This 11 year old film was part of the beginning of my journey as a filmmaker. I had cameras and I wanted to capture important stories. John was my favourite. He referred to me as "my friend Jef" which was an incredible honour.
Today is the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and I'm remembering John who passed away five years ago at the age of 96.
John shared stories of his time as a Canadian Rear Gunner in the RAF during WWII. John and his crew flew 58 operations in two complete services near the latter part of WWII. His job was one of the most dangerous positions in a bomber. The rear gunner of a Lancaster bomber had an 8% chance of coming home in one piece, and he decided to double his odds by doing a second complete service! (he could have just gone home)
John was an amazing man with an incredible memory. He had a beautiful outlook on life and just hanging out with him lifted your spirits.
I'm so thankful for these men and women who risked/ gave their lives so many years ago so that we could live the lives we do now. If you know of any Canadian veterans that need their story filmed, please let me know in the comments below.
Music by myself.