Sunday, 31 October 2010

Private Donald McDonald, MM

Born on 19 June 1883 in Riverside, Nova Scotia - son of Mrs. Margaret McDonald, Riverside, Nova Scotia - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as cook; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 9.5 inches; chest of 37 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; hazel eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 5 June 1915 (number 410831) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - transferred to the Canadian Machine Gun Corps, CEF, on 13 May 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 17 April 1917: "For gallant conduct during operations 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)

3 comments:

Unknown said...

My uncle who passed in September 1959 --knew him well

Darren Arsenault said...

We would love to know how your uncle knew Donald. Who was your uncle? Did he mention anything about Donald McDonald. He was my Great Uncle. I would appreciate any information you have and would love to hear about your uncle.Darrenarsenault@outlook.com

Unknown said...

Hi Darren, Private Donald MacDonald is my great-grand uncle. I’ll send you an email.