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In honour of our soldiers: Ross George McKessock

By Michael Cooper

Published 11:05 PDT, Fri July 19, 2024

Born on Aug. 11, 1920 is Winnipeg, Manitoba Ross George McKessock was a RCAF pilot. He moved to Richmond, prior to 1925, with his parents, and attended Bridgeport Public School from 1925 to 1933 and then attended Richmond High School from 1933 to 1937, graduating with his Junior Matriculation. 

During his school life he was a proficient football player, earning his nickname “Fooz”. Ross had previously applied to the Royal Canadian Air Force for a commission, in 1939, but was ineligible due to insufficient education. 

He worked for Boeing aircraft of Canada from November 1940 to February 1941 as an assembly fitter.  Ross enlisted in the RCAF on Feb. 10, 1941 in Vancouver and was immediately posted to Brandon, Manitoba. After enlistment he got married to Jean Grahm then in Toronto, on December 24 and embarked on his last mission for England, 1942.  

On June 30, 1943, Flying Officer McKessock was piloting Mustang aircraft #AM 196, an American long range fighter bomber plane at a low altitude over the English Channel close to Le Havre, when his plane went down. He was initially listed as missing then later was presumed killed.

His body was washed ashore at Le Havre on July 16, 1943. And was later buried at the Ste. Marie Cemetery, France, leaving behind his wife and infant child. His legacy continues to be honored in McKessock Avenue between Bridgeport Trail and Shell Road. 

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