Thursday 19 May 2011

Private Reginald J. Newton, DCM

Born on 4 May 1895 in Toronto, Ontario - son of Mrs. M. Newton, Toronto, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: piano fitter; single; no current or previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 7.5 inches; chest of 33 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; blue eyes; black hair.

Joined the 80th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 26 August 1915 (number 219205) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, in England on 1 August 1916 - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - wounded on 18 November 1916 - invalided to England on 24 November 1916.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He continually carried messages under the most intense fire. Later although wounded, he refused to leave his post and continued to render most valuable services." - unit recommendation dated 19 January 1917: "In attack on Desire Trench Nov. 18/16, he performed most valuable work in his capacity as Coy. Runner to Capt. MacDowell."

(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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