Latter years 1940-1958
Even though not a US citizen, the US army welcomed the input of Sir Hubert when devising their entry and war on the Germans in the winter of 1944/45. These images come from his time in Canada with the Army.
The advent of World War II and his own advancing years meant Wilkins’ days as a trailblazing explorer were over. However, that did not mean he went off to plant and tend to a garden. During World War II, he advised the US army on survival in the cold for their expected contest against the Germans across the winter of 1944 /45. Starting in 1944, and for each year thereafter until his death, he also joined the US Navy on a mission to the North Pole.
One of the very few 'home' movies shot by Wilkins involved his and Suzanne's trip to Hawaii. Vision courtesy of the Byrd Polar & Climate Research Center.
As well, he enjoyed being recognised by various institutions and gave speeches about his exploits for which he was reputed to be the second most highly paid speaker in the world at the time.
One of his last adventures was to go on two US television quiz shows, winning himself a car on one.
A few months following his death shortly after his 70th birthday, the USS Skate, under the captaincy of Admiral James Calvert, a great admirer of Wilkins, afforded Wilkins the great honour of carrying his ashes to the North Pole where they were spread following a brief ceremony
