John Walter Brown “Jack” McDonald

Captain, Lord Strathcona’s Horse / 1st Hussars
Royal Canadian Army
Killed in Action – February 27, 1945

Service Summary

Jack McDonald moved to Minnedosa in 1928 and attended local schools. In 1938, he joined the Permanent Force of the Canadian Army at Fort Osborne Barracks, initially serving with Lord Strathcona’s Horse while it was still a cavalry regiment.

He became an accomplished horseman and served in ceremonial mounted escorts during the 1939 Royal Visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.

Wartime Experience

With mechanization, Jack’s regiment became the 2nd Armoured Regiment. He deployed overseas in 1941 and later attended the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, graduating as a Lieutenant in 1943.

Shortly before D-Day, Jack joined the 1st Hussars as a tank troop commander and landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944.

He fought through France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany. Promoted Captain in November 1944, he served as Technical Adjutant.

Jack was killed in action at Uedem, Germany, on February 27, 1945—the very day he was to begin his first leave since Normandy.

Commemoration

Jack is buried in Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Netherlands.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• France and Germany Star

• 1939–45 Star

• Defence Medal

• War Medal 1939–45