Memorial Sergeant Dallas Gerald Firlotte

Sergeant Dallas Gerald Firlotte – 103rd Battery, 6th Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

Dallas Gerald Firlotte was born on September 20, 1923, in Canada and died on October 26, 2000. During the Second World War, he served as a sergeant in the 103rd Battery of the 6th Anti-Tank Regiment of the Royal Canadian Artillery.
This unit was part of the 1st Canadian Corps and was active in the Allied advance through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. The 103rd Battery operated heavy anti-tank guns, intended to destroy German armored vehicles and defend strategic positions.

After fighting in France and Groesbeek, Sergeant Firlotte stayed in Hernen, where, according to the plaque, he stayed for two extended periods:
• December 1944 – January 1945
• February – March 1945

During these stays, his battery remained in the village for approximately five weeks at a time, presumably to recuperate, maintain equipment, and provide support to troops in the Meuse River area and the front line around Groesbeek. During this time, Canadian units were actively guarding the liberated areas and preparing the crossing into Germany.
The residents of Hernen offered shelter and hospitality to the Canadian soldiers. Many of them stayed with villagers, and warm relationships developed between the liberators and the local population.
After Germany's surrender, Sergeant Firlotte made himself available to the Allied occupation forces in Germany to help restore order and security in the occupied territories. He returned to Canada in February 1946.

In August 2002, his son Gary Firlotte had a memorial plaque placed in Hernen, as a tribute to his father and to all Canadian soldiers who stayed there in 1944–1945 and were warmly received by the residents.

Do you have more information about this location? Inform us!

Source

• Text: RJArmy.nl
• Photos: RJArmy.nl