James Hendry GC

[gunnerC739]

1) Anyone know to which community in WW II the MD2 block of numbers B28500 and up was assigned ?

2)  Apart from that on VAC's Remembrance page, any info will be gratefully received re B28593 Cpl James Hendry GC, son of John and Janet Hendry of Geraldton, ON.  He was in No. 1 Tunnelling Coy, RCE and, aged 29, died in Scotland on June 13, 1941.  He was posthumously awarded the George Cross "in recognition of most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner".  Any info on his parents similarly welcome.

gunner C739

 

[klambie]

Using my handy Service Publications (http://www.servicepub.com/) library:

1) From 'Regimental Numbers of the Canadian Army' that block is simply noted No. 2 District Depot, RCE.  There are a number of other blocks assigned similarly to RCA, RCOC, RCAMC, RCASC, etc.

2. From 'Courage and Service'

HENDRY, James, Corporal (B.28593 - George Cross - Engineers (No.1 Canadian Tunneling Company) - awarded as per Canada Gazette dated 3 April 1943; confirmed by CARO/3580 dated 2 September 1943, "in recognition of most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner." Medals with Canadian War Museum (AN 19740256-001).

Corporal Hendry, on 13 June 1941, was in charge of a tunneling shift engaged on important duties in Scotland. A fire broke out in the powder magazine whichseriously menaced the lives and equipment of the detachment. Hendry, an experienced miner, with full knowledge of explosives, immediately warned the civilian helpers in the vicinity to take cover and, instead of taking cover himself, produced water and went to the powder agazine in an endeavour to put out the fire. Before he reached the magazine it blew up, killing Corporal Hendry and one other and seriously injuring two other members of the detachment. It is considered that Corporal Hendry's action in attempting to put out the fire, after warning others of the danger, showed courage and bravery of a high order. The act was carried out in the performance of military duty and in complete disregard of his own safety.