Letter to Mr and Mrs Jensen and Verna from W Patterson

Letter to Mr and Mrs Jensen and Verna from W Patterson

Relates author's visit to Edzell in Scotland to visit Oscar's grave. Mentions meeting the local RAF padre who had conducted Oscar's funeral. Describes grave location and asks if they would like a photograph sent. Mentions meeting other colleagues.

1944-08-16

Four page handwritten letter

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EPattersonWJensenEB-[Mrs]-V440916

RCAF Overseas
Aug. 16/44

Dear Mr. & Mrs Jensen & Verna

You are probably not expecting to hear from me, but I want to write this for a special reason. About a week ago I visited Scotland and while there made a trip to Edzell to pay my respects at Oscar's grave. Verna gave me the address before I left Canada so I had little difficulty in locating the place.

When I arrived in the village of Edzell I was almost immediately approached by a gentleman who introduced himself as the RAF Padre, Rev. Adams, and asked if he could be of any assistance. When I told

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him the purpose of my visit he said he had conducted Oscar's funeral service and would gladly take me to the cemetery. He then immediately got his car and drove me to the cemetery which is about five miles from the village of Edzell and about one mile from the village of Fettercairn.

The grave is located in a lovely little cemetery at the foot of the Grampian mountains. There is a stone wall around the cemetery and the Air Force plot is along one side. The grave is well kept and flowers had been placed on it quite recently. A wooden cross bears the name, rank, and number, and the padre informed me that after the war this would be replaced by a more permanent memorial.

The whole countryside here is lovely

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and peaceful, and as I stood by the side of Oscar's grave, I felt that these surroundings were symbolic of that peace which he and his pals had given their all to secure for those who remain.

I do not know if you would care to have a picture taken and forwarded to you. If so I should be glad to secure one if I have an opportunity to make another visit. However, the padre said that he would obtain one for you if you so desired. I should like to say that he seemed to be very anxious to be of service.

I do not think there is anything more I can tell you. But I thought that you would like to know that the grave is not forgotten, but is being well cared for.

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I have met a number of the Carman boys over here recently. You may be interested to know that I met Andy Baillie a few days ago and spent a pleasant hour with him.

How are Sven and Pete? I suppose Sven will have won his wings by now. Please remember me to them. How is the drug store Verna? I hope you still enjoy your work there.

Kind regards to all.

Very sincerely
W Patterson