During W.W. I, he lied about his age (early seventies) in order to obtain employment in the Esquimalt shipyards.
He is buried in the Royal Oak Burial Park, Section "G", Plot 162, Grave F.
skull fracture - fell off horse
Joined the CEF:
Regimental number: 107228
NAC Reference: RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 2976 - 44
Enumerated in Census of Canada, 1891 in the District of Assiniboia East, Subdivision A3, Page 4. Subdivision A3 included the community of Wapella and surrounding district. When enumerated between May 4 and June 10, 1891 by Francis T. Low (a Wapella hotel operator), there were 457 residents.
The following was imparted to me by Pat Carfra (née Rowell) by email dated November 14, 2003:
My grandma, Lucinda, was nicknamed Jean by her brother when she was in a play where her character was called 'Jean'. He thought she did it so well that he began to call her Jean and it spread until even her husband ended up calling her Jean. Apparently, she never much liked Lucinda.
She had seven children, but I do not know the names or genders for the other six [NCC 2003 12 15].
Awarded the British Empire Medal
FLOOK, Corporal Herbert Vernon (R89018) - British Empire Medal - No.62 Base - Award effective 13 March 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. AFRO identifies unit only as "Overseas"; precise unit stated in No.6 Group Monthly Summary of Activities (March 1945), p.68. Born in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, 1909; mechanic; enlisted in Sudbury, 27 June 1940. Incident occurred 11 September 1944. Died at Yorkton, Saskatchewan, 6 December 1999. Public Records Office Air 2/9029 and Air 2/9230 have recommended citation which (specific date aside) does not differ from the published citation.
One night in September 1944, Corporal Flook, an aero engine mechanic, was on duty in a hangar when a Halifax aircraft crashed into some nearby workshops. The aircraft immediately burst into flames and the heat became intense. Corporal Flook, together with other airmen, ran to the scene of the crash. By now the ammunition in the aircraft was exploding and M.T. vehicles in the vicinity were catching fire. As Corporal Flook approached the burning aircraft a member of the crew came stumbling from the wreckage. His upper clothing was on fire. Corporal Flook tore off the airman's burning clothes, wrapped his own tunic around him and passed him to some other helpers. Them seeing another member of the crew struggling amongst the wreckage, he ran to his assistance. After some difficulty Corporal Flook extricated the airman, tore off his burning garments, and led him away to safety, just before the petrol tanks exploded. In the face of great danger Corporal Flook displayed outstanding courage and set an inspiring example to all.