Ernest Edward Pelts

Able Seaman
Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve
Former Acting Lance Corporal, 12th Manitoba Dragoons

Service Summary

Ernest Edward Pelts enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy at the age of 17 through HMCS Chippawa in Winnipeg. Prior to naval service, he had spent a year with the 12th Manitoba Dragoons and attended Camp Shilo training in 1943.

Wartime Experience

After naval training at HMCS Cornwallis, Ernest was posted in March 1945 to HMCS St. Pierre, a frigate assigned to Escort Group 9 in Londonderry, Ireland.

His wartime duties included convoy escort operations in dangerous Atlantic waters.

In May 1945, his ship helped escort surrendered German U-boats from Norway. Crew members were placed aboard watch details to prevent scuttling of the submarines.

He later served at HMCS Peregrine in Halifax before discharge in December 1945.

Post-Service Life

Ernie returned to work with the Canadian Pacific Railway, retiring in 1986 after 42 years of service.

He married Edna Taylor of Minnedosa in 1950, and they had one son.

He was a Life Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Atlantic Star

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45