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Area historical society to host Convoy Through Sailor's Lens

Speaker Mark Burchell will share some stories from his dad's time with the Royal Canadian Navy during Second World War

The Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Historical Society's meeting on Monday, March 20 will take a closer look at Canada's naval involvement in the Second World War.

Using photos from his dad's collection during his time with the Royal Canadian Navy, speaker Mark Burchell will share stories from the 14 convoys HMCS Restigouche escorted while his father was onboard.

"At 22 years old, John Burchell joined the Royal Canadian Volunteer Naval Reserves on June 16, 1941. Fifteen months later, he joined HMCS Restigouche
as a victualling assistant," says the younger Burchell. 

HMCS Restigouche was assigned to the Mid Ocean Escort Force (MOEF) C-4 and escorted 14 convoys over the next 11 months.   

The historical society meetings are held in the hall in Newton Robinson, located at 4380 Line 10, Bradford West Gwillimbury, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Meetings are free for members and $5 for guests. All are welcome. Memberships are $35 for a family and $20 for individuals.

For more information, contact Mark Burchell at [email protected] or 705-458-8964.