Tuesday 18 October 2011

Private George Edwin Purkess

Born on 1 July 1898 in London, England - son of Louise Tailby, St. Thomas, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1917: present address same as mother; trade as machinist's apprentice; single; currently a member of the 25th Regiment (one year); no previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 9.25 inches; chest of 35.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; hazel eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the Signals Training Depot, Canadian Engineers, CEF, in London, Ontario, on 24 May 1917 (number 2265552) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 2 or 3 October 1918 - transferred to the 2nd Battalion, CEF, on 7 November 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)

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