• Normandy Massacres

Date of birth:

February 12th, 1903 (Bayham/Ontario, Canada)

Date of death:

June 11th, 1944 (France)

Buried on:

Commonwealth War Cemetery Ryes
Plot: II. Row: D. Grave: 5.

Nationality:

Canadian

Captain Harry Lee Smuck was born in Bayham, Ontario, Canada, and later resided in Toronto. Before the outbreak of the Second World War, he worked as a constable and was affiliated with the Toronto Police Department. He was married to Hettie Charlotte Smuck, and together they had two children: William Henry and a daughter whose name appears in family records.

Smuck enlisted in the Canadian Active Service Force on November 11, 1939, at the age of 24. His attestation papers describe him as physically fit, with blue eyes, brown hair, and a fair complexion. He stood 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighed 190 pounds. He was a member of the United Church and had completed two years of high school, earning a Junior Matriculation. His military training included qualifications as a Physical Training Instructor and various tactical courses.

During his service, Smuck rose through the ranks, eventually attaining the rank of Captain in the 6th Canadian Armoured Regiment. His postings included training and command roles across Ontario and later overseas. He was described in officer evaluations as hardworking, reliable, and steady—though not yet suited for squadron leadership, he was considered average for his rank and respected for his diligence.

Captain Smuck landed at Juno Beach on June 6, 1944. Tragically, he was reported missing in action and later confirmed killed in France on June 11, 1944. His remains were interred at Les Sauflets Cemetery.

Following his death, his widow Hettie received a Memorial Cross in recognition of his sacrifice. His service estate was processed by the Department of National Defence.

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• Photo 1: Canadian Virtual War Memorial
• - Service record(s)

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