Friday 8 February 2013

Warrant Officer Class II John James Wilkinson

Born on 13 July 1878 in Belfast, Ireland - husband of Lily Wilkinson, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as photographer; married; currently a member of the Governor General Foot Guards (three years, Colour Sergeant); previously served with the Canadian Engineers (sergeant, five years) and in South Africa (one year, seven months); Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 9.75 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; fresh complexion; grey eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 26 February 1915 (number 410436) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - wounded on 18 November 1916 - invalided to England on 23 November 1916 - also company sergeant-major.

Awarded a Mention in Despatches - no official citation - unit recommendation date 3 March 1917: "For distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty."

Recommended for an unnamed decoration, but no award made - unit recommendation dated 3 March 1917: "This N.C.O. rendered valuable assistance to his Company Commander during attack on Desire Trench, Petit Miraumont.  Although wounded in several places he continued to carry out his duties until ordered to leave the line."

(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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