I'm just writing about Wilkie because I went to see him today, and I do not feel that he has a lot of time left with us. Before he goes, I want his story, particularly his life in the R.C.A.F. and as a P.O.W., to be in print. This man deserves to be remembered.
He was a Tail Gunner in #76 Squadron, and I never forgave him for being shot down on my birthday, October 3, 1943. I met him about 1983 when we were preparing for the big Air Force ex-P.O.W. reunion in Calgary, Alberta, which took place in 1985. We have been friends ever since, sometimes argumentative ones.
I would like to hear from anyone who knew Wilkie, and has stories about him or pictures of him. I have already written a poem about him, a take off of High Flight, which I call "Hind Flight".
Hi John I don't have any stories of Wilkie as you know and missed the opportunity to meet him when at the POW luncheon in Calgary. He provided some help to me when writing my dad's memoirs. Please pass on my best wishes when next you see him. It will be a sad day when he passes. One more hero gone to the hereafter. How are you keeping?
I'm getting along quite well for an old Crock, except for the oxygen tank that I am forced to carry now. Now I am trying to decide if I have enough oomph to decorate the Christmas tree this year. What was once a snap, is now a trap!
I will probably visit Wilkie and Dorothy this week, if the snow goes away, and I'll pass on your regards.
John ps, why call us Heroes; we were just a bunch of Slap Happy kids, who didn't know enough to stay out of trouble. And, the pay was better.
Hi John my dad flew with Wilkie Wanless on the 3rd of October 1943 on that fateful bombing mission over Kassel. He had volunteered to replace the rear gunner of Halifax DK201. He is mentioned in the short biography i wrote about my dad, Joseph Philippe Suzor who was the navigator on board. You could google Joseph Philippe Suzor and read on line or i could forward you a copy.
If you wish to contact me my e mail address: suztek@hotmail.com
