Brother of Wilfred and four brothers predeceased, names unknown.  The husband of Hazel (nee Evans), step-father to Joan (Coke), Dorothy (Dagg) and Lorne Evans.

Served in United Kingdom and Continental Europe.

SQUIRES, Spr. Frederick Roy A20750, RCE – Military Medal.

The Citation:

“After crossing the Kusten Canal 10 Canadian Infantry Brigade continued it’s advance northward. Near Osterscheps, on the night of April 23, 1945 a Bailey bridge had to be built over the strongly defended 70 – foot gap at the spot, in order to get supporting weapons up to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada, who had assaulted across the obstacle at 17:00 No. Troop, 9 Royal Canadian Field Squadron, Royal Canadian Engineers given this task, knew that if the task was not completed by dawn observed fire of more deadly accuracy that that already falling would pinpoint the site. Owing to the late start, the job was a race against time and enemy fire. Spr. Squires was detailed to work on the far bank of the gap. He crossed nonchalantly on the debris partially blocking the stream. As he worked on he shouted a running fire of jokes and jibes to the main bridge construction party on the opposite bank urging them not to keep him and the party with him waiting there all night. Several times he crossed and re-crossed the open gap under intense mortar fire, carrying timbers for the task. Finally he returned to the near bank immediately joined in the launching of the bridge. He inspired the whole troop, tired as it was by the pace of the advance for 36 hours, to push the job through to completion in spite of near misses from heavy mortars. As a result the bridge was completed shortly before first light April 24, 1945. Through the magnificent courage and unfailing spirit of this sapper, a difficult bridging task was completed during darkness and much needed support weapons moved up to the infantry ahead.

Discharged February 6, 1946

Fred passed away at the age of 75 years. OGS-Obit. [date unknown]

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Awards	Canadian Voluntary Service Medal with Clasp, 1939-45 Star, Defense of Britain Medal
Sources	Dresden I.O.D.E. Books, IODE-CM(P), CDN 20/09/45, 2/10/45.

Age	29
Birthplace	born February 18, 1913
When Enlisted	January 21, 1942
Next of Kin	Parents - Mr. and Mrs. John Squires

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