HEROES TO BE REMEMBERED
by Patrick J Bethel
During the 20th Century the world experienced two world wars - World War
I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945). It has now been nearly 60 years
since young Abaco boys volunteered and risked their lives in order to keep
the free world from being dominated by oppressive forces.
The second Sunday in November each year is commemorated as Remembrance
Day when we pay respects to those who served in both wars, especially those
who gave their lives that we might be free.
The following are persons with Abaco roots who have been identified as
having served in World War II:
1) Harrington Albury of Hope Town who served in the submarine branch of
the Royal Navy. He is now retired and living in Nassau.
2) Jerome Bethel of Cherokee Sound, Bahamas Defence Force, now residing
in the Williams' Old Folks Home, Dundas Town, once an attorney.
3) Colyn Rees of the RAF Transport Command. Although born in Bermuda, Colyn
has long been considered an Abaconian. He is retired from careers in aviation,
photography and real estate and lives in Marsh Harbour.
4) Jack Roberts of Green Turtle Cay served in the Royal Canadian Air Force
and is now deceased.
5) Allan Russell of Hope Town served in the Royal Navy and is now deceased.
6) Mertland Russell of Hope Town served in the Royal Navy and is now deceased.
7) Lucien Stratton of Marsh Harbour served in the US Navy. He is now retired
and living in Marsh Harbour.
8) Thomas Sweeting of Man O' War Cay served in the Royal Navy. He is now
retired and spends his time between Canada and Man O' War Cay.
Then there were the four Fighting Thompsons from Hope Town:
9) Chester Thompson served in the Royal Navy. He is now semi-retired and
lives between Nassau and Hope Town. He has recently written a touching
account of his boyhood days which will soon be published.
10) Hartis Thompson served in the Royal Air Force and is now deceased.
11) Maurice Thompson served in the Royal Navy and is now deceased.
12) Last, but certainly not least, Leonard Thompson who served in the Royal
Canadian Air Force as a bomber pilot. He is now retired and lives in Marsh
Harbour. His autobiography 'I Wanted Wings' is available in local book
stores.