World War II Memories at Smithers Airport

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World War II Memories

Prince Rupert was very vulnerable to attack from Japanese ships. There were shore guns to guard the entrance to the town harbour but there was always a possibility of a submarine motoring up the Skeena river and landing inland along the single rail line next to the water.

If Japanese troops blew up a rail tunnel or bridge, Prince Rupert and coastal defences would be cut off from rail supply from the interior.

The armoured train, without the locomotive between the two coach cars

In 1942, a special armoured train was constructed in Winnipeg for delivery to Terrace. From there the train made a return trip to Prince Rupert every day to patrol the Skeena river and the rail line.

The train was equipped with large searchlights and a 75 mm heavy gun. Two 40 mm anti-aircraft guns protected against any Japanese warplanes that may be launched from aircraft carriers or from captured bases along the BC coast.

Two anti-aircraft guns on the armoured train, and a large spotlight to the right

Three platoons of infantry manned the train with 3-inch mortars and light weapons. Two steel-covered coaches housed the kitchen, headquarters and a first-aid room.

The daily trip up and down the Skeena river was discontinued in late 1943 when the Japanese were driven from the Aleutian Islands, and no longer posed a threat to coastal BC.

To see more history, visit the Bulkley Valley Museum in Smithers from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday. Admission is by donation.

(November 29, 2005)






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