The number of airmen killed in the early days of the war was exceptionally high, indeed an airman who survived training had a reasonable prospect of surviving the war. For example five Saskatchewan fliers were among the graduates at No 7 B&GS in the fall of 1941.

“Paulson, Manitoba, September 2, 1941 – (CP) –

“Wing Commander A. H Wilson, officer commanding No. 10 Service Flying Training School at Dauphin, Manitoba, officiated in a graduation ceremony at No. 7 Bombing and Gunnery School here Saturday at which a number of air gunners and observers received badges.

“Air Observer graduates included the following sergeant observers:

“Saskatchewan: J. L. Gaucher, Coderre; F. C. Lansdall, Saskatoon; and J. Slugoski, Yorkton

“Air Gunner graduates included the following sergeant gunners:

“Saskatchewan: A. R. Jensen, Weyburn, and N. A. Leckie, Sheho.”

Norman Leckie of Sheho was KIA 19420406, Joseph Gaucher of Coderre was KIA 19421223, and Joseph Slugoski of Yorkton was KIA 19430204. Note – of the 5 graduates, 3 were killed in action in less than a year and a half, an astonishing 60%.

Richard Dowson

Moose Jaw