Saturday 6 August 2011

Acting-Lance-Corporal William Samuel Pearce

Born on 23 July 1871 or 11 May 1872 in Birmingham, England - father of William Samuel Pearce, Birmingham, England - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as labourer; widower; no current military service; previously served with the Shropshire Light Infantry (fourteen years); Church of England; height of 5 feet 6 inches; chest of 37.5 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; hazel eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, in Lindsay, Ontario, on 13 May 1915 - transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 21 or 22 June 1915 - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - discharged at Saint John, New Brunswick, on 3 April 1916 OR struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - joined the 238th Battalion, CEF, under the name "Charles Steers" in Port Hope, Ontario, on 15 August 1916 (number 1037914) - [no indication he served in theatre].

(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; Sailing List, 238th Battalion, CEF)

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