Jordan Gayner was born 6 April 1919 to Albert and Ethel Gayner in Minden ON. Jordan Gayner had 3 Brothers and 1 sister, with 2 of the brothers serving overseas as well. Jordan Gayner’s father passed away when he was 13, and his mother was a stay-at-home mom for their kids. The highest level of education he attained was completing Gr.4. Prior to enlisting, Jordan Gayner worked as a laborer, farmer, and truck driver at the local brewery in Lindsay ON. His hobbies he had were swimming, fishing, hunting, and playing baseball.

Jordan Gayner enlisted on 12 Feb 1940 in Picton, Ontario, becoming Pte Gayner. When signing up, he originally wanted to serve as a Gunner in the Royal Canadian Artillery and did not have a second preference. Pte Gayner’s reason for enlisting was that he “wanted to see action”.

Weighing in at 150 lbs, and 5’9, Pte Gayner started his military service with the Hastings & Prince Edward Regiment. From Feb to Aug 1940, he was completing his Basic training, and then from 1940 onwards, he was now overseas. In 1942 he was transferred to the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Regiment. In July 1943, Pte Gayner joined the 48th Highlanders. Throughout 1940-1944 Pte Gayner racked up an impressive total of 42.5 Days AWOL, 38 Days Confined to Barracks, 57 Days of Forfeited Pay, and 45 Days in Detention for a 16-day AWOL stretch.

On 12 April 1945 Pte Gayner was Killed in Action during OP CANNONSHOT. He died of a penetrating chest wound sustained from an HE shell fragment during the fighting. Initially Pte Gayner was buried in Wilp at the Crossroads Cemetery. This was the notification that was sent to his mother;

Dear Mrs. Gayner

It was with deep regret that I learned of the death of your son, C5312 Private Jordon Wes1ey Gayner, who gave his life in the service of his Country in the Western European Theatre of War on the 12th day of April, 1945.

From official information we have received, your son died as the result of wounds received in action against the enemy. You may be assured, that any additional information received will be communicated to you without delay.

The Minister of National Defence and the members of the Army Council have asked me to express to you and your fami1y, their sincere sympathy in your bereavement.

We pay tribute to the sacrifice he so bravely made.

Pte Gayner’s awards received during his service are the 1939-45 Star, Italy Star, France-Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, and Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with Clasp.

NOK: Son of Albert Edward Gayner, and of Ethel Elizabeth Gayner, of Toronto, Ontario.