Friday, 5 November 2010

Private William McDonald

Born on 14 September 1897 in Alexandria, Ontario - son of James McDonald, Alexandria, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Greenfield, Ontario; trade as farmer; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 7 inches; chest of 34.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; blue eyes; fair hair.

Joined the 154th Battalion, CEF, in Alexandria, Ontario, on 10 January 1916 (number 633126) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 24 May 1917 - wounded on 30 October 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 30 October 1917 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded a Mention-in-Despatches - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 17 January 1919: "Recommended for Mention in 'Peace Despatch' for services as Clerk in Battalion Orderly Room."

Recommended for a Military Medal, but no award made - unit recommendation dated 5 October 1918: "For Gallantry during the operations in the vicinity of Bourlon, Sept 27th to 30th 1918."

(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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