GEORGE FRANCIS JOHNSON

This year being the centenary of the closing of WWI, all thoughts are focused  on that awful war.  It is absolutely right that we should remember it in a special way but let's not forget those who fought bravely in wars and conflicts that followed the "war to end all wars".

A scant 21 years passed before the world was in turmoil again.  One of our St Patrick's graduates, Mary Johnson Godsland, has sent us a photo of her handsome father and his very touching story. 

George Francis Johnson, 1917-1948

"George Francis Johnson

                                                             1917-1948

George was the son of George Johnson Sr. and Mary (Kieley) Johnson who lived on Patrick's St. in St. John's, NL.  George married Esther (Hefferan) Johnson and there were 4 children, James Robert, John Francis, Mary Georgina (Mary Godsland) and Kathleen Marie (Kay Parsons). They resided on Water St. W. in St. John's.

                   

Volunteer for WWII

 

In 1939 a Second World War had begun. Britain and France declared war on Germany after Hitler refused to abort his invasion of Poland.

The cry for volunteers echoed across our Island home. My Dad, like so many more, enlisted. The torch was passed and they would, "Take up the quarrel with the foe." They were driven by a desire to fight for freedom in spite of the dangers and the casualties of the last War. Indeed, it was a dangerous adventure. But they were willing to make that sacrifice for freedom.

The recruits paraded proudly but apprehensively along the streets when they left. Loved ones called kind words, prayed and watched anxiously as they marched away to the beat of the C.L.B. drums.

Unfortunately there was some medical condition with my Dad in the early days of the War. He had to return home. He was broken-hearted with the decision but knew it was the right one. We never got to ask him about the War because he passed away when we were very young.

It was after his return that he married our devoted Mom. He worked with the C.N. Railway.  But his illness worsened over time. Eventually he was hospitalized. In 1948 he passed away at the Merchant Navy Hospital.

He will always be my hero. I have a War hat, pictures, a treasured book and stories from loved ones. This picture hung in our kitchen all during my childhood. Every July we visited his grave site at Mount Carmel Cemetery with our Mom. We still do that but now it's for two."

The plaque 

WWII GUN

Mary, thank you for this very personal story.  It is sad but you wrote it beautifully and we are so grateful to you for sharing it with us.  May your dear parents rest in peace.