Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Major

Unit:

17th Canadian Field Regiment RCA, 5th Canadian (Armoured) Division, Canadian Army

Awarded on:

January 1st, 1945

"This officer was appointed to the Canadian Army (Active) on 10 July 1940 and proceeded overseas on 9 November 1941. While serving with the 17 Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, he was severely injured, being permanently disfigured and partially blinded. In spite of these handicaps Major Wood remained overseas and as a result of his outstanding efforts is now a Chief Instructor, the Royal Canadian Artillery. The keenness and efficiency of this officer have been a factor in raising the standard of artillery reinforcements.

NOTE: On 26 September 1943 Colonel W.A. Townsley, Commanding Officer, 1 Canadian Artillery Reinforcement Unit, recommended Acting Major Wood for the Canada Medal (an award subsequently issued to nobody). The text adds to our knowledge of his career.

This officer was born in Kincaid, Saskatchewan in 1915. After receiving a standard education he qualified as a school teacher 1st Class and was so employed until enlistment in July 1940. Proceeding overseas in the rank of Captain, November 1941, he followed through various courses and training in the 17 Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, earning for himself a record of industry and efficiency. In May 1942 Major Wood, while on training, met with a serious accident resulting in head injuries, partial loss of sight and disfigurement. In hospital he underwent consequent severe operations and on returning to duty became a member of the Instructional Staff of 1 Canadian Artillery Reinforcement Unit, where after command of a Training Battery he was made Chief Instructor in the rank of Major. Although permanently injured and disfigured, this officer has never relaxed in his training or duty. His drive and initiative have placed him in his present responsible post in spite of what he has undergone."