Servicemen K to L

Servicemen are listed alphabetically by their Surname.

K

L

✝ 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.

✝ Keaist, R. (Dicky) – WO RCAF Overseas

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) Dicky Keaist…- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

Keith, A.C. (Albert/Albie) – AB RCN

Apr/43, p.4 – (in a letter from Stan Richardson) “Lately I’ve met quite a few of the boys including…Albie Keith…”
Jun/45, p.1 – “About 15 have been discharged in the past month. These include…Albert Keith…”

Kennedy, G.A. – Gunner Canadian Army Overseas

Jun/44, p.3 – (K-15312) 109th Bty 1st LAA Regt RCA CAO CMF “…Have just received the March edition of the News Letter and was sure glad to get it. Am now with a Western battery, the first one since joining up, and it’s a treat to be “out West” again…Have been here for over three months and am getting quite an Italian accent. Weather fine here and we are having an exciting time.”
Jul/46, p10 – “All specialist branches were liberally sprinkled with lads from the paper town…(including)…Gunner G.A. Kennedy…Edmontons.”

Kenny, Ralph – 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 Ralph, soccer star…”
Jan/44, p.2 – “…And Ralph Kenny (Westminster) (is) kicking around in the same area (Central Mediterranean).”
Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.12 – “In the Westminster Regiment (M) now in Italy (is) Ralph Kenny…”
Mar/44, p.4 – 9K-47903) New West, Regt. (M) Can Army CMF Overseas “Thanks for the cigs and the News Letters. They are both real treasures over here. Could you by any chance send me Gordie Hughes’ address?”
Jun/44, p.2 – “Dicky Johnston reports seeing Ralph Kenny in Italy, but only had time to wave to him from a passing truck.”
Jan/45, p.2 – “and Ralph Kenny, still a stretcher case, arrived in Vancouver this week.”
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…Ralph Kenny!)”
May/45, p.2 – “Ralph Kenny is still in Shaghnessy and picking up in good shape. Will be discharged shortly.”
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)…Ralph Kenny.”

Killin, H. E. (Howie) – AB RCNVR

Aug/43, p.2 (24) – (in a letter from Joe Miller) “…Also see a lot of the younger generation scattered around…(including)…Howie Killin, RCNVR…”

Killin, R.J. (Ray) – Leading Seaman RCNVR

May/43, p.4 – (in a letter from Stan Richardson) “…Ray Killen [sic] comes around with me…”
Sep/44, p.4 – (V-31060) HMCS Cornwallis FMO Cornwallis NS “Am writing this in the hope you might be able to send me the News Letter. Have just read a copy of the August issue…I met Bob Dunn and Reg Parkin up in “Newfie”. The Brown boy from Cranberry is in the next block to me here, Just got in barracks after being on an English minesweeper for over a year. They dragged me in for a higher gunnery course.”

Kimbal, Harry – Canadian Army Overseas

King, F.G. (Fred) – Chief Stoker RCNR

Feb/44, p.4 – SPO (A-3378) RCNR HMCS Courtenay FMO Prince Rupert BC “…You have one small statement in the January issue where you say the Navy boys are kind of slipping in keeping up-to-date on their promotions. Well here is where you have been slipping up for a long time, and by that I mean about a year. For in my case when I was made Acting PO in July 1942, I infirmed you, but no dice, and again in Sept. 1943 when I got my confirmation as PO, still no dice. Now I am informing you that I am Acting Chief Stoker and looking forward in the near future to my confirmation.”
Dec/44, p.2 – “…Fred King, who draws a CPO…”
Mar/45, p.1 – “Fred King is now Chief Stoker.”

King, G.W. (Gerry) –Sergeant RCAF

Aug/44, p.2 – “Overseas too is Gerry King with the rank of Sergeant (R-221603).”
Jun/45, p.2 – “And Gerry King, finding his feet a bit itchy, wagled his way into the Fleet Air Arm.”

Kipp, Gord

Vol.19/1943/No.2-Feb. p.6 – “Pilot Officer Wilfred Kipp has arrived in the United Kingdom, and brother Pilot Officer Gordon is somewhere on the east coast.”
Jan/44, p.4 – (in a letter from Bill Gallagher) “…Have met Gord Kipp…”

Kipp, Wilf – Flying Officer – RCAF

Vol.19/1943/No.2-Feb. p.6 – “Pilot Officer Wilfred Kipp has arrived in the United Kingdom, and brother Pilot Officer Gordon is somewhere on the east coast.”
May/44, p.2 – “Pilot Officer Wilf Kipp is in the same prison camp as Tommy (Gardiner). To date…Wilf…(is) an official prisoner. Gordon cooper…is also “in camp” with Tommy and Wilf.”
Sep/44, p.1 – FO Wilf Kipp can be located bu addressing a note to #3315 Canadian Prisoner of War, Stammlager Luft 3 Germany.”
May/45, p.1 – “Good news about our prisoners of war. The whole shebang have turned up and are in England, in Canada or on their way…Wilf Kipp…(is) out of the woods and safe.”

Knowles, Benny – Flight Lieutenant RCAF

Aug/43, p.1 – “Benny Knowles is a Flight Lieutenant in charge of a link training establishment in Alberta.”

Kohut, M. (Mike) – Corporal Canadian Army Overseas

Sep/44, p.2 – “Mike Kohut finds the Italian air somewhat to his liking and has pulled two stripes out of the hat.”
Jul/46, p10 – “All specialist branches were liberally sprinkled with lads from the paper town…(including)…Corporal Mike Kohut…Edmontons.”

Kyles, J.A. (Jock) – Squadron Leader RCAF Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.1-Jan. p.13 – “The excellent photograph on this page was posed specially for THE DIGESTER, and shows Pilot Officer J.A. “Jock” Kyles discussing a recent issue of THE DIGESTER with brother-in-law Lieutenant Kent Goldsmith, RCNVR. The picture was taken in Vancouver during Pilot Officer Kyles’ embarkation leave. A few days later he was on his way to an Eastern Canadian port; and word has just been received of his safe arrival in England…Pilot Officer “Jock” Kyles has been with the Company for 17 years. At the time of his enlistment, as Mill Secretary he was an executive officer of the Company at Powell River. Jock enlisted in the recently formed Radio-location branch of the RCAF. He was immediately transferred to an Eastern school where he took an intensive specialized training course. Along with his many friends in Powell River, THE DIGESTER joins in wishing Jock “Good Luck and Good Locating”.”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.5 – “It (1942 London reunion) was a grand day,” Pilot Officer Jock Kyles writes. “It looked like Powell River had taken over London for the day – and they just about did that.”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.14 – “Overseas with the RCAF and working on a rough average of about 14 hours a day is Flying Officer Jock Kyles, former mill secretary at Powell River. Jock has been overseas for nearly a year, has experienced several bombing raids, and is doing an important job with the RCAF. He went to London for the Beaver Club reunion. Mr. Jamieson of the Engineering staff asks Jock to keep out of the clutches of the FBI.”
Vol.18/1942/No.10-Oct. p.8 – “Jock Kyles is now a Flying Officer.”
Vol.19/1943/No.3-Mar. p.5 – “And Pilot Officer Lionel Rorke states Frank Roberts and Jack Young are located in his squadron and that Flight Lieutenant Jock Kyles is not far away.”
Feb/43, p.3 – “Jock Kyles has been boosted to Flight Lieutenant.”
Apr/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Lionel Rorke) “Jock Kyles isn’t far away. He is in Group Headquarters this squadron.”
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.”
Aug/43, p.1 – “Flight Lieutenant Jock Kyles has had another boost and is now Squadron Leader J.A. Kyles. (Congratulations, Jock.)”
Aug/43, p.2 – I was over here from January to April before I met any P.R. boys…I discovered that Squadron Leader Jock Kyles is stationed here.”
Feb/44, p.1 – “Jock Kyles is high man in the Powell River air contingent, with a neat Squadron Leadership to his credit.”
Feb/44, p.5 – “The first pictures of the Beaver Club Reunion have just come in…These newspaper cuts are not so hot. And we didn’t see Squad. Leader Jock Kyles…in any of the pictures.”
May/44, p.4 – (in a letter rom E.J.C. Dore) “Received a couple of letters from Jock Kyles.”
Jul/44, p.5 – (C-8311) “…Ever since June 6 we have been going like mad. Not much rest. Keeping fit and have moved around quite a lot recently…Don’t know where I’ll be next but will have to wait and see and do as I am told…Thanks for the smokes and believe it or not, if I had to smoke English cigarettes exclusively, I’d quite smoking.”
Jan/45, p.2 – “This month Squadron Leader Jock Kyles returned to say hello to his friends in P.R.”
Vol.21/1945/No.2-Feb. p.10– “The latter half of February saw Powell River welcoming Squadron Leader J.A. “Jock” Kyles, former mill secretary, who was attached to the highly secret and specialized Radar division in England.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “Ken (Barton) and Jock Kyles spoke to members of the Twenty Five Year Club during their visit to P.R.”
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.2 – “Squadron Leader Jock Kyles is now Mr. Kyles and back on the job again. Sends his best to the old crowd and hopes to see you all in person soon. “The old town looks pretty good,” says Jock.
Apr/45, p.5 – “Softball season opens May 6. Arrangements for opening will bring a Navy-Army-Air Force trio into the inaugural ceremonies. CERA Bob Redhead will pitch the opening ball. Lieut. Jack Gebbie will catch it and Squadron Leader Jock Kyles will swing the hickory.”
Vol.21/1945/No.6-Jun. p.8– “Three prominent Powell River service men, recently returned from overseas, headlined the (sports season) opening ceremonies. CPO Bob Redhead, back from Greece and way points, donned the catcher’s mask; Lieut. Jack Gebbie, home after 18 months in Italy, hurled the opening pitch; and Squadron Leader Jock Kyles, returned, following three years with RCAF Control in the United Kingdom, knocked it out of the lot (a not unusual experience for Jock!)”

L

Lambert, T.R. (Russ) – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Jul/43, p.2 – “Fusilier T.R.Lambert is with a Canadian Unit in Kingston, Jamaica.”
Jul/43, p.4 – (K-573473) A. Coy. 1st Bn. Irish Fus. Up Park Camp Kingston Jamaica “Received the April Monthly News Letter in Nanaimo but as you see by the address, I’m a long way from the good old B.C. Coast now. Haven’t heard of or run across any P.R. boys here in Jamaica so guess I’m the only hometowner to hit this neck of the woods. (Ed. note: “There is a Stillwater boy name of McKay with you, Tom.”) Fruit is plentiful and do we boys ever go for the bananas, pineapples, cocoanuts, etc. The natives come through our camp every day selling them. It’s really remarkable the way the natives, especially the women, can carry almost any sized bundle, tray or basket, loaded down with fruit, on top of their heads with all the ease in the world. There’s quite a lot of sports and it looks like we’ll have a good ball league, there being several American and Cuban teams.”
Oct/44, p.3 – “…Fusilier Russ Lambert, after nearly two years gamboling about in West Indian sunshine and seriously depleting the rum reserves of the Islands, is back at Dundurn, Sask, along with Cy Zilnic.”
Feb/45, p.4 – 14th Bn Midland Regt. Support Coy #7 CITR CAO (…I think everybody and his brother over here must be bricklayers. Brick houses everywhere…Haven’t really been warm since I arrived, and the more I travel the more I think of how lucky the guys are who live in Powell River or on the Pacific Coast…Guess you know I was married to Ruby Baumon on my last leave. The News Letters look better than ever now that we are over here.”
Jun/45, p.4 – D Coy. 1st Btn Can. Scottish Regt. CAO “…I’m back with the Canadian Scots again. Have been stationed in Belgium, Holland and Germany since my last letter, and am now back at Ude, Holland. Quite a few P.R. boys here, including the Poole boys, and Dick Jacob. Dick was on the Scottish team which won top honors in the Third Division. Things were very quiet in this area on V-E Day – and the civilians, for the most part, kept out of sight. If you see Larry Guthro, give him my best and tell him it’s Pittsburgh all the way.”

Large, H.A. (Harry) – LAC RCAF

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…Harry Large…”
Sep/44, p.1 – (R-146468)…transferred to #9 CMU RCAF Patricia Bay BC

✝ Lasser, Bob – Flying Officer RCAF Ceylon

Vol.18/1942/No.7-Jul. p.12 – “Somewhere in the same neighborhood (near, far or middle east) is Pilot Officer Bob Lasser…”
Vol.18/1942/No.12-Dec. p.4 – “Our thoughts go out to Pilot Officer Bobby Lasser …and others who are in the Mediterranean and North Africa and who may have little leisure in which to enjoy the Christmas trimmings we are taking as a matter of course.”
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) Bob Lasser…- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

Lawrence, R.C. (Ray) – Corporal RCASC

Dec/44, p.2 – “Discharged too (is) Ray Lawrence, now working with Bloedel, Stewart & Welch.”

Lawson, C.S. (Clarence) – RCNVR

Lawson, J.B. (Johnnie) – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Apr/43, p.5 – “Recent enlistments around town include…Johnnie Lawson…”
Jul/43, p.1 – “John Lawson at Vernon, is on the way up with one stripe.”
Jul/43, p.5 – “Johnnie Lawson (is) with the Active Forces at Vernon.”
Jan/44, p.2 – “You probably saw most of the new arrivals at the Reunion… (including)…Johnnie Lawson.”
Mar/44, p.5 – (re: the Reunion Pictures) “We showed them on Sunday, March 5th and over 1100 people came out…Johnny Lawson’s mother and father were there…and Johnnie Lawson was doing all right for himself…”
Jun/44, p.5 – (K-50750) 11th Bn #2 CBRG CAO “Just a line in which to thank the Powell River Company very much for the second lot of cigarettes which came yesterday. Brother, was I ever in need of them. It was great to haul out a nice new shiny packet of Sweet Caps and get to work on it!…Life has been mighty good to me so far over here. Right now am working in H.Q. Orderly Rm. Of 11 Bn. A fine bunch of fellows to work for, and I find it very interesting, not having done any of that work before…Have been fortunate in getting the odd week end in which to enjoy myself, and have seen a good deal of the south of England. Give my best to all the gang, and thanks again for the cigarettes.”
Sep/44, p.5 – (in a letter from E.J.C. Dore) “…thanks for …John Lawson’s address.”
Feb/45, p.3 – (in a letter from Bill Jamieson) “…Thanks to the News Letter. I’ve made connections with Johnny Lawson, who is at present in hospital near this camp (Roman Way Convalescent Hospital)…”

Lanyon, Art – Pilot Officer RCAF

Vol.19/1943/No.5-May. p.11 – (in a list of Powell River men who have received commissions) – “Pilot Officer.”

Layton, Tommy – Flying Officer RCAF Overseas

Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “and Pilot Officer Tommy Layton (is) now overseas.”

Leask, J.L. – Corporal

Jan/44, p.2 – “J.L. Leask (has) started the long climb upwards with (his) fist stripe.”
Jan/44, p.5 – (K-49791) No. X1 DD Vancouver BC “…There isn’t much chance of my getting out of this pay office, although I had high hopes of making it and joining the crowd overseas. My poor eyesight makes that impossible. If you happen to run into my old boss Norman Fraser or Dave Gardiner, give them my best regards.”

Leclair, Louis – CFN RCEME

Apr/43, p.5 – “Recent enlistments around town include…Louis Leclair…”

Leclair, Raymond Jack – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Feb/44, p.5 – (re: the Reunion Pictures) “…And Cpl. Jack Leclair and Sgt. Gord. Smith, natty lads, what, what!”
May/44, p.2 – Pte. Leclair, R.J. (K-50695) 8th Coy 2nd Bn #1 CBRD CA CMF
Jun/44, p.2 – “Word today that Jack Leclair was wounded in Italy.”
Jul/44, p.2 – “Jack Leclair is in the #14 Can. Gen. Hosp. and is progressing fine.”
Feb/45, p.2 – “Jack Leclair (is) still convalescing…Jack was hit in December at the Lamonte Bridgehead. Latest reports indicate (Jack is) coming along all right.”
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 Seaforths…(was)…Jack LeClair…”

Leclair, Ted – Sgt. LAA Bty

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…Ted Leclair (is) among the lads who have been with us in recent weeks.”
May/43, p.2 – “Ted Leclair is a full sergeant, with an Ack Ack Battery back east.”

✝ Lee, Don – Lieutenant Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.17/1941/No.3-Mar. p.10/11 – “And from Debert, Nova Scotia, where the Canadian Scottish are in the throes of intensive training, comes word that Don Lee, another ex-employee, has gained his first recognition with a lance corporal’s stripe.”
Vol.17/1941/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “…News has come through of the safe arrival in England of Canada’s Third Division…includ(ing) the 1st Battalion Canadian Scottish, whose nominal roll includes twenty-two Powell River boys. Among these (is)…Don Lee…”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8 – “Twenty-two Powell River representatives are numbered in the ranks of the First Canadian Battalion, Canadian Scottish, Third Division. They include such stalwarts as Sergt. Don Lee…”
May/43, p.2 – “Don Lee of the Canadian Scottish is back in Canada and taking an officer’s training course.”
Mar/44, p.3 – (in a letter from W.E. Peebles) “Would like to know what Sgt. Don Lee (is) doing now.” (ed note: “Don is now a Lieutenant at Currie Barracks, Calgary.”)
Jul/46, p13 – “In the fighting in Europe…seven Powell River men gave their lives. Don Lee… died in (his) country’s service.”

Lee, Jack – Corporal VGC

Aug/43, p.2 – (in a letter from Joe Miller) “In our own Veterans’ Unit, we have Jack Lee, (ex 29th and Grinder Room).”
Apr/44, p.5 – “Jack Lee and Bob Robinson are guarding Heinie prisoners with Joe (Miller) – and no escapes from that camp.”
Dec/44, p.5 – (in a letter from J.A. Miller) “Here we are back at Medicine Hat, and Jack Lee…(is) still here, attached to headquarters.”
Jan/45, p.1 – “…and back on the prairies, Veterans’ Guardsman Jack Lee, has grabbed off two well deserved hooks.”
Jun/45, p.2 – “…Jack Lee…and the bunch with the Veterans’ Guard are still doing duty at POW camps. Figure that they will be several months on the job before the Huns go back home again.”

Leese, R. (Bob) – Captain Inf. Trg Bn

Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.14/15 – “And back on the lone prairie, at Brandon,…Robin Leese (is) going through the preliminary motions of forming threes, squad drill and rifle practice…(he) hope(s) to take to the air shortly…And incidentally, Robin Leese is the third member of the house of Leese to join the active service forces. His father, Bob Leese, former Department Store Accountant, is now Lieutenant R. Leese of the 2nd Battalion Canadian Scottish at Victoria. Another son, Dick, is with the Royal Air Force in Great Britain.”
Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.15 – “Including Bob Leese, four former employees hold commissions. In the Canadian Scottish, Major MacGregor, VC, MC,DCM, formerly on the millright staff, commands “A” Company. Denny Green, steam plant engineer, is now Lieutenant Green, MC, Transport Officer, Canadian Scottish. And at Esquimalt, Kent Goldsmith of the Kingcome office, takes the salute of many old friends as Lieutenant K. Goldsmith, RCN.”
Vol.17/1941/No.2-Feb. p.3 – (picture caption) “Lieutenant Bob Leese, former Department Store accountant, is serving with the Second Battalion Canadian Scottish at Victoria. Bob served as Lieutenant in the famous 102nd regiment in the first World War. He was wounded at Cambrai.”
Vol.17/1941/No.12-Dec. p.6/7 – “Accountant Bob Leese, of the Company Store, now lieutenant in the Second Canadian Scottish Regiment, has, besides himself, two sons serving, both overseas; Corporal Dick Leese, who joined the RAF before the war, is now stationed at strategic Sierra Leone, West Africa, and son Robin, now wearing sergeant’s stripes, is in Britain with the RCAF.”
Feb/43, p.3 – “Bob Leese is taking a special course in the East and expects his Captaincy shortly.”

Leese, R.V. (Dick) – Sergeant RAF/RCAF Overseas

Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.14/15 – “And back on the lone prairie, at Brandon,…Robin Leese (is) going through the preliminary motions of forming threes, squad drill and rifle practice…(he) hope(s) to take to the air shortly…And incidentally, Robin Leese is the third member of the house of Leese to join the active service forces. His father, Bob Leese, former Department Store Accountant, is now Lieutenant R. Leese of the 2nd Battalion Canadian Scottish at Victoria. Another son, Dick, is with the Royal Air Force in Great Britain.”
Vol.17/1941/No.2-Feb. p.3 – “Dick Leese is somewhere in England with the boys of the RAF.”
Vol.17/1941/No.12-Dec. p.6/7 – “Accountant Bob Leese, of the Company Store, now lieutenant in the Second Canadian Scottish Regiment, has, besides himself, two sons serving, both overseas; Corporal Dick Leese, who joined the RAF before the war, is now stationed at strategic Sierra Leone, West Africa, and son Robin, now wearing sergeant’s stripes, is in Britain with the RCAF.”
Vol.18/1942/No.2-Feb. p.9 – “Robin and Dick Leese…are both overseas. Corporal Dick Leese is with the RAF in West Africa, and Sergeant Dick [sic – Robin – ??] Leese is learning new things about British geography.”
Vol.18/1942/No.5-May. p.9 – “Cpl. Dick Leese, Robin’s brother, has for a long while been stationed with the RAF at a Western African port.”
Vol.18/1942/No.12-Dec. p.4 – “Our thoughts go out to Sergt. and Corp. Robin and Dick Rees (sic)…and others who are in the Medditerranean and North Africa and who may have little leisure in which to enjoy the Christmas trimmings we are taking as a matter of course.”
Jun/44, p.2 – “And Dick Leese, who left us to join the RAF before the war, has married an English girl.”
Jun/44, p.4 – (571626) Leese, R.V. Sgt. % Sergeants Mess RAF Angle Nr. Pembroke, South Wales “Just a few lines in appreciation of the Monthly News Letter. I surely do enjoy it. Somehow it makes Powell River seem about one of the best places on earth, and many are the times I’ve wished I could get back. It has just been my luck never to be able to get to the Reunions, but if the war lasts long enough, I daresay I’ll manage to squeeze one in. It would be swell seeing all the old faces! There will probably be loud shouts from some of my old friends when they learn that I was married six months ago…Ran into Jack Carruthers and Walter Patrick about a year ago, and hear from some of the boys now and then. But they never seem to get out to this part of the country.”
Dec/44, p.3 – (in a letter from Dan Wallace) “Paid a visit to Sergeant Dick Leese at his camp.”
May/45, p.5 – #1666 Con. Unit RCAF Overseas (R-225551) “This is just to thank you for the continued steady arrival of the weekly Powell River News, and also to correct a mistake that seems to be causing the RAF no slight bother. My original service number was 5711626, but just lately I have been fortunate enough to get transferred to the RCAF and posted here to the above address. I have already written to inform the Powell River Company of my new whereabouts, but from the way my correspondence is arriving it would seem as if the letter has gone astray somewhere. The News is still just as interesting as ever and affords quite a lot of enjoyment. But reading between the lines Powell River seems to have changed greatly in the last eight years. The success of my transfer was very gratifying. According to all I can learn I should be back in Canada in August. And I can tell you I am really looking forward to it!”
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) Dick Leese…- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

✝ Leese, R.G. (Robin) – RCAF Middle East Forces

Vol.15/1939/No.9-Sept. p.5 – “The outbreak of war finds several former local boys already serving at home or overseas with the permanent forces of the Empire. In the Royal Air Force in England are Robin V.[sic] Leese…and Mickey Dunn… Both boys have been in the Air Force for the past eighteen months.”
Vol.16/1940/No.8-Aug. p.4 – “Many local lads, including Robin Leese…are in the heart of the battle area in England.”
Vol.16/1940/No.11-Nov. p.14/15 – “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 practice. All three boys hope to take to the air shortly…And incidentally, Robin Leese is the third member of the house of Leese to join the active service forces. His father, Bob Leese, former Department Store Accountant, is now Lieutenant R. Leese of the 2nd Battalion Canadian Scottish at Victoria. Another son, Dick, is with the Royal Air Force in Great Britain.”
Vol.17/1941/No.12-Dec. p.6/7 – “Accountant Bob Leese, of the Company Store, now lieutenant in the Second Canadian Scottish Regiment, has, besides himself, two sons serving, both overseas; Corporal Dick Leese, who joined the RAF before the war, is now stationed at strategic Sierra Leone, West Africa, and son Robin, now wearing sergeant’s stripes, is in Britain with the RCAF.”
Vol.18/1942/No.2-Feb. p.9 – “Robin and Dick Leese…are both overseas. Corporal Dick Leese is with the RAF in West Africa, and Sergeant Dick [sic – Robin – ??] Leese is learning new things about British geography.”
Vol.18/1942/No.5-May. p.8 – “Tommy Gardiner, our lacrosse and basketball star, spent a glorious ten days’ leave in London and way points with an officer of the Australian forces. Several weeks later Tommy turns up in Cairo, along with Sergt.-Obs. Harry Cooper and Sergt. Robin Leese. Both boys visited Cape Town en route, and they have already travelled more than half the distance around the globe.”
Vol.18/1942/No.12-Dec. p.4 – “Our thoughts go out to Sergt. and Corp. Robin and Dick Rees (sic)…and others who are in the Mediterranean and North Africa and who may have little leisure in which to enjoy the Christmas trimmings we are taking as a matter of course.”
Jul/46, p.4 – “At this moment (September 3, 1939), Powell River was already well represented in the military force of the Empire…in England with the RCAF…(was) Robin Leese, who a year previous had just left local school to serve (his) country.”
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) Robin Leese…- all youngsters, who were part and parcel of our community and athletic life, were sucked up in the tempest.”

✝ Leese, W. H. (Bill) – Flight Sergeant RCAF Overseas

Oct/44, p.2 – (R-157846) “Bill Leese has been boosted to Flight Sergeant.”
Jul/46, p13 – see NOTE above for “Leese, R.V. (Dick)”.

Leighton, Jack – Private Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.17/1941/No.9-Sep. p.7 – “…News has come through of the safe arrival in England of Canada’s Third Division…includ(ing) the 1st Battalion Canadian Scottish, whose nominal roll includes twenty-two Powell River boys. Among these (is)…Jack Leighton.”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8 – “Twenty-two Powell River representatives are numbered in the ranks of the First Canadian Battalion, Canadian Scottish, Third Division. They include such stalwarts as Pte. Jack Leighton…”
Jun/44, p.2 – “And there is all the old crowd still with the First Canadian Scottish (including)…Jack Leighton…who have probably raise CAEN by this time.”
Jun/45, p.5 – “…Quite a few Powell River boys with me here (including) Jack Leighton…Don’t know when we will be coming home but we all hope soon.”

Leitch, Ken – RCNVR

Levy, Gray – CPO RCNVR

Vol.18/1942/No.3-Mar. p.3 – “On duty in Pacific waters, guarding the approaches to our western sea-board, are lads like… Gray Levy…”

Lewis, Bill – RC Army

Lewis, Ray – LAC RCAF

Feb/44, p.2 – (R-157705) “LAC Ray Lewis is at #9 Repair Depot, St. John’s Quebec.”

Lewis, Reg – S.P.O. ERA RCN

Vol.16/1940/No.8-Aug. p.4 – “From Reg Lewis…comes word that he is still at sea on the HMCS Skeena. His boat participated in the stirring actions off the French coast during the Brest evacuation, and Reg writes that the navy is on the job day and night.”
Vol.17/1941/No.4-Apr. p.11 – “Reg Lewis, son of Bill Lewis, of the grinder room, was home on leave during the month. Reg will be posted to a ship on his return.”
Vol.18/1942/No.3-Mar. p.3 – “On duty in Pacific waters, guarding the approaches to our western sea-board, are lads like… Reg Lewis…”
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…Leading Seaman Reg. Lewis…worthy of the tradition handed down and maintained by the Royal Navy.”
Feb/44, p.1 – “Reg. Lewis, RCN is now a Stoker P.O. and works out from Halifax.”
Mar/44, p.3 – “…you can locate SPO Reg Lewis (21732) RCNR at Eagle PO c/o FMO Halifax NS.”
Apr/44, p.2 – “Leading Stoker Reg Lewis, RCN, looking like something out of a naval fashion plate, was here this month, and sends his best to all the boys overseas.”

Leyland, V.H. – LAC RCAF

Dec/44, p.2 – “Discharged too (is)…V.H. Leyland, working at Powell River.”

Limon, Mush

Sep/44, p.3 – “He (Martin Naylor) also found his old track mate Mush Limon (remember him in that big track meet back in ’35?) at the same spot (an airfield).”

Lloyd, W. (Bill) – Sgt. DD X1

May/43, p.2 – “Wilf Heritage is Sergeant as is Bill Lloyd.”
Apr/44, p.3 – “Tony Ethofer is back in the mill on his old job and so is Bill Lloyd.”
May/45, p.4 – (in a letter from W.D. Vandervoort) “…five years next month since Bill Lloyd and I carried the banner down the hill with the first P.R. contingent.”

Long, (H.E.) Harold – CQMS Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.1-Jan. p.2 – “…in the Second Division Sergeant Harry Long is our sole representative…”
Vol.18/1942/No.9-Sep. p.8/9 – “At Dieppe, the Powell River casualty list was practically nil. Sergt. Long of Stillwater was wounded, but arrived safely in England…”
Jan/45, p.2 – “Another old friend called on us – CQMS Harold Long, repatriated as a result of wounds suffered at Dieppe and Falaise. Harold has been discharged.”
Jul/46, p.9 – (re: Dieppe) “Harold Long went through Pourville with the South Saskatchewans and was wounded in the process.”

Long, Hibbert – CQMS

Feb/44, p.1 – “Sgt. Hibbert Long, after a trip to Dieppe and Canada, has coaxed a nice CQMS out of the hat.”
Vol.20/1944/No.4-Apr. p.12 – “Sgt. Hibbert Long is now a CQMS.”
Vol.21/1945/No.2-Feb. p.11– “…CQMS Harold Long (has) been recently discharged following on severe wounds suffered in action…Harold Long, wounded at Dieppe and again at Falaise, was discharged on February 5. He was with the South Saskatchewan Regiment, of which Col. Merritt, VC, was Officer Commanding.”

Long, J. E. (Jack) – LAC RCAF

Jan/44, p.4 – (in a letter from Sid Wilshire) “…Jack Long from P.R. is in the same Coy. here, so we have the cigarette problem pretty well under control now.”

Long, Ken – Corporal Canadian Army Overseas

Sep/44, p.1 – “Corporal Ken Long (K-49703) is at A Wing #2 CIRU.”

Loukes, Bill – Canadian Army Overseas

Lund, Roy – Major HQ CAPF

Vol.15/1939/No.9-Sept. p.5 – Roy Lund, of the Townsite Department, left for Victoria, where he will enter the Government service.”
May/43, p.3 – (Essex Scot. Regt Overseas) “Have just read your first issue of the News Letter and say I did enjoy hearing of old friends again. Even though I am with an Eastern Regt. My heart is still and always will be in old B.C…have played some soccer over here. Recently our regimental team played against a team called the Coastal Gunners and were they gunners! They had four First Division players – and the rest of the team should have been. I played goal for the regiment – and the score is a military secret. We may be able to teach the English one or two things but neither happens to be soccer.”
Jan/44, p.2 – “Roy Lund pops into rarefied atmosphere with a boost to Major.”
Feb/44, p.5 – (re: Reunion) “Liked the group (photo) with Bat MacIntyre, Walt Vandervoort, Lionel Rorke, Martin Naylor, Roy Lund, Gene Messmer, all in dignified relaxation.”
May/44, p.4 – (in a letter from E.J.C. Dore) “Received a couple of letters from Roy Lund.”
Aug/44, p.2 – “Capt. Roy Lund is back in Canada to attend a staff course at Kingston.”
Sep/44, p.5 – (in a letter from E.J.C. Dore) “…thanks for Roy Lund’s address… (Ed. note: Captain Lund is now back in Kingston, Earl, in case I didn’t mention it last time. He is taking a staff course.).”
Vol.20/1944/No.10-Oct. p.6 – “Major Roy Lund will attend a staff course in Kingston.”
Jun/45, p.2 – “Most of the Army volunteers for the Pacific will probably do preliminary training down in Kentucky or Florida—and it could be worse, fellows, if all reports we hear are true. Roy Lund came back from Alabama recently and reports that the place is a setup for Canucks.”

Lye, R.A. (Bob) – Sapper Canadian Army Overseas

Vol.18/1942/No.4-Apr. p.10 – “And the Royal Canadian Engineers are doing quite well. Jack Challis and Bob Lye report running into Joe Graham-and the boys staged another of those famous Powell River reunions that are coming to constitute a “major operation” in the Canadian Army overseas.”
Oct/44, p.3 – “And Helen Lye dropped in a few days ago to show us the latest picture of husband Bob, now wading around with the RCE somewhere in Holland.”

✝ Lyle, A.J. (Jimmy) – Lieutenant Coy A 179th Infantry

Vol.20/1944/No.2-Feb. p.13 – “Our Central Mediterranean casualties to date include the following: Wounded-Jimmy Lyle (USA).”
Mar/44, p.3 – “And if any of you fellows in Italy get over on the 5th Army front, look out for Lieut. Arthur Lyle (O-1291489), Coy. D. 179th Inf. US forces.”
Apr/44, p.5 – (O-1291489) Coy “A” 179th Inf APO #45 % Postmaster NY “…A belated acknowledgement of the very interesting News Letters I have been receiving. Sure is swell to hear about the home town lads. So far I haven’t seen any of the home boys but I am hopeful. We are getting enough P.R. boys out here to have a reunion. Will send you a copy of our own 45th Overseas News. As for the liquid situation, the square heads always get there first and all that is left for us is something in the nature of Lysol, which is erroneously labeled Cognac,”
May/44, p.1 – “In this issue we wish to especially thank Lieut. Jimmy Lyle for the much wanted copies of “Yank” (European and Middle East editions), the Army Times (which we had never seen) and the excellent and well edited journal of his own 45th American Division.”
Jul/44, p.1 – “These are some of the more recent (papers) – as they are also those fascinating Mediterranean papers that…Jimmy Lyle…and scores of other fellows have sent along.”
Jul/44, p.2 – “Quite a number of the boys have visited Rome, including…Jimmy Lyle – and most of the gang say “I’ll take Riverside.”
Aug/44, p.4 – (in a letter from B. Denton) “Had the pleasure of meeting my old chum Jimmy Lyle while there (Salerno), and we had quite a reunion.”
Jul/46, p.13 – “In the fighting in Europe…seven Powell River men gave their lives…Jimmy Lyle…died in (his) country’s service.”

Lyons, Ormond – Flight Sergeant RCAF

Jan/44, p.1 – “Ormond Lyons is a Flight Sergeant.”