Author: Pte Macpherson

Corporal George Reginald Armstrong was born on July 4, 1914, in Newcastle-on-Tyne, England, to John and Mary A. Armstrong. Before the war, he worked as a laborer, a quiet life that stood in sharp contrast to the global conflict he would come to join.

Seeking to serve, he enlisted with the 3rd Battalion of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada on June 2, 1942. On April 6, 1944, after recovering from a hospitalization, he was transferred to the 48th Highlanders of Canada, where he would remain for the rest of his service.

In March 1945, as part of the 1st Canadian Infantry Division, the 48th was redeployed from Italy to Northwest Europe to participate in the final liberation of the Netherlands from German occupation. On April 12, 1945, Operation CANNONSHOT commenced with the mission objective to cross the IJssel River near Wilp, conducted under enemy fire and amidst heavy artillery. The 48th Highlanders advanced steadily, pushing toward the town of Apeldoorn. This operation was vital in breaking German resistance and bringing freedom to thousands of Dutch citizens.

Although the specific details of Corporal Armstrong’s actions in the operation remain undocumented, his role as a corporal meant leading men under fire, ensuring communication and coordination, and supporting morale in the thick of combat. His actions, courage, and leadership contributed to the success of the operation.

Tragically, Corporal Armstrong was killed in action on April 15, 1945, just two days before the liberation of Apeldoorn. His death was recorded as a result of a shell wound (high explosive) to the right arm.

Today, Corporal Armstrong rests in peace at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery. His grave is a solemn marker not just of his sacrifice, but of the many freedoms reclaimed through the courage of soldiers like him.

His memory endures in the gratitude of those he helped liberate, and in the history of a nation that remembers its fallen.

NOK: Son of John and Mary A. Armstrong, of Newcastle-on-Tyne, England.