Private Duncan McDonald

Born on 15 September 1890 in Alexandria, Ontario - son of Dan and Margaret (nee McGillis) McDonald, Alexandria (later Matheson), Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as jeweller; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 6.5 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; ruddy complexion; blue eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 10 May 1915 (number 410367) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - killed in action on 18 November 1916 - name inscribed on the Vimy Memorial, France.

(Updated with a photo of Pte McDonald'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)