Friday 15 May 2009

Private James John Gillesper

Born on 15 December 1879 in Edinburgh, Scotland - husband of Margaret Gillesper, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as sailor, married, no current military service, previously served with the 56th Lisgar Rifles (one year), Church of England, height of 5 feet 6.5 inches, weight of 131 pounds, chest of 36 inches fully expanded, dark complexion, brown eyes, iron grey hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Barriefield Camp, Ontario, on 28 May 1915 (number 410498) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion in England on 13 August 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 6 October 1916 - wounded on 21 November 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 27 November 1916 - killed in action on 9 April 1917 - buried in Givenchy-en-Gohelle Canadian Cemetery (grave F.6), France.

Update: a photo of Private Gillesper's headstone at Givenchy-en-Gohelle Canadian Cemetery.

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