Sapper Thomas Maksymchuk

Thomas Maksymchuk was born in Ukraine on January 15, 1917. He immigrated to Canada in June, 1930 with his parents, Andrew and Anna Maksymchuk, who had changed the date of his birth on his documents (October 6, 1918) in order to have him travel at half fare.

In 1942 he voluntarily enlisted for WWII service, leaving behind his pregnant wife, Amelia, and one-year-old daughter, Lucy, on their small farm in Grindrod, BC.

As a Sapper with the Royal Canadian Engineers, 20th Canadian Field Coy, Thomas served in his adopted country, Britian and Continental Europe. His construction skills were put to good use building bridges and other structures to keep men and equpment moving across Europe.

One day Thomas was ordered to appear before his Commanding Officer who had become aware that he was not a Canadian citizen as incorrectly indicated on his enlistment papers. He was confined to base and given the option of being discharged from active duty and sent home or becoming a Canadian and fighting on. Thomas chose the latter and within a short period of time became a Canadian British Subject. Much sooner and with less hassle than if he was a non-military immigrant!

Thomas medals include the 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp; and War Medal 1939-45.

Following his honourable discharge, Thomas worked in the building construction trade, retiring to enjoy fishing in the Okanagan Valley. He died in 1998 at the age of 81.

In 2002, Thomas was posthumously awarded the Commemorative Medal for his involvement in the 1945 Liberation of Holland, accepted by his widow, Amelia.