MICHAEL WANNICK

​
​Regimental # A450986
No. 12 Platoon “C” Coy
No. 12 V.P.A.M. Training Centre, Chatham, Ontario
HIS # R126811
In later 1945, finished J87562
A.C.2 Wannick M.
#1 Manning Depot, Toronto, Ontario
DOB 12/10/1918
Date of Enlistment 10/9/1941

From the scrapbook of Michael Wannick

Mike was born in Toronto on October 12, 1918.  Growing up in Toronto’s Sunnyside, he spent much of his summer at the waterfront swimming and fishing in Lake Ontario.  Mike went through High School during the Depression pumping gas and working on farms in St. Mary’s to help support his Mother and sister.  The family moved to Windsor to live with the Mother’s family where he finished High School at W.D. Lowe.  Shortly after graduating, he joined the R.C.A.F. and went out for training in Manitoba, Chatham and British Columbia.

Mike was stationed in the north of England with the 407 (Demon) Squadron as Flight Officer on a Wellington Bomber and flew U-Boat missions over the North Sea.  On leave he travelled through England and went dancing, to concerts and the beach at Blackpool.  In June 1945 he completed his tour of duty and was awarded the Operational Wings of the Royal Canadian Air Force for gallant service.

Mike liked to reminisce about his days in the R.C.A.F., his childhood, his Legion buddies and stories about his mail route for Canada Post even though he carried a pocket-full of dog treats!

Submitted by Wayne Wannick

Michael Wannick - Second row - standing, last one on the right

October 14, 1943 - Michael - back row standing up on left. Just before an operational trip. Note the Mae Wests.

reverse side of picture on left

RCAF Manning Depot, Toronto, Ontario

RCAF Manning Depot, Toronto, Ontario

From the scrapbook of Michael Wannick - An Airman's Prayer - outside cover

From the scrapbook of Michael Wannick - An Airman's Prayer - inside