Private Thomas Ball

Born on 24 March 1895 in London, England - son of Mrs. Emma Ball, Brighton, England - attestation form notes trade as laborer, single, currently a member of the 12th York Rangers, no previous military service, height of 5 feet 8.5 inches, fair complexion, dark eyes, fair hair, Church of England.

Joined the 59th Canadian Infantry Battalion - transferred to the 38th Battalion on 27 March 1915 (number 410012) - served with the battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the battalion on 13 August 1916 - killed in action on 18 November 1916 - buried in Regina Trench Cemetery, France.

(Many thanks to Lieutenant-Colonel Bud Walsh for the photo of Private Ball's headstone.)

(sources: Library and Archives Canada (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca), online attestation papers; Canadian War Museum, 19740281-001, Manu 58F 2 3, 207th Canadian Infantry Battalion and 38th Canadian Infantry Battalion, Nominal Roll; The Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa Regimental Museum, A400-0007, Master Personnel List for the 38th Canadian Infantry Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force)