Wednesday 27 April 2011

Private Martin James Murphy

Born on 2 January 1885 in Southport, England - husband of Annie or Mary Murphy, Edmonton, Alberta - son of James and Mary Murphy - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as motorman; married; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 9.25 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; medium complexion; blue eyes; black hair.

Joined the 51st Battalion, CEF, in Edmonton, Alberta, on 18 January 1915 (number 436470) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 5 or 6 October 1916 - transferred to the 12th Brigade Machine Gun Company, CEF, on 15 December 1916 - transferred to the 4th Battalion, CMGC, CEF - promoted to sergeant (acting-battery sergeant-major) - died on 18 September 1918 of wounds received that day - buried in Mont Huon Military Cemetery (grave VIII.G.1B), France.

Awarded the Military Medal.

(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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