Wednesday 9 February 2011

Captain Andrew Forest Menzies, MC

Born on 9 November 1887 in Pembroke, Ontario - son of Mrs. Elizabeth Menzies, Orillia, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as civil engineer; single; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 9 inches; chest of 38.25 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; brown eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 5 January 1915 (number 410928) - [commissioned?] - 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 1 November 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 6 September 1918 - wounded on 1 October 1918 - invalided to England on 2 October 1918.

Awarded the Military Cross - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Immediately after the capture of a position he made a daring tour under heavy shell fire of the captured area, returning with a most valuable and accurate report. Later, he twice led reconnoitring patrols forward without thought of his personal safety, and, although attacked by the enemy, brought his party back in safety, having obtained valuable information as to the strength and disposition of the enemy. He displayed fearless energy and presence of mind." - unit recommendation dated 3 July 1917: "This Officer performed exceptionally valuable work in the capacity of Machine Gun and Intelligence Officer during attack on La Coulotte and Avion."

(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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