Monday, 5 April 2010

Private James Thomas Kobus, DCM

Born on 10 May 1896 in Renfrew, Ontario - son of Mrs. Katherine Kobus, Renfrew, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address same as mother; trade as clerk; single; no current or previous military service.

Joined the 130th Battalion, CEF, in Renfrew, Ontario, on 14 March 1916 (number 788589) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 14 or 15 November 1916 - wounded on 9 April 1917 - invalided to England on 12 April 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 6 July 1917 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion to the Canadian Corps Reinforcement Camp, CEF, on 22 February 1918.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. With one other man he followed an officer into a dug-out. The occupants resisted and the situation was critical, but they succeeded in capturing two officers and seventy-five men, besides two machine guns and much ammunition. His fearlessness was most marked. Unfortunately he was wounded." - unit recommendation dated 17 April 1917: "For gallant conduct in their capacity of Company Runners during operation of Apr. 9/17."

(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; Canadian War Museum, 19680229-001, Manu 58C 1 2.18, Honours and Awards, 38th Battalion (Records of recommendations for honours and awards and mentioned in dispatches 19161121 19190117))

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