During the history of North Battleford, many citizens have made wonderful contributions to the city - in business, education, and spiritual life. They have helped the sick, the aged, the unfortunate and underprivileged. Notwithstanding, North Battleford citizens in a category set apart, have fought in Canada's wars and been willing to lay down their lives in defence of their country and community. They distinguished themselves by their courage and heroism. One of these men was Allan Louis Minette.
Allan Minette was born in North Battleford on July 7, 1925 to Ed and Betty Minette. The Minette family lived on the grounds of the Provincial Hospital where Allan's father worked. Allan attended Grades 1 through 8 at the school on the hospital grounds. He completed his public school education at the Battleford Collegiate Institute.
During his boyhood and youth, Allan enjoyed participating in sports, and helping on the farm during the summer and fall. Not yet fully grown, Allan joined the Reserve Battalion of the Battleford Light Infantry. Summer exercises were conducted at the Dundurn Army Camp south of Saskatoon.
Allan's military career began in earnest when he entered the Active Service Force in 1942, serving in both Canada and England during the Second World War. He helped with the building of the Alaska Highway. He also volunteered to serve in the Pacific Campaign.
In 1945, Allan decided to make the army his lifetime vocation. He was posted to the Lord Strathacona's Horse (Royal Canadians) Regiment in 1946. He wore the regiment's red and green flashes for the rest of his military career. He served with this regiment for 31 years (in addition to three years during the Second World War).
Days after, Allan and Evlyn (nee Stahl) were married, Nov. 1, 1951, Allan was ordered to report to Churchill, Man. for winter exercises, where they spent two weeks testing the tanks.
Allan and Evelyn were immensely proud of their two children, Debbie and Marc and of their two grandchildren Allan and Jennifer.
In 1953-54, Allan, now a sergeant, served in the Korean war with the 25th Canadian Infantry Brigade in a tank unit. He commonly went into battle manning a 50 calibre machine gun from his tank turret. Near the end of the war, Allan and his comrades of A Squadron LdSH(RC) read the great news that the Korean truce was signed and the ceasefire would be effective at 10 a.m., July 27, 1953. Minutes later, the Strath's had to dive for the cover of their Sherman tanks as the Chinese poured more than 100 shells into Canadian positions. Allan did not waver in the face of great danger. Twice he risked his life to put out fires near live ammunition. Allan also demonstrated his coolness and courage when he helped move a blazing tank from an area crowded with several hundred troops.
His courage in the face of great danger did not go unrecognized. Pictures taken later show Allan receiving the Canadian Forces Decoration from Lt. Col. G.R. Hale, commanding officer of the Lord Strathcona's Horse (RC) on a parade in Camp Sarcee. He had won the Queen's Commendation for Bravery while serving with the Strathcona's in Korea in 1953.
He subsequently served a four-year tour of duty with his regiment in Germany. Fortunately, Evelyn, Debbie, and Marc were able to accompany him and they could enjoy spending time together as a family.
He was appointed to the position of Regimental Sergeant Major of the dSH (RC) prior to leaving for a tour in Cyprus. He said he had never been so proud as the first time he saw the raising of the new Canadian flag.
Allan served as RSM from 1972 to 1976, his country and community as a member of the armed forces for 34 years, winning the respect and friendship of both seniors and juniors in his regiment. As RSM, Allan won the unswerving loyalty of his subordinates, a reflection of his sterling character and leadership qualities. Allan had an ability to get to the heart of a problem which instilled in his men the confidence that he would get the job done. On 1976, he completed his duties as SRM and retired. On completion of the parade, during a dinner in his honour, the junior ranks presented Allan with a gift.
Allan was proud to follow in his father's footsteps when he joined the Masonic Order. He was Past Master of Bowmont Lodge.
Following his retirement he remained active in the Alberta branch of the regimental association, serving as association president on two different occasions. He also organized and piloted a successful regimental union.
Allan's remarkable life was spent in service to his country, community and family. Sadly Allan passed away on Sept. 12, 1990 at the age of 65. He was buried with full military honours in the Field of Honour, Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Calgary, Alta. On the occasion of our city's centennial, we pause to remember a selfless and courageous citizen - RSM Allan Louis Minette.
