William Bruce Radford

Sergeant
Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry / Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
Royal Canadian Army

Service Summary

William Bruce Radford enlisted with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Winnipeg on September 29, 1939, only weeks after the outbreak of the Second World War. He was 22 years old and employed managing a farm.

He sailed overseas in December 1939 as part of the first Canadian troop convoys to Britain.

Wartime Experience

Bruce trained extensively in England before transferring to the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders in 1941.

He married Elizabeth “Betty” Ross in Edinburgh in January 1942.

Bruce landed in France after D-Day and fought in major campaigns including:

• Caen

• Falaise Gap

• Rouen area battles

• Boulogne sector

• Advance through Northwest Europe

He served as scout and sniper, captured enemy prisoners, and was later promoted to Sergeant.

On August 29, 1944, Bruce was severely wounded by a German sniper. The bullet passed through his hip and abdomen. He spent months recovering in hospitals in France, England, and later Deer Lodge Hospital in Winnipeg.

He was discharged in June 1945.

Post-Service Life

Bruce and Betty farmed near Keyes, Manitoba, before later moving to Brandon and then Minnedosa in 1967.

He worked for the Manitoba Highways Department until retiring in 1978.

Bruce and Betty raised two daughters and one son.

He was a Life Member and former President (1991–92) of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138 and authored a book on his war experiences.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• France and Germany Star

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45