Servicemen A to B

Servicemen are listed alphabetically by their Surname.

A

B

✝ Indicates individuals who died during military service.

Military abbreviations used in service files have been compiled by Library and Archives Canada and can be viewed by clicking here.

A

Abbott, John (Scotty) – Chief Stoker RCNR

Vol.16/1940/No.9-Sep. p.4/5 – “Our next note came from the Navy, from Dan Wallace… He says: “We had a real Powell River gathering in Victoria recently, Harry Dunn, Sandy Allen [sic], Sam Rees, Bill Gandy, Charlie (??) , ‘Scotty’ Abbott and myself, so figure it out for yourself.” S.P.O. J. Abbot, Y.F.D. 32, % F.M.O. St. John’s, Newfoundland
Vol.18/1942/No.3-Mar. p.2/3 – “Working out of eastern ports, guarding convoys, hunting submarines or sweeping up mines, are lads who were born here, or who spent most of their lives in our midst…(including.)…Scotty Abbot…”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “In the ranks of the bluejackets are scores of former employees, well known throughout the district. There is…Chief Stoker “Scotty” Abbot, of the machine room…worthy of the tradition handed down and maintained by the Royal Navy.”
Vol.19/1943/No.1-Jan. p.9 – “And when we grow a bit too introspective on this fuel shortage or freezing weather give a thought to…Scotty Abbott… and scores of others who keep the U-boats from our shores and protect our men in their journeys across the high seas in all kinds of weather.”
Vol.19/1943/No.1-Jan. p.10 – “To date, word has been received from…Scotty Abbott…and others, telling of the warm sunshine and the blue waters of the “Med”.”
Apr/43, p.1 – “Scotty Abbot, who has been in the “Med” recently, is a Chief Stoker.”
Vol.19/1943/No.5-May. p.14 – “With the first group of corvettes exacting one of the greatest sea convoys in history were several Powell River boys, Stoker PO Scotty Abbott, Leading Seaman Jack Carruthers, Stoker 1/C Eddie Riley and several others.”
May/43, p.2 – “Stoker Petty Officer Scotty Abbot was back on leave in May after six months in the “Med” on a corvette. Looks like a million and is giving the girls around town a real treat. Scotty had a couple of beers with Harry Donkersley in Gibraltar, ran across Jack and Bert Grundle and a bunch of the boys, in Ireland; took part in the Allied landing in Algeria, and generally carried himself like a P.O. and a gentleman in the navy, God Bless Him!”
Vol.19/1943/No.6-Jun. p.14 – “I met Harry Donkerslsey in Gibraltar, “ writes Scotty Abbott. “We had a few beers together, and Harry took his plane back to England.”
Vol.19/1943/No.11-Nov. p.10 – “And in the Mediterranean, local lads like Jackie Carruthers, Scotty Abbott, Eddie Riley and many others have fought their Oerlikons and light guns in the face of blazing Stuka attacks.”
Jun/44, p.2 – S.P.O. J. Abbot, Y.F.D. 32, % F.M.O. St. John’s, Newfoundland “Received the last cartoon of Cigs and they came in plenty handy, also the News Letter comes regularly each month, so thanks a million and keep the News Letters coming, they are good reading.”
Sep/44, p.2 – “Scotty Abbot, pushing convoys around the Atlantic, is now a Chief Stoker, which is one up for the Navy.”
Mar/45, p.2 – “Scotty Abbot is still on the North Atlantic convoy, but there is a buzz that he may join the gang in the East shortly – but that is a rumor from the usual source.”
Mar/45, p.4 – Chief Stoker Abbot, J. (Scotty), H.M.C.S. Petrolin, c/o F.M.O., St. John’s, Newfoundland – “Am still on North Atlantic convoy, but there is a buzz around that we may go to the East. Haven’t seen many of the gang recently.”
Jun/45, p.1 – “Other fellows definitely signed up for the Pacific include Scotty Abbot…”
Jul/46, p.6 – (re: African Landings). “…and twice torpedoes missed (Jack Carruthers’) ship by a few yards. Much of the same experience was shared by Scotty Abbot on H.M.S. Prescott.”

John “Scotty” Abbott sits 2nd from left (ID PH002117)

Adams, Albert – Lance Corporal RCASC CFN

Dec/44, p.2 – “If you have a spare moment, take time to look up Albert Adams.” (Pte. Adams, A., K-48645, #1 C.A.S.C. RU. C.A.O.)

Alexander, Johnny – Sergeant Canadian Army Overseas

Jul/44, p.1 – “And Johnny Alexander is up to Sergeant again, after reverting to go overseas.”
Aug/44, p.3 – (in letter from Cpl. Carter, W.D.) – “Norm Hill, Johnny Alexander and Bill Crockett are very close to our camp.”

Allan, A. (Sandy) – CSM 2nd Battalion BC Regiment (R)

Vol.16/1940/No.9-Sep. p.4/5 – “Our next note came from the Navy, from Dan Wallace… He says: “We had a real Powell River gathering in Victoria recently, Harry Dunn, Sandy Allen [sic], Sam Rees, Bill Gandy, Charlie (??) , ‘Scotty’ Abbott and myself, so figure it out for yourself.”
May/43, p.5 – “Sandy Allan, CSM of E. Coy. has been called up as a permanent CSM instructor.”
Jul/43, p.19 – (in a letter from D.A. Jack) – “Tell Sandy Allen [sic] – if this is the same person] his home town still makes “guid whusky”.”

Allman, R.P. (Dick) – Sergeant Canadian Army Overseas, BLS (K-37945), H.Q. 2nd. C.A. BDE. C.A.O., B.L.A.

Jan/45, p.1 – “Dick Allman has been upped to Sergeant.”
Jan/45, p.4 – “Was glad to hear about the Monsell boys in the last News Letter, and so help me, have been chasing the B.C.R’s all over the country trying to see them and Howie Russell. We are in Holland now and I’m still fifty miles from them, but one of these days I’m going to get down and surprise the B.C.R’s…Have been in bed with a bad knee and ankle, but they are o.k. now. My best to all in Powell River.”
Jul/46, p12 – “…and Dick Allman (was) in the fight to close the Falaise Gap.”

Alsgard, Frank – Pilot Officer RCAF Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.13 – “Summer and embarkation leaves are bringing manyy of the boys back home for brief and well earned holidays…Frank Alsgard (is) among the lads who have been with us in recent weeks.”
Apr/43, p.1 – “Frank Alsgard is a Sgt. Pilot.”
Jan/44, p.2 – “Frank Alsgard is starting into class competition with his promotion to Flt. Sgt.”
Jun/44, p.1 – “Flt. Sgt. Frank Alsgard, nimble-thumbed chronicler, has been pitched up to W.O. and will have to cut out the “aints” and “I done its” in future correspondence.”
Oct/44, p.1 – “From Overseas comes word that columnist Frank Alsgard has cantered through non-commissioned ranks to snaffle a nicely earned P.O. (So it’s now P.O. Alsgard, F. J-89006 (Can.) 172 Sqdn. R.A.F., R.C.A.F. Overseas.)”
Nov/44, p.3 – “…and in case we forgot to mention it before, Frank Alsgard has put up his first ring as Pilot Officer. (We passed the story about the sailor and the airman around, Frank. John McIntyre has in turn passed it along to all the stenos.)”
Feb/45, p.5 – “(John McIntyre) is specializing on Frank Alsgard’s sailor-airman yarn, which has gone the round in Powell River and been picked up by every travelling salesman in the country.”

Alton, H.S. (Howie) – Pilot Officer RCAF Overseas

Jul/43, p.2 – “Sgt. H.S. Alton is now with the R.A.F. in the Bahamas.”
Jul/44, p.1 – “Howie Alton climbs close to the commissioned barrier with his new W.O.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “Howie Alton, still taking off from North Ireland airfields, has been upped to Pilot Officer.”

Amos, N.P. (Price) – Cfn Canadian Army Overseas

Aug/44, p.3 – “(in letter from Cpl. W.D. Carter) Have only been here about four months and the first P.R. fellow I saw was Price Amos. Strangely enough, we both sat down at the same dinner table.”
Sep/44, p.1 – “Cfn. Price Amos, K-17110, can be found at #1 C.O.E.R.U.”
May/45, p.2 – “Quite a number of fellows who have returned in recent months are now back on Civvie Street. These include… Cpl. Price Amos …”
Jun/45, p.2 – “Price Amos, after an operation on his arm (post discharge), is walking around with a neat cast. Will be back on the job within the next month.”

Anchor, Harry – Corporal

Apr/43, p.5 – “Corp. Harry Anchor is back home in Vancouver. He was recently honorably discharged from the RCAF. Harry is working in Vancouver for the time being.”
Apr/44, p.3 – “Harry Anchor is still working in Vancouver and asks to be remembered to Walter Wright and all his pals in the services.”

Anderson, Alt.

Vol.16/1940/No.8-Aug. p.16 – And to the Westminster Machine Gun Regiment went four of our most popular and athletic employees, Alt Anderson, Jack Gebbie, “Baldy” Haddock, and Jimmy Hall.”
Vol.16/1940/No.12-Dec. p.7 – “Alt Anderson, of the beater room, and still holder of the Dominion welterweight wrestling title, and bosom pal “Baldy” Haddock are having oodles of fun tossing room-mates around after “lights out.”
Apr/43, p.4 – (in letter from Leading Seaman Bob Dunn) – “I…would like to know how Alt. Anderson is making out. (ed: We wrote you about that, Bob. He is at Tranquille, and seems to be getting along all right.)”

Anderson, Olie – Sergeant

Jul/44, p.1 – “Olie Anderson is now a straw boss, also sprouting two hooks (Corp. Anderson, O., K-4186, MPO 1110, 9th. Area Signals, Prince Rupert).
Jan/45, p.1 – “Olie Andersen [sic] is now a Sergeant and stationed at Prince Rupert (Sgt. Andersen [sic], O., K-4186, 9th Area Signals, Prince Rupert, B.C.)”

✝ Anglin, J.A.

Jul/46, p11 – (re: D-Day) “Hitting the beaches in that first unstoppable assault with the Scottish…(was)…J.A. Anglin…”
Jul/46, p11 – (re: D-Day) “It was here on the beaches that J.A. Anglin died.”
Jul/46, p13 – “In the fighting in Europe, from the Normandy beachhead to the Rhine, seven Powell River men gave their lives…J.A. Anglin…died in (his) country’s service.”

Appleby, John – Lance Corporal Canadian Army Overseas

– Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.12 – “Several Powell River boys have landed safely overseas (including) Corporal Johnny Appleby…”
– Sep/44, p.2 – “…Johnny Appleby, in England at last reports, has started the upward trek with his first hook.”

Apriles, Dino – Sergeant

Apr/44, p.2 – “…D. Aprilis at an eastern camp (is a) three stripper.”
Jan/45, p.2 – “…and recent advices indicate that Sgt. Dino Aprilis has picked himself an eastern bride.”

Auline, Arthur – A.B. RCNVR

Apr/43, p.4 – (in letter from Tel. Stan Richardson) – “Lately I’ve met quite a few of the boys including…Art Auline…”
May/43, p.4 – (in letter from Tel. Stan Richardson) – “…Art Auline…comes around with me.”
Mar/44, p.5 – A/B V-36215, H.M.S. Glasgow, Mess 14, GPO. London, England “…I’m asking the impossible, but I sure wish we had some good old Canadian beer over here. I am now on an English ship. Difficult to get used to the pipes and lingo, but now we’re right in there.”
May/44, p.3 – V-36215, H.M.S. Glasgow, Mess 14, % GPO. London, England “It wasn’t so long ago I was thanking you for 500 cigarettes. Now another 1000 have come along and they could never have arrived at a more opportune time. …Was at a certain barracks a while ago and found Ron Furness behind me in he grub line…later we spent a very enjoyable evening in the wet canteen.”
Vol.20/1944/No.9-Sep. p.9 – “In recent weeks, AB Art Auline, HMS Glasgow, and Tel. Stan Richardson, HMCS Bayfield, have been home on 30-day furloughs. Both lads were with the naval force that appeared off Normandy in the early hours of June 6, 1944. Art’s crusier HMCS (sic) Glasgow bombarded Cherbourg in support of the American landing.”
Dec/44, p.3 – V-36215, H.M.C.S. Uganda, Mess 56, % GPO. London, England “…from my address you will see I am right back where I started from. I remembered that I left a pint of bitters in a pub and came back for it…Before coming back here, we had a nice two months in South Carolina. The way they speak down there sure got me, especially the girls…The ship I am on now is he first Canadian crusier taken over by the R.C.N. Say hello to all the boys.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “Beppie Tomada…(is)…in good shape and says to tell…Art Auline that the beer back home is all right and the rationing could be worse.”
Feb/45, p.5 – (in a letter from R.A. Redhead) “…I saw a letter by Art Auline, and found he was in the same area, so we got together fast.”
May/45, p.1 – “Art Auline has been getting in a few licks with the Uganda in he Phillipine theatre. Was in action a couple of times with the Royal Navy and reports they have a Big league team out there. The Uganda is on the way home, so can’t give you Art’s address at the moment.”
Vol.21/1945/No.7-Jul. p.12- “Several score Powell River boys will probably participate in future Pacific action. Already Art Auline has seen action with the Uganda off the Philippines and Okinawa.”
Jul/46, p.7 – “Art Auline temporarily attached to H.M.S. Glasgow, of the Royal Navy, describes it (D-Day naval bombardment) as the greatest fireworks display he had seen, or hoped to see.”
Jul/46, p.8 – “In the battle of the Pacific the Canadian crusier Uganda was in the thick of the attacks which preceded the fall of Japan. With the Uganda, as Sir Bruce Fraser’s forces delivered attacks against Formosa and other home islands of the Jap, was Art Auline, who joined the new cruiser shortly after going through D Day on H.M.S. Glasgow.”

Aune, Art – Canadian Army Overseas

B

Bagley, J.M. (Jim) – Sergeant Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.19/1943/No.10-Oct. p.10 – “Trooper Jim Bagley, of the Tank Corps, took part in the initial assault on the Sicilian beaches, fought through to Messina and is now on the east coast with Montgomery.”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.12 – “The Divisional troops, Artillery, Service Corps, Tank Brigade, etc., have Sglmn. Jim Bagley…”
Feb/44, p.2 – “Jim Bagley, formerly with the C.M.F. is now in hospital suffering from accidental burns. Last located in Algiers and may be on his way to England.”
Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “Jim Bagley, with the Tanks, was recently admittes to hospital with burns.”

Bailey, L.W. (Lawrence) – LAC RCAF

Vol.19/1943/No.2-Feb. p.6 – “Lawrence Bailey (has) safely arrived in England with recent Air Force drafts.

Baker, John(ny) – Leading Stoker RCNVR

Jan/45, p.1 – “Johnny Baker is now a S.P.O. (SPO Baker, J., V-30646, H.M.C.S. Rosthern, F.M.O. Halifax, N.S.)
Jul/46, p.6 – “Lads like…Johnny Baker…kept Powell River colors at the masthead, as convoy after convoy battled its way to the sorely pressed shores of the United Kingdom.”

Baker, (Dick) – Staff Sergeant RCEME

– Aug/43, p.2 – (in letter from Joe Miller) – “…Also see a lot of the younger generation scattered around…(including) Dick Baker…”
– Oct/44, p.2 – “Dick Baker, holding the fort at Prince Rupert, joins the elite with a promotion to Staff Sergeant.”

✝ Baker, R.C. (Ron) – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Jul/46, p13 – “In the fighting in Europe…seven Powell River men gave their lives…Don [sic] Baker died in (his) country’s service.”

Barlow, Eric – Major Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.15/1939/No.9-Sept. p.5 – “Eric Barlow of the Canadian Bank of Commerce, was called up shortly after the outbreak of war. Eric, holding a commission in the militia, is now on staff duty in Vancouver.”
Vol.18/1942/No.1-Jan. p.3 – “Captain and Adjutant Eric Barlow, formerly of the Canadian Bank of Commerce and Company Sergeant-Major Harry Hassell of the Wharf, head our contingent of the “Dukes”.”
Vol.18/1942/No.5-May. p.8 – “At least five Powell River boys crossed the pond with the “Dukes”…(including) Capt. Eric Barlow…”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8 – “In the Fourth Division, our boys comprise the better part of a platoon in the First Battalion DCOR’s who have recently arrived overseas as an armoured unit. The list includes Lieut. Eric Barlow…”
Nov/44, p.4 – (in a letter from Ken Matheson) “Had a visit from the press photographers last week, and if the cameras stand up to it, you may see us in one of the papers. Powell River was well represented; Howie Russell, Jimmy Stapleton, Perry Monsell, Major Barlow and myself.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “And Major Eric Barlow, after accompanying the “Dukes” through France and Belgium, is back in Vancouver on leave.”

Bartfai, A.W. (Andy) – AB RCNVR

Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.7/8 – “In the ranks of the bluejackets are scores of former employees, well known throughout the district. There is…such well known lads as Andy Bartfai…worthy of the tradition handed down and maintained by the Royal Navy.”

Barton, K.F. (Ken) – Lieutenant

Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.13 – “The…officer roll roster now includes the name of Lieutenant Ken Barton Seaforths, of the Vancouver office…”
Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.15 – “The picture…on the right is Lieut. K.F. Barton, formerly of the staff of Powell River Sales Company. Ken is taking an additional course of study at Currie Barracks, Calgary, Alberta.”
Vol.19/1943/No.4-Apr. p.16 – “In a letter from Ken Barton, received under date of March 30th, he says he was in London on March 28th, walked into the Bank of Montreal, and bumped right into Jock Kyles. Jock was hurrying out to report back to his station. Ken says that Jock looks a picture of health. Ken sees quite a bit of Norm Hill, as they are both stationed at the same barracks.”
Aug/43, p.2 – “I thoroughly enjoy each issue of the News Letter and look forward to it coming along. I had lunch with Bill Fyfe, the famous Scottish comedian, in Edinburgh , recently. It was purely by accident. I was on leave when he and his friend sat down at the same table. He looks and acts the same, off stage as on. Also talks the same. It was a very interesting experience.”
Vol.19/1943/No.10-Oct. p.10 – “Other Powell River men now with the Eighth Army (in Italy) include Trooper Ewart Hassell, Lieutenants Ken Barton and Jack Gebbie.”
Jan/44, p.2 – “Guess you heard that Lieut. Ken Barton…(was) wounded in Italy; Ken with the Seaforths…”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.12 – “The Vancouver Seaforths, who haave been in the thick of the fray since Sicily, included Lieut. Ken Barton…”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.13 – “Our Central Mediterranean casualties to date include the following: Wounded-Lieut. Ken Barton, Seaforths.”
Jun/44, p.2 – “Just had a not from Lieut. Ken Barton from #11 Canadian General Hospital, England. Ken was wounded at Ortona and has spent the last six months in hospital, but is now improving and expects to be sent back to convalesce in Canada shortly.”
Jun/44, p.3 – “…I caught up with the Seaforths in the Campo Basso area last November. Stayed with them till I picked up a packet of shrapnel on December 11 at the crossroads near Ortona. Was moved from one hospital to another in Italy, finally landing up here. I expect to be in Shaughnessy Hospital by the end of June. My fighting days are over, but don’t know whether I will get a discharge or a desk job…Sure would like to get back to the P.R. Company. Have been in hospital six months now. Am up on crutches and getting around a little. My wounds have all healed except one in the left foot…Give my regards to all the gang and will try to get up and see you.
Jul/44, p.2 – “Lieut. Ken Barton is back in Vancouver, convalescing at Shaughnessy. Expects to drop in one of these days.”
Oct/44, p.3 – “Lieut. Ken Barton is still in Shaughnessy but progressing well, and expects to be moving into his new home any day.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “Last week Lieut. Ken Barton dropped in for a few days. Ken is still in Shaughnessy and hasn’t been allowed off his crutches yet, but is feeling and looking fine. Told us quite a few yarns about “bambinos” and other Italian pests. Ken and Jock Kyles spoke to members of the Twenty Five Year Club during their visit to P.R.”
Feb/45, p.3 – (in a letter from Norman Thomson) “”Since some of the fellows are in Shaughnessy, I would like to pass on the info that the red[headed waitress in the dining room is good for two desserts. (Attention Ken Barton…!)”
Feb/45, p.5 – “Squadron Leader Jock Kyles and Lieut. Ken Barton were guests at the gathering and told a few stories the Twenty Five Year Club youngsters had never heard before. And somehow the ration situation seemed to be fairly well mastered for that evening.”
Vol.21/1945/No.3-Mar. p.2/3– “Several invited guests were present (at the Twenty-Five Year Club). These included Squadron Leader J.A. Kyles, who has returned to Canada after three years overseas, and Lieut. Ken Barton , repatriated as a result of wounds suffered in the Canadian attack at Ortona, Italy…Squadron Leader J.A. Kyles and Lieut. Barton gave interesting and amusing talks on their overseas experiences, and Ken’s story about the Italian “bambinos” promises to become a local classic.”
Mar/45, p.5 – “Lieut. Ken Barton is helping the (Victory) Loan Committee at various public meetings.”

Jul/46, p10 – (re: Sicily and Italy) “From the beaches of Pachino to the Po valley, with interim stops at the Hitler and Gothic lines, at Cassino, at the Morro and a score of other natural obstacles, Powell River was always there…With the Seaforths…(was)..Lieut. Ken Barton.”

Batterham, W.C. (Walter) – Telegrapher

Jan/44, p.2 – “…Walter Batterham…(is)…in the Navy, Training at St. Hyacinthe.”
Mar/45, p.2 – “Here’s another one to make you old-timers gulp. Telegraphist Walter Batterham, Jr. is now on H.M.C.S. Whitby, c/0 F.M.O. St. John’s, Newfoundland. Remember him as the 14-year-old that watched the old gang leave on that memorable June 26, 1940?”

Baum, G.V. (Cave) – Lieutenant RCNVR

Vol.18/1942/No.2-Feb. p.9 – “…as is also [justly proud] Board of Trade Secrtary Bill Baum, with son Rex in an eastern camp, training for a pilot; and Cave, back east at a naval training establishment.”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “In the ranks of the bluejackets are scores of former employees, well known throughout the district. There is…such well known lads as Cave Baum…worthy of the tradition handed down and maintained by the Royal Navy.”
Vol.19/1943/No.5-May. p.10 – “Cave Baum…(is) now (a) Sub-Lieutenant.”
Mar/44, p.1 – “…news has just come through that Sub. Lt. Cave Baum has been raised to the full dignity of Lieutenant, R.C.N.V.R. (Nice work, Cave).”
Apr/44, p.3 – (in a letter from Doug Ingram) “Cave Baum is here (south of England) too and the toasts were many and sweet.”
Jul/46, p.6 – “Lads like…Cave Baum…kept Powell River colors at the masthead, as convoy after convoy battled its way to the sorely pressed shores of the United Kingdom.”
Jul/46, p.7 – (re: D-Day) “Behind the mine sweepers came the landing craft, of all types. In the large Landing Craft (was)…Lieut. Cave Baum, who drove ashore on Juno, the British beachhead.”

✝ Baum, Rex – Flying Officer RCAF Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.2-Feb. p.9 – “…as is also [justly proud] Board of Trade Secrtary Bill Baum, with son Rex in an eastern camp, training for a pilot; and Cave, back east at a naval training establishment.”
Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.13 – “Summer and embarkation leaves are bringing manyy of the boys back home for brief and well earned holidays…Rex Baum (is) among the lads who have been with us in recent weeks.”
Vol.18/1942/No.10-Oct. p.8 – “…Rex Baum graduated as (a) Pilot Officer…”
Vol.19/1943/No.6-Jun. p.15 – “Rex Baum writes: “Had a few days with Martin Naylor and we talked far into the night about Powell River, between beers.”
Vol.19/1943/No.8-Aug. p.12 – “…local lads are riding the skies over Germany every night…Rex Baum…and a score of other boys from the district have been in the thick of these tremendous events that are weakening enemy production and morale.”
Jul/46, p13 – “How well we remember these lads, because they were first in battle and were in our minds and hearts for so long..(including) Rex Baum lost in a raid against robot bomb sites…- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

Baxter, G.W. (George) – Sergeant

Jul/43, p.2 – (K-15416) BDR 14th Bty. 5th Can. A/T Regt. C.A.O. “Sgt. George Baxter was married in Powell River on Wednesday, July 7th.”
Vol.20/1944/No.3-Mar. p.13 – (in a list of those who have married) “Have you forgotten…George Baxter…?
Jul/44, p.1 – “And our thanks again …to George Baxter for another copy of his swell Divisional sheet…”
Jul/44, p.3 – “Receiving the News Letters right along…and am enclosing copies of our Divisional papers for your collection. Down to London for 24-hours recently, but it’s not long enough. See lots of these doodle bugs, buzz bombs or what have you, as they pass over on their way to London. A few have landed fairly close.”
Jul/44, p.4 – (in a letter from A. Heward) “See George Baxter is over and is next door, more or less. Was sure pleased to see him and he is still supporting two hooks.”
Sep/44, p.3 – “L/Sgt. George Baxter…is somewhere in Belgium and finds the people “a grand lot”. The wine, says George, is also good and the cognac better.”
Dec/44, p.1 – “…Thanks for all the periodicals and propaganda leaflets… Special acknowledgements to…George Baxter for the Guilder note…”
Dec/44, p.1 – “And George Baxter, after surrendering his three stripes to proceed overseas, is in there pitching again with the confirmed rank of full sergeant.”
Apr/45, p.3 – “Thing are sure moving fast now and the show should be over soon. On our push to the Rhine about a month ago ran into the P.R. boys with the BCR’s, among them the Monsell boys. They are the first I have seen since arriving here.”

Bayer, H.C. – LAC

May/45, p.2 – “Quite a number of fellows who have returned in recent months are now back on Civvie Street. These include … LAC H. Bayer …”

Beattie, W. – Gnr RCA

Aug/43, p.2 – (in letter from Joe Miller) – “…Also see a lot of the younger generation scattered around…(including) a young lad by the name of Beatty [sic]…

Behan, E.T. (Eddie) – SPO RCNVR

May/43, p.4 – (in a letter from Stan Richardson) “…Eddie Behan comes around with me…”
Jan/44, p.4 – “…Have seen a few of the Powell River lads around here – Harry Pickles, John Fishleigh, Dickie Stapleton, Jack Furness. Do you ever hear from Jack Mullen? Would like to have his address.”
Dec/44, p.2 – (promotions)…and Eddie Behan with a S.P.O.”

✝ Bell, John(ny)

Vol.19/1943/No.11-Nov. p.11 – (under “We Will Remember Them”) “LAC Bell, J.M. RCAF July ’43 Canada, Flying Accident.”
Jul/46, p13 – “How well we remember these lads, because they were first in battle and were in our minds and hearts for so long…(including) Johnny Bell who suffered the same fate (lost in a flying accident in Canada) …- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

Bell, William (Bill) – F.O., J 18423, Attached RAF, RCAF Overseas

Vol.17/1941/No.2-Feb. p.13 – “During the last month several well-known local boys have been called to service or notified to report in the near future. These include…Bill Bell of the office…All are scheduled for the Air Force, which brings Powell River’s contingent in that vital sphere close to 60 members.”
Vol.18/1942/No.4-Apr. p.11 – “Sergeant-Observer Bill Bell, of the Shipping Office, has been to Aberdeen on leave; and as a consequence, much to his own bewilderment and to the delight of his former boss, John Dunlop, has revised his ideas of Scottish hospitality.”
Apr/43, p.3 – (in a letter from Frank O’Neil) “Harry Freeman and I are holding a reunion here this week. Harry was with Bill Bell before Bill left for the Middle East.”
May/43, p.1 – (marriages) “And Mollie Taylor of the Shipping Department will marry Corporal Jack Parkin on June 15th, if mot sooner. Sgt. Bill Bell in Gibraltar…will be specially interested.”
Feb/44, p.3 – “Have been moving around a lot and my mail is just catching up on me. I liked Gibraltar in many ways. Plenty of sunshine, lots of swimming, but indifferent grub and entertainment. I did see the Royal Navy in action – and I can say it is no wonder we hold the Mediterranean. My best wishes to the shipping crowd.”
Apr/44, p.2 – (promotions) “…that extra ring they have tacked on to Bill Bell to bring this apple cheeked lad up to Flying Officer.”
Jul/44, p.2 – “Flying Officer Bill Bell threw the whole Shipping office into an uproar when he sneaked of early in July to marry Miss Helen Mason of Birmingham.”
Dec/44, p.2 – ‘Back home too are ruby-cheeked Flying Officer Bill Bell, with his English bride.”
Vol.21/1945/No.2-Feb. p.10– “…Flying Officer Bill Bell of the Shipping Department dropped in on us. Bill flew “Wimpies” and Liberators all over the Western Mediterranean and up to the Bay of Biscay, oner the North Sea and the North Atlantic. He brought back an English bride to share his future in Powell River. Bill is attached to Western Air Command for the present.”
Jul/46, p15 – ‘On coastal command was Flying Officer Bill Bell, commuting north and east out of Gibraltar.”

Bellamy, H.L. (Harold) – Private

May/43, p.5 – “Recent enlistments include Harold Bellamy, army.”
Oct/44, p.3 – “some of the recent arrivals overseas include: Pte. Harold Bellamy (M-66476, Roman Way Convalescent Hospital, C.A.O.)”
Nov/44, p.2 – “Appearing in our records under new addresses are Pte. Bellamy, Harold L. M-66476, Roman Way Convalescent Hospital, C.A.O.”
May/45, p.2 – “Harold Bellamy reached Calgary on May 1.”

Belyea, H.T. (Harold) – CQMS No. 1 Cdn. L. of C. Provost COY. #1 C.B.R. Group, C.F.M.

Jan/44, p.4 – “I’m sitting on a requisitioned bed, with a requisitioned mattress and pillow, army blankets with a limey greatcoat on top. We have adopted an Italian orphan who was picked up after curfew one night. He is quite the lad. Works like a demon for his board and lodging. He claims to be about 15, but looks and probably is about 12 … Scrounge! – He is a past master. The little tramp bums cigarettes off one man and gives them to another. Cheerio and Buon Natale.”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.12 – “The Divisional troops, Artillery, Service Corps, Tank Brigade, etc., have Pte. Harold Belyea…”
Mar/44, p.1 – “Harold Belyea, with the Provost Corps in Italy is A/CQMS.”
Sep/44, p.2 – “And Harold, looking with a kindly eye over the discipline of the troops and Italian civilians, has attained the lofty and dizzy eminence of C.Q.M.S.”
Jul/46, p10 – (re: Sicily and Italy) “All specialist branches were liberally sprinkled with lads from the paper town…(including)…C.Q.M.S. Harold Belyea, Provost Corps.”

Belyk, J.N. (John) – L.A.C. R.C.A.F. Overseas

May/43, p.5 – “We thank the scores of boys who have written us and are only sorry we can’t include all your letters. We hope to get around to most of them some time. Meantime we would like to acknowledge letters from…John Belyk…”
Sep/44, p.1 – “L.A.C. John Belyk, R-157787 (Can.) is attached to 419th Squadron, R.C.A.F., Overseas.”

Belyk, M.M. (Mike) – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Mike Belyk sits on the right (ID PH002279)

Aug/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Joe Miller) “…Also see a lot of the younger generation scattered around…(including)…Mike Belyk…”
Dec/44, p.2 – “K-40295(??), #1 C.I.T.R., C.A.O.”
Mar/45, p.3 – “K40290 (??) – Many thanks for the cigarettes which arrived last week…There are three other Powell River lads here, Dave Jack, Bill Jamieson and Jack Cadwallader.”

Belyk, R. (Dick) – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Aug/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Joe Miller) “…Also see a lot of the younger generation scattered around…(including)…Dick Belyk…”
Jun/45, p.5 – (in a letter from B.W. MacDonald) “…Quite a few Powell River boys with me here…(including)…Dick Belyk…”

Richard ‘Dick’ Belyk sits on the right (ID PH002279)

Bentham, T. J. (Tommy) K-19071 – Sergeant Canadian Army Overseas

Feb/44, p.3 – c/o R.C.O.C. W/S. CAPO #1, C.A.O. “Receive the Monthly Letter regularly, and certainly appreciate it…am married and if any of the boys in these parts would like a little home-cooking, would welcome a visit. My address is #4 Cambell Avenue or phone 3226. I hope the boys or girls will make use of this information. In case of the girls, I think I could persuade the wife to see things the right way – I hope!…My wife hails from Northern Quebec, a paper town by the name of Riverbend, a Price Bros. mill. No, that’s were you’re wrong. She’s not French.”
Vol.20/1944/No.3-Mar. p.13 – (in a list of those who have married) “Have you forgotten…Tommy Bentham…?
Aug/44, p.1 – “…Tommy Bentham, whose house seems to be a Powell River leave centre, now sprouts three hooks.”
Sep/44, p.3 – (in a letter from T.R. Parkin) “…Tommy Bentham is a proud father now. He has just been presented with a young daughter.”

Bernier, Ray – Lance Corporal HQ Coy., C.A.

May/44, p.1 – “Thanks too to Cpl. Ray Bernier for copies of “Khaki”, official organ of the Canadian Army.”
Nov/44, p.1 – “…and Ray Bernier with full fledged corporal status.”

Bethune, Angus – Sergeant RCAF

Vol.18/1942/No.11-Nov. p.9 – “Up in Alaska group of Powell River boys had a get-together at the home of Don Gahan, former company employee. These included…LAC Angus Bethune…”
Vol.19/1943/No.5-May. p.10 – “Angus Bethune, Jackie Redhead, Ray Ingram and Frankie Mannion have been boosted to full sergeants.”

Bichard, John – AB RCNVR

Feb/44, p.3 – (in a letter from T.R. Parkin) “…John Bichard and several others running into port.”
Sep/44, p.3 – “Just had word from A.B. Johnny Bichard, V-47241, and you can still locate him % H.M.C.S. Waskesiu, G.P.O. London.”
Oct/44, p.3 – “Just after telling you to look up Johnny Bichard, the lad pops up in Powell River about ten days ago. Has a month’s leave. Looks swell and along with brother-in-law Ron Fraser, also home, is doing all right. We took them both out to an E Company stag recently, and the reputation of the Navy was nobly upheld.”
Vol.21/1945/No.12-Dec. p.15- “ re: Cover Picture – AB John Bichard…represents the Navy. His frigate sank one German submarine.”

Biles, Norman (?) – RCAF

Bird, C.D. (Chas. Duncan) – SPO, RCNVR – A-3288

Vol.20/1944/No.7-Jul. p.10 – “PO Duncan Bird was busy on the Moose Jaw.”
Dec/44, p.4 – HMCS Moosejaw, CFMO 10 Haymarket St. London SW1 England “Many thanks for the News Letters and the cigarettes…See Dan Wallace and Jimmy McGuffie occasionally. We escort one another across the Channel and back again. Things have been quiet lately. No excitement, no nothin’.”
Apr/45, p.6 – “Sorry to announce the death of another old-timer, Charlie Bird of Wildwood. Died on Wednesday, May 2, of heart attack. Charlie had many old friends among the boys in the forces and his son Duncan is still overseas with the RCN.”
May/45, p.3 – (in a letter from R. Dunn) “…I heard about Mr. Bird from Duncan who is on his way home.”
Jul/46, p.6 – “Lads like…Duncan Bird…kept Powell River colors at the masthead, as convoy after convoy battled its way to the sorely pressed shores of the United Kingdom.”
Jul/46, p.7 – “Canadian destroyers and corvettes sailed in the van of the escort vessels. Among these…(was)…HMCS Moose Jaw with P.O. Duncan Bird.”

Blacklock, George. (Jack) – Sub. Lieutenant (E) RCNVR

May/43, p.4 – (in a letter from Stan Richardson) “The only home town boy I have seen so far is Sub. Lieut. Jack Blacklock.”

Blondin, S.C.G. (Stewart) – Flight Sergeant R.C.A.F. Depot, Debert, N.S.

Feb/43, p.2 – “Everything going along fine here and I feel twenty years younger. Am thinking of turning out for soccer this spring – and think I could give Benny Birt and Joe Small plenty of trouble now. Thanks for the cigarettes and my best to all the old crowd.”
Jan/44, p.1 – “Bus Blondin, with the fire-fighters of Debert, has had a boost to Flight Sergeant.”
Jan/44, p.3 – “…I have now got to that stage of life where I have no wish to go gallivanting around at night. In fact, apart from official trips, I am never out of camp. Too bad, I must be getting old or something.”
May/44, p.3 – (in a letter from J.C. Connelly) “My best regards to Buzz Blondin and tell him to lay off that getting old stuff. Tell him we have picked up a few new songs.”

Boida, Fred – Lance Corporal Provost Corps C.I.B.

Jan/44, p.2 – “…and Trooper Fred Boida (has) started the long climb upwards with (his) first stripe.”

Borden, C.L. (Claude) – Staff Sergeant RCOC Overseas

Apr/43, p.1 – “Claude Borden, RCOC Overseas, is now a full sergeant.”
Feb/44, p.1 – “And Claude Borden is quite the administrative lad. It’s Staff Sgt. Borden, C.L., now.”
Vol.20/1944/No.3-Mar. p.13 – (in a list of those who have married) “Have you forgotten…Clause Borden…?
Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “…and Claude Borden is up to Staff Sergeant.”
Jul/44, p.5 – K-92352/3(??), 112 Bty. 6th L.A.A. Regt. W/S C.A.O. “…Guess all the local swimmers are taking a bit of sun tan at Willingdon Beach. Would prefer a nice cool dip in Powell Lake. Thanks a million for the cigarettes and News Letters.”
Oct/44, p.5 – #1 C.O.M.R.E.U., C.A.O. “Just received July and August News Letters and they were sure appreciated…Saw Jack Pelly in the Convalescent Depot and he is looking fine. Had another surprise while watching a horseshoe game. The chap sitting next to me turned around and said, “I believe I know you”. It was Steve Gorbatuk, so we headed promptly for the nearest pub…I am back in reinforcement unit again, after six weeks in hospital and convalescence. Stopped five small chunks of shrapnel to end my six weeks stay in France.”
Feb/45, p.3 – “Claude Borden and Gordie Menzies still continue to meet for the odd jam session up in Holland.”
Feb/45, p.4 – (in a letter from A.P. Holborne) “The other evening we went pub crawling or whatever they call it in Holland and to my surprise ran smack into Claude Borden and Gordon Menzies. Sure were a sight for sore eyes, and – need I go further, or let you draw your own conclusions?”
Apr/45, p.3 – 4th CDN. Armored TP. W/S., R.C.E.M.E., C.A.O. “…At the time of writing am in a reasonably peaceful spot in Holland. Guess Pete Holborne has told you that he, Harold Vandervoort, and myself had a couple of get-togethers up in Holland. Would you say hello to the old gang at home and overseas and give my congratulations to Jack Grundle in bringing his English bride safe and sound to Canada.”
Vol.21/1945/No.8-Aug. p.11- “At a recent divisional track and field championship meet held in Holland, Sgt. Claude Borden came through with a victory in the sprints in fast time…He carries on the precedent set by another local star, Sgt. Geno Bortolussi…Sgt. Borden, like Sgt. Bortolussi, received his early training and tutelage from Flying Officer Martin Naylor…”

Borer, F. (Frank) – Sapper Canadian Army Overseas

Mar/45, p.2 – “A final note announcing the arrival overseas of…Frank Borer, #1 C.E.R.U., C.A.O.”

✝ Bortolussi, Aldo – Sergeant RCAF Overseas

May/43, p.4 – (in a letter from Charlie Murray) “Have just arrived over here, along with Aldo Bortolussi…”
Vol.19/1943/No.7-Jul. p.10/11 – “An outstanding event from the Powell River overseas angle was Sgt. Geno Bortolussi’s smart running in the Divisional Sports in England…(see below). Sgt. Aldo Bortolussi, in writing of the event to his father, said: “You ought to be proud of that son of yours. There he was and there he wasn’t. Just went by like that. Boy, was I proud of the family that day.”
Aug/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Garnet Gibson) “I was over here from January to April before I met any P.R. boys, but one night I met…Aldo Bortolussi.”
Vol.19/1943/No.8-Aug. p.12 – “…local lads are riding the skies over Germany every night…Aldo Bortolussi…and a score of other boys from the district have been in the thick of these tremendous events that are weakening enemy production and morale.”
Jul/46, p13 – “How well we remember these lads, because they were first in battle and were in our minds and hearts for so long…(including) Aldo Bortolussi …- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

Bortolussi, Geno/Gino – Sergeant Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.16/1940/No.8-Aug. p.4/5 – “Back in Dundurn, Saskatchewan, where the New Westminster Machine Gun Regiment sweats under a prairie sun,…Geno Bortolussi was to the fore in a recent sports meet. Over ten thousand troops are in the camp, and at the big sports meet held recently Geno romped home a winner in the 440-yard, took second in the 220 and was a member of the winning relay team.”
Vol.16/1940/No.10-Oct. p.6 – “…there is the story of Geno Bortolussi and Ken MacDonald, training with the machine gunners at Dundurn, Saskatchewan. The boys saw a blue apparelled figure approaching, buttons shined, and cap at a rakish angle. “Hist, Kenny,” warned Geno, “here comes an Air Force officer. Get ready to salute.” So when the boys reached the “officer” they threw out a snappy salute and passed on well satisfied. Their only disappointment was the failure of the “officer” to return the courtesy. A few minutes later a sergeant of the battalion approached. “What the ruddy blasted blank are you two fellows trying to pull off? That was a bus driver you just saluted.”
Vol.16/1940/No.10-Oct. p.7 – “(Ken MacDonald’s)…Number 2 gunner is Geno Bortolussi of the shipping office.”
Vol.17/1941/No.8-Aug. p.6/7 – “From Camp Borden, comes word that Geno Bortolussi, star local trackster, continues to burn up the cinder tracks in the east. He won major honors at the Toronto police sports and he expected to compete in the Canadian Service championships next month. Geno’s precious legs are jealously guarded and Tommy Oldale of the same regiment states that the officers of the regiment have heart failure every time Geno walks on a concrete road. Up dashes the colonel and Geno is whisked inside and told that walking is against the King’s Rules and Regulations.”
Vol.17/1941/No.10-Oct. p.14- “Geno Bortolussi tells us his regiment is a motor battalion-that is, they are a scouting outfit, and their chief mode of transportation is the Universal carrier and the motorcycle.”
Vol.18/1942/No.4-Apr. p.10 – “Along with the acknowledgement of the Company’s gift [of 2000 cigarettes], is word from Geno Bortolussi, our ex-track star, that he is sharpening up his spikes, ready for the Canadian Corps sports this summer.”
Vol.18/1942/No.6-Jun. p.13 – “…Geno Bortolussi finds that the attractions of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and way points are superior to those of the south. The main attraction seems to be the bright eyes of the Scot lassies.”
Vol.18/1942/No.8-Aug. p.9 – “…word came through that Corporal Gino Bortolussi, one of our best track stars, had ben selected to represent the Armoured Division in the Canadian Army track and field championships in England. Gino had qualified in the 100 and 220 yard dashes. On Saturday, August 15th, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, in its noon broadcast, came through with the ”flash” that Corporal Gino Bortolussi of Powell River, British Columbia, led the 5th Armored Division to victory by winning both the 100 and 220 yard dashes at the Canadian Army Championships overseas…To make the day even fuller for Gino, his old partner, Martin Naylor, turned up to watch his protege defeat the pick of the Canadian Army!”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8 – “The Fifth (Armoured) Division finds Powell River equally well represented. In the smart New Westminster Regiment are a group of well known athletes and citizens. They include Corp. Gino Bortolussi, former office employee and Canadian Army sprint champion…”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.11 – (headline) “Local Boy Leads Overseas Army Runners – Gino “Flash” Bortolussi Crowned Sprint Champion” “…In August of this year, the Canadian Army overseas held their annual track and field championships…When the meet was over, the 5th Armoured Division (Samson’s Roughriders) were acclaimed as winners. “The Armoured Division Victory,” said the official army newspaper, “was due largely to the sprinting prowess of a dark-haired flash hailing from Powell River, British Columbia-Corp. Gino Bortolussi of the New Westminster Regiment. “Bortolissi”, the article continues, “won the 100 and 200-yard dashes, creating new records in both events, despite the presence of a heavy gale. The Powell River iron man also led his division to victory in the mile relay, nipping fourteen seconds off the established record and beating the British Army record by 2 3/5 seconds. Not satisfied with these achievements, Bortolussi went out and ran anchor in the 440-yard relay and again led his team to victory in record time.”That’s what one Powell River boy did in the overseas sports-turned in four record-breaking performances in a single afternoon. Gino received a tremendous ovation from the thousands of spectators, and was presented with the winning trophies by Mrs. McNaughton, wife of the Canadian Army Commander. Gino has a brother in the RCAF and a father and sister with the Powell River Company. Gino was employed in the Sales and Shipping Department prior to his enlistment in June, 1940. So in this issue, a special salute to Corp. Gino Bortolussi, Canadian Army Sprint Champion! (Seems funny now, with Gino one of the pets of the overseas forces, to recall that two days after he joined the army he saluted a hotel porter in mistake for a major!)”
Apr/43, p.1 – “Geno Bortolussi (is) now a sergeant”
May/43, p.1 – (marriages) “And Mollie Taylor of the Shipping Department will marry Corporal Jack Parkin on June 15th, if mot sooner…Geno Bortolussi with the Westminsters will be specially interested.”
Vol.19/1943/No.7-Jul. p.10/11 – “An outstanding event from the Powell River overseas angle was Sgt. Geno Bortolussi’s smart running in the Divisional Sports in England. For the second seccessive year, the fleet Powell River youngster ran away with the sprints, winning both the 100 and 220-yard dashes. Geno’s time for the century was 10 seconds flat, against high-class competition. Sgt. Aldo Bortolussi, in writing of the event to his father, said: “You ought to be proud of that son of yours. There he was and there he wasn’t. Just went by like that. Boy, was I proud of the family that day.”
Aug/43, p.2 – “A last flash – We hear Geno Bortolussi won the 100 yards at ht e Divisional Sports, in ten seconds flat. The lad is getting good.”
Aug/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Garnet Gibson) “I was over here from January to April before I met any P.R. boys, but one night I met…Geno Bortolussi.”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.12 – “Sgt. Geno Bortolussi and Johnny Mullen did not go to Italy with the first batch of the Westminsters…and rumor has it that Geno may be up for his commission”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.13 – (photo caption) “The wedding group at the recent marriage overseas of Sgt. Geno Bortolussi, famous local sprinter, and Miss Mary Baker, former local girl. Geno’s old schoolboy pal, Flt. Sgt. Frankie Mannion, acted as best man. Miss Baker, sister of the bride, was bridesmaid.”
Vol.20/1944/No.3-Mar. p.13 – “Then there’s Geno Bortolussi and Norm Hill, old track pals, now running in double harness (ie: both married).”
Mar/44, p.1 – “And Geno Bortolussi at #1 C.I.R.U. is acting C.S.M.”
Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “…and rumor has it that Geno Bortolussi has been recommended for his commission.”
May/44, p.3 – “And pilot Officer Dawson Pirie, up at Alliford Bay, asks to be remembered to his old friends, particularly…Geno Bertolussi…”
May/44, p.4 – (in a letter from E.J.C. Dore) “…you should see C.S.M. Geno Bortolussi laying down the law to the NCO’s…”
Jul/44, p.3 – “We understand that Geno Bortolussi is out of Italy. Read something in the paper about him running fourth in an Allied meet in Rome.”
Feb/45, p.4 – (in a letter from E. Patton) “I have run into Sgt. Bortolussi.”
Vol.21/1945/No.2-Feb. p.13– “When Flying Officer Martin Nayor returned to Powell River recently, he was very bullish on the track performances of Geno Bortolussi, former Powell River track star and Canadian sprint champion overseas. He stated that Geno was recognized as an outstanding star and that he was only beaten by Cyril Holmes, the British Olympic runner. According to Martin, who should know, and who trained Geno in his early career, the Powell River lad was running the 100 yards in ten seconds flat, consistently. Geno’s style and grace were acclaimed by British sports writers, and he was always considered the man to beat in all Allied meets. Sgt. Geno Bortolussi in now back in the line with his regiment in Italy, after being confined to hospital for several weeks.”
Mar/45, p.2 – “And here are a few messages we promised to send. Martin Naylor, Bruce Paterson and Harry Cooper send regards to “Watsy McKnight, Geno Bortolussi and Don Clarke.”
May/45, p.6 – “Sports are on there way back with all the fellows returning to the old stamping ground. Expect to line up a bumper track meet for July 1st next year…And Geno still in shape to give Vancouver’s best a real run for their money.”
Jul/46, p10 – “From the beaches of Pachino to the Po valley, with interim stops at the Hitler and Gothic lines, at Cassino, at the Morro and a score of other natural obstacles, Powell River was always there…with the Westminsters (was) Sgt. Geno Bortolussi…”

Bowman, Pete – Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.12 – “Several Powell River boys have landed safely overseas (including) Corporal Pete Bowman…”

Brand, G. (George) – Private

Jun/45, p.1 – “About 15 have been discharged in the past month. These include George Brand (back in the mill)…”

Bridge, F.M. (Frank) – AB RCNVR

Jan/44, p.2 – “Frank Bridge (V-14701, HMCS Arleux, Halifax) was married on October 24th last.”
Vol.20/1944/No.3-Mar. p.13 – “Frank Bridge, who was married last October in Halifax.”

Brinkman, Charles (Charlie) – Lieutenant Commander RCNVR

Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “In the ranks of the bluejackets are scores of former employees, well known throughout the district. Thereis Lieut.-Engineer Charlie Brinckman (sic), of the steam plant…worthy of the tradition handed down and maintained by the Royal Navy.”
Jan/44, p.2 – “and so did (arrived in England in January) Lieut. Charlie Brinkman.”
Jun/44, p.2 – (re: D-Day) “Lieut. Charlie Brinkman (was) offshore on the Prince Henry.”
Vol.20/1944/No.7-Jul. p.10 – “Out on the Prince Henry (was) Lieut. Charlie Brinkman and CERA Bob Redhead”
Dec/44, p.1 – “Charlie Brinkman, who has been dodging up an down the Mediterranean foreshore on the “Henry”, has climbed into the capitalist class with promotion to Lieutenant Commander.”
Jan/45, p.3 – “And Lieut. Commander Charlie Brinkman (% GPO London, England) on the HMCS Prince Henry, is still prowling around the “Med”. Heard something recently about the odd leave in Cairo and asked Henry Cooper for details. We got ‘em!”
Mar/45, p.1 – “Latest advisers put…Charlie Brinkman back in the U.K. after a long spell in the Med. Expect to see (him) back on leave shortly.”
Apr/45, p.1 – “Word came over the wire yesterday that Lieut. Commander Charlie Brinkman…arrived in Vancouver April 30. Left (his) ship in England—and no word yet on (his) future movements.”
Vol.21/1945/No.6-Jun. p.14/15– “Also home in Powell River were Chief Petty Officer Bob Redhead, HMCS Prince Henry; Lieut. Jack Gebbie, Saskatoon Light Infantry; Lieut.-Commander Charles Brinkman,…Commander Brinkman and Bob accompanied the Henry on her duly extended tours of Europe They put the troops ashore on Normandy and headed south in time to lead the assault on Southern France, August 15. From there they went on to Greece and dropped anchor at Piraeus during the Elas uprising. From there to Alexandria, back to England, and finally, Canada.”
Jun/45, p.2 – “…Lieut. Commander Charlie Brinkman (has) been posted to Victoria following (his) return from wandering around European waters with the David. Nothing definite on discharge. There will be quite a naval complement maintained at Esquimalt for servicing of ships in the Pacific.”
Jul/46, p.7 – (re: D-Day) “Further out at sea were the big landing crafts, Prince Henry and David who carried the men of the Canadian Scottish Regiment to within sight of French shores before dropping them into the small landing craft. On the “Henry” (was) Lieut. Commander Charlie Brinkman…”

✝ Brooks, Lucien (Shadow) – Sergeant Pilot RCAF Middle East Forces

Vol.16/1940/No.10-Oct. p.6 – “This week “Shadow” Brooks, formerly of the office staff, and well-known athlete, headed east to begin his training as a pilot-along with Wilf Davis of the Laboratory staff.”
Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.14 – “And back on the lone prairie, at Brandon,…Shadow Brooks, Don Woodruff and Robin Leese are going through the preliminary motions of forming threes, squad drill and rifle parctice. All three boys hope to take to the air shortly.”
Vol.17/1941/No.1-Jan. p.9 – “Many other RCAF lads are also in the stretch…Frank Mannion and “Shadow” Brooks have passed through their preliminary training and expect to be in the air soon.”
Vol.17/1941/No.7-Jul. p.6 – (photo caption) “Sergeant-Pilot Lucien (“Shadow”) Brooks, receives his wings from the commanding officer.”
Vol.17/1941/No.7-Jul. p.6 – “Four potential aces returned home for a brief visit last week, each wearing the wings of the RCAF on his tunic-and each a graduate of the Commonwealth Air Training Schools…(including)…Lucien (“Shadow”) Brooks… “Shadow” Brooks is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Brooks of Wildwood. “From office boy to Sergeant-Pilot in eight months” is the saga of Shadow. If “Shad” burns up the air like he burned up opposing lacrosse defences around the district, the Huns are in for a rough time. ”
Vol.17/1941/No.8-Aug. p.6 – “Fred Brooks of Wildwood informs us that his son “Shadow”, who graduated last month as Sergeant-Pilot, is now in England and eager for a smack at the Huns.”
Vol.17/1941/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “In the RCAF, “Shadow” Brooks and “Hob” Marlatt and Bill Daubner stand as the vanguard of a larger Powell River contingent that will soon join the RAF in their offensive against the Hun.”
Vol.17/1941/No.10-Oct. p.14 – “And up in the north of England, “Shadow” Brooks is flying the latest in the way of Hurricanes and Spitfires. His last letter home drips exultation at the way his twelve-gunned pal answers the joy stick. “Shad” is also getting in a bit of useful practice on the dance floor. “Had to change my style a bit with these English girls,” he admitted, “but, boy, some of them can sure jitterbug with the best.”
Vol.18/1942/No.3-Mar. p.2 – “With the RAF in the Middle East is Sergeant-Pilot Lucien (Shadow) Brooks, all-round athlete.”
Vol.18/1942/No.4-Apr. p.11 – “From Lucien “Shadow” Brooks comes word that he is somewhere on the African desert, and that the fellow who talked about the “bald-headed prairie” would revise his ideas if he even tried tramping Africa’s desert sands.”
Vol.18/1942/No.5-May. p.9 – “The death in action of Flight-Sergt. Lucien “Shadow” Brooks over Malta last month cast a shadow over the entire district. One of the finest athletes in the district, a gentleman on and off the field, “Shadow’s” death was widely mourned, and the hundreds of cards of sympathy received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Brooks, were testimony of the esteem in which he was held. Flight-Sergt. “Shadow” Brooks paid the supreme sacrifice while leading his flight in offensive action against the enemy. In Powell River we have seen “Shadow” leading many offensive actions against rival lacrosse squads, and somehow we feel that is the way “Shad” would have wished to go-in offensive action against the enemy.”

Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.10 – “On April 15th, Flight-Sergt. Lucien “Shadow” Brooks was shot down over heroic Malta as he led a squadron of Hurricanes in action against the enemy. “Shadow” was brought up in Powell River, was educated here and was a leading all-round athlete.”
Vol.19/1943/No.11-Nov. p.11 – (under “We Will Remember Them”)“Flt.-Sgt. Brooks, Lucien RCAF April ’42 Malta, Leading Hurricane Flight. Attacked by large enemy formation.”
Jul/46, p13 – “…in March 1942. Less than a month later came the word of the death in action over Malta of Lucien “Shadow” Brooks, a youngster loved and respected throughout the district.”
Jul/46, p14 – “It was here (Malta) that Flight Sergeant Lucien Brooks, leading a flight of Hurricanes, was overwhelmed and shot down after one of the most valiant battles against odds ever fought over those embattled skies.”

Brooks, William Sheldon (Bill) – Pilot Officer RCAF

– Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.16 – “William Sheldon Brooks, son of Mr. S.D. Brooks, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Powell River Company, leaves for the east to take up training with the RCAF. Bill has a private pilot’s licence and has done considerable flying around Vancouver. He lived in Powell River as a boy, and within the past year returned to Powell River with his wife and worked in the mill for several months. His wife will reside in Winnipeg with her family while Bill is in training. The entire Powell River organization wish him good luck.”
– Vol.17/1941/No.7-Jul. p.6 – “Four potential aces returned home for a brief visit last week, each wearing the wings of the RCAF on his tunic-and each a graduate of the Commonwealth Air Training Schools…(including)…Bill Brooks…”
– Vol.17/1941/No.7-Jul. p.6 – “A few days after graduating as (a) Sergeant-Pilot, Bill Brooks (was) notified of (his) promotion to the commissioned rank of Pilot Officer…Bill Brooks is the son of Mr. S.D. Brooks, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Powell River Company. Bill has worked in the Powell River plant, and in the Vancouver office. He was possessor of a private pilot’s licence before joining the RCAF.”
– Vol.17/1941/No.7-Jul. p.7 – (photo caption) “Pilot Officer Bill Brooks, son of Mr. and Mrs. S.D. Brooks. Bill received his wings a few weeks ago, and his commission came through the following week.”
– Vol.19/1943/No.5-May. p.11 – (in a list of Powell River men who have received commissions) – “Pilot Officer.”

Brown, Bill – Pilot Officer

May/43, p.5 – (in a letter from Dawson Pirie) “Saw Bill Brown (Sgt. Bill Brown)…at Trenton recently.”
Aug/43, p.1 – “Bill Brown, our former Gym Instructor, is on his way to a Pilot Officer’s rank.”
May/44, p.3 – “…to Sea Island, where Pilot Officer Bill Brown is the chief mogul of calisthenics and physical training.”

Brown, E.R. – O.Smn. RCNVR

Sep/44, p.4 – (in a letter from R.J. Killi[sic]n, HMCS Cornwallis) “The Brown boy from Cranberry is in the next block to me here.”
Apr/45, p.4 – V-83527, HMCS Strathroy, FMO Halifax, NS “Have enjoyed the News Letters a lot. I am down here where the rum is cheap and the weather hot. Ran into Ray Killen in one of the wet canteens and we mopped up a few quick ones.”

Brown, S.T. (Stew) – Flying Officer RCAF Overseas

Nov/44, p.3 – “And guess you have heard via the grape vine that Pilot Officer “Stew” Brown, after tripping around the Central Mediterranean and United Kingdom, returned last month to marry Eileen Ross, in Powell River.”
Dec/44, p.2 – “Others expecting immediate discharge…(include)…F/O Stewart Brown…recently returned from overseas.”

Bryan, Henry RCN

Henry Brian with wife Bette (nee Parkin) (ID PH002345

Bryce, R. (Bob) – 1/C Str. RCNVR

Apr/43, p.5 – “Recent enlistments around town include…Bob Bryce…”
Feb/44, p.3 – (in a letter from T.R. Parkin) “…We have a few of the boys around here…Bob Bryce…running into port.”

Buchanan, Harry – Sergeant RCAF Overseas

Vol.17/1941/No.6-Jun. p.8 – “Well, this sure is a great life…I (Jack Young) haven’t seen any of the boys since my last trip to Toronto, where I met Dawson Pirie, Harry Buchanan, Brick Harper and Norman Burgess.”
Aug/43, p.1 – “Harry Buchanan, RCAF, is sprouting three hooks.”
Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “Corp. Harry Buchanan…(is) now overseas.”

Bull, W.C. (Bill) – Gunner Canadian Army Overseas

Jul/43, p.2 – 51st Anti-Tank Bty., 1st A/T Regt. RCA-CASF., Can. Arm. Overs. “I wish to acknowledge receipt of your Monthly News Letters of February and March; it’s a great pleasure reading of the familiar names and happenings. I have just lately returned from Wales after a tedious journey of manoeuvres all the way there. It took us the best part of two weeks to go a little better than 260 miles. We passed through miles of slate mines and it was practically impossible to find a level spot for a gun emplacement. We fought the imaginative enemy all the way to Harlech on the N.W. Coast. It is a very old town and has a castle dating from 1200 A.D. It is the only place England could not capture in the old wars of that time.”
Jul/44, p.1 – “And our thanks to…Bill Bull for the unusual and unexpected “C.O.O.D. Communique.”
Apr/45, p.4 – K-25128 3 V.R.D., #1 C.C.O.D., C.A.O. “…Have no doubt that I will be home within the next three months…Have been on the go pretty steadily driving various vehicles to the docks to be rushed across to the other side. If I had been 10 years younger I could have been in the thick of it and had a more active part.”

Burgess, Norman – Flight Sergeant RCAF

Vol.17/1941/No.6-Jun. p.8 – “Well, this sure is a great life…I (Jack Young) haven’t seen any of the boys since my last trip to Toronto, where I met Dawson Pirie, Harry Buchanan, Brick Harper and Norman Burgess.”
Vol.17/1941/No.10-Oct. p.15 – “Most of the pictures accompanying these notes are sent along by LAC Norman Burgess and Trooper Bill Holden of the 9th Armoured Regiment.”

Burke, T.S. (Tommy) – Sergeant RCAF

Jan/44, p.2 – “Tommy Burke is back at Malton, Ontario, and is now a Sergeant.”
Apr/44, p.2 – “…Tommy Burke…at an eastern camp (is a) three stripper.”
Feb/45, p.4 – R-138262 RCAF % 249 Sumach ST. Toronto 2, Ont. “Still making Mosquitoes here and I have certainly picked up a lot on aeroplane construction, engines, etc., but am hoping they will give me a chance to go overseas soon. I see Winnie and Jock Waugh frequently, but Jock has just gone overseas. We have had a real winter, below zero weather most of the time.”

Buse, Irvine A. – Gunner

Feb/45, p.1 (107) – Latest arrivals in the United Kingdom include…Gnr. Buse, Irvine A. (K-604258) #3 CITR D Coy CAO.

Butler, Bruce – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8 – “The Fifth (Armoured) Division finds Powell River equally well represented. In the smart New Westminster Regiment are a group of well known athletes and citizens. They include Bruce Butler…”
Apr/45, p.2 – “Recent discharges include Bruce Butler (wounds)…”
Jul/46, p10 – “From the beaches of Pachino to the Po valley, with interim stops at the Hitler and Gothic lines, at Cassino, at the Morro and a score of other natural obstacles, Powell River was always there…with the Westminsters (was) Bruce Butler…”

Button, Arthur (Art) – Corporal Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.16/1940/No.9-Sep. p.6 – “From Arthur Button, in training with the Corps Signallers at Seaforth Camp, Vancouver, comes an interesting note. “This army life is great stuff,” enthuses Arthur. “I came down here with the idea there were many things I was not going to like. I am still looking for the first thing to dislike…We have a swell bunch of officers…The Sunday before Labor Day a couple of us decided we wanted to go to Victoria for the day. Victoria is out of our area and neither of us had late passes. After consider e talking we got the orderly to phone the OC and he came down to camp, made out passes for us and sent a dispatch rider down to get the tickets for us.”
Feb/44, p.2 – (re: marriages) “We are awaiting confirmation on Art Button…”
Apr/44, p.2 – (re: marriages) “A dull and uninteresting month. Drab, dark and colorless. Not one concrete case of a real tie up reported. The only bright spot was a letter from Art Button outlining in precise detail some of the difficulties that are encountered in the course of true love. But these difficulties have not daunted Arthur! He is in there pitching and it looks as if he will wear ‘em down soon.”
Jan/45, p.3 – (K-34828 RCCS, Attached 12 CIB Sp. Gp. PLF, CAO, CMF) “Corp. Art Button reports a reunion with Bob Craig in Rome recently. Ran into each other in the Canada Club.”
Jul/46, p10 – (re: Sicily and Italy) “All specialist branches were liberally sprinkled with lads from the paper town…(including)…Sgt. Art Button, Signals”

Bye, A.O. – LAC (R-168645) 428 Squad., RCAF, Overseas

Aug/43, p.3 – “As it is six months since I have written, thought I’d drop you a line. Am receiving the News Letters regularly and we think they are a swell idea. “Pop” (the boys call him Morfitt) is here. Neither of us have [sic] received any of the fags you mentioned but they usually take around nine weeks to arrive. Say hello to the boys and thanks for the letters. – Morfitt and Bye.”