William Lailey Seraphin Lewis

Leading Aircraftman, Aeroengine Mechanic
Royal Canadian Air Force

Service Summary

William Lailey Seraphin Lewis, known as Bill, was born and raised on the family farm in the Roseneath community southwest of Minnedosa, Manitoba. He attended Roseneath School and later studied Agriculture and Mechanics in Minnedosa.

He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force on August 12, 1941, in Winnipeg and completed training in Brandon, Winnipeg, and St. Thomas, Ontario, where he qualified as an Aeroengine Mechanic.

Wartime Experience

After serving briefly on Canadian air bases, Bill deployed overseas in December 1942 aboard the Queen Elizabeth.

He was posted to RCAF Station Topcliffe, Yorkshire, attached to No. 424 Squadron in Bomber Command.

In May 1943, Bill and fellow RCAF personnel were sent to the North African theatre aboard the Duchess of York. Shortly after arriving in Algiers, the port came under German air attack.

Bill then travelled to Tunisia, where he helped service Wellington bombers conducting operations over Sicily in preparation for the Allied invasions of Sicily and Italy.

Later in the war, he returned to the United Kingdom, where he worked on Halifax and Lancaster bombers supporting continued Allied operations.

Bill was repatriated to Canada in September 1945.

Post-Service Life

After discharge, Bill returned to farming in Roseneath. In 1949, he married Jean Stewart of Minnedosa.

Together they farmed for nearly twenty-five years and raised five children.

Bill was active in the Legion, school boards, U.G.G., Seed Growers Association, sports, and church life.

He passed away on February 8, 1972, at the age of 54 and is buried in Minnedosa Cemetery.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• War Medal 1939–45