From flour to fire: Private Thornicroft, a baker turned soldier, the story of a tragic death
Article written by Amynte Eygun, MA.
Westmount, Quebec – 24 October 2024: Private Richard Maurice Thornicroft was a 22 year old soldier who gave his life for the liberation of North-West Europe. Born on May 16th 1922, Private Thornicroft was from NDG, living with his family at 946 Melrose Ave, right outside of Westmount where the RMR is located. Richard was the fourth of six children, with three sisters and two brothers. Richard and his brothers Howard and George were all involved in active duty during WWII, with Howard being in the RCAF stationed in England and George being in the Navy, stationed aboard the H.M.C.S Stadacona in Halifax, NS. Richard attended public school in Montreal for 7 years, and between 1936-1938 he was studying to become a CPA in Elementary Accounting. He additionally studied typing and bookkeeping in 1937. In his enlistment paperwork it is suggested that he work as a Unit Accountant’s Assistant, as his passion was clearly to work in the field. Besides his education, Richard played golf and baseball regularly, but also participated in theatre and school plays.
Throughout his late teens, Richard worked part-time at the well-loved Westmount bakery, Harrison Bros. Today, it is known under the name POM Bakery. Richard worked as a house-to-house salesman, as well as in their retail store situated on St-Catherines street, across from the RMR Armoury. Richard was employed by the local business from 1937 until 1939, when he enlisted in the military. The POM bakery (POM standing for Pride Of Montreal) was a staple in Westmount throughout the mid to late 20th century, and they held a close relationship with their neighbours at the RMR Armoury. During the early months of WWII, POM Bakery had a fleet of their delivery trucks painted with “R.M.R. Association Branch 14 (Quebec 14), Canadian Legion, B.E.S.L.” to promote enlistment into active duty.
Richard enlisted early on for active duty with the RMR, joining the infantry in September 1939. He was only 18 years old when he volunteered, likely inspired by his brothers who were active servicemen. Richard had already been involved with the RMR before his enlistment, as he had joined the RMR’s Drum Band a few months earlier, in April 1939.
On October 6th 1944, the fateful first day of the Battle of Leopold Canal, Private Thornicroft was 22 years old. He was wounded early on, but not fatally, suffering from a smashed arm. He went to Captain Schwob’s Company HQ, established in a slit trench, for medical aid. Captain Schwob bandaged up his arm and sent him back to the allied territory on the southern bank of the canal for more medical help. Private Thornicroft made his way back alone and unarmed. Unfortunately, Richard came face to face with a German soldier on his walk back and was immediately shot dead on the spot. Private Thornicroft was killed in cold blood, the German soldier killing him even though he was wounded and unarmed, not a threat in the slightest. Richard Maurice Thornicroft is buried along with his fellow fallen RMRs at the Adegem Canadian Military Cemetery.
