Friday 18 February 2011

Warrant Officer Class II (Company Sergeant-Major) William Alfred Millen, DCM

Born on 7 September 1881 in London, England - husband of Mildren Millen, Haileybury, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Haileybury, Ontario; trade as bookkeeper; currently a member of the 97th Regiment; previously served with the Royal Marines Light Infantry (five years); Church of England; height of 5 feet 8 inches; chest of 38 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; blue eyes; fair hair.

Joined the 159th Battalion, CEF, in Haileybury, Ontario, on 25 January 1916 (number 648006) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 26 or 27 June 1917 - struck off strength to England in order to be commissioned on 10 May 1918 - commissioned as a Lieutenant with the 6th Reserve Battalion, CEF, on 23 November 1918.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a hostile shelling, when, by his courage and great presence of mind, he undoubtedly prevented a panic and aided in steadying the men at a critical moment." - unit recommendation dated 17 April 1918: "For gallantry and devotion in the Field."

(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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