Airborne Assault MuseumSergeant George Kroesing, originally from Coleman, Alberta, Canada volunteered for military service in 1939 and joined the Royal Canadian Infantry Corps. After moving to the UK, he rose steadily through the ranks and became a Sergeant in early 1943.He joined the Airborne Forces after training with Airborne Forces Depot and earned his Parachute Wings in April 1944, joining the new 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (RCIC). This roughly coincided with the award of Canadian Volunteer Service Medal in January 1944.
As part of the 3rd Parachute Brigade with the 6th British Airborne Division, Sgt Kroesing emplaned from Bulford on 5 June 1944 and dropped into Normandy. At some point early in the battle, Sgt Kroesing became a Prisoner Of War, after initial reports that he was Missing In Action (MIA) on 6 June. By December 1944, his captivity was unofficially confirmed at Stalag 4B, (POW No. 82161). He was later reported as dying whilst in captivity.
Sergeant Kroesing died whilst still a POW on 19 January 1945, due to unknown reasons. He is now buried at Prague War Cemetery.
Service History
- 1939 Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Private)
- 1940 Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Lance Corporal)
- 1942 Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Corporal)
- 1942 Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Lance Sergeant)
- 1943 Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Sergeant)
- 1944 1st (Canadian) Parachute Battalion (Sergeant)
