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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
HODGINS, William A. (Bill) - first enlisted in the army during the Second World War, on May 7, 1945, having reached the age of majority and knowing that the war against Japan would still require support. He completed his basic and advanced infantry training in Simcoe, Ontario. He was discharged on V-J Day, saying he would like to transfer to the navy one day. He did so on December 2, 1948. During the Korean War, Bill served aboard HMCS Nootka, which came under fire in May 1952. The Canadian War Museum notes: “While conducting a coastal bombardment on May 30, 1952, near Chongin on the east coast of North Korea, both the Nootka and the American destroyer USS John W. Thomason came under fire. The first shells fired by the radar-controlled enemy guns fell close to the two ships, which were about four kilometers off the coast. These shots caused only superficial damage to the Nootka, as both ships quickly left the area to avoid more serious damage. HMCS Nootka circumnavigated the globe during this deployment.
Bill served for 20 years and 2 days, retiring from the Navy to work at Moosehead Brewery in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His two older brothers served in the army and RCAF during WWII, and he has several nephews currently serving in the army (3), as well as a great-niece serving in the navy. (Source: Army Canada Run Website)
Ships served in:
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