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He was William (Bill) Pasfield from Booth Siding, Saskatchewan, found between Raymore and Semans.
As a legion member and local farm kid, I knew some of his relatives and his service as a World War II veteran. Hopefully, the following story will inspire and remind local people to reamember and honour the thousands of local men and women who served during war conflicts. Their service provided continued freedom and pride to all Canadians.
William (Bill) Pasfield was born and raised on the family farm located at S.E. 16-28-19, about 5 miles southwest of Raymore. He was the oldest son of William John and Lily Pasfield. He joined the army early in the war conflict and became a Private in the 4th Princess Louise Dragoon Guards, R.C.A.C. His service number was K/85398. The following are the citation notes of his service record.
On May 23, 1944, a Canadian division attacked and broke through the Adolf Hitler Line. No. 4 Canadian Reconnaissance Regiment pushed forward beyond Pontecorvo, Italy, to maintain contact with the enemy. On the morning of May 24, 1944, a reconnaissance patrol was feeling out the enemy’s position north of the town. Trooper William Pasfield was the gunner in one of the light-armoured cars. This vehicle was travelling second in patrol when it struck a box mine. At the same time, enemy machine guns opened fire on the marooned vehicle, making it evident that a strong German force protected the minefield.
Although badly shaken up and suffering from a head wound, this trooper managed to get the other more seriously wounded crew members out of the armoured car and under cover. After ensuring that they were attended to, Trooper Pasfield returned to the remains of his car. There he manned the machine gun in the turret and supplied covering fire for the first vehicle. Under his accurate fire, casualties were inflicted on the enemy. The leading vehicle was then able, under cover of smoke, to back out of the minefield.
This trooper showed unflinching courage under fire. His actions above the line of duty inflicted casualties upon the enemy and prevented their attempts at outflanking and destroying the then helpless leading armoured car. For his actions that day, Trooper William (Bill) Pasfield won the Military Medal.
Trooper William Pasfield was later killed on September 1, 1944, in Italy during World War II after winning the Military Medal. He was 30 years of age. He is buried in the Montecchio War cemetery. A lake in Northern Saskatchewan was named Pasfield in memory and honour of Bill Pasfield.
Submitted by Lloyd Saul, Legion Branch # 108
