Basic training, Portage la Prairie, Man.

Jim Laycock of Calgary shares a photo of his father (right) and friend Richard Stark taken while the two were in basic training at McDonald Field in 1942.

“My dad and Richard both hailed from Rorketon, Man…note the paddies they are wearing to protect their legs, explains Laycock. “My dad and his friend were shipped overseas in 1943. Happily, they both came back safely. Our grandchildren love this picture and it is brought out every Remembrance Day—it has even gone to school for show and tell.”

We thank Jim for his contribution to Find-Share-Discuss, and invite readers to share similar memories of wartime or peacetime service.