Collateral damage 1944

August 1944 dawned bright and sunny on the Falaise Gap Caen, France. American and British troops had been engaged in clearing the Gap to free up a further route to Paris. They were unsuccessful.

They were pulled out and sent to aid American General Patton's tank advance to Paris. Canadian and Polish troops were sent in to the Gap. The second division Royal Canadian Artillery provided the punch. Successful they were! They advanced, pushing the enemy 60-100 miles up the Gap. Due to communication lack on the continent all bomber flight directions were made in England.

August 14, bombers flew to the Gap to bomb the enemy. The ground now was Canadian and Polish. Bombs away, but not on the enemy but Canadian and Polish troops. The Royal Canadian Artillery received the brunt. It was chaos. Many died. Medical Orderly Gnr. Walter Culhane Bittle, attempting to retrieve a Hamilton buddy, left a cover and was hit with his buddy. They are buried in the Caen Cemetery.

Walter was 29 years old, leaving his wife Kay, Beverly a daughter whom he'd seen and Barry a son who was born when in England. He graduated from the Central Technical Art Program and then joined the Canadian Kodak remaining to his enlistment. He won the Eastman Kodak gold medal for his pictures which were on world tour. At the outset of war they were frozen in Australia. They were returned to his wife after the war. A sad reminder.

Walter was mentioned in dispatches for his efforts and sacrifice. Collateral damage - a part of war. Walter and his buddy are recorded on the memorial at Caen, Juno and Ottawa. They are always present in our hearts.

A "thank you" from the heart and prayer to all who are with Walt. May they rest in Peace. Amen.

Lloyd Bittle

Bolton