Monday 13 June 2011

Corporal Cornelius O'Donovan

Born on 4 September 1898 in Dodfords, England - son of Mrs. Maryann O'Donovan, Carleton Place, Ontario - brother of William O'Donovan, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as machinist; single; currently a member of the 42nd Regiment (three months); no previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 10.5 inches; chest of 37.5 inches fully expanded; weight of 142 pounds; fair complexion; blue eyes; light hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Barriefield, Ontario, on 11 May 1915 (number 410569) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - killed in action on 29 September 1918 - buried in Bourlon Wood Cemetery (grave II.A.18), France.

(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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