Saturday 16 January 2010

Private Donald Johnson

Born on 28 March 1894 in Ottawa, Ontario - son of Mrs. Margaret Johnson, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as tinsmith; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 7.25 inches; chest of 35.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; blue eyes; fair hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, on 1 June 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 22 June 1915 (number 410788) - 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 24 or 25 March 1918 - invalided to England on 12 April 1918.

Recommended for an unnamed decoration, likely a Military Medal, but no award - unit recommendation dated 3 April 1917: "For gallant conduct in rescuing and assisting in the resuscitation of others overcome by gas 26-3-17."

(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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