Service Number: J42183
Forcee: Royal Canadian Air Force
Rank: Flying Officer
William Robert Lay was born in Danville, Quebec, June 29, 1918 and moved with his parents, Harold and Evelyn, to Beaverlodge in August, 1928. After graduating from Grade 12, Bill attended Edmonton Normal School in 1939-40. He taught one year at Annellen School, west of Hythe, Ab.
Bill enlisted with the R.C.A.F. and served overseas with the #408 Goose Squadron. Bill was killed in action on the 25 of March, 1945 when his Lancaster aircraft, #NP 804 was hit by flak before reaching the target at Munster, Germany. The aircraft exploded and crashed at Amelsburen, Germany. Flying Officer Navigator Willaim Lay is buried in the Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany. Bill’s many friends will always remember his quick wit, obliging nature and dramatic ability.
Source: Beaverlodge High Year Book 1947-48 p.25
Beaverlodge to the Rockies p25