Mr. Downe talks about the different items that he carried on his motorcycle.
Looking for Volunteers
Mr. Downe tells the story of his first time on a motorcycle.
Joining the Army
Mr. Downe recalls the day he joined the army.
A Memory I will take to my Grave
Of all life’s wonderful experiences, Mr. Sommerville shares a celebration New Year’s Eve, 1944 where the singing of Christmas carols by the local nuns was an inspiration never to be forgotten.
So Very Grateful
Mr. Sommerville remembers the camaraderie experienced during wartime and how grateful he is to have had the opportunity to return home.
Operation Duck
Just nine days before the war ended, Mr. Sommerville recalls his adventures in “Operation Duck.”
The Luck of Changing Places
Mr. Sommerville shares an emotional story of how his fellow corporal asked to switch places and for that reason Mr. Sommerville survived. His friend was not as fortunate.
The Sounds and Sights of Fighter Planes
Mr. Sommerville tells about building bridges while the fighting continues overhead.
The Effects of a Mine
Mr. Sommerville speaks about a time his crew drove over a mine, inflicting wounds to his fellow crewman and recalls his sheer luck in escaping injury.
Building Bridges Across the Orne River
Moving into France, Mr. Sommerville describes building bridges so that the fighting could continue.
A Tradesman During Wartime
Mr. Sommerville describes the unique role he played in working with concrete; building roads and structures for the units to which they were affiliated.
War is Not a Picnic
Killing people is not easy, especially when you are up close and personal with the enemy.