Les Major

Les Major (1921-2008) was a highly decorated Canadian soldier who served in World War II. He is best known for his actions during the liberation of Zwolle, Netherlands, in April 1945, where he and Corporal Ernest "Smokey" Smith, acting as a two-man patrol, cleared the city of German occupation forces, preventing its destruction.

Major enlisted in the Canadian Army in 1940 and served with the Régiment de la Chaudière. He landed in Normandy on D-Day and participated in numerous battles throughout the Northwest Europe campaign. He was known for his bravery and resourcefulness, earning multiple decorations for gallantry.

His awards include the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) for his actions at Zwolle. He was nominated for the Victoria Cross, the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy, but the nomination was reportedly downgraded to the DCM.

After the war, Major returned to Canada and worked as a pipefitter. He remained a relatively private individual, but his wartime exploits have become widely recognized and celebrated in both Canada and the Netherlands. He is considered a national hero in Zwolle.