Private Rene Paul Smith

Born on 2 January 1896 in Chesterville, Ontario - son of Mrs. Annie Smith, Chesterville, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Chesterville, Ontario; trade as painter; single; no current or previous military service; Methodist; height of 5 feet 4 inches; chest of 34.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; brown eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the 156th Battalion, CEF, in Brockville, Ontario, on 10 February 1916 (number 639561) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 24 May 1917 - wounded on 3 September 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)