Paterson, J A (John Archibald)
Sick Berth Attendant John Paterson was the son of Frank C. Paterson and Eva L. Paterson, of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. He was born on the 26th of January 1926 and joined the Navy on the 13th of June 1944. He served onboard H.M.C.S. Leaside.[1]
Unfortunately, while on shore leave, John fell off the cliffs at Ramore Head, Portrush.[2] He suffered multiple body and head injuries.
At the time of his death H.M.C.S. Leaside was preparing to depart on the 11th of May from the port at Londonderry for the last time as part of convoy ONS.50. It had been based there since October 1944 working as an ocean escort.
John was awarded the Atlantic Star, War Medal, and the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with Clasp.
Date of Death: 08/05/1945 (Aged 19)
Service: Sick Berth Attendant, Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve, H.M.C.S. Leaside.
Service Number: V/88925
Burial Location: Londonderry (or Derry), City Cemetery, C. of E. Plot. Sec. F. Grave 49.
[1] H.M.C.S. Leaside was a Corvette of the Castle class and was launched March 1944. It ended life as a floating restaurant in 1978.
[2] Portrush: A northern coastal town which was an extremely popular destination.