Monday 16 August 2010

Private John Ross MacPherson

Born on 24 March 1890 in Orangeville, Ontario - son of Dugald and Sarah Macpherson, Orangeville, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as student; single; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 9.5 inches; chest of 35.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; grey eyes; dark hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, as an other rank in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, on 16 March 1915 (number 411064) - transferred to Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry on 17 July 1915 - commissioned and promoted to Captain at some point - killed in action on 26 August 1918 - buried in Vis-en-Artois British Cemetery (grave IV.I.5), France.

Awarded the Distinguished Service Order.

Awarded a Mention in Despatches.

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org)

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