Ronald Francis Birch

Private, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI)
Lake Superior Regiment – Royal Canadian Army

Service Summary

Ronald Francis Birch began his military service in 1940 with the Manitoba Dragoons in Minnedosa, training locally before formally enlisting in December 1942 with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry at Fort Osborne Barracks in Winnipeg.

He completed his basic training at Portage la Prairie and advanced training at Camp Shilo before deploying overseas in June 1943.

Wartime Experience

Following arrival in England, Ron was deployed to North Africa, where he trained under extreme conditions before moving into active combat in Italy.

He fought on the front lines during the Italian campaign, including at the Hitler Line, where he was wounded on May 23, 1944. The campaign was marked by harsh weather and terrain, including prolonged fighting near Ortona where mud and rain severely restricted movement.

During his service, Ron also suffered from serious illness, including typhoid fever and malaria, requiring hospitalization. After recovery, he returned to active duty but was wounded again on February 12, 1945, during fighting along the Gustav Line.

Following the end of hostilities in Europe, Ron volunteered for occupational duty in Germany and Holland, serving with the Lake Superior Regiment. His duties included guarding military equipment and assisting civilians with food distribution.

Post-Service Life

Ron returned to Canada in February 1946, arriving in New York before travelling by train to Winnipeg. He was officially discharged in April 1946.

After returning home, he worked during the early expansion of rural electrification with Manitoba Hydro. He married Irene Hampton, and together they raised two children.

In 1954, Ron and his family purchased farmland in the Basswood and Newdale area, where he farmed for many years. Following retirement in 1989, Ron and Irene moved to Minnedosa and remained active in the community.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• Italy Star

• France and Germany Star

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45