Edward Amy facts for kids

Edward Alfred Charles Amy (born March 28, 1918 – died February 2, 2011) was a brave Canadian soldier. He fought in World War II, which was a very big global conflict. He became known as one of Canada's most honored soldiers because of his courage. Edward Amy passed away in Halifax when he was 92 years old.

Early Life and Training

Edward Amy was born on March 28, 1918. He went to a special school for military leaders. This was the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, Ontario. He finished his studies there in 1939. This training helped him prepare for his future as a soldier.

Military Service in World War II

Edward Amy was a skilled tank commander during the war. He led a group of tanks called A Squadron. This group was part of the 14th Armoured Regiment.

Fighting in Italy

Amy and his tanks fought bravely in Italy. In December 1943, he showed amazing leadership. He helped his Sherman tanks take and hold a very important bridge. For this brave action, he received the Military Cross award.

Battles in Normandy, France

Major Amy arrived in Normandy, France on July 26, 1944. This was about seven weeks after D-Day. He led a group from the 22nd Armoured Regiment (The Canadian Grenadier Guards). They fought hard for a place called Grentheville.

Over the next five weeks, he took part in many battles. These fights helped free Normandy from enemy control. His regiment earned four special awards for their actions. This was during the Battle of Falaise.

Key Normandy Engagements

Amy led an attack against a tough enemy group. This attack helped free the towns of Cintheaux and Bretteville. From August 14 to 17, 1944, his unit fought in the battle of Rouves. During this battle, his own tank was destroyed.

He also fought in the intense battles of Falaise. After the Battle of Normandy, his unit moved on. They fought along the Seine and Somme Rivers. They helped free many towns and captured many enemy soldiers.

Later War Efforts and Retirement

In the final months of the war, Amy fought in Belgium and Germany. He was wounded during these battles. After the war ended, he stayed in the Canadian Forces. He continued to serve until 1972. He retired with the high rank of brigadier-general.

Awards and Recognition

Edward Amy received many important awards for his bravery. These included the DSO and the OBE. He also earned the MC and the CD. The United States also honored him with the Bronze Star.

French and Canadian Honors

On July 18, 2007, France gave him its highest award. This was the Légion d'honneur. The award recognized his "outstanding bravery" during World War II. He lived in Nova Scotia, first at Indian Point and later in Halifax.

He also supported bringing back the Halifax Rifles (RCAC) unit. This project was successfully completed in 2009.

Tributes and Commendations

On November 14, 2007, Wilfred Moore, a Canadian senator, honored him. He thanked Edward Amy and all who served with him for their service to Canada.

The Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, Mayann Francis, also presented an award to Brigadier-General Amy. This happened on November 7, 2007.

After his passing, Senator Wilfred P. Moore gave another tribute. On February 10, 2011, he spoke in the Senate about the late Brigadier-General Edward Amy.