spoke highly of Trooper Mack and described how his four-man squad was advancing along the side of a road when they were hit by an artillery shell. Only one seriously injured man along the side of a road when they were hit by an artillery shell. Only one seriously injured man German records indicated that F/O William Henry Parkinson and his two fellow aircrew (P/O Harry German records indicated that F/O William Henry Parkinson and his two fellow aircrew (P/O Harry survived. survived. Ibbotson and F/O Stanley Allen Hawkins) were initially buried in what was known as a “Comrade’s Ibbotson and F/O Stanley Allen Hawkins) were initially buried in what was known as a “Comrade’s Grave” (or shared grave) in the small Belgian town of Grand Reng. Shortly after the end of the War Grave” (or shared grave) in the small Belgian town of Grand Reng. Shortly after the end of the War Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was initially buried a few miles northwest in a cemetery in the small Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was initially buried a few miles northwest in a cemetery in the small in Europe, their bodies were exhumed but their individual remains were not able to be identified. in Europe, their bodies were exhumed but their individual remains were not able to be identified. village of Louisendorf. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and village of Louisendorf. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and Their shared remains were reburied and marked with all three names in the Gosselies Communal Their shared remains were reburied and marked with all three names in the Gosselies Communal reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 30 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3130 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 31 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II GORDON EARL MACK GORDONWILLIAM HENRYEARL MACK PARKINSON WILLIAM HENRY PARKINSON B115290 Trooper B115290J24930 Flying Trooper Officer WO/AG J24930 Flying Officer WO/AG Born: 28 April 1925 in Eramosa Township, Ontario Born: 288 March April 19251915 inin EramosaEramosa, Township, Ontario Ontario Born: 8 March 1915 in Eramosa, Ontario Previous Occupations: Farmering, Barn Construction and Carpenter Previous Occupations:Occupation: Mining Farmering, - Diamond Barn ConstructionDrill Operator and Carpenter Previous Occupation: Mining - Diamond Drill Operator Enlisted: 14 August 1943 in Orillia, Ontario Enlisted: 1429 AugustApril 1942 1943 in Hamilton,in Orillia, OntarioOntario Enlisted: 29 April 1942 in Hamilton, Ontario Died: 21 February 1945 at the age of 19 Died: 821 May February 1944 at 1945 the ageat the of age29 of 19 Died: 8 May 1944 at the age of 29 Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Nether- Buried: GroesbeekGosselies Communal Canadian WarCemetery, Cemetery, near nearCharleroi, Nijmegen, Belgium Nether- Buried: Gosselies Communal Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium lands lands William Henry Parkinson was born on 8 March 1915 to William H. William Henry Parkinson was born on 8 March 1915 to William H. and Eliza Jane (nee Coker) Parkinson in the village of Eramosa. His and Eliza Jane (nee Coker) Parkinson in the village of Eramosa. His Gordon Earl Mack was born on 28 April 1925 to George Ernest and Jennie May (nee Lillie) Mack of Gordon Earl Mack was born on 28 April 1925 to George Ernest and Jennie May (nee Lillie) Mack of father died just eight days after his birth. He was the youngest of their father died just eight days after his birth. He was the youngest of their Lot 16, east half of Con.VI, Eramosa Township. He was the third of their four sons (Lloyd George Lot 16, east half of Con.VI, Eramosa Township. He was the third of their four sons (Lloyd George three sons (Archibald W. b.1908 and George R. b.1910). His mother three sons (Archibald W. b.1908 and George R. b.1910). His mother b.1919, Donald Thomas b.1921, and James A. b.1928). After graduating from Grade 8 from b.1919, Donald Thomas b.1921, and James A. b.1928). After graduating from Grade 8 from subsequently re-married William Hodgkinson. After graduating from Guelph Collegiate at the age of subsequently re-married William Hodgkinson. After graduating from Guelph Collegiate at the age of Eramosa S.S. #7, he went to work with his father and brothers on the farm and building barns in Eramosa S.S. #7, he went to work with his father and brothers on the farm and building barns in 17, he worked in an interesting variety of farming, including working on a ranch and a fur farm. Early 17, he worked in an interesting variety of farming, including working on a ranch and a fur farm. Early the area. He also worked as a carpenter for William McCutcheon in various locations throughout the area. He also worked as a carpenter for William McCutcheon in various locations throughout in 1942, William moved to the gold mining town of Timmins, Ontario, to work in the Coniaurum Mine in 1942, William moved to the gold mining town of Timmins, Ontario, to work in the Coniaurum Mine Erin and Eramosa Townships. His hobbies were fishing, hunting, trapping and reading Zane Grey Erin and Eramosa Townships. His hobbies were fishing, hunting, trapping and reading Zane Grey as a diamond drill operator for a short time before enlisting at Hamilton on 29 April 1942. as a diamond drill operator for a short time before enlisting at Hamilton on 29 April 1942. western novels. When he was 17, he joined the militia of the 29th Battery of the 11th Field Regiment western novels. When he was 17, he joined the militia of the 29th Battery of the 11th Field Regiment (Artillery), headquartered in Guelph. He attended a training camp from May to November 1942. (Artillery), headquartered in Guelph. He attended a training camp from May to November 1942. William Henry Parkinson joined the RCAF at Hamilton and after completing his basic training, he William Henry Parkinson joined the RCAF at Hamilton and after completing his basic training, he was sent to the #4 Wireless (radio) School in Guelph on 21 July 1942 and received his aircraft was sent to the #4 Wireless (radio) School in Guelph on 21 July 1942 and received his aircraft On 14 August 1943 in Orillia, he enlisted in the same regiment and went through basic training On 14 August 1943 in Orillia, he enlisted in the same regiment and went through basic training Wireless Operator badge - WO. On 21 February 1943, Henry was sent to #2 Bombing and Gunnery Wireless Operator badge - WO. On 21 February 1943, Henry was sent to #2 Bombing and Gunnery and additional training in Windsor, Nova Scotia. On 26 June 1944, Gordon embarked for England and additional training in Windsor, Nova Scotia. On 26 June 1944, Gordon embarked for England School in Mossbank, Saskatchewan where he then received his Air Gunner badge – AG. One School in Mossbank, Saskatchewan where he then received his Air Gunner badge – AG. One from Halifax, arriving seven days later. At this time, he was in a tank regiment but on 31 August, from Halifax, arriving seven days later. At this time, he was in a tank regiment but on 31 August, month later, on 21 March 1943, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer (P/O) in the RCAF Special month later, on 21 March 1943, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer (P/O) in the RCAF Special he transferred into the Canadian Base Reinforcement Battalion of the Canadian Infantry Corps, he transferred into the Canadian Base Reinforcement Battalion of the Canadian Infantry Corps, Reserve. After two weeks leave, he was sent to #32 Operational Training Unit (OTU), Patricia Bay Reserve. After two weeks leave, he was sent to #32 Operational Training Unit (OTU), Patricia Bay in response to the urgent need for infantry to replace heavy losses while fighting along the coast in response to the urgent need for infantry to replace heavy losses while fighting along the coast Airbase (now Victoria Airport) in British Columbia until he embarked on a six day trip to England on Airbase (now Victoria Airport) in British Columbia until he embarked on a six day trip to England on of France and into Belgium. Upon arrival in Belgium on 17 October, he was assigned to the of France and into Belgium. Upon arrival in Belgium on 17 October, he was assigned to the 16 July 1943. On 21 September 1943, P/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to the 24 OTU and 16 July 1943. On 21 September 1943, P/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to the 24 OTU and Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Regiment (RHLI), Anti-Tank Support Unit. This was shortly after the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Regiment (RHLI), Anti-Tank Support Unit. This was shortly after the promoted to the rank of Flying Officer (F/O). promoted to the rank of Flying Officer (F/O). beginning of the Battle of the Scheldt (where the Rhine River enters the North Sea). At this time, beginning of the Battle of the Scheldt (where the Rhine River enters the North Sea). At this time, the RHLI was involved in fighting on the islands north of the Belgian port city of Antwerp, and for the RHLI was involved in fighting on the islands north of the Belgian port city of Antwerp, and for On 10 January 1944 F/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group On 10 January 1944 F/O Parkinson, WO/AG was transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group the next months was involved in the liberation of the Netherlands. His letters home mentioned the the next months was involved in the liberation of the Netherlands. His letters home mentioned the (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England. On 21 February, he (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England. On 21 February, he grim conditions at the front. On 25 January 1945, he wrote to his parents about his hope to live in grim conditions at the front. On 25 January 1945, he wrote to his parents about his hope to live in was transferred to RCAF 432 (Leaside) Squadron, flying Halifax III bombers. The evening of 8 May was transferred to RCAF 432 (Leaside) Squadron, flying Halifax III bombers. The evening of 8 May southern Wales and join the Royal Navy when the war ended. southern Wales and join the Royal Navy when the war ended. 1944, his squadron took part in a raid on the rail yards near Haine-Saint-Pierre in German Occupied 1944, his squadron took part in a raid on the rail yards near Haine-Saint-Pierre in German Occupied Belgium. Near the French town of Maubeuge, their Halifax was hit by a night fighter and their pilot Belgium. Near the French town of Maubeuge, their Halifax was hit by a night fighter and their pilot In the final days of Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February 1945), the RHLI was involved in In the final days of Operation Veritable (8 to 21 February 1945), the RHLI was involved in (P/O Ibbotson, RAF) ordered all crew to bail-out before attempting an emergency landing. Four (P/O Ibbotson, RAF) ordered all crew to bail-out before attempting an emergency landing. Four exceptionally heavy fighting along the Kalkar (Calcar) Goch Road. Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was exceptionally heavy fighting along the Kalkar (Calcar) Goch Road. Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was crew members were able to bail-out before the aircraft crashed and burned upon impact with the crew members were able to bail-out before the aircraft crashed and burned upon impact with the killed in action on 21 February 1945 near the town of Keppelen, Germany. In a letter to his parents, killed in action on 21 February 1945 near the town of Keppelen, Germany. In a letter to his parents, loss of the remaining three crew members, including P/O Ibbotson. loss of the remaining three crew members, including P/O Ibbotson. his Captain spoke highly of Trooper Mack and described how his four-man squad was advancing his Captain spoke highly of Trooper Mack and described how his four-man squad was advancing along the side of a road when they were hit by an artillery shell. Only one seriously injured man along the side of a road when they were hit by an artillery shell. Only one seriously injured man German records indicated that F/O William Henry Parkinson and his two fellow aircrew (P/O Harry German records indicated that F/O William Henry Parkinson and his two fellow aircrew (P/O Harry survived. survived. Ibbotson and F/O Stanley Allen Hawkins) were initially buried in what was known as a “Comrade’s Ibbotson and F/O Stanley Allen Hawkins) were initially buried in what was known as a “Comrade’s Grave” (or shared grave) in the small Belgian town of Grand Reng. Shortly after the end of the War Grave” (or shared grave) in the small Belgian town of Grand Reng. Shortly after the end of the War Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was initially buried a few miles northwest in a cemetery in the small Trooper Gordon Earl Mack was initially buried a few miles northwest in a cemetery in the small in Europe, their bodies were exhumed but their individual remains were not able to be identified. in Europe, their bodies were exhumed but their individual remains were not able to be identified. village of Louisendorf. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and village of Louisendorf. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and Their shared remains were reburied and marked with all three names in the Gosselies Communal Their shared remains were reburied and marked with all three names in the Gosselies Communal reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in Cemetery, near Charleroi, Belgium. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa. Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 30 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3031 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 31 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II DONALD FRASER TITT DONALD FRASER TITT R271259 Sergeant R271259A memorial cairn Sergeant was erected at the crash site to the eight aircrew of Halifax Mk.V, LL505 and it is A memorial cairn was erected at the crash site to the eight aircrew of Halifax Mk.V, LL505 and it is still surrounded with a large amount of aircraft wreckage. In 2005, Canadian Embassy staff and still surrounded with a large amount of aircraft wreckage. In 2005, Canadian Embassy staff and Born: 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in Rockwood, Born: 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in Rockwood, Ontario Ontariorepresentatives of the RAF participated in the re-dedication of this memorial. It is the most visited representatives of the RAF participated in the re-dedication of this memorial. It is the most visited WWII aircraft crash site in Cumbria (formerly Cumberland). WWII aircraft crash site in Cumbria (formerly Cumberland). Previous Occupation: Woodworker building aircraft parts. Previous Occupation: Woodworker building aircraft parts. Enlisted: 23 August 1943 in an unknown location Enlisted: 23 August 1943 in an unknown location Died: 22 October 1944 at the age of 19 Died: 22 October 1944 at the age of 19 Buried: Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England Buried: Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England

Donald Fraser Titt was born on 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan, Donald Fraser Titt was born on 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A. and was the only child of Cyril Ernest and Margaret Ethel Titt U.S.A. and was the only child of Cyril Ernest and Margaret Ethel Titt of Rockwood. He grew up in Rockwood and attended high school at of Rockwood. He grew up in Rockwood and attended high school at Guelph Collegiate. After graduating from Grade 8, he went to work in Guelph Collegiate. After graduating from Grade 8, he went to work in Weston (Toronto) at the Massey Harris Plant as a woodworker building aircraft parts. Weston (Toronto) at the Massey Harris Plant as a woodworker building aircraft parts.

On 23 August 1943, Donald Fraser Titt enlisted (location unknown) in the RCAF and was sent for On 23 August 1943, Donald Fraser Titt enlisted (location unknown) in the RCAF and was sent for basic training before being sent on Course 72 at #10 Bombing and Gunnery School at RCAF Station basic training before being sent on Course 72 at #10 Bombing and Gunnery School at RCAF Station Mount Pleasant, near Summerside, Prince Edward Island. Upon completion on 16 March 1943, he Mount Pleasant, near Summerside, Prince Edward Island. Upon completion on 16 March 1943, he received his Air Gunner badge. Donald embarked for England and arrived on 10 May 1943. He received his Air Gunner badge. Donald embarked for England and arrived on 10 May 1943. He was soon transferred to the #82 Operational Training Unit at RAF Ossington to train night bomber was soon transferred to the #82 Operational Training Unit at RAF Ossington to train night bomber crews and was promoted to Sergeant. He was next transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group crews and was promoted to Sergeant. He was next transferred to Bomber Command’s No. 6 Group (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England before being transferred (RCAF), No. 61 Base for further operational training in Yorkshire, England before being transferred again to No. 1659 Holding Composite Unit, flying Halifax bombers at RCAF Topcliffe, Yorkshire. again to No. 1659 Holding Composite Unit, flying Halifax bombers at RCAF Topcliffe, Yorkshire.

Sergeant Titt never flew an operational mission. The evening of 22 October 1944, his Halifax aircraft Sergeant Titt never flew an operational mission. The evening of 22 October 1944, his Halifax aircraft and her crew were on a night navigation training flight in bad weather and crashed and burned on and her crew were on a night navigation training flight in bad weather and crashed and burned on impact near Little Langdale, in the Lake District of Cumberland (North-West England). All eight crew impact near Little Langdale, in the Lake District of Cumberland (North-West England). All eight crew (seven Canadians and one Briton) were killed. The accident report indicates they had turned off (seven Canadians and one Briton) were killed. The accident report indicates they had turned off their navigation lights and were practicing flying specific headings and altitudes as instructed by Air theirHalifax navigation Crash Site lights Memorial, and wereCumbria practicing flying specific headings and altitudes as instructed by Air Halifax Crash Site Memorial, Cumbria Traffic Control (ATC). While they acknowledged ATC’s instructions, they failed to carry them out. Traffic Control (ATC). While they acknowledged ATC’s instructions, they failed to carry them out. The aircraft was reported to be circling at very low altitude so a fighter aircraft was sent to help guide The aircraft was reported to be circling at very low altitude so a fighter aircraft was sent to help guide them back to their home base. Unfortunately, it arrived just in time to witness them crash into a peak them back to their home base. Unfortunately, it arrived just in time to witness them crash into a peak known as Great Carrs, near Little Langdale. The exact reason for the crash was never determined known as Great Carrs, near Little Langdale. The exact reason for the crash was never determined but navigational error combined with disorientation was suspected. It is possible that the pilot but navigational error combined with disorientation was suspected. It is possible that the pilot attempted to descend out of the heavy clouds and mist to get a visual fix on the ground, but hit the attempted to descend out of the heavy clouds and mist to get a visual fix on the ground, but hit the peak in the process. peak in the process.

Sergeant Titt’s Commanding Officer, Group Captain G.A. McKenna, wrote to Donald’s father that Sergeant Titt’s Commanding Officer, Group Captain G.A. McKenna, wrote to Donald’s father that the “aircraft was off course and flying at a lower altitude at the time than it should have been. Exact the “aircraft was off course and flying at a lower altitude at the time than it should have been. Exact reason of the crash will never be known.” reason of the crash will never be known.”

Sergeant Donald Fraser Titt was buried in the Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England. A Sergeant Donald Fraser Titt was buried in the Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England. A memorial service was held at Rockwood’s St. John’s Anglican Church on 5 November 1944. His memorial service was held at Rockwood’s St. John’s Anglican Church on 5 November 1944. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 32 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3332 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 33 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II DONALD FRASER TITT DONALD FRASER TITT R271259 Sergeant R271259A memorial cairn Sergeant was erected at the crash site to the eight aircrew of Halifax Mk.V, LL505 and it is A memorial cairn was erected at the crash site to the eight aircrew of Halifax Mk.V, LL505 and it is still surrounded with a large amount of aircraft wreckage. In 2005, Canadian Embassy staff and still surrounded with a large amount of aircraft wreckage. In 2005, Canadian Embassy staff and Born: 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in Rockwood, Born: 31 January 1925 in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in Rockwood, Ontario Ontariorepresentatives of the RAF participated in the re-dedication of this memorial. It is the most visited representatives of the RAF participated in the re-dedication of this memorial. It is the most visited WWII aircraft crash site in Cumbria (formerly Cumberland). WWII aircraft crash site in Cumbria (formerly Cumberland). Previous Occupation: Woodworker building aircraft parts. Previous Occupation: Woodworker building aircraft parts. Enlisted: 23 August 1943 in an unknown location Enlisted: 23 August 1943 in an unknown location Died: 22 October 1944 at the age of 19 Died: 22 October 1944 at the age of 19 Buried: Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England Buried: Chester (Blacon) Cemetery in Cheshire, England

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 32 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3233 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 33 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II GEORGE ROBERT WARE DOUGLASGEORGE ROBERT WALTER WARE WHEELER DOUGLAS WALTER WHEELER A35224 Gunner A89292A35224 TrooperGunner A89292 Trooper Born: 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, Ontario Born: 158 May May 1917 1923 in in Nassagaweya, RR#1 Belwood, Ontario Ontario Born: 15 May 1923 in RR#1 Belwood, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farmer Previous Occupation: FarmingFarmer Previous Occupation: Farming Enlisted: 1 June 1940 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 51 NovemberJune 1940 1942in Guelph, in Fergus, Ontario Ontario Enlisted: 5 November 1942 in Fergus, Ontario Died: 15 August 1944 at the age of 27 Died: 915 August August 1944 1944 at at the the age age of of 21 27 Died: 9 August 1944 at the age of 21 Buried: Bayeux War Cemetery in Bayeux, Normandy, France Buried: Bretteville-sur-LaizeBayeux War Cemetery Canadian in Bayeux, War Normandy, Cemetery Francein Calvados, Nor- Buried: Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, Nor- mandy, France mandy, France George Robert Ware was born on 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, to George Robert Ware was born on 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, to Albert and Alice Ware of Rockwood. He was one of five children (Albert DouglasAlbert and Walter Alice WheelerWare of Rockwood.was born on He15 wasMay one1923 of to five Walter children and Elizabeth(Albert Douglas Walter Wheeler was born on 15 May 1923 to Walter and Elizabeth Henry, Alice, Evelyn Pamela and Peace Albert Bruce). George was WheelerHenry, Alice, of RR#1 Evelyn Belwood. Pamela andThey Peace were aAlbert large Bruce). family and George Douglas was with his four brothers and six Wheeler of RR#1 Belwood. They were a large family and Douglas with his four brothers and six raised in Rockwood and attended Eramosa S.S.#9 in Rockwood. After graduating, he worked as sistersraised in(George, Rockwood David, and William, attended Arthur, Eramosa Gladys, S.S.#9 Myrtle, in Rockwood. Maggie, Mary, After Ida graduating, and Wilma) he were worked raised as on sisters (George, David, William, Arthur, Gladys, Myrtle, Maggie, Mary, Ida and Wilma) were raised on a farmer and operated farm tractors and equipment. Prior to enlisting for overseas service, he was thea farmer family and farm. operated Douglas’ farm mother tractors died and some equipment. time before Prior he to enlisted. enlisting for overseas service, he was the family farm. Douglas’ mother died some time before he enlisted. a militia member of the 43rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment headquartered in London, a militia member of the 43rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment headquartered in London, Ontario. DouglasOntario. Wheeler enlisted in Fergus on 5 November 1942, under the National Resources Douglas Wheeler enlisted in Fergus on 5 November 1942, under the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA). From 19 December 1942 to 7 January 1943, he was in the Chatham Mobilization Act (NRMA). From 19 December 1942 to 7 January 1943, he was in the Chatham On 1 June 1940, George Robert Ware enlisted in the 12th Field Regiment of the Royal Canadian MilitaryOn 1 June Hospital 1940, with George mumps. Robert Once Ware he enlisted had recovered, in the 12th he wasField reassigned Regiment ofto thethe Royal28th Canadian Canadian Military Hospital with mumps. Once he had recovered, he was reassigned to the 28th Canadian Artillery (RCA), headquartered in Guelph. He completed his basic training and in March 1940, ArmouredArtillery (RCA), Regiment headquartered (British Columbia in Guelph. Regiment) He completed and sent his for basic training training as a andtank in gunner. March 1940,After Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) and sent for training as a tank gunner. After he was sent to Camp Sussex in New Brunswick for further training as a tank driver/mechanic. completinghe was sent his to training,Camp Sussex he embarked in New forBrunswick England for on further 10 July training 1943 and as a arrived tank driver/mechanic. eight days later. A completing his training, he embarked for England on 10 July 1943 and arrived eight days later. A After completing this course on 17 February 1941, he was assigned to the Regiment’s Guelph fewAfter months completing after thishis arrivalcourse in on England, 17 February his regiment 1941, he was was equipped assigned with to the the Regiment’s new Sherman Guelph Medium few months after his arrival in England, his regiment was equipped with the new Sherman Medium Headquartered 16th Battery. He embarked from Halifax and arrived in Liverpool, England on 30 TankHeadquartered under the experienced16th Battery. command He embarked of Lieutenant-Colonel from Halifax and arrivedDon Worthington, in Liverpool, with England tank combat on 30 Tank under the experienced command of Lieutenant-Colonel Don Worthington, with tank combat July 1941. They were equipped with the very good performing Sorel, Quebec made 25-Pounder experienceJuly 1941. Theyin North were Africa. equipped Trooper with Wheeler the very and good his performing regiment continuedSorel, Quebec training made in England 25-Pounder for experience in North Africa. Trooper Wheeler and his regiment continued training in England for Field Gun/Howitzer. Gunner Ware and his 12th Field Regiment RCA were part of the 3rd Canadian almostField Gun/Howitzer. a full year. After Gunner the D-Day Ware landings,and his 12th they Field arrived Regiment in Normandy, RCA were France part on of 23the July 3rd Canadian1944 and almost a full year. After the D-Day landings, they arrived in Normandy, France on 23 July 1944 and Division. He was stationed with his regiment in England until they landed at Juno Beach, Normandy wereDivision. deployed He was just stationed south of withCaen, his in regiment preparation in England for Operation until they Totalize. landed at Juno Beach, Normandy were deployed just south of Caen, in preparation for Operation Totalize. on D-Day, 6 June 1941. on D-Day, 6 June 1941.

Operation Totalize (7 to 10 August 1944) was initiated to break out of the Caen perimeter and Operation Totalize (7 to 10 August 1944) was initiated to break out of the Caen perimeter and Operation Tractable (14 August to 16 August) was an important part of the larger, overall battle Operationforce the German Tractable Army (14 into August retreat. to 16 It wasAugust) part wasof a anmuch important larger Falaisepart of theGap larger, / Falaise overall Pocket battle plan force the German Army into retreat. It was part of a much larger Falaise Gap / Falaise Pocket plan of the Falaise Gap / Falaise Pocket. The heavy Canadian losses during Operation Totalize were ofto theencircle Falaise and Gap capture / Falaise the German Pocket. divisions The heavy that Canadian had opposed losses the during D-Day Operation invasion Totalizeof Normandy. were to encircle and capture the German divisions that had opposed the D-Day invasion of Normandy. inflicted by some of the strongest opposition on the Normandy front. After re-grouping, the launch inflictedIn this four by day some operation, of the strongest the Canadian opposition army onsuffered the Normandy heavy losses front. while After gainingre-grouping, only halfthe launchof the In this four day operation, the Canadian army suffered heavy losses while gaining only half of the of Operation Tractable on 14 August was a concentrated effort to break through the German lines ofdistance Operation towards Tractable their objectiveon 14 August of capturing was a concentrated Falaise. The effort Canadian to break Army through was advancing the German along lines the distance towards their objective of capturing Falaise. The Canadian Army was advancing along the towards Falaise. Supporting the ground attack, RAF and RCAF aircraft were providing tactical air towardsmain Caen-Falaise Falaise. Supporting road and the highestground attack,point along RAF theand road RCAF was aircraft a hill knownwere providing as Point tactical195. The air main Caen-Falaise road and the highest point along the road was a hill known as Point 195. The support. Unfortunately, in the afternoon of 14 August, they attacked short of their target within the support.capture of Unfortunately, this vital hill was in the assigned afternoon to Lieutenant-Colonelof 14 August, they attackedWorthington’s short 28thof their Armored target withinRegiment the capture of this vital hill was assigned to Lieutenant-Colonel Worthington’s 28th Armored Regiment German lines and for an hour, their bombs fell on the Canadian artillery and transport areas. German(British Columbia lines and Regiment)for an hour, along their withbombs two fell companies on the Canadian of the Algonquin artillery and Regiment. transport The areas. attack was (British Columbia Regiment) along with two companies of the Algonquin Regiment. The attack was delayed by a day to allow for aerial bombing, but instead this allowed the enemy to prepare for the delayed by a day to allow for aerial bombing, but instead this allowed the enemy to prepare for the inevitable assault. inevitable assault. These were the conditions in the afternoon of 14 August when Gunner George Robert Ware was These were the conditions in the afternoon of 14 August when Gunner George Robert Ware was severely injured by a bomb blast. He was initially taken to a Field Ambulance Station and then severelyAt 5:00 am injured on 9 byAugust, a bomb the blast. 28th started He was their initially advance taken through to a Field the Ambulance fog and smoke Station but and the thenpoor At 5:00 am on 9 August, the 28th started their advance through the fog and smoke but the poor transferred to a Field Hospital, followed by a more capable General Hospital. His wounds were transferredvisibility soon to hada Field them Hospital, heading followed to the left by /a east more of capable their planned General track. Hospital. At 8:00 His am, wounds they reported were visibility soon had them heading to the left / east of their planned track. At 8:00 am, they reported too severe and he died in the early morning of 15 August 1944. Gunner George Robert Ware was too(incorrectly) severe and that he they died had in thereached early theirmorning objective, of 15 Augustbut they 1944. had accidently Gunner George passed Robert through Ware a gap was in (incorrectly) that they had reached their objective, but they had accidently passed through a gap in buried in the Bayeux War Cemetery in Bayeux, Normandy, France. His name is also memorialized buriedthe German in the defencesBayeux War and Cemetery in fact were in Bayeux,6 kms east Normandy, of their objective. France. His The name 28th isArmored also memorialized Regiment the German defences and in fact were 6 kms east of their objective. The 28th Armored Regiment in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. inwas the surrounded Books of Remembrance on three sides inby the stronger Peace enemy Tower offorces. the Canadian The German Parliament attack Buildings,was swift andOttawa. was surrounded on three sides by stronger enemy forces. The German attack was swift and devastating. The 28th was initially enveloped in anti-tank and heavy mortar fire while a force of devastating. The 28th was initially enveloped in anti-tank and heavy mortar fire while a force of more powerful Tiger and Panther heavy tanks attacked them from the south. more powerful Tiger and Panther heavy tanks attacked them from the south.

Continued on page 36 Continued on page 36

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 34 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3534 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 35 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II GEORGE ROBERT WARE GEORGEDOUGLAS ROBERT WALTER WARE WHEELER DOUGLAS WALTER WHEELER A35224 Gunner A35224A89292 GunnerTrooper A89292 Trooper Born: 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, Ontario Born: 815 May May 1917 1923 in in Nassagaweya, RR#1 Belwood, Ontario Ontario Born: 15 May 1923 in RR#1 Belwood, Ontario Previous Occupation: Farmer Previous Occupation: FarmerFarming Previous Occupation: Farming Enlisted: 1 June 1940 in Guelph, Ontario Enlisted: 15 JuneNovember 1940 1942in Guelph, in Fergus, Ontario Ontario Enlisted: 5 November 1942 in Fergus, Ontario Died: 15 August 1944 at the age of 27 Died: 159 August August 1944 1944 at at the the age age of of 21 27 Died: 9 August 1944 at the age of 21 Buried: Bayeux War Cemetery in Bayeux, Normandy, France Buried: BayeuxBretteville-sur-Laize War Cemetery Canadian in Bayeux, War Normandy, Cemetery Francein Calvados, Nor- Buried: Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, Nor- mandy, France mandy, France George Robert Ware was born on 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, to George Robert Ware was born on 8 May 1917 in Nassagaweya, to Albert and Alice Ware of Rockwood. He was one of five children (Albert DouglasAlbert and Walter Alice WheelerWare of Rockwood.was born on He15 wasMay one1923 of to five Walter children and Elizabeth(Albert Douglas Walter Wheeler was born on 15 May 1923 to Walter and Elizabeth Henry, Alice, Evelyn Pamela and Peace Albert Bruce). George was WheelerHenry, Alice, of RR#1 Evelyn Belwood. Pamela andThey Peace were aAlbert large Bruce). family and George Douglas was with his four brothers and six Wheeler of RR#1 Belwood. They were a large family and Douglas with his four brothers and six raised in Rockwood and attended Eramosa S.S.#9 in Rockwood. After graduating, he worked as sistersraised in(George, Rockwood David, and William, attended Arthur, Eramosa Gladys, S.S.#9 Myrtle, in Rockwood. Maggie, Mary, After Ida graduating, and Wilma) he were worked raised as on sisters (George, David, William, Arthur, Gladys, Myrtle, Maggie, Mary, Ida and Wilma) were raised on a farmer and operated farm tractors and equipment. Prior to enlisting for overseas service, he was thea farmer family and farm. operated Douglas’ farm mother tractors died and some equipment. time before Prior he to enlisted. enlisting for overseas service, he was the family farm. Douglas’ mother died some time before he enlisted. a militia member of the 43rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment headquartered in London, a militia member of the 43rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment headquartered in London, Ontario. DouglasOntario. Wheeler enlisted in Fergus on 5 November 1942, under the National Resources Douglas Wheeler enlisted in Fergus on 5 November 1942, under the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA). From 19 December 1942 to 7 January 1943, he was in the Chatham Mobilization Act (NRMA). From 19 December 1942 to 7 January 1943, he was in the Chatham On 1 June 1940, George Robert Ware enlisted in the 12th Field Regiment of the Royal Canadian MilitaryOn 1 June Hospital 1940, with George mumps. Robert Once Ware he enlisted had recovered, in the 12th he wasField reassigned Regiment ofto thethe Royal28th Canadian Canadian Military Hospital with mumps. Once he had recovered, he was reassigned to the 28th Canadian Artillery (RCA), headquartered in Guelph. He completed his basic training and in March 1940, ArmouredArtillery (RCA), Regiment headquartered (British Columbia in Guelph. Regiment) He completed and sent his for basic training training as a andtank in gunner. March 1940,After Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) and sent for training as a tank gunner. After he was sent to Camp Sussex in New Brunswick for further training as a tank driver/mechanic. completinghe was sent his to training,Camp Sussex he embarked in New forBrunswick England for on further 10 July training 1943 and as a arrived tank driver/mechanic. eight days later. A completing his training, he embarked for England on 10 July 1943 and arrived eight days later. A After completing this course on 17 February 1941, he was assigned to the Regiment’s Guelph fewAfter months completing after thishis arrivalcourse in on England, 17 February his regiment 1941, he was was equipped assigned with to the the Regiment’s new Sherman Guelph Medium few months after his arrival in England, his regiment was equipped with the new Sherman Medium Headquartered 16th Battery. He embarked from Halifax and arrived in Liverpool, England on 30 TankHeadquartered under the experienced16th Battery. command He embarked of Lieutenant-Colonel from Halifax and arrivedDon Worthington, in Liverpool, with England tank combat on 30 Tank under the experienced command of Lieutenant-Colonel Don Worthington, with tank combat July 1941. They were equipped with the very good performing Sorel, Quebec made 25-Pounder experienceJuly 1941. Theyin North were Africa. equipped Trooper with Wheeler the very and good his performing regiment continuedSorel, Quebec training made in England 25-Pounder for experience in North Africa. Trooper Wheeler and his regiment continued training in England for Field Gun/Howitzer. Gunner Ware and his 12th Field Regiment RCA were part of the 3rd Canadian almostField Gun/Howitzer. a full year. After Gunner the D-Day Ware landings,and his 12th they Field arrived Regiment in Normandy, RCA were France part on of 23the July 3rd Canadian1944 and almost a full year. After the D-Day landings, they arrived in Normandy, France on 23 July 1944 and Division. He was stationed with his regiment in England until they landed at Juno Beach, Normandy wereDivision. deployed He was just stationed south of withCaen, his in regiment preparation in England for Operation until they Totalize. landed at Juno Beach, Normandy were deployed just south of Caen, in preparation for Operation Totalize. on D-Day, 6 June 1941. on D-Day, 6 June 1941.

Continued on page 36 Continued on page 36

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 34 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3435 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 35 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II CHARLES HUMPHREY WILSON CHARLES HUMPHREY WILSON At 8:30 am, the 28th reported they were under heavy attack and requested artillery support, but AtA108336 8:30 am, the Private 28th reported they were under heavy attack and requested artillery support, but A108336 Private because they were still confused about their position, the artillery shells fell 6 kms away on Hill 195. Born:because 13 theyJune were 1922 still in Edenconfused Mills, about Ontario their position, the artillery shells fell 6 kms away on Hill 195. Born: 13 June 1922 in Eden Mills, Ontario At 9:00 am, Brigade Headquarters tried to contact the 28th but there was no reply. By nightfall, At 9:00 am, Brigade Headquarters tried to contact the 28th but there was no reply. By nightfall, the 28th Armored Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) had lost 47 of their 52 tanks with the thePrevious 28th Armored Occupation: Regiment Tool (Britishand Die Columbia Regiment) had lost 47 of their 52 tanks with the Previous Occupation: Tool and Die loss of 112 men killed (including Lieutenant-Colonel Worthington) and 34 taken prisoner. The two Enlisted:loss of 112 28 men September killed (including 1943 in Lieutenant-ColonelLondon, Ontario Worthington) and 34 taken prisoner. The two Enlisted: 28 September 1943 in London, Ontario companies of the Algonquin Regiment lost 128 men killed and 45 taken prisoner. companies of the Algonquin Regiment lost 128 men killed and 45 taken prisoner. Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 22 Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 22 That night, the few remaining tanks and the surviving infantrymen and tank crew made their ThatBuried: night, Groesbeek the few remaining Canadian tanks War Cemetery,and the surviving near Nijmegen, infantrymen Nether- and tank crew made their Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Nether- way back to allied lines. Their reports describing the battle against much superior firepower and waylands. back to allied lines. Their reports describing the battle against much superior firepower and lands. manpower helped piece together the events of the day. After their near destruction, the 28th manpower helped piece together the events of the day. After their near destruction, the 28th Canadian Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) was reinforced and re-equipped and just CharlesCanadian Humphrey Armoured Wilson Regiment was (Britishborn on Columbia 13 June 1922Regiment) to Wilkins was Royreinforced and re-equipped and just Charles Humphrey Wilson was born on 13 June 1922 to Wilkins Roy five days later, they were back in battle for the closing of the Falaise Gap. andfive Susandays later, Irene they (nee were Spinks) back Wilson in battle of forEden the Mills. closing He of was the theirFalaise only Gap. and Susan Irene (nee Spinks) Wilson of Eden Mills. He was their only child. Charles grew up in Eden Mills. While attending high school in child. Charles grew up in Eden Mills. While attending high school in Guelph, he played hockey for the Guelph Juveniles. After leaving school at the age of 17, he went Guelph, he played hockey for the Guelph Juveniles. After leaving school at the age of 17, he went Information from the few survivors told how Trooper Wheeler’s tank was hit and immediately caught toInformation work for the from Cooke the few and survivors Denison told Tool how and Trooper Die Works Wheeler’s of Guelph tank until was 28 hit September and immediately 1943, whencaught he to work for the Cooke and Denison Tool and Die Works of Guelph until 28 September 1943, when he fire. Only one of the five man crew escaped before the flames and fear of imminent explosion enlistedfire. Only in London,one of the Ontario. five man crew escaped before the flames and fear of imminent explosion enlisted in London, Ontario. prevented further attempts to search for survivors in the middle of the battle. prevented further attempts to search for survivors in the middle of the battle. During his enlistment physical examination, he was initially classified as medically unfit for overseas During his enlistment physical examination, he was initially classified as medically unfit for overseas On 9 August 1944, Trooper Douglas Walter Wheeler was killed in this action and buried in the near- dutyOn 9 because August 1944, he was Trooper deaf in Douglas one ear Walter from an Wheeler earlier earwas infection. killed in this However, action andon 9 buried February in the 1944, near- duty because he was deaf in one ear from an earlier ear infection. However, on 9 February 1944, by Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, Normandy, France. His name is heby Bretteville-sur-Laizewas re-categorized as Canadian “Fit for Duty” War Cemeteryand sent for in Calvados,basic training Normandy, at Camp France. Petawawa. His name While isthere, he was re-categorized as “Fit for Duty” and sent for basic training at Camp Petawawa. While there, also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament healso trained memorialized and qualified in the Booksas a driver of Remembrance and gun fitter inin thethe Peace Royal Canadian Tower of Artillery.the Canadian After Parliamentcompleting he trained and qualified as a driver and gun fitter in the Royal Canadian Artillery. After completing Buildings, Ottawa. hisBuildings, training, Ottawa. he embarked for England on 21 November 1944. Shortly after his arrival in England, he his training, he embarked for England on 21 November 1944. Shortly after his arrival in England, he “re-mustered” (voluntarily transferred) on 2 December into the Lincoln and Welland Regiment with “re-mustered” (voluntarily transferred) on 2 December into the Lincoln and Welland Regiment with the rank of Private. The Canadian Infantry Corps was experiencing high losses and were requesting the rank of Private. The Canadian Infantry Corps was experiencing high losses and were requesting volunteers to replenish their ranks. After less than two months of further training in England, he volunteers to replenish their ranks. After less than two months of further training in England, he joined his regiment in the Netherlands. It was the beginning of February and as part of the 10th joined his regiment in the Netherlands. It was the beginning of February and as part of the 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, the Lincoln and Welland Regiment was heavily involved in the Battle of Canadian Infantry Brigade, the Lincoln and Welland Regiment was heavily involved in the Battle of the Rhine near the Dutch frontier with Germany. the Rhine near the Dutch frontier with Germany.

Five weeks later, on 8 March 1945, Private Charles Humphrey Wilson was killed in action while Five weeks later, on 8 March 1945, Private Charles Humphrey Wilson was killed in action while taking part in the fierce door to door and room to room fighting in the German town of Veen. He taking part in the fierce door to door and room to room fighting in the German town of Veen. He was initially buried 6 kms west in the town of Sonsbeck. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, was initially buried 6 kms west in the town of Sonsbeck. Shortly after the end of the War in Europe, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, his body was exhumed and reburied in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Netherlands. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of Netherlands. His name is also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa. the Canadian Parliament Buildings, Ottawa.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 36 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3736 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 37 World War II WorldWorld WarWar IIII World War II CHARLES HUMPHREY WILSON CHARLES HUMPHREY WILSON At 8:30 am, the 28th reported they were under heavy attack and requested artillery support, but AtA108336 8:30 am, the Private 28th reported they were under heavy attack and requested artillery support, but A108336 Private because they were still confused about their position, the artillery shells fell 6 kms away on Hill 195. Born:because 13 theyJune were 1922 still in Edenconfused Mills, about Ontario their position, the artillery shells fell 6 kms away on Hill 195. Born: 13 June 1922 in Eden Mills, Ontario At 9:00 am, Brigade Headquarters tried to contact the 28th but there was no reply. By nightfall, At 9:00 am, Brigade Headquarters tried to contact the 28th but there was no reply. By nightfall, the 28th Armored Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) had lost 47 of their 52 tanks with the thePrevious 28th Armored Occupation: Regiment Tool (Britishand Die Columbia Regiment) had lost 47 of their 52 tanks with the Previous Occupation: Tool and Die loss of 112 men killed (including Lieutenant-Colonel Worthington) and 34 taken prisoner. The two Enlisted:loss of 112 28 men September killed (including 1943 in Lieutenant-ColonelLondon, Ontario Worthington) and 34 taken prisoner. The two Enlisted: 28 September 1943 in London, Ontario companies of the Algonquin Regiment lost 128 men killed and 45 taken prisoner. companies of the Algonquin Regiment lost 128 men killed and 45 taken prisoner. Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 22 Died: 8 March 1945 at the age of 22 That night, the few remaining tanks and the surviving infantrymen and tank crew made their ThatBuried: night, Groesbeek the few remaining Canadian tanks War Cemetery,and the surviving near Nijmegen, infantrymen Nether- and tank crew made their Buried: Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, near Nijmegen, Nether- way back to allied lines. Their reports describing the battle against much superior firepower and waylands. back to allied lines. Their reports describing the battle against much superior firepower and lands. manpower helped piece together the events of the day. After their near destruction, the 28th manpower helped piece together the events of the day. After their near destruction, the 28th Canadian Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) was reinforced and re-equipped and just CharlesCanadian Humphrey Armoured Wilson Regiment was (Britishborn on Columbia 13 June 1922Regiment) to Wilkins was Royreinforced and re-equipped and just Charles Humphrey Wilson was born on 13 June 1922 to Wilkins Roy five days later, they were back in battle for the closing of the Falaise Gap. andfive Susandays later, Irene they (nee were Spinks) back Wilson in battle of forEden the Mills. closing He of was the theirFalaise only Gap. and Susan Irene (nee Spinks) Wilson of Eden Mills. He was their only child. Charles grew up in Eden Mills. While attending high school in child. Charles grew up in Eden Mills. While attending high school in Guelph, he played hockey for the Guelph Juveniles. After leaving school at the age of 17, he went Guelph, he played hockey for the Guelph Juveniles. After leaving school at the age of 17, he went Information from the few survivors told how Trooper Wheeler’s tank was hit and immediately caught toInformation work for the from Cooke the few and survivors Denison told Tool how and Trooper Die Works Wheeler’s of Guelph tank until was 28 hit September and immediately 1943, whencaught he to work for the Cooke and Denison Tool and Die Works of Guelph until 28 September 1943, when he fire. Only one of the five man crew escaped before the flames and fear of imminent explosion enlistedfire. Only in London,one of the Ontario. five man crew escaped before the flames and fear of imminent explosion enlisted in London, Ontario. prevented further attempts to search for survivors in the middle of the battle. prevented further attempts to search for survivors in the middle of the battle. During his enlistment physical examination, he was initially classified as medically unfit for overseas During his enlistment physical examination, he was initially classified as medically unfit for overseas On 9 August 1944, Trooper Douglas Walter Wheeler was killed in this action and buried in the near- dutyOn 9 because August 1944, he was Trooper deaf in Douglas one ear Walter from an Wheeler earlier earwas infection. killed in this However, action andon 9 buried February in the 1944, near- duty because he was deaf in one ear from an earlier ear infection. However, on 9 February 1944, by Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, Normandy, France. His name is heby Bretteville-sur-Laizewas re-categorized as Canadian “Fit for Duty” War Cemeteryand sent for in Calvados,basic training Normandy, at Camp France. Petawawa. His name While isthere, he was re-categorized as “Fit for Duty” and sent for basic training at Camp Petawawa. While there, also memorialized in the Books of Remembrance in the Peace Tower of the Canadian Parliament healso trained memorialized and qualified in the Booksas a driver of Remembrance and gun fitter inin thethe Peace Royal Canadian Tower of Artillery.the Canadian After Parliamentcompleting he trained and qualified as a driver and gun fitter in the Royal Canadian Artillery. After completing Buildings, Ottawa. hisBuildings, training, Ottawa. he embarked for England on 21 November 1944. Shortly after his arrival in England, he his training, he embarked for England on 21 November 1944. Shortly after his arrival in England, he “re-mustered” (voluntarily transferred) on 2 December into the Lincoln and Welland Regiment with “re-mustered” (voluntarily transferred) on 2 December into the Lincoln and Welland Regiment with the rank of Private. The Canadian Infantry Corps was experiencing high losses and were requesting the rank of Private. The Canadian Infantry Corps was experiencing high losses and were requesting volunteers to replenish their ranks. After less than two months of further training in England, he volunteers to replenish their ranks. After less than two months of further training in England, he joined his regiment in the Netherlands. It was the beginning of February and as part of the 10th joined his regiment in the Netherlands. It was the beginning of February and as part of the 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, the Lincoln and Welland Regiment was heavily involved in the Battle of Canadian Infantry Brigade, the Lincoln and Welland Regiment was heavily involved in the Battle of the Rhine near the Dutch frontier with Germany. the Rhine near the Dutch frontier with Germany.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 36 FallenFallen Soldiers Soldiers - Rockwood - Rockwood Cenotaph Cenotaph Page 3637 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 37 World War II World War II ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We wish to thank the following organizations and individuals for assisting with the preparation of this We wish to thank the following organizations and individuals for assisting with the preparation of this booklet: booklet: • 16th Field Battery, 12th Field Regiment, RCA, Guelph • 16th Field Battery, 12th Field Regiment, RCA, Guelph • 19th Alberta Dragoons • 19th Alberta Dragoons • 28th Canadian Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) • 28th Canadian Armoured Regiment (British Columbia Regiment) • 29th Field Battery, 11th Field Regiment, RCA, Guelph • 29th Field Battery, 11th Field Regiment, RCA, Guelph • Bomber Command Museum of Canada • Bomber Command Museum of Canada • canadaatwar.ca • canadaatwar.ca • canadiansoldier.com • canadiansoldier.com • ibiblio.org/hyperwar • ibiblio.org/hyperwar • James (Jimmy) Milne • James (Jimmy) Milne • John R. Scott (Maj. Ret.) • John R. Scott (Maj. Ret.) • Jordan Dolson • Jordan DolsonNote to Fergus Printing: Note to Fergus Printing: • Larry F. Gray • Larry F. Gray • Library and Archives Canada • Library and Archives Canada • Mark Hunt and the members of the Guelph-Eramosa Township Fire Department • Mark HuntPlease and the members insert of your the Guelph-Eramosa version of Township the back Fire Department page Please insert your version of the back page • National Defence and the Canadian Forces • National Defence and the Canadian Forces • The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada (Princess Louise’s) • The Argyllhere. and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada (Princess Louise’s) here. • The Canadian Army, 1939-1945: An Official Historical Summary by C.P. Stacey, Transcribed to • The Canadian Army, 1939-1945: An Official Historical Summary by C.P. Stacey, Transcribed to hmtl format by Patrick Clancey, HyperWar Foundation hmtl format by Patrick Clancey, HyperWar Foundation • The Canadian Great War Project • The Canadian Great War Project • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission • The Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment • The Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment • The Lincoln and Welland Regiment • The Lincoln and Welland Regiment • The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry • The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry • The Scottish Borderers Foundation • The Scottish Borderers Foundation • The War Museum of Canada • The War Museum of Canada • The Wellington County Museum and Archives • The Wellington County Museum and Archives • Veterans Affairs Canada • Veterans Affairs Canada • WURM-Hastings • WURM-Hastings We also wish to give special thanks to members of our local community and families of the fallen We also wish to give special thanks to members of our local community and families of the fallen including: including: • Ken Coker and the family of John S. Coker • Ken Coker and the family of John S. Coker • Paula Packer and the families of Thomas L. Edwards, J. Alfred Edwards and George R. Ware • Paula Packer and the families of Thomas L. Edwards, J. Alfred Edwards and George R. Ware • Eric Hilts and the family of John D. Hilts • Eric Hilts and the family of John D. Hilts • Brian Mack and the family of Gordon E. Mack • Brian Mack and the family of Gordon E. Mack • Emily Oakes and the family of J. Wilfred Oakes • Emily Oakes and the family of J. Wilfred Oakes • Margaret Wilson and the family of Jerry T. Guthrie • Margaret Wilson and the family of Jerry T. Guthrie

Special thanks to Gordon Carothers for his dedication to this project and spending hundreds of Special thanks to Gordon Carothers for his dedication to this project and spending hundreds of hours researching the lives of the fallen. hours researching the lives of the fallen.

Please contact the Guelph-Eramosa Township Heritage Committee with any corrections, information Please contact the Guelph-Eramosa Township Heritage Committee with any corrections, information or photos that may be included to help improve this booklet when it is next updated. or photos that may be included to help improve this booklet when it is next updated.

[email protected] or 519-856-9596 ext. 125. [email protected] or 519-856-9596 ext. 125.

Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 38 Fallen Soldiers - Rockwood Cenotaph Page 38 REMEMBERING THE REMEMBERING THE FALLEN FALLEN A tribute to the soldiers remembered A tribute to the soldiers remembered on the Rockwood Cenotaph. on the Rockwood Cenotaph.

The Memorial Cross