Edgar James Instance

Trooper, 12th Manitoba Dragoons (18th Armoured Car Regiment)
Royal Canadian Army

Service Summary

Edgar James Instance enlisted in Winnipeg in March 1944 at the age of 18 with the Canadian Armoured Corps. At the time, he was working for the Royal Canadian Air Force in Neepawa and living in Winnipeg.

He completed basic training at the Reconnaissance Training Centre in Dundurn, Saskatchewan, followed by advanced armoured training at Camp Borden, Ontario, where he trained on Worthington and Sherman tanks.

Wartime Experience

In March 1945, Edgar deployed overseas aboard the Aquitania, sailing from Halifax to Greenock, Scotland. During the Atlantic crossing, the convoy took evasive action against German U-boats but arrived safely.

After further training in England, Edgar joined the Manitoba Dragoons and was sent to the continent in May 1945, landing in Ostend, Belgium. He was then posted to Leeuwarden, Holland, with the regiment.

The war ended shortly afterward. Edgar volunteered for Pacific service, but Japan’s surrender brought the war to a close before further deployment.

He returned to Canada aboard the New Amsterdam and later served at Fort Osborne Barracks in Winnipeg until his discharge on September 13, 1946.

Post-Service Life

After the war, Edgar joined the Canadian Pacific Railway, working in Calgary and British Columbia before transferring to Minnedosa. He retired in 1986 after 38 years of railway service.

In retirement, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, travelling, and extensive community involvement. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Khartum Temple, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138, the 12th Manitoba Dragoons Veterans Association, and several railway and community organizations.

In November 1953, Edgar married Hazel Curle of Dauphin, Manitoba. Together they raised six children.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• France and Germany Star

• Defence Medal

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45