The Battle of the Atlantic was one of the most significant naval campaigns of World War II. This monument (Memorial to a Prairie Sailor) serves to shine a light on a group of unsung heroes, whose bravery and dedication played a pivotal role in securing victory amidst the perilous waters of the Atlantic – the remarkable contributions of the members of the Canadian Naval Reserve.
As the war engulfed the world, Canada found itself thrust into a critical role, tasked with safeguarding the vital sea lanes that connected North America to Europe. With convoys carrying essential supplies and reinforcements, the Atlantic became a battleground where Allied vessels clashed with German U-boats which were determined to sever the lifeline of Allied support.
In the face of this relentless threat, the Canadian Naval Reserve emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience. Comprised of volunteers from all walks of life, these men and women answered the call to duty, ready to defend their homeland and protect the convoys that sustained the Allied cause.
During the Battle of the Atlantic, the Canadian Naval Reserve played a vital role in escorting convoys, patrolling coastal waters, and providing crucial support to the Royal Canadian Navy. Their efforts were nothing short of heroic, as they braved the elements and faced the constant threat of enemy attacks to ensure the safe passage of vital supplies.
Over 7,000 Canadian naval reservists served during the Battle of the Atlantic, volunteering their time and expertise to defend their homeland and support the Allied cause. These brave individuals crewed countless ships, from corvettes to frigates, playing a crucial role in escorting merchant vessels across the treacherous waters of the Atlantic.
1,769 naval reservists made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their lives in defense of freedom and democracy. Many more were wounded or taken prisoner, their bravery a testament to the unwavering commitment of those who served.
Of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, more than 60 enlisted here – either at HMCS Unicorn or the Saskatoon Division RCNVR. Who were they? Robert Booth from Saskatoon. He was a labourer who worked for the railway. He trained as a stoker and died at age 20. Or, William McCrindle from Choiceland. He was a farmer. He was serving on HMCS Athabaskan when he lost his life at age 23. Or, John Rodseth who was born in Norway and was residing in Dinsmore when he enlisted. He was also a farmer. He was an Able Seaman serving on HMCS Regina on August 8, 1944 when he lost his life at age 34. Or, Peter Wallace from Saskatoon. He was working for the Canadian National Railway when he joined the Saskatoon Division RNCVR (later to become HMCS Unicorn). Able Seaman Wallace was serving on HMCS Athabaskan when she was torpedoed by T-24 on April 29, 1944 and he was lost at sea.
These are only a few of the reservists who joined here and did not come home. I encourage you to learn more about these men and the other “citizen sailors” who are part of the history of Unicorn.
Their legacy endures, an inspiration for future generations. The courage, resilience, and sacrifice of the Canadian Naval Reserve during the Battle of the Atlantic serve as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary lengths ordinary individuals are willing to go to in the pursuit of a greater cause.
This monument serves as a reminder for us to reflect on their remarkable feats, honour their memory and pay tribute to their unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Their service remains a testament to the power of courage, unity, and determination in the face of adversity.
To show that you were here:
1 – Take a picture of something which identifies you or your group with a part of The Memorial to a Prairie Sailor – the anchor, the bricks, or other – and post it with your log.
2 – Which Canadian Ship did the 40mm Bofors Gun come from? This will require a bit of observation and research. Send your answer to the Cache Owner via a message.
You may post your log after the message is sent, but before you receive confirmation.
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.