Mr. Laird recalls when a padre on the front lines of Italy brought peace to he and a group of men pinned down by fire.
Trained to Kill
Mr. Laird recalls when the magnitude of what he was embarking on dawned on him.
Germans Screamed The Same As Us
Mr. Laird describes witnessing flamethrowers used for the first time.
Three Times Wounded
Mr. Laird describes the three instances during which he was wounded, specifically the last instance in which he was saved by a man he can’t find to thank.
A Deal With God
Mr. Laird describes being pinned at Campobasso, Italy, and years later, hearing of his minister’s experience during the same action.
If You Beat Him, He Will Want You
Mr. Laird recalls Gen. Montgomery’s reasoning for wanting the 1st Division of Canadians with him in Italy.
Montgomery's Double
Mr. Laird recalls meeting Gen. Montgomery while under attack near Sicily, only to find out years later that it wasn’t actually the General.
U-Boat Near Gibraltar
Mr. Laird recalls the U-Boat alarm sounding during the voyage to Sicily, while outside Gibraltar, and seeing depth charges deployed.
Into Action - Sicily
Mr. Laird describes the invasion of Sicily, starting with the long voyage from Scotland.
Canada's Commandos
Mr. Laird recalls being assigned to Canada's newly created commando unit, explaining the reasons for it's creation and disbandment.
Stores, Tanks and Flags
Mr. Laird describes how he progressed from joining up with ordinance, to becoming a signaller.
Leadup to War Hits Home
Mr. Laird recalls when the leadup to war hit home.