Why He Enlisted
Heroes Remember
Why He Enlisted
Transcript
Description
Mr. Keys explains his reason for enlisting.
Herman C. Keys
Mr. Keys was born on September 15, 1916. He grew up in Balcarres, Saskatchewan which is sixty miles east of Regina. Mr. Keys started school at the age of six and quit in grade ten, at which time he went to Ontario to find work. His father owned a hotel which he sold before Mr. Keys was born. He also owned two farms and later became a cattle buyer. He died when Mr. Keys was twelve. His mother came from England and was a housekeeper for his father. Mr. Keys had a brother, named Mel and a sister. Mel went into action with Mr. Keys in Dieppe. Mel was wounded but survived the war. Mr. Keys joined the South Saskatchewan Regiment as a rifleman and was a member of the merchant marine for three years prior to enlisting.
Meta Data
- Medium:
- Video
- Owner:
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Duration:
- 01:00
- Person Interviewed:
- Herman C. Keys
- War, Conflict or Mission:
- Second World War
- Location/Theatre:
- Canada
- Branch:
- Army
- Units/Ship:
- South Saskatchewan Regiment
- Rank:
- Lance-Corporal
- Occupation:
- Rifleman
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The Search For Work
Mr. Keys describes what it was like looking for a job in October, 1935. He recounts going by train to Northern Ontario where he was refused work in the mines because of his weight.
When War Broke Out
Mr. Keys recollects being in Chicago with the merchant marine when the war broke out. He then went to Regina to visit his mother and subsequently enlisted.
Army Over Navy
Mr. Keys explains why he joined the army instead of the navy.
From Artillery to Infantry
Mr. Keys describes why he transferred from the artillery to the infantry.
Taking Leave in Edinborough
Mr. Keys describes the time he took leave in Edinborough.
Bonds Between the Infantry
Mr. Keys describes why there is such a bond between the men in an infantry regiment.
Sleeping Conditions and Food
Mr. Keys describes the sleeping conditions and the quality of the food.
Camaraderie
Mr. Keys describes some of the soldiers in 12 Platoon.
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