Friday 4 June 2010

Private Oswald Henry Lee, MM

Born on 14 June 1893 in Laxton, Ontario - son of George and Emma Lee, Woodville, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as fireman; single; no current or previous military experience; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 6.75 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; light complexion; hazel eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, in Lindsay, Ontario, on 14 May 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 22 June 1915 (number 410808) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - invalided sick to England on 10 July 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 5 September 1918 - wounded on 2 October 1918 - invalided to England on 3 October 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 17 April 1917: "For gallant conduct while in charge of a Machine Gun during operation of Apr. 9/17."

(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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