Sunday 25 March 2012

Sergeant Harry Shannessy, MM

Born on 13 September 1886 in Kingston, Ontario - son of Mrs. Jennie Hughs[?], Colborne, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as labourer; single; no current military service; previously served with the Army Service Corps camp (1918[?]); height of 5 feet 4.5 inches; chest of 35.5 inches fully expanded; medium complexion; blue eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, on 9 June 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 10 June 1915 (number 410615) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 7 September 1918: "For gallant services as a lineman, during Scarpe Operations, Sept 1st and 2nd 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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