B65549 Sergeant Jack Mckenzie Mitchell was born in Toronto, Ontario on 27 February 1920, the son of Robert John and Catherine Mitchell.  His father had served with The Queen’s Own Rifles, then during WWI with the 19th Battalion CEF in France. Jack also had a brother serving overseas during WWII and two sisters. Growing up he was active in hockey and tennis.

Mitchell was an office clerk at the T. Eaton Company when he joined the 2nd Battalion (Militia) The Queen’s Own Rifles in July 1940 and then with the 3rd Battalion (Active Service) on 22 May 1942. He was immediately promoted to Acting Sergeant followed the next month to Acting Company Sergeant Major. He trained at Camp Niagara, Camp Bordon, and Debert Camp in Nova Scotia.

In November 1942, he was confirmed in the rank of CSM and attached to the Battle Drill School in Vernon, British Columbia. In February 1943, he reverts to the rank of Sergeant at his own request and a few days later embarks for England. He was posted to the 1st Battalion QOR in June 1943 where he continued training with the regiment and be active in athletics.

Sergeant Mitchell landed with D Company on Juno Beach on D-Day, 6 June 1944 but was first reported as missing before being confirmed as killed in action during the 11 June 1944 battle for Le Mesnil Patry, aged 24.

He is buried in Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, grave reference III. D. 6.