Duncan Cenotaph

As part of our project to document the names on the Cenotaph in Charles Hoey Park, here is a page about Pilot Officer Francis Lawrence Rey, who died in action on 25 June 1944, aged 19, while serving as an Air Gunner with 9th (R.A.F.) Squadron, R.C.A.F.

Francis Lawrence Rey is buried in Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France

Here is the report of Francis Lawrence Rey’s death in the local Cowichan Leader newspaper:

“P.O. F.L. Rey

Word was received by Mr. and Mrs. A.X. Rey [note: Alexis Xavier Rey and Elizabeth Mary Rey], Duncan, from Air Vice-Marshal J.A. Sully, acting-chief of the Air Staff, Ottawa, that their son, PO Francis Lawrence Rey,  is now for official purposes presumed to have died on active service overseas on June 25, 1944.

In extending sympathy to the family Air Vice-Marshal [john Alfred] Sully regretted that a promising career had been terminated and said that his loss was greatly deplored by all with whom he was serving.

Born in Duncan in August, 1924, Franny, as he was known, enlisted in October, 1942, going overseas in September 1943.  He was reported missing after air operations on June 25, 1944. His older brother, PO Joseph J. Rey, R.C.A.F., has been a prisoner of war in Germany since May of last year.

Word of Franny’s promotion to Pilot Officer was received by his parents in December. Besides his parents and brother he leaves a sister, Katherine, at home. To them much sympathy is extended in their sorrow.”

(Source: Cowichan Leader, 22 February 1945, from Cowichan Valley Museum & Archives collections)

Here are some websites with more information on Francis Lawrence Rey:

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