Would You Do it Again?
Heroes Remember
Would You Do it Again?
Transcript
Description
Mr. Finestone describes why he would do it all over again.
Bernard J. Finestone
Mr. Finestone was born in Sacramento, California, and moved to Montreal when he was ten months old. His father served with the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery during the First World War. Mr. Finestone joined the COTC while he was studying at McGill University and when the war broke out he was in officer training. Mr. Finestone served as a tank commander in Italy and during the Italian Campaign, he was severely wounded. Mr. Finestone is an active speaker. He speaks to young Canadians about his military experiences and being a Jewish veteran.
Meta Data
- Medium:
- Video
- Owner:
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Duration:
- 00:32
- Person Interviewed:
- Bernard J. Finestone
- War, Conflict or Mission:
- Second World War
- Location/Theatre:
- North America
- Branch:
- Army
- Units/Ship:
- 5th Armoured Division
- Rank:
- Lieutenant
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Preparing for War
Mr. Finestone recalls his father’s advice to join the COTC as the war approached.
Joining the Service
Mr. Finestone recalls why he decided to join the service. His Canadian-Jewish background compelled him to go to war.
Training in Canada
Mr. Finestone was a Junior Officer. He describes the training he received and the training he provided in Canada to prepare himself and his men for war.
Crossing the Atlantic Ocean
Mr. Finestone describes the crossing to England and the efforts of a German broadcaster, Lord Haw-Haw to sap the morale of the soldiers.
Defending Brighton
Mr. Finestone describes defending Brighton and training his men. He also recalls the very first time he was shot at.
Baptism of Fire in Italy
Mr. Finestone describes his baptism by fire and the very difficult fighting in Italy. He tells of how the Germans were well prepared and did not make any mistakes.
The End of My War
Mr. Finestone recalls his last drive towards Rome. They were under heavy shellfire, crossing streams and rivers when he became wounded by an 88 shell. He was bleeding profusely, but an ambulance was close by and took him to a hospital where he spent 2 ½ months. Due to his serious injuries, he was sent back to Canada on the Lady Nelson.
Return Home to Canada
Mr. Finestone describes his injuries, his return home and the reaction of his parents upon his return to Canada.
Readjusting to Civilian Life
Mr. Finestone describes how he had a hard time readjusting to civilian life after he returned home to Canada. He also describes the contrast between what was going on in Canada and what his regiment was doing overseas.
Reaction to the Holocaust
Mr. Finestone describes his reaction to the Holocaust.
Some Words For Children of Future Generations
Mr. Finestone describes what he would say to children of future generations.
Remembrance Day
Mr. Finestone describes the significance that November eleventh has for him.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Mr. Finestone responds to the question, “Was Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) common during your service?”
The Sights and Sounds of War
Mr. Finestone explains the factors of war that may cause Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
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