Joe Shears

[6] In November 1916, English artist Laura Knight was commissioned to paint the physical training at Witley Camp in Surrey where the 156th Canadian Infantry Battalion was stationed.

"[8] Knight set up her easel and paints, the gym transformed into her art studio, with Shears acting as an attendant, model, and teacher.

After viewing her completed works, Joe proposed setting up a shop in Leicester Square to display and sell her drawings.

[11] One piece illustrated Shears punching a double end bag, while another captured him training with Corporal W. Atkin in the gym.

In March 1929, he joined 22 survivors from his regiment for a reunion and later escorted his friend Tom Patterson to New York before returning to Canada.