Month: November 2025

On The War Memorial Trail…..Remembrance Week 2025 – The WWII Soldier From Amherst Whose Photo Was Sent A Few Days Before What Would Have Been His 103rd Birthday

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November 21, 2025.  Once in a while, serendipity smiles on Pieter in his quest to find photos of soldiers.  During Remembrance Week he twice received photos of soldiers as a result of him trying to help the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, The Netherlands to find photos of a few soldiers for which research had already been done, but no photo could be found.  The first photo was for Peter HYDICHUK of Theodore, Saskatchewan.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/11/15/on-the-war-memorial-trail-remembrance-week-2025-the-wwii-soldier-who-was-never-forgotten-by-his-girlfriend-and-her-family/)

On Remembrance Day, Pieter received a photo of Garnet Joseph GALLANT of Amherst, Nova Scotia….just a few days before what would have been Garnet’s 103rd birthday! (You can read Jim Little’s story about Garnet here: https://www.facestograves.nl/LifeStories/GALLANT%20Garnet%20Joseph-JLE-bio-EN.pdf)

Born November 15, 1922, Garnet was the son of Charles and Mary (nee Gothreau) Gallant, of Amherst, Nova Scotia.  While serving with the Regina Rifle Regiment, he lost his life on February 18, 1945, aged 22, during the Battle of Moyland Wood in Germany.  (See https://legionmagazine.com/clearing-moyland-wood/) 

Map shows location of Amherst, Nova Scotia. (Map source: Google maps)

Pieter had decided to look for a photo of Garnet after seeing that he was from Amherst, Nova Scotia, which is just over the Northumberland Strait from us, about a 45 minute drive from our house. 

….The photo search led to a nephew who loved horses….

He quickly found a nephew, Daniel ‘Garnet’ Gallant, the son of Garnet’s brother Clifford, who had an interest in genealogy.  Unfortunately, he’d passed away in August 2024 – just a few weeks before Pieter began his investigation. 

Daniel ‘Garnet’ Gallant visited his uncle’s grave in 1994. (Photo courtesy of the Janet Lowerison)

A keen horseman, the soldier’s nephew Garnet had represented Canada at the World Equestrian Games in The Netherlands in 1994, and had visited his uncle’s grave during that trip.

In Garnet’s obituary, Pieter read that a memorial trail ride to honour Garnet’s life was planned at Waugh River Stables in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia on October 27, 2024.  Surely one of the family members in attendance would know of a photo, he thought, and contacted the owner of the stable, asking if a message could be left for family members.  The owner agreed.

A few days later, Pieter received a phone call from Garnet’s sister, Janet Lowerison, who explained that she was “….trying to track the pic down of Uncle Garnet….”  She confirmed that her “….brother Garnet had it…” but she wasn’t sure what happened to his albums.   She explained that she lives in Alberta, and “…. unfortunately we did not get home for the celebration of life as my husband was sick….”

Not long afterwards, Janet informed Pieter that Garnet’s son threw out all of his father’s albums after he died, but other family members were looking for a photo. 

We heard nothing more and so, as a last resort, Garnet Joseph Gallant went on our Cold Case List.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/our-cold-cases/)

….A Remembrance Day surprise….

Garnet Joseph Gallant.  (Photo courtesy of the Gallant Family.  Photo colourization by Pieter Valkenburg)

Then, on Remembrance Day 2025, Janet sent a photo! “….I was so happy when my nephew found this.   And the work you do is amazing.  But thank you again for all you do !!!…”

Janet included a copy of the original photo, in which Garnet was one of 4 people. Unfortunately, no one could identify who the other man and the two women were.

Group photo. Garnet Joseph Gallant is on the top right. (Photo courtesy of the Gallant Family)

….Captain Sunstrum wrote a letter to Garnet’s parents….

The Regina Rifle Regiment had left The Netherlands for Germany on February 8, 1945, as part of Operation Veritable, part of a pincer movement to cut into Germany in order for Allied troops to advance towards Berlin. (See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Veritable)

The Regiment had moved into Kleve, Germany on armoured personnel carriers.  As of February 16, 1945, they began clearing the Moyland Wood of German troops, encountering fierce resistance. 

On February 18, 1945, Garnet lost his life.  Captain Kenneth A. J. SUNSTRUM of the Regina Rifle Regiment wrote to Garnet’s parents, explaining the circumstances of his death….

“….You will by now have received the sad news of Garnet’s death.  He was evacuated after an action on 18th February in which the carrier of which he was a crew member struck a German mine.  Garnet was severely wounded and considerably shaken up as the blast had instantly killed the other members of his crew. 

He was immediately evacuated out of our unit area to where facilities were available for better medical attention under quieter conditions.  We knew his condition was critical, but the news of his death came as no less a shock to every member of our platoon….”

Captain Sunstrum wrote that Garnet had been buried “…with full rites of the Roman Catholic Church…” and then went on to say that “… as an efficient soldier and comrade he is and will continue to be greatly missed. 

Though only in his very early twenties he was in many respects one of our most experienced veterans, as since joining our unit on 11 June he has been in on every action of which our carrier platoon took part.  He never failed to acquit himself in every way as a good and true soldier….”

….Garnet was originally buried in Kleve, Germany…..

We travelled through Kleve, Germany during our 2025 European War Memorial Tour.  (Photo credit: Pieter Valkenburg)

Garnet was originally buried “….by the side of the road…” in Kleve, according to his service file.  We were in Kleve this spring as part of our 2025 European War Memorial Tour, following the route so many Canadian soldiers had taken in 1945. 

….Garnet was reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek….

Pieter stands behind the grave of Garnet Joseph Gallant in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

On February 21, 1946, Garnet was reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek.  We visited his grave this spring when we were in The Netherlands for our 2025 European Memorial Tour, and Pieter placed flags of Canada and Nova Scotia, plus an Acadian flag, by his grave. His was one of 383 graves in 14 cemeteries that we visited on this trip.

…..Stories of soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Moyland Wood….

Thank you to Janet Lowerison for finding a photo of her uncle, Garnet Joseph Gallant.  If anyone recognizes the other people in the group photo that includes Garnet, please let us know.

The flags placed at Garnet’s grave were donated.  Our thanks go to: 

  • Alan Waddell, Constituent Assistant, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, for the Canadian flag.
  • Kyle Graham, Research Officer, Military Relations, Nova Scotia Intergovernmental Affairs, on behalf of Premier Tim Houston, Province of Nova Scotia, for the Nova Scotia flag.

The work of remembrance of those who served continues.  One more Remembrance Week story to come…

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail….Remembrance Week 2025 – Remembrance Day Services At Borden-Carleton Legion And In Kinkora

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 2 Comments

November 17, 2025. A cool but dry day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 here on Prince Edward Island was very welcome for those standing outside during Remembrance Day services at Borden-Carleton Legion in Borden-Carleton and in Kinkora.  It seemed as though more people were in attendance than in previous years.

 ….Remembrance Day Service At Borden-Carleton Legion….

Pieter was the guest speaker during the Remembrance Day service at Borden-Carleton Legion. (Photo credit: Matt MacFarlane)

Remembrance Day at the Borden-Carleton Legion began with an inter-faith service, with Reverend Barbara Cairns of the United Church in Bedeque, and Father Babu A. Jesuraj of St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Church in Kinkora.  Father Jesuraj, who is from the Tamil Nadu province in India, explained that he had only been assigned to the parish in Kinkora for a month.  Trish Taylor spoke about the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII and invited dignitaries from the area to say a few words about remembrance. 

Pieter was the guest speaker, and gave the same presentation he’d given a few days earlier at the Remembrance Service in Crapaud Community Hall.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/11/12/on-the-war-memorial-trail-remembrance-week-2025-remembrance-service-at-crapaud-community-hall/)

Flag lowered by Arthur Ranahan during the playing of ‘The Last Post’ by the Cenotaph at the Legion in Borden-Carleton. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Wreath laid on behalf of the Government of Canada by the Cenotaph at the Legion in Borden-Carleton was placed by Pieter and carried by Danny Bernard. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the Remembrance Day Service, everyone was invited inside the Legion for a light lunch and a much needed cup of coffee or tea.  We also had a chance to look at the posters prepared by members of the local 4-H club, which were on display in the Legion hall.

Posters for Remembrance Day from the 4-H club were displayed in the Borden-Carleton Legion.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

….Remembrance Day Service by the Memorial in Kinkora….

The Remembrance Day service was over in Borden-Carleton by the end of the morning, but Legion members made their way to the memorial in Kinkora in the afternoon for a service there.

Wreath carried by Pieter Valkenburg and placed by Cenotaph in Kinkora by The Honourable Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Wreath carried by Brian O’Connor and placed by Cenotaph in Kinkora by Matt MacFarlane, MLA for District 19, Borden-Kinkora Leader of the Green Party of PEI. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the service in Kinkora, Pieter (centre) posed for a photo with Matt MacFarlane (left) and Heath MacDonald (right).  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg

Following the Remembrance Day Service, everyone was invited inside the community hall for a bowl of chile or chicken corn chowder and a much needed cup of coffee or tea.

….Statement by Matt MacFarlane in the PEI Legislature….

Matt MacFarlane, MLA for District 19, Borden-Kinkora, Leader of the Green Party of Prince Edward Island, informed us that he’d given a brief statement about us in the legislature on November 4, 2025.  We had no idea he’d done this until he sent us the link! (https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Ame5ppZio/)

Thank you to the Legion members who participated in the various Remembrance Week events, and to the volunteers at the Borden-Carleton Legion and Kinkora Community Hall for preparing the snacks and hot drinks.

May we never forget all those who served, and continue to serve!  The work of remembrance of those who served continues.  More Remembrance Week stories to come.

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail…..Remembrance Week 2025 – The WWII Soldier Who Was Never Forgotten By His Girlfriend And Her Family

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November 15, 2025.  Sometimes Pieter helps the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, The Netherlands to find photos of a few soldiers for which research had already been done, but no photo could be found.  He’s found that it’s almost as much work as it is do a complete research project on a soldier, as there is a reason photos aren’t readily available – they can be very difficult to find!

My father was from Ukraine, so the search for soldiers with a Ukrainian heritage is a priority when Pieter gets a photo wish list, which is why one of the soldiers whose photo search he undertook was that of Peter HYDICHUK of Theodore, Saskatchewan.  Born April 12, 1917, Peter was the son of Alexander and Annie (nee Procupuik) Hydichuk, who had immigrated to Canada in 1903 from what today is part of Western Ukraine. (You can read Jim Little’s story about Peter here: https://www.facestograves.nl/LifeStories/HYDICHUK%20Peter-JLE-bio-EN.pdf )

Theodore is a village located on the Yellowhead Highway, in southeastern Saskatchewan. (Map source: Google maps)

….The search for a photo of Peter Hydichuk seemed doomed for failure….

At first, it seemed as though the search for a photo of Peter would not take long, as he had many siblings.  Besides himself, three of his brothers also served during WWII: Nick, John, and Matt. 

Matt, who was married and the father of two daughters, was killed in France on August 23, 1944, aged 29, while serving with the South Saskatchewan Regiment, and is buried in Bretteville-Sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in France, 14 km south of Caen.

Peter also served in the South Saskatchewan Regiment, and died the following year, on March 31, 1945, in Germany.  Nick and John survived the war.

At the end of January 2024, Pieter was in contact with one of Matt’s daughters, Pam Neilson, who lives near Birmingham, Alabama. Pam did her best, getting in touch with various family members in Canada, but with no success.  She sadly reported to Pieter that the family threw away the photos.      

When no other avenues of research turned up a photo, we reluctantly placed his name on the Cold Case List. Sometimes, that has resulted in a photo being found by someone who saw the name and could help with a photo or information. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/our-cold-cases/)

….The Cold Case List led to a photo….

Just as Remembrance Day 2025 came around the corner, we received an email from Garry Bodnaryk, who had seen Peter’s name on the Cold Case List!  “…I came across your site today while searching for Peter Hydichuk from Theodore, Saskatchewan, Canada. The Hydichuks were neighbours of my grandparents, and my mother dated Peter until he was killed. … I’m glad that people like you are working to put faces to names, and helping to keep the memory of these soldiers alive….”

Peter Hydichuk. (Photo courtesy of Garry Bodnaryk)

Wow!  Garry not only made our week, he shared how much Peter’s memory meant to his mother, and therefore to her family, even long after she passed away.  “…Her maiden name was Anne Polowick. The Polowicks were friends and neighbours of the Hydichuks, and attended the same church and school in the area.  My mother died almost 50 yrs ago, but she had always had Peter’s picture in her purse. My late father always thought it was sweet that she did. I kept the photos as they meant a lot to her….”

Anne (nee Polowick) Bodnaryk with one of her cousins.  (Photo courtesy of Garry Bodnaryk)

….Anne and her family never forgot Peter….

Garry noted that his mother “…was the key figure in saving the photo, and in me even knowing who Peter was…”

Peter (left) with a neighbour on horseback. (Photo courtesy of Garry Bodnaryk)

Happier days before WWII.  Peter Hydichuk (red arrow) and Anne (nee Polowick) Bodnaryk (purple arrow). (Photo courtesy of Garry Bodnaryk)

Garry included a photo that included both Peter and Anne.  “….My cousin confirmed that the man on the left is Peter Hydichuk. My mother is on the left, in front of him. I believe all the men served in the army during the war (my uncle next to Peter did). Other family members, and neighbours, are in the photo…”

A photo of the Hydichuk brothers, which Garry was kind enough to send, was in the ‘Theodore and District History’ book, which had a limited printing in the 1980s. 

Photo of the Hydichuk brothers in 1940 from the ‘Theodore and District History’ book.  Peter identified by red arrow.

…. Peter was killed near the German border….

On March 29, 1945 the South Saskatchewan Regiment arrived in Bienen, Germany, taking over from the Highland Light Infantry following the Battle of Bienen on March 25. The following day, the Regiment moved towards Gendringen, located in The Netherlands near the German border. 

Per the March 30, 1945 war diary entry of the South Saskatchewan Regiment, a three Phase attack for the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade was set in place to “….capture the line from Terborg to Etten to Ziek…”  Phase I was to be carried out by “….(1) Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal attacking Wieken, (2) 8 Canadian Recce Regiment…” to take over the position currently held by the “….Camerons of Canada in Netterden….” and then “…(3) on consolidation of Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal, Camerons of Canada to take out Veldhunten. This completes Phase I….”   

The South Saskatchewan Regiment was held in reserve until Phase II, when it was ordered to capture Etten. Phase III called for the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade to “….cross the Oude IJssel River for the purpose of taking the town of Terborg….”

However, the plan for carrying out Phase III of the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade was initially cancelled that evening.  “…At 2115 hours the plan was cancelled owing to the Camerons of Canada failing to take Veldhunten…” 

A new plan was made an hour later.  “… ‘A’ Company to move to Gendringen…” and take up a position.  “… ‘B’ Company to move at 2315 hours….and send fighting patrol….passing through ‘A’ Company. ‘C’ Company to move at 2345 hours…. ‘D’ Company to move at 2400 hours…4 Platoon to send 1 section of Wasps under command of ‘A’ Company and 1 section to ‘B’ Company….”

Fighting continued throughout the night of March 30/March 31. Gendringen was liberated by mid-afternoon of March 31, 1945, in spite of heavy enemy shelling. 

The war diary for March 31, 1945 recorded that “…at 1430 hours the casualty reports from the Companys were turned in to Command Post.  They were 1 officer and 14 other ranks wounded and 3 other ranks killed….” 

Peter Hydichuk was one of the fatal casualties that day, killed in action at the age of 27.  Per Maarten Koudijs, an amateur researcher in the Gendringen area, and author of ‘Tussen Grens En Hoop’, he was “…killed near Alofs’s house on the Tappenweg in Etten….”  (Translated from the original Dutch) 

In addition to Peter, Maarten wrote that the other casualties were James Joseph MALONEY and William SERNOWSKI.

One of the severely wounded, Michael Joseph MACDERMOTT, was transferred to the Canadian General Hospital in England, where he died on August 5, 1945.

….Peter was temporarily buried in Megchelen….

Peter was temporarily buried on the farmland of A. Friesen in Megchelen, at the end of a row of 18 burials.

Temporary grave of Peter Hydichuk in Megchelen. (Photo courtesy of Garry Bodnaryk)

Garry had one more story to relate.  “…In talking to one of my cousins, I found out that my mother’s father was at the train station (which had the telegraph office) when the news of Peter’s death came. My grandfather is the one that took the telegram and, stopping at home to get his bible, proceeded to the Hydichuk farm to break the news to the family….”

….We were in Gendringen this past May….

On a rainy Saturday in May 2025, we were in the Achterhoek area, and stopped in Gendringen.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

This past May we followed the route taken by Canadian forces into Germany, as far as Bienen, and on the way back into The Netherlands, we stopped in the Achterhoek, in the province of Gelderland, the area where Peter died. 

There is a memorial in the cemetery in Gendringen, which we visited. No soldiers’ names are mentioned on the memorial, though.  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2022/05/09/on-the-war-memorial-trail-monument-unveiled-in-gendringen/)

The text on the panel of the memorial means ‘so that we don’t forget’, or, as said more commonly during Remembrance services, ‘lest we forget’.  It was a solemn moment, with rain falling steadily, a fitting tribute that perhaps reflected the tears shed by families who lost their loved ones. 

Pieter by the memorial in the cemetery in Gendringen.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

 ….Peter was reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek….

Pieter stands behind the grave of Peter Hydichuk in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

At the end of January 1946, Peter was reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek.  We visited his grave this spring when we were in The Netherlands for our 2025 European Memorial Tour, and Pieter placed a Canadian flag by his grave. For most soldiers (383 in 14 cemeteries) we placed provincial flags as well, but as we had never received flags for Saskatchewan, we could only place a Canadian flag.

….Stories about 2 soldiers from Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal who were also originally buried in Megchelen….

Edmond Coloumbe, born in Fannystelle, Manitoba, and Alphonse Robert, of Caraquet, New Brunswick, were among 5 members of Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal who died during an attack on Gendringen, The Netherlands on March 30, 1945. Both were initially buried in Megchelen, and their stories were previously told on this blog.

The flag placed at Peter’s grave was donated.  Our thanks go to Alan Waddell, Constituent Assistant, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque.

Thank you to Garry Bodnaryk for providing photos and information about Peter Hydichuk, and for saving his mother’s photos.  A big thank you is due to his mother Anne for never forgetting a friend and neighbour who never had the chance to return home and live out his life during peacetime.

Thank you also to Maarten Koudijs for information on Peter’s death and the names of the other South Saskatchewan Regiment casualties. (Information on his book, available in Dutch, can be found at https://www.tussengrensenhoop.nl/)

The work of remembrance of those who served continues.  More Remembrance Week stories to come.

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail…. Remembrance Week 2025 -Remembrance Service At Crapaud Community Hall

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 1 Comment

November 12, 2025. On Sunday, November 9, 2025, the Annual Remembrance Service was held at Crapaud Community Hall in Crapaud, Prince Edward Island.  Pieter was invited by Connie MacKinnon, on behalf of the village of Crapaud, to be the guest speaker. 

The service, led by Rev. Margaret Collins and Rev Eric Lynk, included an honour guard from the Kingston Legion Branch No. 30, two sea cadets from the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps No. 23 Kent in Charlottetown, pianist Susan MacKay.  Peter Bevan-Baker, MLA for District 17 New Haven – Rocky Point, played ‘The Last Post’ and ‘Rouse’ on his trumpet. 

….Pieter was introduced by The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator….

Pieter was introduced by The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator, using almost the same text as in a statement about him that she had read out on October 8, 2025 in the Senate of Canada. You can watch the original statement below:  (See also https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2025/sen/Y3-451-23-eng.pdf page 763)  

It was an emotional moment for Pieter as he heard this beautiful introduction, and it took him a few seconds to regain his composure before facing the microphone.

….Pieter’s presentation was built around 5 words….

Pieter needed a few seconds to regain his composure following the heartfelt introduction by Senator Robinson. (Photo credit: Matt MacFarlane)

Pieter’s presentation began by saying “…I’d like to share what Remembrance Day means to me….and my wife Daria.  Five words come to mind…. Gratitude… Sorrow ….Thankfulness…. Respect….. and Admiration…” 

He spoke about being born during the Hunger Winter in The Netherlands.  “…So many people starved to death that winter! In the days before social media, how many people around the world knew about the impact of starvation on an occupied population? 

Allied soldiers not only liberated us from Nazi rule, they saved us from starvation….” 

Here are a few excerpts from his presentation about the five words:  “…In gratitude, now that I’m retired, one way for me to honour those who lost their lives in war is to research and share the stories of Canadians who served and died in the First and Second World Wars, helping to ensure that they will never be forgotten.

That brings me to sorrow….not only for the thousands of Allied soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also the families that lost their loved ones….children, siblings, parents who never were able to return home to live their lives, but instead are buried overseas…..

Thankfulness is also never far from my mind, thankfulness that we live in peace here in Canada….”   Pieter then spoke briefly about his experience while serving with the Royal Netherlands Air Force during the Cold War.

“…I have deep respect for those who served in war….” he said, and mentioned the various research projects we’ve been involved in since 2014.  In reflecting on our trip to Europe this past spring to visit 14 cemeteries and place flags at 383 graves, he noted that “…we met other visitors, many accompanied by children, who stopped to ask if we were Canadian, and to then say thank you….”   

As he neared the end of his presentation, he explained that “…the more that I learn about our Canadian soldiers, the more admiration I have for the courage they showed in battle, their steadfastness in looking out for their comrades, and the way they kept their sense of humour while being away from their families and the comforts of home….”

As always, he ended his speech by reaffirming that “…remembrance of those who gave their lives for our continued freedom is important, and no soldier buried overseas should ever be forgotten.  Thank you….”

….The service was followed by a chance to socialize….

Following his speech, Pieter was thanked by Margaret Armsworthy, Chief Administrative Officer at the Crapaud Council.   

After the wreaths were laid, and the closing prayers were said, it was a time to chance to socialize and thank Senator Mary Robinson in person for her introduction. She’d attended the service with her family, including her mother Hazel Robinson.

The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator, Hazel Robinson, Pieter. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

We also had a chance to say hello to our former dentist, Peter Bevan-Baker, who is now the MLA for District 17 New Haven – Rocky Point. 

The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator, Pieter, and Peter Bevan-Baker, MLA for District 17 New Haven – Rocky Point, who played the The Last Post and Rouse on his trumpet.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

…Text of the statement read out in the Senate of Canada by The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator….

“….Honourable senators, imagine a country in ruins. It is May 1945. The Netherlands has endured years of Nazi occupation — families starving, freedom extinguished, hope nearly gone. And then, on the horizon, the people see soldiers bearing a maple leaf. It is the First Canadian Army. Liberation has come.

More than 7,600 Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen gave their lives between September 1944 and April 1945 to free the Netherlands. Their sacrifice is written not only in history books but also in the very soil where they rest.

During those dark years, Canada also became a safe haven for the Dutch Royal Family. In a remarkable gesture of friendship, in 1943, our government declared a hospital ward in Ottawa to be extraterritorial land so that Princess Margriet could be born on Dutch soil here in Canada. To this day, every spring, Ottawa blossoms with tulips — a living reminder of the bond between our two nations.

Fast forward to July 2, 2025, just after the eightieth anniversary of liberation. His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands appointed Pieter Valkenburg as Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau. This honour, created in 1892, is conferred on people who have made a contribution of outstanding value and have rendered meritorious service of national importance to the Netherlands.

Allow me to introduce Sir Pieter Valkenburg.

A retired veteran of the Royal Netherlands Air Force and Dutch Foreign Service, Sir Pieter, with his wife, Daria, made Prince Edward Island their home. From my community, and now their community, of North Tryon, they have built something extraordinary: the project On The War Memorial Trail.

What began in 2014 as a personal research journey has grown into a mission of remembrance. Pieter and Daria have identified the graves of hundreds of Canadian soldiers who fell in the Netherlands. This year alone, they visited 14 cemeteries in the Netherlands and Belgium, placing Canadian flags, provincial flags and, where it was fitting, Acadian and Indigenous flags. Each flag was a promise: We remember you.

In 2025, they honoured 383 Canadian graves — soldiers from all 10 provinces and from the Yukon, 60 of them from our own Prince Edward Island. Imagine that — Island sons resting in foreign soil, remembered by neighbours half a world away.

Honourable senators, I invite you to join me in celebrating this inspiring man.

Sir Pieter, they say the Dutch never forgot their liberators. But today, let us turn that truth around: Canada will never forget you and the tireless work you have done to keep the legacies of our soldiers alive.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. It is an honour and a source of pride to have you as a neighbour in North Tryon, Prince Edward Island…..”

Flags displayed during the Remembrance Service at Crapaud Community Hall.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Thank you to Connie MacKinnon for inviting Pieter to speak.  Thank you to The Honourable Mary Robinson, Senator, for both her introduction at the Remembrance Service and her statement in the Senate of Canada. Thank you to Annie Lee MacDonald for providing a copy of Senator Robinson’s statement, to Hazel Robinson for sending the video, and to Wendy Nattress for converting it to a shareable link.

The work of remembrance of those who served continues.  More Remembrance Week stories to come.

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail….Remembrance Week 2025 – Reflections and Updates

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November 9, 2025.  When we write a story on the blog, we often receive additional information about the soldiers we’ve written about, about other soldiers buried in the same cemetery, or who served in the same unit. This Remembrance Week 2025 posting gives an update on three soldiers whose stories were previously told, one whose story is coming up in a future posting, and about our visit to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission office in Ottawa, Ontario.

Each year we also try to visit one or more war memorials in Canada. In this posting we feature a visit to the Memramcook Veterans Park in Memramcook, New Brunswick, and Beach Grove Memorial Forest in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.

…A banner for WWII soldier Joseph ‘Ambroise’ Comeau….

Banner for WWII soldier Joseph ‘Ambroise’ Comeau. (Photo credit: Simone Comeau)

One of the WWII soldiers buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands, is Joseph ‘Ambroise’ COMEAU, from Lower Saulnierville, Nova Scotia. Ambroise was one of 5 soldiers from the North Nova Scotia Highlanders Regiment who drowned in a tragic accident in the Battle of Leer in Germany on April 28, 1945, aged 21.  His was one of the 383 graves we visited this spring during our 2025 European War Memorial Tour, and Pieter had placed flags of Canada and Nova Scotia, as well as an Acadian flag, by his grave.

When Simone Comeau recently sent us a photo of her uncle’s banner, she explained why it included both a Canadian and Acadian flag.  “…We had a choice as to which flag we wanted along with the flag of Canada so since you honoured the Acadian veterans this year in Holland and we are Acadians I figured it was only appropriate to do so….”

You can read Ambroise’s story at https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/05/17/on-the-war-memorial-trail-a-tragic-drowning-on-the-leda-river-in-germany-part-3/  and about our visit to his grave at https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/09/04/on-the-war-memorial-trail-2025-faces-of-holten-exhibition-part-4-soldiers-who-drowned-during-operation-duck/

 ….The family of WWII soldier James ‘Jimmy’ Oliver Thomas framed the photo we sent…

Framed photo taken at the grave of James ‘Jimmy’ Oliver Thomas.  (Photo courtesy of Rodd Cooper)

During our visit to the various cemeteries during the 2025 European War Memorial Tour, we took photos of each grave at which Pieter placed flags, and later sent photos to the families of these soldiers.  Rodd Cooper, nephew of WWII soldier James ‘Jimmy’ Oliver THOMAS framed the photo we had emailed him, and emailed us back a photo of the framed picture with the family’s thanks.  We were deeply touched by this!

Born in St. Peters, Manitoba, Jimmy died in Germany on May 2, 1945, aged 33, a few days after being liberated from the Stalag VII-A POW Camp in Moosburg, Germany. He had been taken prisoner of war on May 22, 1943, while serving with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, during the breaking of the Hitler Line.

You can read Jimmy’s story at https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2024/02/18/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-wwii-soldier-from-manitoba-who-died-shortly-after-being-liberated-from-stalag-vii-a/  and about our visit to his grave at https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/09/10/on-the-war-memorial-trail-2025-faces-of-holten-exhibition-part-5-indigenous-soldiers/

….WWII soldier Samuel George Engen was remembered by his great-niece Clover Rusk on National Indigenous Veterans Day…

In a November 8, 2025 Facebook posting, Clover Rusk remembered her great-uncle, Samuel George ENGEN of The Pas, Manitoba on National Indigenous Veterans Day….and thanked Pieter “…for dedicating his time to Indigenous war vets buried overseas…”

After a 3 year search by various family members, a photo was found by Clover earlier this year, in an album that had belonged to her great-grandfather Aaron, the older brother of Samuel.

The son of Louis Julius Engen and Mary Helen (nee Buck) Engen, and husband of Miriam Susan Pranteau, Samuel died April 23, 1945 in Germany, during the Battle for the Kusten Canal, aged 27, while serving with the Lake Superior Regiment.  

Samuel is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands, which we visited this past May, and where Pieter placed flags of Canada and Manitoba by his grave.  His story will be told in an upcoming posting.

….Flags were placed at the grave of WWII airman William Andrew Hood on our behalf…

Grave of William Andrew Hood.  (Photo credit: Robert van der Ende)

One of the cemeteries to visit on our 2025 European War Memorial Tour was Eindhoven General Cemetery in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, where WWII airman William Andrew HOOD, of Little Bras D’or, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, is buried. 

Eindhoven was near where we were for a family visit, and we had planned to go to the cemetery before we left for Belgium the following day.  But….by this time we were totally exhausted, and didn’t see how we could manage it.  Thankfully, Robert van der Ende volunteered to take flags of Canada and Nova Scotia and place them at William’s grave on our behalf.  We were very grateful for that act of kindness!  This was the only cemetery on our list that we didn’t personally visit.

William was the mid-upper gunner aboard Halifax JD215 when it was shot down over The Netherlands on June 29, 1943.  None of the crew survived.  You can read his story at https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2023/09/19/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-wwii-airman-from-bras-dor-who-was-aboard-the-last-flight-of-halifax-jd215/

….We visited the CWGC office in Ottawa…

This year, Pieter became one of the volunteers across Canada participate in the National Volunteer Program.  He was assigned 4 cemeteries on Prince Edward Island to visit and gather information about the condition of Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) war graves, and to clean the grave stones as needed. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/08/08/on-the-war-memorial-trail-cwgc-volunteer-at-cape-traverse-community-cemetery/ and https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/09/28/on-the-war-memorial-trailthe-wwii-carpenter-buried-in-seven-mile-bay-who-does-not-have-a-cwgc-headstone/ for stories about two of the soldiers buried in a CWGC grave)

Left to right: Pieter Valkenburg, Julene Warren, Daria Valkenburg, Elizabeth Hale.  (Photo courtesy of Valkenburg Family Collection)

During a trip to Ottawa in October, we visited the CWGC office and met with two of the coordinators overseeing the volunteers:  Elizabeth Hale and Julene Warren.  It was a chance to put faces to names, and to learn more about the important work being done to look after war graves here in Canada.

….We visited the Memramcook Veterans Park in Memramcook, New Brunswick…

Our friend and fellow researcher, Etienne Gaudet, had invited us several times to visit his hometown of Memramcook, New Brunswick, and one Saturday in June we were able to do so.  Etienne proudly took us around the Memramcook Veterans Park, which commemorates those who served and are from the Memramcook area. 

Etienne Gaudet (left) with Pieter at Memramcook Veterans Park. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

A unique billboard highlighted the ships on which troops travelled to Great Britain, and the countries in Europe in which they fought. 

Etienne Gaudet (left) with Pieter at Memramcook Veterans Park. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Etienne also wanted us to meet 102 year old WWII veteran, Romeo LEBLANC, and we were delighted to have the opportunity to do so. 

Etienne Gaudet (left) and Pieter (right) with WWII veteran Romeo LeBlanc. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

….We visited the Beach Grove Memorial Forest in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island…

Pieter at the entrance to Beach Grove Memorial Forest in Charlottetown. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

This spring we received an email from Jim Little, saying he was writing a story about Private Frank LUTZ, an orphan from Prince Edward Island, who was badly wounded on February 20, 1945 during the Battle of Moyland Wood, while serving with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. He died on March 2, 1945, aged 19, and is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, The Netherlands. (See https://www.facestograves.nl/LifeStories/LUTZ%20Frank-JLE-bio-EN.pdf)

Jim wanted to know if Frank was listed on a cenotaph on the Island.  Yes, was the answer….he is listed on a Canadian Army memorial stone at Beach Grove Memorial Forest in Charlottetown.  The memorial forest honours WWII veterans from Prince Edward Island with granite stones that list their names and includes a tree for each person that is honoured.

Pieter walks along the path in Beach Grove Memorial Forest.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The memorial stones are located along a path in the forest, which, during the war, had been used as a training facility for various regiments and units.  The stones honour those who died during the war while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy, Merchant Navy, Canadian Army, and Royal Canadian Air Force.  We found Frank’s name listed on the stone for the Canadian Army.

Frank Lutz was listed on one of the memorial stones for the Canadian Army. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

We ended up spending a long time in the forest, looking at each stone, as Pieter had researched so many of the names listed on each stone!

Thank you to Simone Comeau, Rodd Cooper, Etienne Gaudet, Clover Rusk, and Robert van der Ende. The work of remembrance of those who served continues.

The flags placed at William Andrew Hood’s grave were donated.  Our thanks go to: 

  • Alan Waddell, Constituent Assistant, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, for the Canadian flag.
  • Kyle Graham, Research Officer, Military Relations, Nova Scotia Intergovernmental Affairs, on behalf of Premier Tim Houston, Province of Nova Scotia, for the Nova Scotia flag.

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail….Remembrance Week 2025 – Borden-Carleton Legion At 3 Schools For Remembrance Services

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November 7, 2025.  On November 4, 2025, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion in Prince Edward Island were present for Remembrance Services at three schools:  Somerset Consolidated in Kinkora, Kinkora Regional High School in Kinkora, and Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.

…. Remembrance Service at Somerset Consolidated School….

On a cold and rainy Tuesday, the day of school visits began in the morning in Kinkora, at the Somerset Consolidated School.   Each grade participated with a poem or reading and the choir sang John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’.

The flag bearers for the colour parade carried the Canadian flag and the Borden-Carleton Branch Legion flag.

This year’s flag bearers were: Arthur Ranahan (left) and George Palmer (right). Sergeant-At-Arms Mario Henry is in the centre. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, Principal Angela Griffiths, and music teacher Devin Krauskopf.

Somerset Consolidated School: Left to right:  George Palmer, Pieter Valkenburg, Trish Taylor, Kathy Henry, Principal Angela Griffiths, Teacher Devin Krauskopf, Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Arthur Ranahan.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

 …. Remembrance Service at Kinkora Regional High School….

Following the service at Somerset Consolidated School, the Legion members made their way to Kinkora Regional High School, which is also in Kinkora. A PowerPoint presentation showed students from the school who visited France, Belgium, and the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom in The Netherlands this past May. 

Four cadets who are students at the school participated in the Remembrance Service. Oscar Bulman, Maika MacLean and Lucas Somers – all three with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, RCSCC 85 Summerside, and Lochlain Dunn of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, cadets, Principal Ryan McAleer, and Vice-Principal Matt Killeen.

Kinkora Regional High School: Left to right: Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, George Palmer, Maika MacLean, Lochlain Dunn, Pieter Valkenburg, Vice-Principal Matt Killeen, Trish Taylor, Kathy Henry, Brian O’Connor, Principal Ryan McAleer, Oscar Bulman, Lucas Somers, Arthur Ranahan. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Students at the school annually offer a light lunch to the Legion members after the Remembrance Service is concluded, a gesture that is much appreciated. This year, we were offered sandwiches, as well as an assortment of cookies, plus coffee or tea.  All the food was prepared by students.

…. Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School….

In the afternoon, members of the Borden-Carleton Legion were present for a Remembrance Service at Amherst Cove Consolidated School in Borden-Carleton.  At this school, three cadets participated in the Remembrance service: Sylvia Cochrane and Alex MacPhee – both with PEI Regiment 17th Recce, and Vivian Dunn of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.

Left to right: Sylvia Cochrane (cadet with PEI Regt 17th Recce), Alex MacPhee (cadet with PEI Regt 17th Recce), Vivian Dunn (cadet with Royal Cdn Air Cadets 53 CE Monty DFC Summerside.) (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The band at Amherst Cove Consolidated was a pleasure to listen to!  The students and their Band Director, Gráinne Howman, are to be commended!

Amherst Cove School Band, under the direction of Band Director Gráinne Howman. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Following the service, a group photo was taken with the Legion members, cadets, Vice-Principal Johnny Martin, and Band Director Gráinne Howman.

Amherst Cove Consolidated School: Left to right: George Palmer, Pieter Valkenburg, Band Director Gráinne Howman, Sgt At Arms Mario Henry, Vice-Principal Johnny Martin, Barry Bernard, Alex MacPhee, Trish Taylor, Vivian Dunn, Danny Bernard, Kathy Henry, Sylvia Cochrane, Arthur Ranahan.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Thank you to the officials and students at all three schools for the work they put into the Remembrance Services. May we never forget all those who served, and continue to serve!

If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. You can email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, or comment on the blog.  

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/ 

You are also invited to subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail…..The WWII Sapper From Moncton Who Lost His Life During Operation Berlin

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Headline of an October 1945 article from ‘The Times Transcript’

November 6, 2025.  While searching for a photo of WWII soldier Eric John CRUE of Moncton, New Brunswick, who lost his life on April 6, 1945 while serving with the Algonquin Regiment, Pieter found an October 1945 newspaper article from ‘The Times Transcript’ about a memorial service in the First United Baptist Church in Moncton to honour the memories of Crue, John Edward COLEMAN of the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, George Temple DOYLE of the RCAF, and David ‘Lloyd’ George HOPE of the Royal Canadian Engineers…. all from Moncton.

Pieter knew that Coleman was on a photo wish list from the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, but Doyle and Hope were unknown to him.  He began an investigation and quickly found that no photo was available for Hope, who is buried in Rhenen General Cemetery in Rhenen, The Netherlands.  There was a photo available for Doyle, and a newspaper photo was found for Coleman by Etienne Gaudet.  No photo was ever found for Crue, who is now on our Cold Case List. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/our-cold-cases/)

Pieter began the search for a photo of Hope….

….A family member got in contact…

Pieter made contact with Susan ‘Sue’ Hope through Ancestry and she explained that the soldier, who went by ‘Lloyd’, was one of three brothers who served during WWII.  “….Russell, Douglas, and DLG Hope were my grandfather’s cousins. My grandfather was Wesley William Hope.   David Lloyd, Douglas, and Russell Hope were brothers.  They were all from Moncton, their parents were Frank D. Hope and Lottie F Jones…”  Both of Lloyd’s parents died in the early 1930s.  In addition to his brothers, he also had three sisters: Kay, Mildred Greta, and Marguerite.

Born June 30, 1919 in Moncton, New Brunswick, Lloyd worked as an iron moulder at an iron foundry, Record Stove and Furnace Company prior to enlisting in the militia on October 9, 1940 under the National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA) and began basic infantry training at No. 70 Non-Permanent Active Militia (NPAM) Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick.  After completing that course on November 7, 1940, he was assigned to the New Brunswick Regiment. (See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Resources_Mobilization_Act)

….Lloyd enlisted in the Active Army in August 1941…

He enlisted in the Active Army on August 8, 1941 at No. 7 District Depot in Moncton, stating in an interview that his reason for joining the army was for “….adventure…” He expressed an interest in taking a blacksmiths course. He was described as “…cheerful, neat, with good conduct and military efficiency….” While his mechanical knowledge was listed as “…below average….” it was remarked that his skill on the rifle range was “…above average…” He had written that he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and swimming, so skill with a gun would not have been a surprise.     

Lloyd returned to No. 70 Canadian Army (Basic) Training Centre in Fredericton for his basic training, which was completed on October 2, 1941.  He was transferred to No. 7 District Depot in Moncton on October 20, 1941, and began a Fitters Course the following day, returning to No. 70 Canadian Army (Basic) Training Centre on February 6, 1942. 

On April 8, 1942, Lloyd was transferred to A5 Canadian Engineer Training Centre (CETC) in Camp Petawawa, Ontario for Engineer Training.  After completing his training on May 13, 1942, he was given embarkation leave, for what turned out to be the last chance he would have to see his family.

….Lloyd left Canada for overseas service….

David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope. (Photo courtesy of Susan Hope)

On June 3, 1942, Lloyd sailed from Halifax, Nova Scotia to the United Kingdom, arriving in Liverpool, England on June, 1942. Upon arrival, he was assigned to No. 1 Canadian Engineers Reinforcement Unit (CERU). 

While in the United Kingdom, Lloyd’s training continued.  On September 29, 1942, he was transferred to No. 1 Canadian Ordnance Reinforcement Unit (CORU), qualifying as a Pioneer ‘C’ on October 19, 1942. 

On December 4, 1942, Lloyd was transferred to the Royal Canadian Engineers, 18th Field Company.  While remaining with the 18th Field Company, he was attached, for all purposes, to the Headquarters of the Royal Canadian Engineers, 3rd Canadian Division, from February 19, 1943 until August 13, 1943.

Then, on December 14, 1943, he was transferred to the Royal Canadian Engineers, 23rd Field Company.  In ‘The Twenty-Third Story’ by Major Michael Lovett TUCKER, the entry for December 19, 1943 explained that training was ongoing.  “…We are doing considerable practice in night convoy work…” using old trucks. “…We are still working on Bailey Bridge training on Headley Common….” and “….today we start work on a 110 foot T.T. bridge with one storey underslung….”  T.T. refers to Tracked-Transport.  Bridge load effects and capacity ratings needed to be evaluated to determine appropriate load factors for military vehicles crossing various bridges.

….Lloyd and the 23rd Field Company left the UK for France…..

On July 6, 1944, Lloyd and the 23rd Field Company boarded a ship that was to leave the United Kingdom for France, part of the 21st Army Group.  The July 7, 1944 entry in ‘The Twenty-Third Story’ recorded that “…we sail from Tilbury at six-thirty in the morning and anchor off Southend, where we lie for the balance of the day.  Then at ten o’clock the following evening we fall in with the other thirty-three ships in our convoy, and head down the Thames Estuary to the English Channel…”

Map showing the location of Graye-sur-Mer and Juno Beach.  (Map source: Google maps)

The entry for July 9, 1944 noted their arrival off the coast of France. “…Late in the afternoon we come in sight of the Normandy coast, and shortly before midnight come to anchor off Juno Beach, off Graye-sur-Mer.  There are so many ships that it is difficult to find a suitable anchorage…”

….Lloyd and his brother Douglas help to clear up debris in Caen…..

Troops left the ship the following day, and by July 13, 1944 had moved to their new bivouac area in a orchard near Cairon. Their immediate task was to “…clear debris and open streets in Caen…” as stated in the July 14, 1944 entry.  “…In the centre of town, every street is choked with rubble, and in many places it’s impossible to tell where streets have been. The Germans are mortaring and shelling steadily….”  

Work continued, in spite of German activity, and by July 25, 1944, an entry recorded that “… an entirely new street is run from Boulevard des Allies to the river through the ruins of demolished buildings.  It is named ‘Andy’s Alley’….” 

Opening of Andy’s Alley in Caen, July 1944. Lloyd Hope identified by red arrow. His brother Douglas Hope is identified by blue arrow.  The purple arrow identifies Major M. L. Tucker, author of ‘The Twenty-Third Story’. (Photo courtesy of Alice van Bekkum Collection)

The opening of Andy’s Alley was captured in a photo, with the caption noting that the road was ‘a half-mile long’ (.8 km), and that the proud Canadian engineers posed by the steamroller breaking the tape for supplies to move forward.  The source of the photo and the magazine in which it was published is unknown, and was provided by Alice van Bekkum, Chair of the Faces To Graves Foundation.  Both Lloyd and his brother Douglas are in this iconic photo!

….The 23rd Field Company made its way into The Netherlands….

After painstakingly working their way through France and Belgium to clear roads and build bridges, the 23rd Field Company received new orders. The September 16, 1944 entry in ‘The Twenty-Third Story’ recorded that “…something is in the air!  Our advance is moving very fast through Belgium up into Holland…”

Operation Market Garden was an Allied military operation, from September 17-25, 1944 that succeeded in liberating Nijmegen and Eindhoven, but failed in liberating the last bridge held in Arnhem, which would enable troops to the Rhine into Germany.  If you’ve seen the movie ‘A Bridge Too Far’ (See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Bridge_Too_Far_(film)), then you may be familiar with what happened.  (For an idea of the gliders used, see https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2018/01/06/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-liberation-route/)

There was excitement in the September 18, 1944 entry.  “…We hear that Airborne troops have landed in Northern Holland and have captured the bridges at Grave, Nijmegen and Arnhem over the Maas, Waal and Neder Rijn rivers, respectively….We are the only Canadian troops taking part in the push into Holland….but our ground troops are having difficulty getting beyond Nijmegen and so are unable to join up with the Airborne troops in Arnhem…”  This description was about Operation Market Garden, which failed to capture the bridge at Arnhem, as was noted two days later in the September 20, 1944 entry.

While British troops got across the river at Nijmegen and were able to hold the bridge, they had “…difficulty in getting on to Arnhem, and 1st British Airborne is having a very sticky time there. The Germans have retaken the bridge….”

….The 23 Field Company was tasked with rescuing the 1st British Airborne during Operation Berlin….

The 23rd Field Company was “….ordered forward to Nijmegen...”  On September 24, 1944, the entry recorded that they were to help rescue the 1st British Airborne, using storm boats to ferry survivors from the German held side of the Neder Rijn River (Lower Rhine River in English) to Allied safety. Operation Berlin was the rescue attempt to save survivors of the British 1st Airborne after the disastrous Operation Market Garden and at the end of the Battle of Arnhem/Oosterbeek. 

Example of a storm boat: Storm boats manned by the 34th Field Company, R.C.E., carry Regina Rifles Regiment’s 7th Brigade over the Seine River in 1944.  (Photo Credit: Donald I. Grant/Canada. Dept. of National Defence/Library and Archives Canada/PA-136016)

The following day “…at six o’clock we learn that we are to operate from a site on the river, just east of Driel.  We are to have fourteen boats, and these will be off-loaded in an orchard which comes up to the back of the winter dyke...”

The first storm boat was launched at 9:30 pm, but as it had been damaged while being pushed down the bank into the water, it started to leak and had to be abandoned.  A second boat was readied. “….Corporal Ryan, W.D., and Sappers Magnusson, H.C., and Roherty, L.J., are the crew…It is pitch dark and pouring rain….Lt Martin asks to go with this boat so that he may contact our friends and lend a hand in organizing the loading of boats for them…..” 

 It set off at 9:45 pm, closely followed by “…another, which has Corporal Smith, S. F., and Sappers Hope, D.L.G., and Thompson, N.A. as crew.  Neither of these boats returns.  One is seen to receive a direct mortar hit. There is a direct flash from the explosion, and then nothing can be seen in the darkness …” 

The boat with Ryan, Magnusson, Roherty, and Martin was hit by mortar fire. None of the men survived.

….Lloyd was in the storm boat that capsized during Operation Berlin….

The boat with Smith, Hope, and Thompson was on its way back after picking up survivors, but was “…heavily overloaded with Airborne survivors…” The boat “….went under when a mortar fell close beside it and everyone instinctively threw himself to the other side of the boat and capsized it...” 

Of the crew, only Corporal Smith survived.  He recorded in a report on the incident that he was riding in the bow to help land the boat.  While heading for the south (home) shore, the boat was swamped and sank about 46 metres (50 yards) from the north shore.  As his “…greatcoat was open it helped me to float, and although I am not a swimmer I reached shore on the north side of the river along with four of the British Airborne men. I was taken back to the home side of the river in an assault boat…”

….Lloyd is buried in Rhenen General Cemetery…

Pieter by the grave of David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

25 year old Lloyd lost his life due to drowning on September 26, 1944, when the storm boat he was in capsized.  He was buried in Rhenen General Cemetery, which we visited this past May.  Pieter placed a Canadian and New Brunswick flag at Lloyd’s grave. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/11/03/on-the-war-memorial-trail-a-visit-to-rhenen-general-cemetery/)

Although 7 men from the 23rd Field Company lost their lives during Operation Berlin, it was a success. The Royal Canadian Engineers rescued most of the 2,400 evacuees in one night, using storm boats propelled by 50 horse power outboard motors! (See https://www.strijdbewijs.nl/donald/operation.htm)

….A visit with Sue Hope…

Susan ‘Sue’ Hope and Pieter.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

We were delighted to have a chance to meet Sue Hope in Moncton after we returned from our 2025 European War Memorial Tour.  “….Thank you for the project you are doing to preserve history of all these young men!…” she wrote.

The flags placed at the graves for David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope were donated.  Our thanks go to: 

  • Alan Waddell, Constituent Assistant, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, for the Canadian flags.
  • Jean-Claude D’Amours, MLA for Edmundston-Madawaska Centre, Minister responsible for Military Affairs, with the help of Cécile LePage, Province of New Brunswick, for the New Brunswick flag. 

Thank you to Sue Hope for providing photos and information about her grandfather’s cousin, and to Alice van Bekkum for providing information on the 23rd Field Company and Major Tucker’s book, as well as the photograph taken at Andy’s Alley.  Thank you to John Sliz, author of ‘Storm Boat Kings’, for sharing the storm boat photo.

Our adventures continue as we share the highlights of our adventures on the 2025 European War Memorial Tour.

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

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On The War Memorial Trail….. A Visit To Rhenen General Cemetery

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Sign directing us to Rhenen, The Netherlands.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

November 3, 2025. While in Europe this spring for the 80th Anniversary of Liberation Commemoration events, we visited 14 cemeteries to place flags at the graves of 383 soldiers that Pieter has researched since 2014, with the stories of many of these soldiers previously told on this blog. 

On our way towards Zaltbommel for a family visit before going on to Belgium, we visited two cemeteries. The previous posting featured our visit to Uden War Cemetery, where George Glenn ‘Dusty’ MILLAR, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, is buried. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/10/29/on-the-war-memorial-trail-paying-our-respects-to-spitfire-pilot-dusty-millar-at-uden-war-cemetery/)

This posting features our visit to Rhenen General Cemetery, where David ‘Lloyd’ George HOPE, of Moncton, New Brunswick, is buried.  The village of Rhenen is in the province of Utrecht, 26 kms (16 miles) from Arnhem and 47 kms (29 miles) from Utrecht.

….The Commonwealth War Graves were tucked away in a small section of the cemetery….

Pieter at the entrance to Rhenen General Cemetery.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

This is a beautiful cemetery, with the Commonwealth War Graves in its own hedged section.  There are 23 WWII Commonwealth burials here, 3 of which are unidentified. In addition, there is 1 unidentified Polish soldier buried here.

The hedged area of Rhenen General Cemetery with the Commonwealth War Graves are located.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

The war graves are located in a hedged part of Rhenen General Cemetery.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

….Hope was one of 7 Royal Canadian Engineers from the 23rd Field Company killed during Operation Berlin….

Pieter by the grave of David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope. (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope was serving with the Royal Canadian Engineers, 23rd Field Company, when he lost his life on September 26, 1944, aged 25.  He had drowned while trying to save glider pilots during the disastrous Operation Market Garden, one of 7 men from the 23rd Field Company who lost their lives in Operation Berlin – the evacuation of survivors of the British 1st Airborne at the end of the Battle of Arnhem/Oosterbeek.  

Pieter placed a Canadian and New Brunswick flag at Lloyd’s grave, and reminded me that his story had to be told in an upcoming posting.

….Ryan was another Royal Canadian Engineer from the 23rd Field Company killed during Operation Berlin….

Grave of Daniel William Ryan.  Behind his grave you can see the Polish flag at the grave of the unknown Polish soldier. (Photo credit: Pieter Valkenburg)

While looking at the graves, most of them of airmen, we noticed another Canadian grave!  Daniel William RYAN was also from the Royal Canadian Engineers.  Of course we placed a Canadian flag at his grave, but it wasn’t until later that evening that we learned he was from Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, and had also been in the 23rd Field Company. 

We wondered if he’d been in the same boat as Lloyd Hope, but he was in a different boat, and had died when the boat he was in was hit by mortar fire.

….Royal Canadian Engineers from 23rd Field Company who were killed during Operation Berlin….

The Royal Canadian Engineers rescued most of the 2,400 evacuees in one night, using storm boats propelled by 50 horse power outboard motors! Unfortunately, 7 men from the 23rd Field Company lost their lives during Operation Berlin. (See https://www.strijdbewijs.nl/donald/operation.htm)

Killed in Boat I:

  • James Russell MARTIN, of Kingston, Ontario, aged 26, buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten  
  • Sapper Harold Cecil MAGNUSSON, of St. John, New Brunswick, aged 22, buried in Gorinchem General Cemetery  
  • L/ Sapper Leslie Joseph ROHERTY, of Belledune River, New Brunswick, aged 22, listed on the Missing Memorial at the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek
  • Daniel William RYAN, of Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, aged 27, buried in Rhenen General Cemetery

Killed in Boat III:

  • Sapper David ‘Lloyd’ George HOPE, of Moncton, New Brunswick, aged 25, buried in Rhenen General Cemetery
  • Sapper Neil Arthur THOMPSON, born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, aged 23, buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek                       

Killed In An Orchard:

  • Sapper Ronald Tracy ‘Buck’ MCKEE, of St. Martin’s, New Brunswick, aged 36, buried in Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery

The flags placed at the graves for David ‘Lloyd’ George Hope and Daniel William Ryan were donated.  Our thanks go to: 

  • Alan Waddell, Constituent Assistant, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque, for the Canadian flags.
  • Jean-Claude D’Amours, MLA for Edmundston-Madawaska Centre, Minister responsible for Military Affairs, with the help of Cécile LePage, Province of New Brunswick, for the New Brunswick flag. 

Our adventures continue as we share the highlights of our adventures on the 2025 European War Memorial Tour.

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.

On The War Memorial Trail….Borden-Carleton Legion Honours Veterans By Placing Flags At Their Graves

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November 2, 2025.  In preparation for Remembrance Day, Mario Henry and George Palmer, two veterans from Prince Edward Island’s Borden-Carleton Branch #10, and Mario’s son Laurie, visited cemeteries and cenotaphs in the area on October 30.  They ensured that veterans buried at 9 cemeteries, and whose names are listed on 4 cenotaphs, received a Canadian flag in 2025. 

George Palmer (left) and Mario Henry (right) at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Seven Mile Bay.  (Photo credit: Laurie Henry)

The graves of two soldiers, whose military service the Legion had not been aware of, were added to the list this year:  WWII soldier John Peter ‘JP’ WHITE, who is buried in St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Seven Mile Bay, and WWI soldier John Anthony STORDY, who is buried in St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Kinkora.  (To read JP White’s story, see https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2025/09/28/on-the-war-memorial-trailthe-wwii-carpenter-buried-in-seven-mile-bay-who-does-not-have-a-cwgc-headstone/)

The cemeteries covered by the area served by the Borden-Carleton Branch are:

  • Cape Traverse – Cape Traverse Community Cemetery
  • Cape Traverse – Cape Traverse Community Cemetery
  • Central Bedeque – Central Bedeque Baptist Cemetery
  • Kinkora – St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Cemetery
  • Lower Bedeque – Lower Bedeque Cemetery
  • North Tryon – North Tryon Presbyterian Cemetery
  • Searletown – Searletown United Cemetery
  • Seven Mile Bay – St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Cemetery
  • Tryon – Tryon People’s Cemetery

Flags were also placed at these Cenotaphs:

  • Augustine Cove Cenotaph (4 flags)
  • Borden-Carleton Cenotaph (1 flag)
  • Searletown United Cemetery Cenotaph (4 flags)
  • Tryon Cenotaph (4 flags)

The placing of flags at graves and cenotaphs has been done annually for well over 21 years. If you see Canadian flags by graves, please do not disturb them. They are a mark of respect for a veteran’s service to Canada, and will be picked up about a week after November 11.

Mario Henry asks that if a veteran’s grave was missed, or if a veteran has recently passed away, please contact the Legion, so that flags can be placed for next year. The Legion branch can be contacted by phone at 902-855-2660 (after 4 pm) or on its Facebook page.

If you have a story or photo to share, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com or comment on the blog. 

© Daria Valkenburg

….Want to follow our research?…

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following our research, you are welcome to do so.  Our blog address: https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/

4 countries, 6 weeks, 7,000 km – an unforgettable war memorial journey in Europe…. Daria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  Net proceeds of book sales help support research costs and the cost of maintaining this blog. For more information see https://nosoldierforgotten.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ591TyjSheOR-Cb_Gs_5Kw. 

Never miss a posting!  Subscribe below to have each new story from the war memorial trail delivered to your inbox.