WWI howitzer on display in Saint John after being in 'tough shape'

A six-inch howitzer gun used by New Brunswick troops in the First World Warhas been restored and transferredto the Loyal Company Association and the 3rd Field Regiment in Saint John.

For decades the gun sat atop Fort Howe in Saint John, where it was neglected and mistreated.

John Irving, anhonourarycolonel with the 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, said the gun is in "very, very tough shape."

"The barrel had been filled the garbage, the plaque to honour the men and women who served had been taken, as we've seen has occurred with so many other memorials," he said.

Battles where the howitzer was used includetheBattle of the Somme and at Vimy Ridgein the First World War. To honour the soldiers who used it to fire three, 100-pound shells a minute in battle, the gun was sent to Source Atlantic for restoration.

Much of the parts and labour for the restoration were donated.

Joe Jordan, a retired master gunner and chief warrant officer,oversaw the project and feels after 1,200 hours of work, the gun has been brought back to life.

"The workmanship that went into this gun 100years ago was still there," said Jordan.

"You could see it in the rivets, you could see it in iron. You couldfeel the presence of the soldiers who went before you."

Warrant Officer Norm Mason, who is a gunnerwiththe 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, says seeing the howitzer's revival brings on a sense of pride.

"To have a look at it, parts were moving, things like that," he said.

"it feels good to see that."

The howitzer will be on display at Harbour Station Wednesday for Remembrance Day ceremonies.