Henry Norwest

Henry Louis Norwest MM & Bar was one of the most remarkable Canadian snipers of the First World War. Born at Fort Saskatchewan, North-West Territories, now Alberta, on 8 May 1884, he was Métis, of Cree and French ancestry. Before the war he worked as a ranch hand and rodeo performer, skills that translated naturally into fieldcraft, patience, marksmanship and movement across difficult ground.

Norwest first enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force under the name Henry Louie, but after a short period was discharged. He re-enlisted at Calgary as Henry Norwest and joined the 50th Canadian Infantry Battalion. At the front he became known as “Ducky” and earned a reputation as a quiet, steady and exceptionally effective soldier.

Serving as a sniper and scout, Norwest was credited with 115 confirmed fatal shots, one of the highest recorded totals among Canadian soldiers in the war. His knowledge of hunting, concealment and observation made him especially valuable in the dangerous work of reconnaissance and sniping. He was often sent into exposed ground, no man’s land, and forward positions where calm judgment and courage were essential.

His most famous service came during the fighting around Vimy Ridge. In the period leading up to the attack, and especially around the capture of the Pimple, Norwest’s sniping helped reduce enemy fire and protect advancing Canadian troops. For this work he was awarded the Military Medal. He later received a Bar to the Military Medal, marking a second award for gallantry.

Henry Norwest was killed in action by an enemy sniper near Fouquescourt, Somme, France, on 18 August 1918, less than three months before the end of the war. He is buried at Warvillers Churchyard Extension Cemetery in France. His service remains an important part of Canada’s military history and Métis military heritage.