Hawk and the Hare: Based on a true story

In 1944, 21-year-old Private Ewen Morrison joins the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry in Sussex and meets his new platoon, including Reggie Johnson, an Indigenous soldier from Ontario's Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve. His new friend supplements the army's training with his own, helping to prepare Ewen for scouting missions against the enemy. Landing on Juno Beach, the men confront the brutal reality of war as they advance across northern Europe with the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. Reggies bravery, skill, and authority soon earn him a field promotion, but not necessarily the respect of all the men in his platoon. The Hawk and the Hare is inspired by the real-life experience of the author's father.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2021
Publisher: Tidewater Press

In 1944, at the age of 21, Private Ewen Morrison enlisted in the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, a unit stationed in Sussex. Upon joining, he was introduced to his new platoon, which included Reggie Johnson, an Indigenous soldier hailing from Ontario's Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve. Reggie's unique perspective and expertise in indigenous warfare added an invaluable dimension to the army's training, further preparing Ewen for scouting missions against the enemy.

As the men embarked on their journey, landing on Juno Beach, they were confronted with the harsh realities of war. They advanced across northern Europe alongside the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, facing numerous challenges and hardships along the way. Reggie's bravery, skill, and authority quickly earned him a field promotion, but not everyone in his platoon respected him.

The Hawk and the Hare is deeply rooted in the real-life experiences of the author's father, who served in the same regiment during World War II. The book offers a poignant portrayal of the trials and tribulations of ordinary soldiers, as well as the complexities of racial and cultural tensions within the military. Through its vivid storytelling and authentic portrayal of the era, The Hawk and the Hare provides a valuable insight into the sacrifices and struggles of those who served during the war.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781777010126