Tuesday 23 February 2010

Private Harry Alfonsus Kelley

Born on 3 March 1897 in Bangor, Maine - emigrated to Canada in 1907 - nephew of Michael J. O'Brien, Renfrew, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as student; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 5 inches; chest of 33 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; light blue eyes; dark hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 6 February 1915 (number 410517) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - wounded on 9 April 1917 - invalided to England on 20 April 1917 - transferred to the 4th Labour Battalion, CEF, or the 2nd Canadian Infantry Works Battalion, CEF, as a Sapper on 28 December 1917.

(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)

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