Private William James Spratt

Born on 12 March 1889 in Cumberland, Ontario - son of James and Harriet Spratt, Cumberland, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as carpenter; single; currently a member of the active militia; previously served with the 47th Regiment (one year); Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 9 inches; chest of 38 inches fully expanded; ruddy complexion; hazel eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 24 February 1915 (number 410941) - 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 4 November 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 8 November 1916 - killed in action on 18 November 1916 - name inscribed on the Vimy Memorial, France.

(Updated with a photo of Pte Spratt's inscription on the Vimy Memorial that I took in August 2012).

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org)