Flt Lt Bill Fowler
War challenges the strength of nations and the spirit of its people. During the Second World War, Canadians from every walk of life answered the call, showing resilience, sacrifice, and courage in the face of a global conflict. From distant battlefields to the home front, their stories shaped Canada’s legacy. One such story is that of Bill Fowler, whose bravery carried him across oceans and fierce battles.
Life in Service:
“I need to ensure what my dad and so many others gave up for our liberty and our freedoms isn’t forgotten and for nothing. It means something.”
– Patti O’Connor, daughter of Bill Fowler.
When the Second World War began, Bill Fowler started his training on June 27, 1941, in Calgary, Alberta. Over the following year, he trained at various locations across Canada, completing his instruction by mid-June 1942. After his training, he was posted to the RCAF No.128 Fighter Squadron, where he flew Tiger Moths, Harvards, and Hurricanes. For the next sixteen months, he combined his flight training with submarine patrols along Canada’s Atlantic coast.
In the European theatre, Bill was assigned to the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) No. 263 Squadron, flying combat missions over France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany; he flew Hurricanes, Spitfires, Typhoons in 263 Sqn. His squadron targeted tanks, convoys, and even Gestapo headquarters. Despite the heavy losses among his comrades, he survived repeated attacks and went on to complete an extraordinary 101 combat missions. After the war, he helped liberate concentrations camps, an experience that left a lasting mark on his life.
Bill Fowler. (Credit: The Military Museums)
Life After Service:
After the war, Bill returned to Canada and married Peggy Rose Brennan, an Irish-Calgarian. They began their life together at the University of British Columbia, where Bill studied engineering before starting a career in Alberta’s oil industry. He later built a successful business while he and Peggy raised five children. Bill passed away in 1986, remembered as a devoted family man and veteran.
Discover the full story of Bill Fowler’s life — click here
Main photo: Flt Lt (Flight Lieutenant) Bill Fowler. (Credit: The Military Museums)
References:
O’Connor, Patti – Daughter of Bill Fowler. “Personal Communication”, June 13, 2025.
TMMadmin. 2016. “Mural of Honour – 209 Bill Fowler.” TheMilitaryMuseums.ca. 2016. https://mural.themilitarymuseums.ca/panels/row11/209-bill-fowler.