The story of Helge Welling
When the war ended I was no longer a child. I had seen enough trucks, airplanes and rifles to last a lifetime. I wanted to be around natural––and peaceful––things.
I had made my living as a farm worker since 1943. I fondly remember working at the State Experimental farm at Askov. We were always treated fairly and generously. I also worked on farms on the island of Fyn and in Sweden.
By 1951, I had reached the age for my year of military service. I had no desire to be a soldier. The war had made sure of that. I served as a conscientious objector at Oksbøl. Afterwards, I left for Canada––but that's another story!
Adapted from the 2007 Heritage Book,with permission from the Federation of Danish Associations in Canada
More Immigrant Stories:
• Follow Andy Kjearsgaard's adventures on a Canadian farm during the "dirty thirties"
