September 27 – October 1, 1944: Letters to Home
On September 27, 1944, the aircrew members' next-of-kin, three wives and three fathers, received short telegrams that the crew was missing after an air operation. The telegrams ended with: “Letter follows.” The telegrams were signed “RCAF Casualties Officer.” “Casualties,” as used by the military includes dead, injured, or missing.
On October 1, The same day that the Canadians crossed Bjørnafjord, their next-of-kin received the promised letter. Firestone's full first names are Elliott Harvey. The letter was sent to his father, and read as follows:
October 1, 1944
Mr. Max Firestone
6105 Durocher Avenue
Outremont, Quebec
Dear Mr. Firestone:
It is with the deepest regret that I write to confirm the cablegram informing you that your son, Warrant Officer Firestone, has been reported missing on Active Service. I would like to convey to you the feeling of my entire squadron.
In the early hours on 26th September, 1944, Elliott, along with the rest of his crew took off on an operational patrol. Unfortunately, the aircraft never returned and we have since heard nothing from it or any member of the crew.
We lost one of our best crews when this aircraft failed to return and your son was one of its most popular members. His abilities were recognized, not only by the other members of his crew, but also by the rest of the Squadron. His loss is deeply felt by every member of this Squadron.
Your son's effects have been gathered together and forwarded to the Royal Air Force Central Depository, where they will be held until better news is received, or in any event for a period of at least six months before being forwarded to you through the Administrator of Estates, Ottawa.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and if there is anything I can do to help you at the time, do not hesitate to write.
Yours sincerely,
R.A. Ashman
Wing Commander
Officer Commanding 407 Sqdn. RCAF.
On September 27, 1944, the aircrew members' next-of-kin, three wives and three fathers, received short telegrams that the crew was missing after an air operation. The telegrams ended with: “Letter follows.” The telegrams were signed “RCAF Casualties Officer.” “Casualties,” as used by the military includes dead, injured, or missing.
On October 1, The same day that the Canadians crossed Bjørnafjord, their next-of-kin received the promised letter. Firestone's full first names are Elliott Harvey. The letter was sent to his father, and read as follows:
October 1, 1944
Mr. Max Firestone
6105 Durocher Avenue
Outremont, Quebec
Dear Mr. Firestone:
It is with the deepest regret that I write to confirm the cablegram informing you that your son, Warrant Officer Firestone, has been reported missing on Active Service. I would like to convey to you the feeling of my entire squadron.
In the early hours on 26th September, 1944, Elliott, along with the rest of his crew took off on an operational patrol. Unfortunately, the aircraft never returned and we have since heard nothing from it or any member of the crew.
We lost one of our best crews when this aircraft failed to return and your son was one of its most popular members. His abilities were recognized, not only by the other members of his crew, but also by the rest of the Squadron. His loss is deeply felt by every member of this Squadron.
Your son's effects have been gathered together and forwarded to the Royal Air Force Central Depository, where they will be held until better news is received, or in any event for a period of at least six months before being forwarded to you through the Administrator of Estates, Ottawa.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and if there is anything I can do to help you at the time, do not hesitate to write.
Yours sincerely,
R.A. Ashman
Wing Commander
Officer Commanding 407 Sqdn. RCAF.