Battle of the Scheldt

On The War Memorial Trail….. The WWII Soldier Remembered By His Daughter’s Friend

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February 11, 2023.  Burnie Reynaert’s uncle, Lewis Wilkieson MARSH, of Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, was one of 5 soldiers from the North Nova Scotia Highlanders Regiment who drowned in a tragic accident on the Leda River during the Battle of Leer in Germany on April 28, 1945. (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/05/18/on-the-war-memorial-trail-a-tragic-drowning-on-the-leda-river-in-germany-part-4/)

Recently, Burnie wrote to let us know that “…my best friend’s father, Pte. Harold Edward Martin, served in the army with the Essex Scottish Regiment, and is buried in The Netherlands…”

Burnie explained further, saying “…I have known June Anne Martin most of my life – in public school, high school. I was her maid of honour when she married Jack Andrews. She was my confidant and best friend. June Anne died November 25, 2002. She was so young….”

June Anne and Jack had three sons.  “….Harold’s grandchildren do not have any information on his service…” Burnie said.  Would Pieter add Harold to his research list?

Pieter’s initial investigation determined that Harold died on October 14, 1944 and is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen op Zoom, The Netherlands.  The search was on!

The son of Herbert Edward and Harriet Jane (nee Leavesley) Martin, Harold Edward Roy MARTIN was born November 13, 1912 in Caradoc, Ontario, a rural area about 35 kms (21.75 miles) west of London, Ontario.

On April 15, 1939 he married Tilly Frances Dolney in Leamington, Ontario.  Tilly had been born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan.

…Harold enlisted in 1940….

When he enlisted on July 28, 1940 with the No. 1 District Depot in London, Ontario, he stated in his Soldiers Qualification Card that he had been employed as a truck driver with Longfield Lumber Company in Mount Bridges, Ontario, and that his family owned the Martin’s Fruit Company in Leamington, Ontario.  He expected to have his own fruit business after his military service.  He also noted that he played hockey, in the position of goalie.

On August 21, 1940 he was transferred from No. 1 District Depot to join his unit of the Royal Canadian Engineers at the Thames Valley Camp in London, Ontario.  At the beginning of 1941 he was assigned to the 9th Field Company.

On April 30, 1941 he was entitled to draw additional Trades Pay as a Carpenter Class ‘B’, and then on May 2, 1941 was transferred to #1 Canadian Base Units Construction Company (CBUCC) of the Royal Canadian Engineers in Petawawa, Ontario.

…Harold and Tilly welcome the birth of their daughter in 1941….

Tilly and Harold’s daughter June Anne was born July 3, 1941.  Burnie submitted a photo of the new family unit, explaining that June Anne’s “…son Brad and his brother Jack found this amazing picture of her and her parents….”

IMG-0945 Harold and Tillie with baby

Harold and Tilly Martin with new born daughter June Anne.  (Photo courtesy of the Andrews family)

 …Harold was sent overseas shortly after his daughter’s birth….

Harold didn’t have much time with his daughter, as he was on his way overseas with the No. 1 Canadian Base Units Construction Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, arriving in the United Kingdom on July 19, 1941.  He was stationed in Bramshott, as a Carpenter and Joiner Class ‘B’.

On May 1, 1942 the name of his unit was changed to 5 CCC (Canadian Construction Company), Royal Canadian Engineers.  Important work was done by units such as 5 CCC, such as building defences that included beach obstacles, pill-boxes, anti-tank ditches, and minefields. They also improved British roadways to improve the movement of military traffic, constructed military and air bases, and even built the Canadian wing of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in East Grinstead.

On July 28, 1942, Harold was awarded a Good Conduct Badge, and then on August 21, 1942, he received a permanent grade of Sapper.

On May 1, 1944, Harold was transferred to #1 Canadian Engineer Reinforcement Unit (CERU).  Then on August 25, 1944 he was assigned to the Winnipeg Grenadiers for a few weeks, before leaving for France on September 28, 1944, and being reassigned to the Canadian Infantry Corps the next day.

…Harold’s Regiment fought in the Battle of the Scheldt….

On October 10, 1944 Harold was transferred to the Essex Scottish Regiment, which had moved steadily from Antwerp, Belgium at the beginning of October into The Netherlands.  The Regiment had positions on both sides of the border for the Battle of the Scheldt. (See https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canada-and-the-battle-of-the-scheldt and https://www.holland.com/global/tourism/holland-stories/liberation-route/the-battle-of-the-scheldt.htm)

To have an idea of what was faced by Canadian troops, you can watch a short, but excellent, YouTube video explaining about the Battle of the Scheldt (just under 13 minutes):

According to the war diary for the Essex Scottish Regiment for October 14, 1944, the Battalion was in position at Hoogerheide. “…The enemy continued to be fairly aggressive and some of the positions reported heavy mortaring…”  At some point during the day, Harold Martin lost his life.

Harold Martin Scheldt Estuary

…Harold is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom….

Harold was initially buried at the Ossendrecht Roman Catholic Civil Cemetery in Ossendrecht, before being reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom in March 1946.

12724585_137285083670 Grave of Harold Martin

Grave of Harold Edward Martin at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands. (Photo source http://www.findagrave.com)

Thank you to Burnie Reynaert for telling us about Harold Edward Martin and to the sons of June Anne Andrews for sharing a family photo.  If you have a story to tell, please let Pieter know. Email him at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

…Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/ or email me at dariadv@yahoo.ca and ask for an invitation to the blog.

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEuropeDaria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  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.

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail…..Honouring Two CanScots Buried In Adegem By Adopting Their Graves

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January 17, 2023.  Edwin van der Wolf, a volunteer researcher at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands, has a particular area of interest into soldiers from the Canadian Scottish Regiment, and since 2020 has a website on the Regiment. (See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2020/05/04/new-website-on-canadian-scottish-regiment-during-ww2/)

He informed us that 38 soldiers from the Canadian Scottish Regiment are buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem, Belgium. In 2021 the Van der Wolf family participated in a grave adoption program for two of these soldiers.  “…If you adopt a grave at the Adegem Canadian War Cemetery you receive a certificate of this adoption during a yearly ceremony in May…”  (See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/2021/08/29/on-the-war-memorial-trail-adopting-a-grave-in-adegem/)

P1370320(1) Edwin

Edwin van der Wolf, far right, received grave adoption certificates from the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem. (Photo courtesy Edwin van der Wolf)

In 2022, the family adopted the graves of Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Stuart Walter HOOLE and David ‘Dave’ Stinson HENDERSON, both from the Canadian Scottish Regiment.  He then asked if we could possibly find families and photos of these two men. Of course, we agreed to investigate.

….Ronnie Hoole lost his life trying to save a friend…

Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Stuart Walter HOOLE was born October 22, 1923 in Ganges on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, the son of Sidney Walter and Gertrude Agnes (nee Snow) Hoole.

2008001010 Ronald Hoole

Ronald Hoole.  (Photo found at https://saltspringarchives.com/Legion_Branch_92/)

A labourer before enlisting, at the age of 16, on June 26, 1940 in Victoria, British Columbia, he was sent overseas to the United Kingdom on August 23 1941. With his Regiment he arrived in Normandy for the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944 and was one of the survivors.

Battle of Scheldt map showing Eede

Map showing the Breskens Pocket. (Map source: http://www.canadiansoldiers.com)

By October 1944, the Regiment was in The Netherlands, along the Belgium border, involved in the Battle of the Breskens Pocket, an action fought south of the Scheldt Estuary as part of the Battle of the Scheldt.  The Scheldt Estuary, the waterway leading from the sea into the port of Antwerp, Belgium, was not available to Allied shipping because German coastal batteries on Walcheren Island defended the approaches.

As part of the 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade, along with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles and the Regina Rifles, the Canadian Scottish worked to clear the Breskens Pocket. (See https://www.canadiansoldiers.com/history/battlehonours/northwesteurope/breskenspocket.htm and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Scheldt)

On October 27, 1944, the entry in the War Diary for the Canadian Scottish noted that this was not an easy task.  “…Plans were laid during the early morning for ‘A’ and ‘D’ Companies to move forward…. and to go after enemy positions…. The companies began what was to prove to be a very difficult day…. ‘A’ Company…were enduring painfully heavy shelling….”

‘A’ Company “…launched its final assault of the day with 9 Platoon leading…. All went well until suddenly 9 Platoon found itself fired on by machine guns at point-blank range.  They were travelling along a road at the foot of a dyke and were met by a hail of fire from all sides. The enemy had allowed them to pass through and had then closed in….”

It was a bloody battle that ‘A’ Company could not win.  “…Their ammunition was soon exhausted and their position in the open below the muzzles of the German machine guns was untenable.  Only 12 men of ‘A’ Company escaped being overwhelmed in the action…”

Ronnie Hoole was one of the casualties on that day, losing his life while trying to save a friend’s life. He was temporarily buried in Hoofdplaat, The Netherlands, before being reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem, Belgium on June 12, 1945.

Edwin explained that Ronnie Hoole’s “…grave was adopted on May 14, 2022 by my son, Keje van der Wolf…”

Unfortunately, up to now, while we have not been able to find family of Ronnie Hoole, we were fortunate to find a photo of him online.

….Dave Henderson lost his life when a German luger accidentally went off …

The search for family of David ‘Dave’ Stinson HENDERSON was successful when his great-niece, Bonnie Wilson, contacted Pieter.  “…I so appreciate you reaching out.  I think it is so important to keep memories of the fallen alive. What a cool thing that you and your wife are doing.  Very impressive!…”

Bonnie had a photo and an account of her great-uncle from a book ‘So Young They Were – Armstrong’s Fallen Of The Second World War’ by Leonard J. Gamble.

IMG_2266 David Henderson

David ‘Dave’ Stinson Henderson.  (Photo courtesy of Bonnie Wilson)

Dave was born on August 30, 1919 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the son of William and Rachel (nee Stinson) Henderson. In 1926, the family immigrated to Canada and settled near Armstrong, British Columbia.

Prior to being called up in March 1941 under the National Resources Mobilization Act, he worked in the Armstrong Sawmill. After completing basic training in Vernon, British Columbia, Dave served in various positions in the province before actively enlisting on December 16, 1943 in Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

He remained in Prince Rupert until April 1944 when he took a demotion to private so that he could serve overseas.  He left Canada, arriving in the United Kingdom on June 2, 1944. At the end of July he was sent to France as part of a reinforcement draft for the Regina Rifles, but transferred to the Canadian Scottish Regiment on August 5, 1944.  He wanted to be in the same Regiment as his brother Alf.

Battle of Leopold Canal map

Map showing the movement of troops as they crossed the Leopold Canal.  (Map source: http://www.canadiansoldiers.com)

Dave survived the crossing of the Leopold Canal in Belgium on October 6, 1944.  In ‘So Young They Were – Armstrong’s Fallen Of The Second World War’, the author explained that “…On October 16, the CanScots launched a further attack that captured the small town of Eede in Holland….. During the bitter fighting, Dave picked up a discarded German luger. The gun discharged, severing an artery in his groin and he bled to death before help could reach him….” His death was officially recorded as October 17, 1944.

Eede is in the Dutch province of Zeeland, near the Belgian border. He was temporarily buried in Maldegem, Belgium before being reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem on July 17, 1945.

Edwin noted that Dave Henderson’s “…grave was adopted on May 14 by my daughter-in-law Manon van der Wolf nee Bruggeman…”

Edwin van der Wolf and Bonnie Wilson were put in contact with each other after Bonnie asked Pieter if “…there is any way to get any info on the Dutch person who has adopted his grave? My family would love any information.  My Grandmother Muriel, David’s sister, did go over and see his grave with my Grandfather Henry on their travels to Europe in the 1970’.  They have since passed away.  I do hope to one day go and visit it myself….”

Thank you to Edwin van der Wolf for letting us know of the two additional graves at the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem that his family adopted, and to Bonnie Wilson for sharing photos and information about her great-uncle David Henderson.

Do you have a story to tell? Email Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

…Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://onthewarmemorialtrail.com/ or email me at dariadv@yahoo.ca and ask for an invitation to the blog.

Front cover OnTheWarMememorialTrailinEuropeDaria’s book ‘No Soldier Buried Overseas Should Ever Be Forgotten‘ is available in print and e-book formats.  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.

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. Remembering WW2 Soldier Ronald Sidney Waterhouse

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November 3, 2021.  Recently, Cheryl Topping of Nova Scotia wrote to Pieter about a WW2 soldier on the photo wish list from the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, saying that she was “…a descendant of Ronald Sidney Waterhouse. He was my grandmother’s brother….”  Cheryl followed up with photos and contacted Ronald Sidney’s daughter, Merrilyn O’Brien.

Ronald Sidney Waterhouse frame

Ronald Sidney Waterhouse.  (Photo courtesy Cheryl Topping Family Collection)

Ronald Sidney WATERHOUSE was born March 21, 1913 in Toronto, Ontario, the son of Harold Victor and Ellen Elizabeth (nee Payne) Waterhouse.

…A young father enlists….

When he enlisted with the No. 6 District on August 24, 1942 in Sydney, Nova Scotia, he was already married, to Nina Meredith MacLeod, and the father of Merrilyn Ronalda, who was born July 18, 1942 in Sydney.

Nina and baby Merrilyn Waterhouse-1

Nina Waterhouse with daughter Merrilyn. (Photo courtesy Cheryl Topping Family Collection)

His enlistment record indicated that he played softball and rugby, and had been a travelling salesman.  Both his father and brother Harold Henry were in the police force in Toronto, with his father identified as a detective.

In September 1942 Ronald was sent to #61 Canadian Army Basic Training Centre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, and then in November 1942 to the Canadian Armoured Corps Advanced Training Centre (CACATC) in Borden, Ontario.

In a January 29, 1943 interview, it was noted that Ronald had completed Basic and Advanced CAC training and that he wished to apply to the Canadian Provost Corps. He was described as having “...good appearance, straight forward manner...” It noted that he was a “…strong, healthy normal man in all respects...” with a “…sound practical education…” and a “…good position in civilian life…”

In March 1943 he was transferred to #3 CACRU (Canadian Armoured Corps Reinforcement Unit) to go overseas, arriving in the United Kingdom on March 17. Over a year later, on August 11, 1944, he was transferred to the Canadian Fusiliers Regiment.  On September 18, 1944, he was in France with the Regiment, part of the Canadian Infantry Corps.

…The Lincoln and Welland Regiment was in the Battle of the Scheldt….

On September 29, 1944, Ronald was transferred to the Lincoln and Welland Regiment.  Unfortunately, on November 2, 1944 he was killed in action during the Battle of the Scheldt. This was a series of military operations that took place between October 2 and November 8, 1944, to open up the port of Antwerp, Belgium and fought in northern Belgium and southwestern Netherlands. (See https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/second-world-war/scheldt)

Map Bergen op Zoom · Netherlands

Map showing location of Antwerp, Bergen Op Zoom, and Steenbergen.  (Map source: Google)

The war diary for the Lincoln and Welland Regiment for November 2, 1944 indicates the Regiment was in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands, and that it was a bright and warm day….

“… 17:00 …final orders were issued.  The general plan being that the Lincoln & Welland Regiment on the left and the Algonquin Regiment on the right would attack and hold positions along the road…”  This was to provide protective cover for troops advancing towards Steenbergen.

“…20:05… A Company reached their objective… and were under semi-automatic and shell fire. They suffered heavy casualties...” One of the casualties was Ronald Sidney Waterhouse.

A short video featuring old newsreel coverage of the Battle of the Scheldt can be seen here:

Ronald Sidney was initially buried in Bergen Op Zoom, and later received a permanent headstone at the Canadian War Cemetery there.

temporary grave marker from service file

Initial grave marker in Bergen Op Zoom for Ronald Sidney Waterhouse.  (Photo source:  military service file)

…A daughter’s reflections….

His daughter Merrilyn wrote to explain that “…I was only 2 years old when my Dad died so I never really knew him….  My Mother said that my Dad was a great guy and he seemed to be happy (always smiling) in a lot of old pictures that I have.  He worked for Lever Brothers….”

Merrilyn went on to explain what happened after her father left to go overseas.  “…My Mother and I lived for the first 8 years of my life with my maternal grandparents in Sydney.  When I was 8 years old my Mother married Herman F. Slade. My half-brother, Barry James, was born in 1955.  We moved to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in 1955.  Barry presently lives in Guelph, Ontario.  My Mother and Barry moved to Guelph to be closer to her brother, Rev. Merrill MacLeod….”  

Nina died in 1982.  Merrilyn now lives in Massachusetts, USA.   

Thank you to Merrilyn O’Brien and Cheryl Topping for sharing photos of Ronald Sidney Waterhouse.  If you have photos and information to share about Canadian soldiers buried in The Netherlands, please contact Pieter at memorialtrail@gmail.com, comment on the blog, or send a tweet to @researchmemori1. 

…Want to follow our research?….

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com or email me at memorialtrail@gmail.com and ask for an invitation to the blog. 

Screenshot_2021-02-27 On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter Valkenburg

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. 

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. The Search For Soldiers Who Died In Wommelgem, Belgium In Fall 1944

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February 13, 2021. After WW2 soldier Arnold Ernest “Ernie” THORNTON was featured in a recent Atlantic Canada Remembers posting, we were contacted by Niko Van Kerckhoven, of Antwerp, Belgium.   (See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2021/01/16/on-the-war-memorial-trail-atlantic-canada-remembers-part-3/)

Niko wrote that “…I am a member of the local historical society and I am doing some research about our Canadian liberators here in my hometown of Wommelgem, Belgium, in 1944.

Fort2, one of the Antwerp forts located here, housed the 9th Canadian Field Dressing Station, and as a consequence, about 40 Canadian casualties were buried in our civilian cemetery, but after the war reburied in Bergen Op Zoom Canadian Cemetery, just across the border in Holland. I visit them regularly with my son.

One of the soldiers buried here in Wommelgem was Arnold Ernest Thornton from Yarmouth. This Calgary Highlander died during the building of a bridgehead over the Albert Canal at Wijnegem. His body, together with several others, was transferred to Wommelgem to be buried, just 500m from where I live nowadays.

 I have been searching for a picture of this soldier for several years, but this week, thanks to the Yarmouth Library, they gave me the link to your site. Another search ended with a face to a name carved in stone. Every time very moving!….”

Niko submitted a photo “…of the field grave of 11 Calgary Highlanders buried here in Wommelgem before their transfer to Bergen-Op-Zoom Cemetery. My research started in fact by seeing this picture, and it became a bit like an avalanche with new names and information….”

molenbeekstraat

Field grave in Wommelgem, where 11 members of the Calgary Highlanders were initially buried after losing their lives on September 22, 1944.  (Photo credit: Heemkundige Kring De Kaeck Wommelgem)

The events in Wommelgem occurred in the fall of 1944 during the Battle of the Scheldt.  (See https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/second-world-war/scheldt)

Niko noted that his goal is to find a photo of each soldier initially buried in Wommelgem, but is “…still struggling with the last 5 names on my list…”

We know how Niko feels!  In the spirit of remembrance, let’s hope that this posting will help him in his quest! Here are the five names on his wish list…

  • George Scott Fraser COULSON, K/2209, Calgary Highlanders from Oak Bay, British Columbia, but born July 21, 1916 in Victoria, British Columbia. Died September 22, 1944.
  • Simon HOULE, M/101291, Royal Canadian Artillery, born June 18, 1922 in Saddle Lake, Alberta. Died October 1, 1944.
  • Michael SHERBANUIK, M/105737, Calgary Highlanders from Vegreville, Alberta, but born December 12, 1920 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Died September 22, 1944.
  • Paul Alan SKLUT, K/51951, Calgary Highlanders, born April 15, 1924 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Died October 8, 1944.
  • Donald Charles SUTHERLAND, F/16788, Calgary Highlanders, born January 7, 1923 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Died September 22, 1944.

If you can help with a photo or information on any of these 5 soldiers or the 9th Canadian Field Dressing Station, please let Pieter know.  You can email him at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

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.

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 6

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February 9, 2021. We continue to feature more of the photos submitted by Atlantic Canadians of soldiers buried overseas. Pieter is ensuring that every email is acknowledged, and that the photos of soldiers buried in The Netherlands will be forwarded to the appropriate cemetery for their digital archives. 

Currently, only the volunteers at the Canadian War Cemeteries in Holten and Groesbeek are active.  Submissions for Bergen Op Zoom and for any soldiers buried in municipal cemeteries are being held until Pieter gets the go-ahead that volunteers are active again.

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands

Howard Armstong

Howard W. Armstrong. (Photo submitted by Marion Fryday-Cook)

Marion Fryday-Cook, President of The Royal Canadian Legion, Nova Scotia/Nunavat Command, submitted a photo of Howard W. ARMSTRONG of Chester, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, explaining that “…This is the information gathered by Branch 44 in Chester, NS for our Command’s Veterans Recognition Service Book. Howard’s family still reside in Chester…” 

Howard was with the Fort Garry Horse – 10th Armoured Regiment, and lost his life on September 5, 1945 due to an accidental death after a misstep on a dark and unlit street in Amsterdam led to him falling into a canal and drowning.

Douglas Jury1

Douglas Jury. (Photo courtesy of the Jury Family)

On behalf of the Jury family, Dara Legere of Branch 4 of The Royal Canadian Legion in Joggins, Nova Scotia, submitted a photo of Douglas JURY, writing “…I have attached a photo of Sapper Douglas Jury of Joggins, NS who is buried in Holten Cemetery, Holland. Douglas Jury was related to my family. My mom’s sister Mary was married to Douglas’s brother Roy. There were three Jury brothers who served in WW2, Douglas, Roy, and William. William was taken prisoner by the Germans shortly after D-Day and was forced to work in the coal mines in Germany…”

Douglas was with the Royal Canadian Engineers, 18th Field Company, and lost his life on August 17, 1945. Dara explained that “…Douglas remained in Holland after the war ended, repairing dykes and bridges, etc with the Canadian Engineers. The vehicle he was travelling in rolled off one of the dykes and he was trapped under it and drowned. Such a sad story….”

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, The Netherlands

Harry William Doucette

Harry William Doucette.  (Photo courtesy of the Doucette Family)

On behalf of the Doucette family, Cyrille LeBlanc and Andre Boudreau of Legion Branch 155 in Wedgeport, Nova Scotia submitted a photo of Harry William DOUCETTE. Cyrille wrote that he “….was a private in the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, Royal Canadian Infantry Corps. He was born May 25, 1925 in Bell Neck, Sainte-Anne Catholic Parish, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia.

Private Doucette was the son of John and Celina Mary Doucette. He had eight brothers and one sister. Two brothers served in the RCAF during World War II.  He completed Grade 8 at the age of fourteen and left school to work as a lumber-man in the woods. He enjoyed reading western and veteran stories.  

 He enlisted in Halifax at age 18 October 6, 1943, and served in Canada from October 4, 1943 to October 13, 1944; in the United Kingdom from October 14, 1944 to November 23, 1944 and in France, Belgium, Netherlands, and Germany from November 24, 1944 to March 25, 1945.  He was killed in action against the enemy in Germany March 25, 1945 at age 19….”

Harry William lost his life during the Battle of Bienen in Germany, in which  44 members of the North Nova Scotia Highlanders lost their lives and 68 were wounded.  In 2000 a memorial plaque was placed in Bienen to honour those who lost their lives in this battle.  (See http://wikimapia.org/17003812/Commemorative-plaque-of-Battle-of-Bienen)

Cyrille went on to explain that “…Private Doucette was remembered and honoured May 5, 2020, September 12, 2020 and November 11, 2020 – the 75th anniversary year of the liberation of The Netherlands….”  He also was kind enough to include a link to a YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR3SowfKA_E

Arnold Hupman

Arnold F Hupman.  (Photo submitted by Marilyn Hupman)

Marilyn Hupman sent a photo and information on her grandfather, Flying Officer Arnold F. HUPMAN, writing that “… He was the only boy of 7 children, born and raised in East Side of Ragged Island, Shelburne County, Nova Scotia. 

Margaret Nickerson and he married and had 3 sons, Arnold, Robert and Arthur.  Arthur is the only surviving child.  My father, Arthur, was 7 years old when he last saw his father, just before he went overseas. 

From the stories I heard as a child he was asked to stay in Canada and teach pilots, but being a true Canadian he said no that he signed up to fight and he was going over.

Our family is very proud of our Grandfather and the rest of the family that fought. The only loss was F.O. A.F. Hupman….”

Arnold lost his life when the Lancaster bomber he was in crashed on the outskirts of Arnhem on the night of June 16 to 17, 1944, after being shot down by a German nightfighter. All 7 members of the crew of Lancaster VR-V lost their lives.  They were temporarily buried in the Netherlands Reformed Church Cemetery in Huissensedijk on June 29, and later reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek.   

In addition to Arnold Hupman, the other crew members were: Donald MORISSEN, Gerald QUINN, Harold FLETCHER, Clifford JOHNSTON, Philip MCMANUS, and Edward FAHY. (More information can be found in this English translation of an article by the late Willem Tiemans: https://airbornearnhem.nl/WillemTiemens/Elden%20bomber%20crash.htm)

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands

Austin Boutilier photo from Judy MacKenzie

Austin Ephraim Boutilier. (Photo submitted by Judy MacKenzie)

Judy MacKenzie submitted a photo of her great-uncle, Austin Ephraim BOUTILIER, who was killed in action in Belgium during the Battle of the Scheldt on September 29, 1944, aged 26, while serving with the Black Watch Regiment.  (See https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/second-world-war/scheldt)

Judy MacKenzie explained that “…He was gone long before I was born. His father was Ansil Boutilier. He was married to Hannah Hershman. They lived in Tantallon, Nova Scotia. They would have been my great grandparents. I remember stories that he joined the military before he was old enough.  However, if he was 26 when he died, that would appear to be untrue. All of Austin’s siblings are gone. Several of Austin’s siblings fought in the war, including my grandfather, who married Austin’s sister. Everyone else made it home, some with shrapnel in them….”

Judy’s uncle, Ernest ‘Ernie’ MacKenzie, wrote that “…our Uncle Austin is buried at Bergen op Zoom Canadian War Cemetery. We did visit Austin’s grave in 2011….” 

According to the Field Service record, Austin was initially buried in Belgium on September 30, 1944 “…on the south side of the road between Ryckevorsel towards St. Leonard...” before being reburied in Bergen Op Zoom in The Netherlands.

Thank you to André Boudreau, Marion Fryday-Cook, the Doucette family, Marilym Hupman, Cyrille LeBlanc, Dara Legere, Ernie MacKenzie, and Judy MacKenzie for sharing photos and anecdotes.  Atlantic Canadians remember their loved ones who are buried overseas.

More photos and stories in Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 7! If you have photos or information to share, please email Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1. 

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com or email me at dariadv@yahoo.ca and ask for an invitation to the blog. 

Missed the previous postings in this series? See:

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. 

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 5

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 8 Comments

January 27, 2021. Responses to the news clips on CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 on January 4 and 13 continue to come in.  As mentioned in the previous 4 parts, Pieter is ensuring that every email is acknowledged, and that the photos of soldiers buried in The Netherlands are forwarded to the appropriate cemetery for their digital archives.

This posting features more of the photos submitted…..

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands

William Herbert Bellamy

William Herbert Bellamy.  (Photo courtesy of the Bellamy Family)

On behalf of the Bellamy Family, Linda Fury submitted a photo of her uncle, William Herbert “Billy’ BELLAMY, explaining that “….There are about 150 members of our family now.  We hold reunions often and all know the story of our Uncle Bill.  He belonged to the North Nova Scotia Highlanders and died in January 1945 while a prisoner in Germany.  Thanks so much for all you have done and are continuing to do.  Your work is very much appreciated by all of us….”

William Herbert ‘Billy’ was born on May 2, 1921 in Hereford, England, the son of Percy and Frances Bellamy.  In 1927 he immigrated to Canada with his family and settled in Midgic Station (now Midgic), New Brunswick.  Following his 18th birthday, he enlisted with the West Nova Scotia Highlanders on August 2, 1940 in Aldershot, Nova Scotia. On April 30, 1941 he transferred to the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, and was on his way to England in July 1941.

The North Nova Scotia Highlanders were among the troops to land in Normandy on D-Day on June 6, 1944.  Unfortunately, on June 7, 1944 he was captured by the Germans in Normandy and became a prisoner of war (POW).  On August 13, 1944 he arrived at Stalag XII A [Limburg an der Lahn, Hessen, a POW transit camp] and then, on August 26, 1944 was transferred to Stalag Camp VIII B [Lamsdorf, Oberschlesien] near the German-Polish border.  On November 2, 1944 he was sent to the work camp E 902 Delbrückschächte Hindenburg where, along with other POWs, he worked in a nearby coal mine.

According to an account that a former POW sent after the war to Billy’s father, Billy was seriously injured on January 1, 1945 when the mine ceiling collapsed.  He was taken to hospital in Hindenburg (now Zabrze and part of Poland).  However, according to the POW record kept by his captors, he was seriously injured on November 23, 1944 and sent to a military hospital in Knurow (now Knurów, Poland). Curiously, the same injuries described as happening on January 1, 1945 were reported on the POW record as having occurred on November 23, 1944.

In January 1945 he died of his injuries. Records of the exact circumstances have not been found, likely due to advancing Russian troops.  His military service file lists his official date of death as January 28, 1945. On February 6, 1945, Billy was buried in the Municipal Cemetery of Teupitz (in the state of Brandenburg, Germany).  After the war ended he was reburied in the Heerstrasse British Cemetery in Berlin, and then in 1949 reburied for the final time in Holten.

Robert Cole

Robert Theodore Cole. (Photo courtesy of Emily Gilbert)

Ervin Ellis submitted a photo of Robert Theodore COLE, explaining that “…I was told by Kent Caldwell that you were looking for a picture of Robert Cole, WWII Veteran from Coles Island. A woman that I knew had close ties to that area.  She said the whole family was deceased but her first husband was part of that family, if anyone had any pictures it would be her.  She looked through her old pictures and by some sort of miracle she had pictures…”  This was Emily Gilbert.  Robert Cole was the nephew of her husband.

Born in Coles Island, New Brunswick, the son of Fred and Maria Cole, Robert enlisted in March 1940 and served in Canada and Labrador before going overseas in September 1943. He was in France by 1944, and also was with his regiment in Belgium, The Netherlands, and Germany.  He lost his life on April 21, 1945 during the Battle of Friesoythe in Germany while serving with the Lorne Scots – Ground Defence Platoon.

Ervin’s assistance was invaluable in putting a face to this soldier’s name! He went on to write Pieter that “….This is a great project you are working on, saw you on TV a couple of times. I am the Zone Commander for the legions in this area so I know them pretty good and their Cenotaphs. If I can help you any let me know…”  Needless to say, Pieter has taken Ervin up on his offer and is grateful for the help that he and Kent Caldwell have provided.

Joseph Gerald Fougere

Joseph Gerald Fougere. (Photo submitted by Doug Landry)

Gerald Douglas ‘Doug’ Landry submitted a photo of his uncle, Joseph ‘Gerald’ FOUGERE, explaining that he was “….born in Poulamon, Nova Scotia, the only son of Felix and Josephine (Marchand) Fougere. Gerald had three sisters: Evelyn, married to Thomas Sampson; Anita, married to Val Poirier; and Theresa, married to James W. Landry….”

Doug went on to write that “…Gerald was with the Perth Regiment.  He was dangerously wounded in action on April 24th, 1945 and died of wounds on April 26th, 1945 at the age of 28 years, 11 months….” He lost his life during the Battle of the Delfzijl Pocket.

Soldiers Buried In Adegem Canadian War Cemetery in Belgium

Arthur Jack Taylor

Arthur ‘Jack’ Taylor.  (Photo courtesy of the Taylor Family)

On behalf of the Taylor family, Art Taylor submitted a photo of his uncle, Arthur Brambel ‘Jack’ TAYLOR, explaining that “…My father and his four brothers, from the small town of Woodstock, New Brunswick, all served in WWII.  Three saw action.  My father (John Taylor) was in the Royal Canadian Navy and escorted convoys to Europe.  His two brothers were in the army.  Russell Taylor fought into Holland and survived.  His other brother Arthur ‘Jack’ Taylor was with the Winnipeg Rifles.  He was killed at the Leopold Canal on October 12, 1944.  He is buried at the Adegem Canadian War Cemetery in Belgium.  He was 26 years old…”

Jack was a rifleman, killed during Operation Switchback, part of the Battle of the Scheldt.  A Wikipedia article explains that “….October 10, 11, and 12 were days of intense struggle while the men of the 7th Brigade with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles took, lost and then retook a group of houses known as Graaf Jan and the Regina Rifles found themselves pinned down by a group of well dug-in pillboxes that seemed to be resilient to artillery…” (For more information see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Scheldt#Operation_Switchback) Jack was initially buried in Madelgem before being reburied in Adegem.

Thank you to Ervin Ellis, Emily Gilbert, Doug Landy, Linda Fury, and Art Taylor for sharing photos and anecdotes.  Kudos to CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 for helping to get the word out on this quest of remembrance. Atlantic Canadians remember their loved ones who are buried overseas.  Pieter and I extend our condolences to Ervin Ellis, who sadly lost his wife on January 20.

More photos and stories in Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 6! If you have photos or information to share, please email Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

If you are reading this posting, but aren’t following the blog, you are welcome to do so.  See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com or email me at dariadv@yahoo.ca and ask for an invitation to the blog.

Missed the previous postings in this series? See:

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.

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 4

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 7 Comments

January 20, 2021. Responses to the news clips on CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 on January 4 and 13 continue to come in.  As mentioned in Parts 1, 2, and 3, Pieter is ensuring that every email is acknowledged, and that the photos of soldiers buried in The Netherlands are forwarded to the appropriate cemetery for their digital archives. 

This posting features more of the photos submitted…..      

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands

Nelson DesRoches Army

Nelson Desroches. (Photo courtesy of The Desroches Family)

Leo Gaudet submitted a photo of Nelson DESROCHES, on behalf of the Desroches family, and wrote that “…We have a vet buried at Holten from Tignish, whom my wife and I visited in 2014…”

Born May 23, 1915 in Tignish, Prince Edward Island, the son of John Desroches and Elizabeth Doucette, Nelson followed his older brother Merrick into military service.  He was serving with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry when he was killed in action on April 14, 1945.

Ernest Robert Haynes

Ernest Robert Haynes.  (Photo courtesy of the Haynes Family)

On behalf of the Haynes family, Teri Haynes submitted a photo of her father-in-law, Ernest Robert HAYNES, and explained that “…my Ernie visited the grave many years ago when he was in his teens with his Mother…”

Ernest Robert, born March 17, 1919 in St. John, New Brunswick, was the son of James Edward and Alice Beatrice Haynes.  A dyer in a laundromat before enlisting in 1939, he was married to Opal Bailey and the father of Teri’s late husband, Ernest David.

While serving with the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, he was sent overseas to the United Kingdom in July 1944, and on June 1, 1945 to North West Europe. Unfortunately, due to a fatal accident with a passing Canadian Army truck near Soestdijk, he lost his life on July 5, 1945, age 26.  He was temporarily buried in the town of Hilversum before being reburied on March 29, 1946 in Holten.

Daniel Pearo

Daniel Pearo.  (Photo courtesy of the Pearo Family)

On behalf of the Pearo family, Colleen Hartling submitted a photo of her uncle, Daniel PEARO, and wrote that “…Daniel was my mother’s brother. She looked up to him as a child and loved him dearly. She said that he was full of fun and you can see the twinkle in his kind eyes. I was born in the 60s so I did not know Daniel…”

Daniel Pearo, son of Samuel and Dasie Pearo, served with the Cape Breton Highlanders and lost his life on May 1, 1945.  (A tribute to him can be found here: http://faculty.uccb.ca/highlanders/DANIEL%20PEARO.htm?fbclid=IwAR1ijEE5uz9tppYwN4dPcHA24DAGhDSAtVfQJUtRAEa21ZIY-zqRZwiUG9I)

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands

Gordon Brewer 2

Gordon Thomas Brewer.  (Photo submitted by Stephen and Hazel Albert)

Stephen Albert submitted a photo of Gordon Thomas BREWER on behalf of himself and his mother Hazel, explaining that his uncle “… was 17 when he enlisted to serve his country.  Killed in action on his 21st birthday on October 25, 1944.  School children at that time adopted a grave. Willamina Proost, a young girl, adopted Gordon’s grave, corresponded with his parents for many years until she married, then stopped writing, so lost contact with her. Gordon’s medals and all letters to his parents were burned in a house fire several years ago, only few photos taken before going overseas still remain. Thank you for taking time to honour the men and women who gave their lives to protect others…”

Hazel Albert, Gordon’s sister, wrote that she was the “…last remaining member of Gordon’s family….”  Gordon was born in Halifax on October 25, 1923, the son of Alonzo Wallace and Mary Ellen (nee Dean) Brewer.  

Gordon served with the Essex Scottish Regiment and lost his life during the Battle of the Scheldt.  (See https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/second-world-war/scheldt)

Soldiers buried at the Montecchio War Cemetery in Italy

Felix Gaudet

Felix Gaudet.  (Photo submitted by Leo Gaudet)

Leo Gaudet submitted a photo of his uncle, Felix GAUDET, born May 30, 1923, son of Joseph J. and Mary Gaudet of Tignish, Prince Edward Island. After enlistment, he left Halifax for the United Kingdom in July 1943 and was transferred to the Canadian Infantry Reserve Unit a few days after his arrival.  On March 26, 1944 he was sent to Italy, and on May 13 transferred to the Cape Breton Highlanders.

On August 30, 1944 he lost his life during the battle to take a knoll on the Gothic Defence Line.  Another soldier from PEI, Albert Eugene Arsenault, also with the Cape Breton Highlanders, lost his life the same day.  (See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2020/10/09/the-ww2-soldier-killed-in-action-while-crossing-the-foglia-river-in-italy/)

“The Allies began the day of August 30th with an air bombardment against German positions at dawn. At 5.30 p.m., the Perth Regiment attacked the end of a ridge northeast of Montecchio, while a knoll at the west end of the town and the high ground beyond were the objectives of the Cape Breton Highlanders. Both units faced incessant fire from the heights as well as minefields along the flat lands. The Perths managed to break through the line first, reaching and passing their objective. The Cape Breton troops had the support of tanks from the 8th Princess Louise’s (New Brunswick) Hussars, which helped three of their companies make it to the base of the knoll. After each attempt, however, they were driven back to the Foglia, with casualties totalling 19 members killed and 46 wounded. The Irish Regiment, which had been in reserve, was moved through the path of the Perths. Tanks and artillery guns were not yet available here and as a result the regiment lost 19 killed and 31 wounded.” (Source: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/memorials/overseas/second-world-war/italy/montecchio)

The Gaudet family made a tribute to Felix last year, on what would have been his 97th birthday.  It was so special that it’s shared here:

Felix Gaudet tribute by Aunt Cathy

Tribute to Felix Gaudet submitted by Leo Gaudet.

Thank you to Hazel Albert, Stephen Albert, Kent Caldwell, Colleen Hartling, Teri Haynes, and Leo Gaudet for sharing photos and anecdotes.  Kudos to CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 for helping to get the word out on this quest of remembrance. Atlantic Canadians remember their loved ones who are buried overseas.

More photos and stories in Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 5! If you have photos or information to share, please email Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1. 

Missed the previous postings in this series? See:

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. 

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail….. Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 3

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 12 Comments

‘No soldier buried overseas should be forgotten’ …. Pieter Valkenburg

January 16, 2021.  “No soldier buried overseas should be forgotten.” This statement by Pieter in a news clip on CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 touched many people who watched it, and many photos and stories continue to be emailed to him.  As mentioned in Parts 1 and 2, Pieter has been working to ensure every email is acknowledged, and that the photos of soldiers buried in The Netherlands are forwarded to the appropriate cemetery for their digital archives. 

This posting features more of the photos submitted…..      

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands

William Broome restored

William Harold Broome. (Photo submitted by the Fleet Family)

On behalf of the Fleet Family, Diane Russo submitted a photo of her uncle, William Harold BROOME of Galt, Ontario, was born in 1913, the son of Simeon and Charlotte (nee Gilbert) Broome.  In 1937 he married Edith Cavel Gillies, and they had a son Billy.  A machine operator before enlisting in the war, he died of wounds received in action on April 25, 1945 during the Battle of Friesoythe in NW Germany, while serving with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada. He was buried there temporarily, before being reburied on March 9, 1946 in Holten.

Lt. Percy Dexter Higgins

Percy Dexter Higgins.  (Photo courtesy of the Higgins Family)

On behalf of the Higgins Family, Donald Higgins submitted a photo of his uncle, Percy Dexter HIGGINS, and wrote that “…My father’s brother, Lt. Percy Dexter Higgins, is buried in Holten Cemetery. He served with North Nova Scotia Highlanders R.C.I.C. (from N.S.)…”

Lt Higgins lost his life during the Battle of Warnsveld which began late in the day on April 4, 1945. An account of the events is in Will R. Bird’s ‘No Retreating Footsteps… the story of the North Novas’: “…. April 4th was bright and sunny…The Brigadier arrived and the Novas’ next objective was the town of Warnsveld…. The troops were carried in vehicles to a debussing point in the woods…… there was a delay as a huge crater in the road had to be filled by the Sappers before the ‘Wasps’ could get over. Then the tanks had not arrived and the company could not get forward until 1730 hours. A Company started to hit snipers in concealed positions and progress was slow as each house had to be searched in turn….”

Bird’s account mentions what happened next…. “….There was considerable shooting going on in various spots and B Company sent a platoon to make sure of an area between them and A Company.  Lt Higgins was in command. There was open ground to be crossed with a fence running at an angle. Three attempts to get over were driven back by machine gun fire.  Lt Higgins then tried to lead a rush up by the cover of the fence and was killed as he jumped over on the other side….”   

Like John James MURRAY, whose story was told in Atlantic Canada Remembers –Part 2, he is listed on a monument in Warnsveld. (See https://www.tracesofwar.com/sights/57960/Memorial-Canadian-Soldiers.htm).

An error might have been made in recording the date of his death as April 7, 1945 on the Canadian Virtual War Memorial and on his gravestone.  The family has been provided with the service file records should they wish to ask the Commonwealth War Graves Commission for a correction to be made on his gravestone, and for a correction to be made on the Canadian Virtual War Memorial.

IMG_7900 James King

James King. (Photo courtesy of Terry McCormick)

Aaron Bouma submitted a photo of James Gordon KING on behalf of Terry McCormick. Born July 3, 1910 in Woodstock, New Brunswick, the son of Harris Weston and May King, James was a salesman and radio technician in a music store before enlisting on September 1939.

While serving with the Royal Canadian Artillery, he died in a road accident on August 5, 1945, and was temporarily buried in Ostercheps (north west Germany) before being reburied on March 7, 1946 in Holten.

Pte Richard J Raney - 1

Richard Joseph Raney. (Photo courtesy of The Raney Family)

On behalf of the Raney family, Michelle Sutherland submitted a photo of Richard Joseph RANEY, explaining that “…My great uncle (my grandmother’s brother) was killed in action on April 8, 1945 and is buried at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery.  He was born April 12, 1926 in Point Michaud, Richmond County, Nova Scotia.  I was able to get a copy of his World War II Records & Service Files. As I was reading through his file, I realized that he actually lied about his age at the time of his enlistment. He enlisted in Sydney, Nova Scotia on August 31, 1942. He gave his birthday as February 8, 1924. Immediately I knew that could not be correct because my grandmother was born in September 1923. As it turns out, Richard was actually born on April 12, 1926 and was only 16 years old when he enlisted. He was killed a few days before his 19th birthday….”

Following the successful liberation of Warnsveld, the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, which Richard Joseph was serving with, continued their advance. Will R. Bird’s ‘No Retreating Footsteps… the story of the North Novas’ explains that: “…. April 8th was clear and sunny and an O-group was held at noon.  The general plan was to seize a bridgehead over the Schipbeek Canal and penetrate into the village of Bathmen.  The bridgehead was to be taken quickly to allow Sappers to set up a Bailey bridge and open the road to traffic….” Richard Joseph lost his life at some point during the ensuing sortie.

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands

Ernie Thornton

Arnold Ernest “Ernie” Thornton.  (Photo courtesy of Susan Hudson)

Susan Hudson submitted a photo of her uncle, Arnold Ernest “Ernie” THORNTON.  “…He was born in Amherst on September 30th, 1921 and was killed September 22, 1944, eight days before he turned 23….” she explained. “… He was the son of Edward Arnold and Doris Maude (MacDonald) Thornton.  He served with the Calgary Highlanders….” 

Ernie was killed in Belgium during the Battle of the Scheldt and initially buried near Wommelgem, Belgium, before being reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen op Zoom.

Thank you to Aaron Bouma, Donald Higgins, Susan Hudson, Terry McCormick, Diane Russo, and Michelle Sutherland for sharing photos and anecdotes.  Thank you again to CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 for helping to get the word out on this quest of remembrance. Atlantic Canadians remember their loved ones who are buried overseas.

More photos and stories in Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 4! If you have photos or information to share, please email Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1. 

Missed the previous postings in this series? See:

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. 

© Daria Valkenburg

 

On The War Memorial Trail….. Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 2

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 11 Comments

January 13, 2021.  “No soldier buried overseas should be forgotten.” This statement by Pieter in a news clip on CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 touched many people who watched it, and many photos and stories continue to be emailed to him.  As mentioned in Part 1, Pieter is working to ensure that every email is acknowledged, and that the photos of soldiers buried in The Netherlands are forwarded to the appropriate cemetery for their digital archives.

(See https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2021/01/07/on-the-war-memorial-trail-atlantic-canada-remembers-part-1/ and https://bordencarletonresearchproject.wordpress.com/2021/01/05/on-the-war-memorial-trail-the-search-for-ww2-soldiers-buried-in-the-netherlands-featured-on-ctvs-atlantic-live-at-5/)

This posting features more of the photos submitted…..

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, The Netherlands

Francis Ivan Dougan

Francis ‘Frank’ Ivan Dougan. (Photo courtesy of Helen O’Connell)

Helen O’Connell submitted a photo of her uncle, Francis ‘Frank’ Ivan DOUGAN.  She wrote that he “….was born in November 12, 1919 to Florence and John Dougan from Donaldson, Prince Edward Island.  He was the 2nd of 12 boys born in that family – no girls.  Frank left school at age of 15 and went to work to help his family.  He worked in Debert, Nova Scotia as a labourer and mechanic.  In 1941, he and 3 of his brothers enlisted to go to war.  He took his training in Quebec and Vancouver and went overseas June 1, 1942….”

While overseas, Helen explained that Frank “…. worked as a driver in the war, mainly in the UK.  After the war Frank decided to work in peacekeeping as a Canadian soldier in Oldenburg, Germany.  On May 16, 1946, he was involved in road accident and was killed.  He was buried in Holland and was awarded the France and Germany Star 1939-1945….”

Frank served as a driver with the 48 Canadian General Transport Company RCASC (Royal Canadian Army Service Corps).  The RCASC was an administrative and transport corps of the Canadian Army. (For more information, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Canadian_Army_Service_Corps)

According to his service file, Frank died in a hospital in Nijmegen following a road accident during very bad weather in Nijmegen, while he was on his way from Grave, The Netherlands to Oldenburg, Germany. Mechanical failure in the steering mechanism led to the accident.  Frank was a passenger in the rear of the vehicle along with 2 others, plus the driver.  There were two fatalities: Frank Dougan and another soldier who was also in the rear.

Frank was temporarily buried in the Canadian Cemetery in Groesbeek and later reburied, on July 16 1946, in Holten.  His grave was adopted by a family from Delden.

Helen was able to visit The Netherlands and the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten.  “…My husband and I were very fortunate to visit his grave in 2016.  I was so proud and honoured to be there.  I will not forget.  This graveyard seemed almost like a sacred place for these solders who gave their life for us and since my visit I really appreciate that….”

James Murrary

John ‘James’ Murray.  (Photo submitted by Florence MacLachlan)

Florence MacLachlan submitted a photo of her uncle, John ‘James’ MURRAY, who was born in Whycocomagh, Nova Scotia and lived in West Bay Road before serving with the North Nova Scotia Highlanders.  She wrote that “…Josie was my mother and was the youngest of the siblings. James was the oldest and could have stayed farming and not joined the army because he was the only one who could look after the farm. He wanted to join and help out the war movement. He didn’t tell his parents/family of his interest in joining until after he signed up…”

He was killed in action in The Netherlands on April 5, 1945 during the Battle of Warnsveld, at the age of 28. His name is listed on a monument in Warnsveld (See https://www.tracesofwar.com/sights/57960/Memorial-Canadian-Soldiers.htm).

James was temporarily buried in Warnsveld, before being reburied, on January 30, 1946, at the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten. His grave was adopted after the war by a family from Holten.

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Groesbeek, The Netherlands

Bobby Nickerson

Jeff McIntosh Robert (Bobby) Nickerson. (Photo submitted by Darlene Roberts)

Darlene Roberts submitted a photo of Jeff McIntosh Robert (Bobby) NICKERSON, and wrote that “…My husband’s uncle was killed in the Rhineland Forest just two months before the war ended. His name was Jeff McIntosh Robert (Bobby) Nickerson. We were stationed in Germany from 1968-1971. We were able to visit the grave in 1969. We live in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. My husband’s family is from Halifax…” A paratrooper in the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, he was killed on his first jump from a plane over the Rhineland Forest.

Soldiers buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands

Russell Soble in Bergen Op Zoom

Russell Soble. (Photo courtesy of Janet Latchford)

Jack Soble submitted a photo of his uncle, Russell Richard SOBLE, which had been provided by Russell’s sister, Janet Latchford.  Jack wrote that “…My father, Russell’s brother, was also fighting in Europe. During that time, if you had a younger brother fighting in Europe, you could claim him and he could go to where you were fighting so you could be together.  My father didn’t want to claim him as where my Dad was there was heavy fighting and he was afraid if he claimed him then he might get killed. Unfortunately he was killed.…”

Born in Ameliasburg, Ontario, Russell served in the Essex Scottish Regiment after arriving in Europe, and died on October 6, 1944.  He was one of 12 members of the regiment killed in action in Putte, a town on the Dutch-Belgian border, in a fight on October 5, 1944 that marked the beginning of the Battle of the Scheldt.  (For more information see Eternal Memorial for Canadian Heroes)

All of the Canadian soldiers were initially buried in Putte’s churchyard.  Putte is south of Bergen Op Zoom, where Russell was subsequently reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery.  Putte recognized the sacrifices made by soldiers and Russell’s name is listed on a war memorial in the Dutch part of the town. (See https://www.tracesofwar.nl/sights/541/Oorlogsmonument-Putte.htm)

Soldiers Buried In Adegem Canadian War Cemetery in Belgium

Alexander Fraser MacDonald

Alexander Fraser MacDonald. (Photo submitted by Sandy Burgess)

Sandra Burgess submitted a photo of her father, Alexander Fraser MACDONALD, explaining that “…he served with The Regina Rifles, and was killed on October 31, 1944 in Breskens during the Battle of the Scheldt.  He was from Trenton, Nova Scotia, the son of George and Annie MacDonald. He was married to Aileen Hoganson and they were expecting a baby (me) when he was killed. I was on a river cruise in 2012 and was blessed to be able to visit his grave at Adegem…”

Thank you to Sandra Burgess, Janet Latchford, Florence MacLachlan, Helen O’Connell, Darlene Roberts, and Russell Soble for sharing photos and anecdotes.  Thank you again to CTV’s Atlantic Live At 5 for helping to get the word out on this quest of remembrance. Atlantic Canadians remember their loved ones who are buried overseas.

More photos and stories in Atlantic Canada Remembers – Part 3! If you have photos or information to share, please email Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca, comment on the blog, or tweet to @researchmemori1.

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.

© Daria Valkenburg

On The War Memorial Trail…..A Face For James Walter Auld

/ On The War Memorial Trail With Pieter & Daria / 3 Comments

July 7, 2020.  Last year, a request was made for photos and information on PEI soldiers from WW2 who were buried in The Netherlands.  (See Photos and Info Requested For WW2 Soldiers From PEI Buried In The Netherlands)

It’s been a slow and difficult quest, but in the past few months two photos have been found, one for Joseph Edmund HENNEBERY (See On The War Memorial Trail…..A Face For Joseph Hennebery!) and now one for James Walter AULD.

The story of how Auld’s photo was found has several twists and turns.  Pieter had zero luck in finding anyone related to this WW2 soldier, who is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom in The Netherlands, until we met Helen MacEwen, who had invited us to see a WW1 era map her father-in-law had sent to the Island in 1918.  (See The WW1 Era ‘Course Of The Rhine’ Map of Germany)

We brought along a ‘wish list’ of photos and after looking at the list, Helen suggested that Pieter contact Allison Ellis, as his wife Melba came from the same area as Auld.  “…Allison is a retired politician…” Helen explained, “...and knows a lot of people…”  (See http://www.peildo.ca/fedora/repository/leg:27520)

It was a long shot. Lots of people over the years have suggested names, which turned out to be a fruitless exercise, but this time Pieter found a kindred spirit.  Allison remembered a Walter Auld and it was soon determined that this was the same person.  “…. I’ve been to his grave in The Netherlands….” Pieter was told. Allison didn’t have a photo, but thought he knew who to ask.  “…Leave it with me…” he said. A week later, we were sitting in the home of Allison and Melba, and Pieter had a photo that Auld’s niece, Judy Bartlett, had provided.

CIMG4156 Jun 23 2020 Pieter with Melba & Allison Ellis

Left to right: Melba Ellis, Pieter, Allison Ellis.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

James Walter Auld

Walter Auld. (Photo courtesy of Judy Bartlett Family Collection)

James “Walter” AULD was born October 21, 1923 in Glenwood, the son of James and Margaret Auld of O’Leary Station, and was a garage mechanic with Corney Brothers in Summerside.  After enlisting in Charlottetown on February 20, 1942, he was sent for basic training as a rifleman.

A note in his service file indicates he was unhappy with this placement and noted he had been promised a position as a driver or mechanic when he enlisted.  His mechanical knowledge was assessed as ‘superior’ and the recommendation was made that he be transferred to a position where his skills could be used.

In May 1942 he was transferred to the Princess Louise Fusiliers (Motor Division), and by October 1942 he was on his way to England. In August 1943 he was transferred to the Algonquin Regiment.  In July 1944 he was with his unit, first in France and then as they moved into The Netherlands.

According to the War Diary for the Algonquin Regiment, on November 1, 1944 they were under the command of the 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Armoured Division, and in action to try and take the town of Welberg, The Netherlands.   This was part of Operation Suitcase, which began on October 20, 1944, and as part of the bigger Battle of the Scheldt operation.  (See https://canadianbattlefieldtours.ca/operation-suitcase/)

self propelled tank p49

The war diary entry for November 1, 1944 recorded that “… Zero hour was at 19:00 hours…. We had 17 SP (self-propelled) tanks in support to deal with the enemy SP tanks…. Shortly after the kick-off, ‘A’ Company reported that one SP had bogged down and was holding the Company up  and before they got going again ‘D’ Company reported they were 300 yards from Welberg.  At 20:45 hours ‘A’ Company reported that one of the SPs had been hit and was burning.  At 21:00 hours ‘A’ Company reported another SP burning and that the situation was very confused due to heavy shelling of their positions by enemy SPs….”

At some point in this battle on November 1, 1944, Auld lost his life, aged 21. On November 6, 1944, he was buried in a cemetery in Steenbergen, not far from where he died.

Map where Auld died with arrow

Map with a black arrow showing the approximate location where Auld lost his life near Welberg. The unit had come from the area of Moerstaten. He was initially buried in Steenbergen, then later in Bergen Op Zoom. (Map courtesy of Michelin)

In October 1946 Auld was reburied in the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom.  We were there in October 2019 and Pieter placed Canadian and PEI flags by his grave.  (See On The War Memorial Trail…..Our 2019 Visit To The Canadian War Cemetery In Bergen Op Zoom for an account of our visit.)

CIMG3388 Oct 7 2019 Bergen Op Zoom James Auld

Pieter by the grave of Walter Auld at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom.  (Photo credit: Daria Valkenburg)

Thanks to the combined efforts of Allison and Melba Ellis, Judy Bartlett, and Helen MacEwen, a photo of James Walter Auld is on its way to the researchers at the Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen Op Zoom. If you have information to share about Canadian soldiers buried in The Netherlands, please contact Pieter at dariadv@yahoo.ca or comment on the blog.

© Daria Valkenburg