Friday 26 February 2010

Private George Alexander Kelty, DCM

Born on 18 April 1885 in Glasgow, Scotland - husband of Mrs. Geo. A. Kelty, Glasgow, Scotland - brother of Mrs. James McLeod, Wigtonshire, Scotland - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as painter; single; no current military service; previously served with the Highland Light Infantry in Scotland (two years); Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 11 inches; chest of 38.5 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; brown eyes; dark brown hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, in Napanee, Ontario, on 19 May 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 10 June 1915 (number 410281) - 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 20 or 29 October 1917 - invalided to England on 6 November 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 11 October 1918 - wounded on 1 November 1918 - invalided to England on 6 November 1918.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry in action. He displayed great courage and initiative during an attack against an enemy strong point, materially assisting in the capture of the position, three machine guns and fifty prisoners." - unit recommendation dated 21 November 1916: "In attack on Desire Trench Nov. 18/16, they did valuable work in attacking with Capt. MacDowell a M.G. Post and capturing the crew."

(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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