Remembering WWII Hero's Incredible Story After He Passes at Age 101

Apr 09, 2019 by apost team

World War II will forever be reminded as not only the greatest conflict in human history and the defining moment of the 20th Century, but also as a true fight between good and evil.

During the war, Axis forces invaded neighboring countries, slaughtering millions of innocent men, women, and children in their wake. To combat the machinations of the fascist forces, the everyday men and women of the Greatest Generation took up arms, eventually repelling the fierce invaders.

As these brave defenders of liberty enter the twilight of their golden years, the world must necessarily say goodbye, entrusting their souls to eternity. The nation of Canada recently paid their final respects to one brave World War II veteran.

Honorary Colonel David Lloyd Hart passed away on March 27 at the age of 101 years old. A true friend and blessing to everyone who knew him, Colonel Hart also holds the record for longest service in the Canadian military, having served for 81 years.

Lieutenant General Jean-Marc Lanthier, commander of the Canadian Army, was present at Colonel Hart’s funeral, praising him for his dedication, courage, and steadfast service to the people of Canada.

General Lanthier also expressed the nation’s gratitude for the inspiring example Colonel Hart set for the soldiers of the Canadian military and his service in World War II.

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It was during World War II that Colonel Hart distinguished himself for years to come. In 1942, the Allies attempted to take the port of Dieppe in France from the German occupiers.

This assault, known as the Dieppe Raid to historians, was mostly conducted by Canadian forces with the assistance of British commandos, the Royal Naval, and the Royal Air Force.

Originally planned as a covert assault, the German defenders quickly caught sight of the Allied forces, firing from concealed machine gun nests. Colonel Hart would later recall how terrible the assault was, telling of how many of his comrades died right before his eyes.

He said, "It was an absolute catastrophe and I could see and hear the disaster taking place all around me. We were left immobilized near the beach and I thought I was going to be taken prisoner." 

Serving as his unit’s communications operator, Colonel Hart was the only one in touch with headquarters as commanders ordered a retreat. However, several units that had entered a small French town were not aware of the order.

Desperate to help the men, Colonel Hart searched for their signal on his radio, eventually locating the harried men. At a later debriefing, intelligence officers credited Colonel Hart with saving over 100 lives with his actions.

What do you think of Colonel Hart’s service in the Canadian military? Do you know any World War II veterans? Let us know in the comments and pass this along to keep Colonel Hart's memory alive.