Grostenquin France

Extracts from 2 Wing Historical Reports Pertaining to the RC Chapel

5 Jul 53

L'Abbe Guerin of Lelling held the RC sercives in the absence of F/L Martin.

7 Jan 54

S/L N Gallagher, Air Division HQ RC Chaplain, paid a brief courtesy visit to the unit en route to 4 Wing.

26 Mar 54

Meeting in CO's office to discuss fianl arrangements re blessing of RC Chapel, Ste Jeanne D'Arc Chapel, by Archbishop Roy.

31 Mar 54

Archbishop Roy arrived at 0930 hours to bless the RC Chapel. He was accorded a Guard of Honour. Other dignitaries present at the ceremony were A/C Hodson, W/C Wade and S/L Gallagher from Air Division, General Navereau, Military Governor for Metz, the Prefect de la Moselle, M Dubois, Area Commander of St. Avold Bastien, Cures of Lelling, Morhange, Saarguemines and Folschviller, F/L McGee RC Padre from 3 Wing. Cocktails and luncheon were served at the Officer's Mess at 1200 hours. Archbishop Roy departed for 4 Wing by GMT.

22 May 54

Abbe E Robin, Cure of Lelling visited the unit and requested ME for children in his parish who were participating in a choral festival at Morhange. CTechO approved and ME ordered.

29 Jul 54

G/C LA Costello, Principal RC Chaplain (DRS) AFHQ, officially visited the unit. He was accompanied by S/L N Gallagher, Air Division Chaplain (RC).

14 Aug 54

Funeral service held for late F/O G Beaulac in RC Chapel. Officiating chaplain was assisted by Rev E Robin, Cure of Lelling and members of his congregation who assisted in the choral portions of the requiem high mass.

25 Nov 54

F/O W Mulcahy, Med/Nur was married by F/L L Perusse, RC Chaplain in RC Chapel to Mr. KJ O'Brien, Tech Rep for GCA unit. A reception was held in the Airmen's Mess at which a large number attended. The CO proposed the toast to the bride and groom.

10 Jan 56

F/O McElroy took the RC Padre to Rabat in T33.

14 Mar 56

Archbishop Roy, Archbishop Berry and Father Brochu arrived 2 (F) Wing at 1700 hours. Remained overnight, gave mass for the personnel and attended a small dinner in the Officers' Mess.

23 Feb 57

RC Padre held confirmation ceremony today and has as the officiating bishop a newly consecrated African Bishop, His Excellency Monseignor Gantin.

16 May 57

Funeral for the late F/O Ray Komar held this morning in the RC Chapel. Very good turn out.

21 May 57

G/C Costello Chaplain (RC) visited the station over the weekend.

4 Jun 57

Archbishop Roy of Quebec City Head Chaplain for the three Services arrived at 2 (F) Wing via service aircraft from Paris. Short briefing by CO. Luncheon and then conference with chaplains from all over Air Division.

6 Jun 57

Priest from Grostenquin talked with CO in the afternoon re the forthcoming celebrations in the Village.

27 Aug 57

S/L Poirier, new Command Chaplain (RC) visited the station and talked with CO.