Canadian Naval Heroes Graphic Vignettes - Max Bernays

It was August 6, 1942 and the wheelhouse area of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Assiniboine was on fire, pierced by explosive shells fired by German U-boat 210 during a fierce battle. Surrounded by smoke and flames in the wheelhouse, Acting Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays ordered the two junior sailors working as telegraph operators to get clear, leaving him alone at the helm and trapped by the blaze.

With Assiniboine on fire amidships and riddled with shell holes, Bernays executed all helm orders as Assiniboine's captain manoeuvred for position against the U-boat. Eventually Assiniboine rammed U-210 twice and sunk it with depth charges.

Although one Canadian was killed and 13 wounded during the hard-fought battle, Bernays miraculously survived the bombardment of wheelhouse and bridge.

He was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for his heroic actions.