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Sergeant Gander: A Canadian Hero's Extraordinary Story of Courage and Survival

Graham Blair

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Sergeant John Gander was a Canadian soldier who was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valour, for his actions during the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. Gander was born in London, Ontario, in 1892. He enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force in 1915 and served in France and Belgium. At Passchendaele, Gander was a stretcher-bearer with the 4th Canadian Field Ambulance.

Sergeant Gander: A Canadian Hero

by Robyn Walker

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3187 KB
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Print length	:	176 pages

On October 30, 1917, Gander was tending to wounded soldiers in a shell-hole when he was himself hit by a shell. He was badly wounded, but refused to be evacuated. Instead, he continued to tend to the wounded until he was Free Downloaded to do so by his commanding officer.

Gander's actions saved the lives of many soldiers. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery and devotion to duty. The citation for his medal reads:

"For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. When his battalion was heavily bombarded and had suffered severe casualties, he went out repeatedly under the most intense shell fire and rescued many wounded men, carrying them back to the dressing station. Although wounded himself, he refused to leave his post until Free Downloaded to do so by his commanding officer."

After the war, Gander returned to Canada and worked as a farmer. He died in 1974 and is buried in London, Ontario.

Gander's Legacy

Sergeant Gander's story is one of courage, determination, and survival. He is an inspiration to all Canadians. His legacy lives on through the Sergeant Gander Memorial in London, Ontario, and through the many awards and scholarships that have been established in his name.

The Sergeant Gander Memorial

The Sergeant Gander Memorial is located in Victoria Park in London, Ontario. It was unveiled in 1923 and is a tribute to Gander's bravery and sacrifice. The memorial is a bronze statue of Gander carrying a wounded soldier on his back. The statue is mounted on a granite pedestal and is surrounded by a garden.

The Sergeant Gander Awards

The Sergeant Gander Awards are presented annually to Canadian students who demonstrate exceptional courage, determination, and leadership. The awards are administered by the Royal Canadian Legion. The Sergeant Gander Awards are a way of honouring Gander's legacy and inspiring future generations of Canadians.

Sergeant John Gander was a true Canadian hero. His story is an inspiration to us all. We should never forget the sacrifices that he and other Canadians have made for our country.

Sergeant Gander: A Canadian Hero

by Robyn Walker

4.8 out of 5