Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Mitchell
Royal Highlanders of Canada (The Black Watch)

I greatly regret that I found it necessary to take the actions I did on September 22, 1944 but I’m afraid that when I arrive at a calculated decision, it is providential that it be carried out. I assure you that I have made no mistake other than possible the method of handing, and I tried to be loyal to both the Regiment and higher authority.

(Mitchell to Col. Hutchinson, 25 Oct 1944)

Born in Montreal in June 1908, Francis Murray Mitchell graduated from RMC and McGill University, where he excelled in sports. Having belonged to the Black Watch since 1930, he went overseas with the regiment as a captain in 1940 and by 1943 had been promoted to lieutenant-colonel while seconded for special duty with First Canadian Army. He reverted to major to serve as second-in-command when the Black Watch landed in France under Lieutenant-Colonel S.S.T. Cantlie.

Continue reading →