Veterans Interpretation Center RCL #62

08/07/2026

In Memory of Frank Bonia
October 25, 1896 – April 18, 1959

Today, we remember Frank Bonia of North Harbour, Newfoundland, whose service with the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit contributed to the Allied war effort during the Second World War. Though the work of the Forestry Unit often took place away from the front lines, it was essential to military operations, providing the timber needed for construction, transportation, and wartime infrastructure.

Frank answered the call to serve by going overseas on July 26, 1940, where he was stationed in Scotland. For nearly two years, he carried out his duties with dedication and perseverance, remaining overseas until March 13, 1942, when he returned home. His commitment reflected the hard work and determination of the many Newfoundlanders who served in support roles that were vital to the success of the Allied forces.

Frank Bonia passed away on April 18, 1959, leaving behind a legacy of service and quiet sacrifice. His story has been preserved through the memories of his family, particularly his niece, Margaret Dalton, who shared information about his life and wartime service during an interview in March 2000.

Today, we honor Frank Bonia with gratitude and respect. His service in the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit reminds us that victory in wartime depended not only on those who fought on the battlefield but also on those whose dedication and hard work supported the war effort behind the scenes. His contribution remains an important part of Newfoundland’s proud military heritage, and his legacy will continue to be remembered for generations to come.

08/07/2026

In Memory of Seaman (Boatswain) Cyril Bonia
November 10, 1900 – May 2, 1975

Today, we proudly remember Cyril Bonia of North Harbour, Newfoundland, a courageous merchant seaman whose service during the Second World War demonstrated remarkable bravery, leadership, and determination. As a Seaman (Boatswain) in the Merchant Navy, Cyril played a vital role in the dangerous work of transporting essential supplies across the Atlantic during wartime.

During his service, Cyril sailed aboard the British freighter La Brae, which was tragically torpedoed off the coast of Scotland. Although only eighteen crew members survived, Cyril’s courage shone through in the face of disaster. As the only surviving seaman capable of navigating, he successfully guided the lifeboat and its survivors safely back to Scotland, an extraordinary act that undoubtedly saved lives.

Following this harrowing experience, Cyril continued to serve with unwavering dedication aboard several vessels, including the La Brae and SS Gregalia in 1940, the SS Fort Amherst in 1943, and the SS Meigle from 1945 to 1946. His perseverance and commitment to duty reflected the resilience of the men who served in the Merchant Navy during one of history’s most dangerous conflicts.

For his distinguished wartime service, Cyril Bonia was awarded the 1939–1945 Star, the Atlantic Star, the Service Medal, and the War Medal 1939–1945, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the Allied war effort.

Cyril passed away on May 2, 1975, but his remarkable story lives on through his family, especially his daughter, Bernice Nash, who shared his experiences during an interview in January 2000. His photographs and preserved documents continue to honor a life dedicated to service.

Today, we remember Seaman Cyril Bonia with deep gratitude and respect. His courage under extraordinary circumstances and his steadfast commitment to serving others stand as an enduring example of the sacrifices made by Newfoundland’s Merchant Navy veterans. His legacy will never be forgotten.

08/07/2026

In Memory of Private Dave John Power (“Khaki Dave”)
June 25, 1888 – 1947

Today, we proudly remember Private Dave John Power, affectionately known as “Khaki Dave,” of Mount Carmel, Newfoundland, whose courage and determination left a lasting mark on the history of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment during the First World War.

Dave enlisted on September 2, 1914, becoming one of the brave men of the First Five Hundred, the original volunteers who answered Newfoundland’s call to service. As a member of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, he served with the British Expeditionary Force in both 1915 and 1916, facing some of the war’s fiercest battles.

His service came at a great personal cost. Dave was wounded on July 15, 1917, but after recovering, he courageously rejoined his battalion on October 14, 1917. Later that year, he was wounded again at Mesniers on December 3, 1917, and was invalided to England for treatment. During the war, he was also exposed to poisonous gas, and a piece of shrapnel struck his ear, mouth, and eventually his lung, leaving him with injuries that reflected the sacrifices made by so many soldiers.

In February 1918, he was attached to the depot at Ayr, Scotland, before embarking for Newfoundland aboard the Furlong on July 21, 1918. He was officially demobilized in St. John’s on February 15, 1919, bringing to a close years of dedicated military service.

Dave John Power passed away in 1947, but his story continues to live on through the memories preserved by his family, including his son, Brendan Power, who shared his father’s experiences during an interview in January 2000.

Today, we honor Private Dave John Power for his extraordinary courage, perseverance, and sacrifice. As one of the First Five Hundred, his legacy stands as a proud reminder of the bravery and resilience of Newfoundland’s veterans, whose service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

08/07/2026

In Memory of Able Seaman Richard Hartson
December 8, 1892 – September 1976

Today, we proudly remember Able Seaman Richard Hartson of Mount Carmel, Newfoundland, a man who answered the call to serve with courage and dedication. As a member of the Royal Navy during the First World War, Richard faithfully served his country and the Allied cause, earning three medals in recognition of his service.

Throughout his naval career, Able Seaman Hartson served aboard several ships, including the Calypso, Victory, Queen Elizabeth, Solaire, David, and Briton. His willingness to serve wherever duty called reflects the strength, resilience, and commitment that defined so many Newfoundlanders of his generation.

Richard’s service is remembered not only through his medals but also through treasured family keepsakes, including his Newfoundland Seaman Class Certificate from the First World War and his photograph. These artifacts help preserve the story of a man whose contributions remain an important part of our shared history.

Although Richard Hartson passed away in September 1976, his legacy continues through the memories shared by his family, especially his daughter, Philomena Dalton, whose interview in January 2000 helped ensure that his story would not be forgotten.

Today, we honor Able Seaman Richard Hartson with gratitude and respect. His service, sacrifice, and devotion stand as a lasting reminder of the courage shown by Newfoundland’s veterans, whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.

08/03/2026

Our Veteran spotlight this week.
Born in Riverhead in 1922, John Barnes was part of the 166th Newfoundland Field Regiment where he held the rank of gunner. During his service in World War II, Barnes was station in many parts of Europe. Some of his locations include: Italy, England and Germany. While being stationed in Italy, Barnes revived the Italian Star Medal—an award given to those who participated in the Italian Campaign during 1943-1945. Along with this medal, Barnes received 4 other medals for his heroic actions on the battlefield.

08/01/2026

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT : Frank Bonia
Frank Bonia (October 25, 1896 – April 18, 1959) was born in North Harbour, Newfoundland. During the Second World War, he served with the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit, travelling overseas on July 26, 1940. He served in Scotland, supporting the Allied war effort, before returning home on March 13, 1942. Frank Bonia passed away on April 18, 1959, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to his country.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: Cyril Downey
Cyril Downey (May 4, 1911 – March 6, 1995) was born in Colinet, Newfoundland. He served as a Woodsman with the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit during the Second World War. From 1939 to 1941, he served in England and Scotland, supporting the Allied war effort through forestry operations. Cyril Downey passed away on March 6, 1995, and is remembered for his service and dedication during the war.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: George J. Furey
George J. Furey (June 29, 1909 – April 14, 1996) was born in St. Joseph’s, Newfoundland, and served as a Leading Seaman in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. While serving aboard the Sunflower, he displayed extraordinary bravery after the convoy leader, the Firedrake, was torpedoed. George repeatedly swam between the two ships, rescuing as many sailors as possible. Of the 220 men aboard the Firedrake, only the 27 men he helped save survived. In recognition of his courage and selfless actions, he was awarded the British honour Mention in Dispatches. He is remembered as a courageous serviceman whose heroism saved many lives.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: James Hawco
James Hawco (May 1916 – 1996) was born in Mount Carmel, Newfoundland, and served with the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit during the Second World War. He served in Scotland from 1940 to 1945, contributing to the Allied war effort through forestry operations. After the war, James remained in Scotland, where he began selling bicycles before expanding his business into the automotive industry. He went on to own two successful car dealerships, one in Elgin and the other in Inverness, leaving a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, and service.

07/20/2026

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: William Bishop

William Bishop was a member of the 59 Heavy Regiment Royal Artillery and was from the Gulch, Newfoundland. He was ranked a Private in World War 2 and his badge number was 971612. William has received four honours and medals and served in England and France. He was born on January 9th, 1919 and sadly passed away on May 4th 1987 at the age of 68. He now lies at Assumption Cemetery in St. Mary’s.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: Patrick Butler

Patrick Butler was a member of the Merchant Marine and was from Path End, Newfoundland. He served in World War 2 and after his time served, moved back to St. Mary’s, Newfoundland. Patrick was born on November 16th, 1918 and sadly passed away on February 12th, 1983 at the age of 65. He now rests at Assumption Cemetery in St. Mary’s.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: Vincent Christopher

Vincent Christopher was a member of the Royal Navy and was from Mall Bay, Newfoundland. He served in World War 2 and his badge number was PJX 181 330. Vincent received seven medals and honours for his time served. He was born on February 23rd, 1919 and sadly passed away in 1992 at the age of 73. Vincent now rests at the Field of Honour in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: Thomas Delurey

Thomas Delurey was a member of the 166th Royal Artillery and was from Riverhead, Newfoundland. He served in World War 2 and his badge number was 971910. Thomas courageously served time in England and Italy. He was born on November 26th, 1914 and sadly passed away in November 1997 at the age of 83. Thomas now lies in the Field of Honour in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

07/12/2026

THIS WEEKS VETERANS SPOTLIGHT
In Memory of John Kennedy (1918–1966)

Today we remember John Kennedy of Trepassey, a proud member of the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit during the Second World War.

Born in 1918, John answered the call to serve by joining the Forestry Unit, where Newfoundlanders played a vital role in supporting the Allied war effort. He served in Scotland, helping provide the timber needed for military operations, construction, and transportation. Though his work was away from the front lines, it was an essential part of the war effort and contributed greatly to the success of the Allied forces.

John passed away in 1966, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and service to his country. His story was shared by his son, Pat Kennedy, during an interview on February 17, 2000, ensuring that his contributions would not be forgotten.

Today, we honour John Kennedy for his commitment, sacrifice, and the important role he played during a time of great need. May we always remember his service and the lasting impact of Newfoundland’s Forestry Unit.

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In Memory of John J. McNeil (August 13, 1901 – December 22, 1951)

Today we honour the life and service of John J. McNeil of Trepassey, a dedicated Seaman in the Merchant Marine.

Born on August 13, 1901, John spent much of his life at sea. He served as the captain and co-owner of the schooner Florence Blanche from 1935 to 1948. During a time when merchant mariners faced dangerous conditions transporting cargo across the Atlantic, men like John played a critical role in keeping supplies moving and supporting the war effort.

John passed away on December 22, 1951, but his dedication to the sea and his community continues to be remembered. His story was preserved through an interview with his daughter, Marie Waddelton, on February 17, 2000.

We remember John J. McNeil for his leadership, courage, and years of service. His commitment as a Merchant Mariner and captain of the Florence Blanche reflects the strength and resilience of Newfoundland’s seafaring tradition. May his memory continue to inspire future generations.

In Memory of Seaman Bernard Pennell (1918–1941)

We proudly remember Bernard Pennell of Trepassey, Newfoundland, who served as a Seaman in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. Born on September 13, 1918, Bernard answered the call to serve his country at a time of great uncertainty and sacrifice.

Serving aboard the Royal Naval Patrol Service drifter H.M. Drifter Uberty, Bernard carried out his duties with courage and dedication. His service earned him several honours, including the Atlantic Star, War Medal, 1939–1945 War Star, and the Silver Memorial Cross, awarded in recognition of his supreme sacrifice.

Bernard was killed in action during World War II and gave his life in the defense of freedom. Though his life was cut short, his bravery and commitment remain an enduring source of pride for his family, his community, and future generations.

Today, we honour Bernard Pennell’s service, sacrifice, and legacy. May we never forget the price paid by those who served.

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In Memory of Seaman Michael Myrick (1917–1999)

We honour the life and service of Michael Myrick of Trepassey, Newfoundland, who served as a Seaman in the Merchant Marine during a time when merchant sailors played a vital role in supporting the war effort and maintaining essential supply lines across dangerous waters.

Born on May 4, 1917, Michael dedicated himself to service at sea, demonstrating resilience, determination, and a strong sense of duty. Merchant mariners faced constant risks while transporting supplies and resources, making their contribution an essential part of the Allied effort.

After a life marked by service and hard work, Michael passed away on September 20, 1999. He is remembered not only for his wartime contribution but also for the example he set through his commitment and perseverance.

As we reflect on Michael Myrick’s life, we recognize the important role played by Merchant Mariners and the sacrifices they made. His memory lives on through his family, community, and all who continue to honour those who served.

07/03/2026

07/03/2026

Its time for our first social media spot from our Veterans Museum summer students Kielly St Croix and Lily Pollett. Keep an eye out over the next 8 weeks for more updates.
If you have a Veteran in your family from Portugal Cove South to North Harbour....let us know and we can check our files...if they are not in our memory book we would love to add them.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: Fred Fitzgerald

Fred Fitzgerald was a member of the Royal Canadian Navy and was from Trepassey, Newfoundland. He was ranked as an able Seaman and his badge number was A5313. Fred received many medals and awards for his time served including a War Medal for 1939 - 1945, a Volunteer Service Medal for 1939 - 1945 and a Defense Medal for 1939 - 1945. He was born on December 18th, 1913 and sadly passed away on July 7th, 1985 at the age of 72.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: George Pennell

George Pennell was a member of the Royal British Navy and was from Trepassey, Newfoundland. He was ranked as an able Seaman and his badge number was D/201742. George received many medals and awards for his time served including 1939-1945 Star, Atlantic Star, Defense Star, Newfoundland Volunteer War Medal and a War Medal. He was born on August 28th, 1905 and sadly passed away on April 3nd, 1995 at the age of 89.

VETERAN SPOTLIGHT

ERIC FITZGERALD

Eric Fitzgerald was from Trepassy Newfoundland, His branch of service was the Newfoundland overseas Forestry unit. His rank was a woodsman. His date of birth is May 14th 1915, he sadly passed away July 27th of 1966.

SYLVESTER SUTTON

Sylvester Sutton was from Trepassy Newfoundland, and his branch of service was the newfoundland overseas forestry unit home guard. His badge number was 1210 2243. his birth year was 1920, and he sadly passed away December 31st 1979.