Firby, Leading Aircraftman Charles “Reg”

Service Highlights

  • Served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War.
  • Member of No. 423 Squadron, RCAF Coastal Command.
  • Served in England during the war.
  • Met his future wife Joyce Whitehouse in England during his service.
  • Married August 4, 1945.
  • Longtime employee of Ontario Hydro.
  • Served as chief steward of his union for many years.
  • Active community member including:
    • Charter member of the Owen Sound Roxy Little Theatre
    • President of the Owen Sound Kinsmen Club
    • Coach in minor sports in Owen Sound
  • Commemorated through the St. Marys Legion Veterans Banner Program.

A Life and Service Remembered

Charles “Reg” Firby served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War as a member of No. 423 Squadron under Coastal Command. Based in England, the squadron played an important role in maritime operations, including anti submarine patrols and the protection of Allied shipping in the Atlantic.

While overseas, Reg met Joyce Whitehouse at a dance in England. Their meeting during wartime would shape the rest of his life, and the two were married on August 4, 1945, just as the war was coming to an end.

At this time, his service records are not publicly available, so the exact details of his wartime movements have not yet been confirmed.

After returning to Canada, Reg built a long career with Ontario Hydro, where he also served for many years as a chief steward in his union. His commitment to service extended beyond his military years into his community. He was deeply involved in local organizations, including as a charter member of the Owen Sound Roxy Little Theatre, president of the Owen Sound Kinsmen Club, and a coach in minor sports.

His life reflects both wartime service overseas and decades of dedication to community life at home, where he continued to contribute in meaningful ways long after the war had ended.

Major Battles and Operations

  • Service with No. 423 Squadron, RCAF Coastal Command
  • Maritime patrol and anti submarine operations in the Atlantic theatre
  • Coastal Command operations based in England

Learn More

Canadian Virtual Air Force Personnel – 423 Squadron
https://caspir.warplane.com/personnel/unit-search/unit-type/RCAF_Sqn/unit/423

No. 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron history
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/423_Maritime_Helicopter_Squadron

Charles Reginald “Reg” Firby obituary
https://amgfh.com/obituaries/174267/