Skip to content

Vancouver Island Second World War flying hero welcomes cairn salute

Centenarian Stocky Edwards’ legacy on permanent display unveiled in Comox nature
28137720_web1_210216-CVR-Stocky-edwards_3
Stocky Edwards speaks with 19 Wing Commander Lt.-Col. Rhonda Stevens and Greg Sawchuck, senior B.C. director for Ducks Unlimited Canada. Photo by Erin Haluschak

Comox’s decorated Second World War fighter pilot ace and centenarian Stocky Edwards’ legacy is now permanently on display in nature.

On Feb. 9, a small ceremony was held near the Lazo Marsh organized by Hon.-Col. of 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron Dave Mellin, Greg Sawchuck, senior B.C. director for Ducks Unlimited Canada and others to honour Edwards’ birthday and his service to Canada, his lifelong contributions to nature, conservation and the organization.

A large cairn was officially unveiled just prior to the boardwalk at the marsh, with Stocky, his wife Toni, 19 Wing Commander Lt.-Col. Rhonda Stevens and other dignitaries, friends and family in attendance.

Canada’s highest-scoring ace in the Western Desert Campaign, Edwards earned respect for his quick reflexes, flying abilities and shooting instincts while serving with 260 Squadron in the Western Desert Air Force in North Africa in 1943.

By the start of 1943 when he was a flight commander, Edwards had earned a Distinguished Flying Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross, awarded for acts of valour or courage.

Following retirement in addition to spending time with Toni and their four children, eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, Edwards is passionate about the environment around him, particularly preserving it for future generations.

For 40 years, he and his family have supported Ducks Unlimited and the restoration work they do in the Comox Valley.



photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter

RELATED: Comox centenarian Stocky Edwards reflects on 100 years

28137720_web1_210216-CVR-Stocky-edwards_2
A large cairn was officially unveiled in the Lazo Marsh dedicated to Comox’s decorated Secord World War fighter pilot ace and centenarian Stocky Edwards. Photo by Erin Haluschak


Erin Haluschak

About the Author: Erin Haluschak

Erin Haluschak is a journalist with the Comox Valley Record since 2008. She is also the editor of Trio Magazine...
Read more