On February 18, 1941, Mr. Rogers enlisted in the Canadian Army. He describes why he felt compelled to do so.
Dieppe Raid Impact
Mr. Roger’s regiment was not involved in the Dieppe Raid in August, 1942 as they continued training in England but he was asked to speak about the impact the failed raid had on him and his comrades.
Preparing for D-Day
Mr. Rogers talks about loading their barges and waiting out the weather until they could sail out for the D-Day attack.
The Normandy Landing
Mr. Rogers, along with his regiment, was assigned to provide artillery support from off-shore barges for the troops moving onto the beaches at Normandy, France.
Beyond the Normandy Beach
The 12th Field Regiment encountered relatively light opposition along their section of the beach and managed to move seven miles inland on the first day. As night came, it continued to be a noisy and active operation.
Caen and Beyond
The 3rd Division, of which the 12th Field Regiment is a part, eventually finds itself near Caen. They witness the destructive bombing that levelled the historic French city.
The War Ends
It’s early May, 1945 and Mr. Rogers recalls the day the war in Europe ended.
Every Person Was Important to the Victory
Mr. Rogers gives great credit to the work of the infantry. He goes on to make the point that every person involved in the war effort made an important contribution to the Allied victory.
Patriotism versus a Job
Mr. Rogers is asked what he would say to the young people of Canada today if he was speaking to them about love of country, duty and patriotism. His candid answer may surprise you.