canadian navy

1938Who is the oldest sailor in any Allied Navies during the First World War?

Petty Officer James Dupen, originally from Bethnal Green, London, holds the remarkable distinction of being the oldest sailor to serve in any Allied Navy during the First World War, representing both the Royal British Navy and the Royal Naval Canadian Volunteer Reserve. His story is significant as it spans over half a century of naval service, including a rare royal warrant granted by the Prince of Wales and notable encounters with three generations of British royalty. At the age of 68, Dupen re-enlisted during the war in Esquimalt, British Columbia, outpacing the next oldest Allied sailor by four years, and proudly displayed his royal warrant badge for nearly five decades. As of March 2026, it has been 88 years since his passing and more than 157 years since he first joined the Royal Navy, with efforts underway to finally mark his resting place at Ross Bay Cemetery in Victoria, British Columbia.

1904Which Canadian has been conferred the Victoria Cross with a 'naval' blue ribbon?

Able Seaman William Hall, born in Nova Scotia, stands as the only Canadian awarded the Victoria Cross with the distinctive 'naval' blue ribbon, marking a rare honour for extraordinary bravery during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 at Lucknow. Hall, the first Nova Scotian and the first Black recipient of the Empire’s highest military award for valour, performed his heroic actions while serving on H.M.S. Shannon on November 16, 1857. Despite receiving little recognition during his lifetime, Hall's legacy has grown, culminating in the naming of the Arctic/Offshore Patrol Ship HMCS William Hall and his depiction on a Canada Post commemorative stamp in 2010. On August 27, 2025, Canadians mark the 121st anniversary of his death, reflecting on a life that broke barriers and inspired generations.