rederick Russell Haywood

Lance Corporal, Anti-Aircraft Gunner / Canadian Provost Corps
Royal Canadian Army

Service Summary

Frederick Russell Haywood enlisted in Brandon on April 2, 1942, at the age of 18. Originally from Glencairn, Manitoba, he completed training in Winnipeg, Portage la Prairie, and Camp Shilo.

He later specialized in light anti-aircraft operations.

Wartime Experience

Fred deployed overseas in November 1942 aboard the Queen Elizabeth and trained in England on 40mm anti-aircraft guns.

Serving with the 4th Armoured Division, he landed in France after D-Day and advanced through France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany. His unit often operated close to the front lines under artillery and air attack.

While in Holland, Fred survived a nearby V-1 flying bomb explosion and later witnessed the horrors of the Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp.

He remained in Europe until returning to Canada in January 1946.

Post-Service Life

Fred farmed briefly before settling in Minnedosa. He drove taxi, managed an Esso station, worked at the Co-op Lumber Yard, and later with North American Lumber until retiring in 1990.

He married Florence Robinson in 1948, and they raised five sons. Fred was a lifetime member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• France and Germany Star

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45