Harry was just one of hundreds of
Canadian boys who, just as their adult lives were beginning,
faced the reality of war. His story speaks for the lives of
many whose stories were never fully known, or have since been
forgotten.
The pages of this website tell
Harry’s
Story, contained in letters from him or about
him, in photos, maps and other material - they document his
wartime experiences. By looking at, and reading these items,
you will share some of his experience, and sense what it was
to play the ultimate roles in war – the boy becoming a
soldier, and the family and friends called to bear his loss.
A somewhat unique aspect of
Harry’s wartime account, is that he was the son of the Honourable
Ernest G. Hansell, M.P. Throughout the war years, he
served in the Canadian Parliament, helping to bear the burden
of decisions made concerning the war effort, which ultimately
cost him his son.
Harry's short years have been grouped
into chapters, where in each you will find some context for
the documents you view. These pages attempt to follow his
life in chronological order, but a few items have been used
out of sequence, to provide insight into his character and
motives. Wherever possible, you will view the original
documents, but some hand-written items are not easily read,
and have been converted to typed text.
Not having Harry to interview, means
some information is sketchy, and assumptions have been made
about some things. Nor does this material reflect the
extensive military knowledge that some possess, but input and
perspective is welcomed via our guest book from all who read, Harry’s
Story.
