My uncle, F/O Bernhard W. Martin, visited the family farm near Golden Prairie, Saskatchewan, during the summer of 1944, just before he went overseas. I am so pleased that someone – probably my Father – made this photograph with a Kodak box camera. It’s the only photograph in which my Uncle and I were both present (I’m the second from the left).
My Uncle was a pilot in 419 (Moose) Squadron, RCAF. He flew Lancasters on 16 bombing missions over Germany. His aircraft was shot down on Feb.2/3, 1945 and all but one of his crew were killed. I have the wire sent to my Grandmother and the letters sent by the RCAF immediately after he and his crew were declared missing – and the letters sent months later when further information on his flight was shared (See Aircrew Remembered).
My Uncle Ben was 23 years old when he died.
We continue to remember him, especially at this time of year when we and many other Canadians wear poppies proudly. I would be pleased if you were to read the (above) story of the crew on that dreadful night.
There are countless other stories of soldiers and airmen, sailors and others who gave their lives or had their lives changed radically. Let’s be thankful for what they did – and let’s find ways of eliminating hatred, intolerance, greed and warfare.
Attend a local Remembrance Day ceremony, or watch the ceremony from Ottawa on TV: and don’t be afraid to shed a tear or two for those who did not come home and for all those who served with courage and conviction.
Well said , Jerome.
Your narrative brings to the fore just how great the sacrifices were of those who served and the impact they had on the families and those left behind.
November 11 and the poppies we wear become even more meaningful when one reads posts like yours.
Thank you!
Posted by: Bill Buckham | November 10, 2017 at 11:37 AM
Thanks, Bill. I and my family appreciate your note. This Nov. 11 will be just as real and just as sad for us as all the other Remembrance Days have been: and that's the way it should be. We remember.
Posted by: Jerome Martin | November 10, 2017 at 07:27 PM
This is a wonderful photo and narrative Jerome.....I also have a super big picture of Bern but with a different cap on. And those horrible yellow telegrams telling my family of Bern's loss. Plus a fabulous comic strip drawing done by Al. Bern was much beloved by my family here in England during the War; he and Al often stayed with my Nanna and Grandad and my Mum when on leave. Al was also a special friend of theirs. Remembered with love, and thanks for their great sacrifice, by the family of Jim, Mary and Margaret Little - Bern's friends in England. We wear our poppies with pride.
Posted by: Jane Honningsvaag | November 16, 2017 at 07:10 PM