Sergeant John Sage, DCM

Born on 1 September 1887 in Wright County, Quebec - next of kin listed as Mrs. Delia Sage, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as steam hammer operator; married; currently a member of the Governor General's Foot Guards (one year); no previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 5 inches; chest of 36 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; blue eyes; black hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 19 July 1915 (number 410396) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - wounded on 18 November 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 9 January 1917 - wounded on 28 June 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 6 September 1917 - wounded on 3 May 1918 - invalided to England on 11 May 1918 - later served with the Corps of Military Staff Clerks.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry in action. He displayed great courage and initiative during an attack against an enemy strong point, materially assisting in the capture of the position, three machine guns and fifty prisoners." - unit recommendation dated 21 November 1916: "In attack on Desire Trench Nov. 18/16, they did valuable work in attacking with Capt. MacDowell a M.G. Post and capturing the crew."

(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))