Lance Sergeant Herbert Charles "Bert" Saunders served in the 8th Field Squadron, 4th Canadian Armed Division. The book is a colourful and humble account of an ordinary young man "doing his bit" when drawn into the Second World War.
Bert Saunders enlisted in Victoria in 1940 and trained with the Royal Canadian Engineers in Canada and England before seeing action in France, Belgium, and Holland. These years were full of dramatic and formative experiences and are vividly remembered 60 years later.
This book was written by Bert in a notebook given for his grandson Daniel. It was transcribed by daughter-in-law Laurel, edited by son Bruce, Daniel and Laurel. It was arranged for publication by grandson Paul for Christmas 2005, The Year Of The Veteran. It is the day-to-day story of a young soldier's experience going to war and coming home again. It answers the old question, "What did you do in the war?" for family, friends and comrades. Bert indeed "did his bit" but continued to give to his community when he got home.
Bert died a year later at the age of 90 years and his Last Post is recorded on this site. Bruce Saunders, his son, has given the CMEA permission to post Bert's book on our site. This is a privilege for which we are grateful.