Sergeant Frank Krasinski, DCM

Born on 13 May 1895 in Douglas, Ontario - son of Mrs. Veronica Krasinski, Renfrew, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as farmer; single; currently a member of "E" Company, 42nd Regiment; no previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 3.125 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; blue eyes; black hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 2 February 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 22 June 1915 (number 410335) - 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 25 or 26 May 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 7 July 1917 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For marked gallantry and determined leadership during operations in the vicinity of Bourlon from 27th September to 30th September, 1918. During the advance on the 27th the company to which he was attached as a Lewis gunner was held up in front of a sunken road strongly held by enemy machine guns and anti-tank guns. He worked his way forward alone in face of heavy fire, and captured two anti-tank guns and their crews, consisting of one officer and five O.Rs. Later, as company serjeant-major, he set a splendid example to all ranks." - unit recommendation dated 4 October 1918: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations in the vicinity of Bourlon 27th to 30th Sept 1918."

Unit recommendation for an unnamed Romanian decoration dated 7 January 1919: "For gallantry and devotion to duty during operations of Sept 2nd 1918." - no medal awarded.

(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))