Arthur Roy Pollon

Trooper – First World War
Veterans Guard of Canada – Second World War

Service Summary

Arthur Roy Pollon was born February 27, 1895, on the family farm in Minto Municipality, Manitoba. He attended Clanwilliam School.

He enlisted for service during the First World War and served with the 78th Winnipeg Grenadiers and later the 100th Battalion.

Wartime Experience

Arthur fought in France and took part in the Battle of Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917, serving in the first wave of the assault.

He later recalled the tremendous casualties suffered that day, when only a fraction of his battalion answered roll call after the battle.

Later in the war, Arthur was wounded in the right wrist by shrapnel, evacuated to England, and eventually returned to action in France.

Following the outbreak of the Second World War, Arthur again volunteered for service in 1940, joining the Veterans Guard of Canada.

He served at several locations in Canada, including Lake Audy in Riding Mountain National Park, guarding German prisoners of war.

Post-Service Life

After the First World War, Arthur returned to farming in the Clanwilliam area.

He married Bertha Eiffert in 1923, and together they raised six children: Douglas, Lorne, Walter, Harold, Florence, and Hazel.

Arthur was a Life Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138 and the Clanwilliam Curling Club.

He passed away in Minnedosa on March 16, 1991, at the age of 96.

Medals & Honours

First World War

• Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (C.G.M.)

• Bravery Medal “For Bravery in the Field”

• War Medal 1914–1918

• Great War for Civilization Medal

Second World War

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal

• War Medal 1939–45