PETER PARK

When World War II broke out, my grandfather, Pete Park, was happily married with three young children and resided on St. George St. in Vancouver.  He was employed as a sign painter with Neon Products, but as the entire world became more engulfed in the conflict, he felt a compelling responsibility to serve our country and help with the war effort. 

He enlisted with the Royal Canadian Navy at HMCS Discovery in Vancouver on October 12, 1943 at the age of 29.  After his initial training, he was moved to the east coast where he was assigned to the HMCS Provider as a cook.  The Provider was a supply ship and part of a naval group that patrolled and defended the entire North American east coast from Halifax to Bermuda against enemy attack.  They also provided protection for many of the convoys as they embarked on their long journey across the Atlantic to carry valuable supplies to Europe.

Pete continued his duty beyond VE Day and right up to when the war ended in Japan on August 15, 1945.  He remained on the Provider and supported troops as found their way back home until he eventually returned to HMCS Discovery in November of 1945.  He was discharged on November 24, 1945 and resumed his job at Neon Products until he retired in the 1970’s.

I’m very proud of my grandfather, as it took a lot of courage for him to leave his young family and enter a dangerous situation to serve our country.

Submitted by Grandson, Roy Ellis