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World War II began in 1939. Newfoundland quickly joined the Allied Forces in the defense against Germany. However, the United States did not enter World War II until 1941. This was a result of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour, Hawaii. The United States had built numerous bases one of which was located in Argentia, Newfoundland.

In February 1942, an American convoy left Portland, Maine enroute to Argentia. This convoy was made up of the U.S.S. Pollux, a supply ship and two destroyers, the U.S.S. Truxtun and U.S.S. Wilkes. Unfortunately, a horrible winter storm drove the ships off course. The Wilkes was able to free itself from the rocky shores at Lawn Head and the Truxtun went aground in Chamber Cove. Luckily, the sailors managed to scale the vertical cliffs and seek help from miners working at Iron Springs Mines. 186 Sailors were rescued.

In 1992, American survivors returned to St. Lawrence for the unveiling of the "Echoes of Valour" monument. This monument was designed by Luben Boykov and is dedicated to the miners who lost their lives due to mining diseases, the brave men who fought for our country in World War I and World War II and Korean War, and to both the survivors and deceased men of the Truxtun and Pollux. This monument is located in front of the Municipal Building on Route 220, St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Echoes of Valour Monument
2005
St. Lawrence, Newfoundland,Canada

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Echoes of Valour
2005
St. Lawrence, Newfoundland,Canada