Mr. Paul Loranger

Mr. Loranger was born in Seseninika, Ontario in 1927. His family later moved to Englehart, Ontario, where his father was employed with the Canadian National Railway, and they were able to ride out the depression in relative comfort. Mr. Loranger joined the army at age 16, became disillusioned when denied entry into the paratroopers, quit, and then re-enlisted. Once in England, however, he joined the Calgary Highlanders, and was quickly sent to France. There, he was involved in driving out remnants of the German Army. He was recalled to England when his age was discovered, and eventually sent home to Canada. He worked for the CNR until his retirement.

War, Conflict or Mission: Second World War
Location/Theatre: France
Campaign: Normandy
Branch: Army
Units/Ship: Calgary Highlanders, 5th Brigade
Military Rank: Private
Occupation: Infantry

Mr. Loranger discusses how difficult it was to advance in the French countryside

Mr. Loranger talks about a dangerous way to relax; shooting at enemy fighters

Mr. Loranger questions the tactics they were compelled to use against tanks and artillery

Mr. Loranger recalls a close call he had with a piece of shrapnel

Mr. Loranger discusses the clearing of Dieppe and a clever German artillery installation

Mr. Loranger describes his devious path to enlistment as an underage recruit

Mr. Loranger talks about an encounter with a Hitler Youth, POW

Mr. Loranger describes the results of misidentifying a target area