BREAR, DONALD

Donald James Brear was born April 22, 1923 at Maple Island, the son of Ed and Francis (Blackmore) Brear.

Donald enlisted in WW II in 1943 at the age of 19. He was based at Camp Borden, Ontario and also at Newmarket for basic training. He was in the 5th Division, Irish Regiment of Canada, Company C. He was promoted to Corporal and served overseas landing at Aldershot, England in July 1944. He also served at the front at Naples, Italy. His medals were the 1939-45 Voluntary Service Medal; 1939-45 service medal and Maple Leaf Clasp; and the 1939-45 Star. He also received the Italy Star for serving in the Italy Campaign.

At right, Donald Brear

Don was on the Hitler Line and on the Gothic Line. He was wounded at the Poe River Battle. By the time he was able to return to active duty the war was over.