Thursday 28 June 2012

Private Frederick Charles Stephenson, MM

Born on 5 February 1896 in South Shields, England - son of Mrs. Elizabeth Barren, South Shields, England - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as farmer; single; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 1.75 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; light brown eyes; medium hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, on 1 May 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 10 June 1915 (number 410407) - 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 or 20 November 1916 - invalided to England on 21 November 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 22 June 1918 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 21 November 1916: "In attack on Desire Trench, Nov. 18/16, theses [sic] N.C.O's and men did valuable work in maintaining communication throughout the Battn. all the time being under heavy shell fire. They also assisted, in bringing in the wounded."

(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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