Sarnia Remembers

By Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand Ernest “Ernie” Ottaway had every reason not to join the Canadian Armed Forces in 1939. At 27, he was young and physically fit, but he had his family to consider.

Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand Motorists pass Berger Drive daily, unaware, perhaps, of who Berger was. The poppy on its street sign indicates only that Sarnia has recognized a veteran.

By Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand The disturbing success of U-Boats early in World War II forced the Allies to produce an effective anti-submarine vessel to protect their merchant ships in convoys.

Tom Slater & Tom St. Amand Hank Plug, 91, has lived in Sarnia for 75 years and appreciates everything he has. He is the proud father of five children, who have blessed him with 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

By Tom Slater & Tom St. Amand After Pat Williams died in action during World War II, his family in Sarnia had a difficult time accepting it.

By Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand When Judy Van Reenen interviewed her father, Case, for a high school project, she learned the full story of his life during World War II. Judy's teacher described Case's experiences as an “incredible history.

Tom Slater & Tom St. Amand Any member of the elite Pathfinder Force in WWII knew that if he survived 12 missions he was beating the odds.

By Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand Late in 1944, a chance encounter at a dance hall in Brussels changed their lives forever.

We at The Sarnia Journal are proud to continue our tradition of honouring the men and women who fought to protect our way of life, and pay tribute to those who continue to serve today.

Tom Slater & Tom St. Amand Peter Leighton was once asked if he wanted to watch the epic war film Saving Private Ryan. He declined.