Sergeant Alexander Stewart, DCM, MM

Born on 12 July 1886 in Croy, Nairnshire, Scotland - husband of Mary Stewart, Brantford, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address same as wife; trade as police constable; married; currently serving with the 38th Regiment Dufferin Rifles of Canada; previously served with the Highland Garrison Artillery (four years); Presbyterian; height of 6 feet 0 inches; chest of 39 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; brown eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 215th Battalion, CEF, in Brantford, Ontario, on 6 March 1916 (number 270005) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 27 or 28 March 1918 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal - official citation: "For gallantry and devotion to duty during operations resulting in the capture of Valenciennes and towns east of that city, from 27th October to 5th November, 1918. When the company was advancing in artillery formation from St. Saulve, on 2nd November, it suddenly came under severe machine gun fire and a heavy enemy barrage. He moved across the entire company frontage twice, and by his disregard of safety set a splendid example to all." - unit recommendation dated 26 December 1918: "For Gallantry during operations near Valenciennes (Peace Despatch)."

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated November 1918: "For gallantry during operation around Valenciennes from Nov. 1 to 5/18."

Stewart later served as the Chief of Police in Barrie, Ontario, from 1925 to 1945.

(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))

(Thanks to Darcy Murray for the information and photograph of Police Chief Stewart.)

Private Andrew Smith, MM

Born on 13 November 1897 in Dublin, Ireland - brother of John Smith, 91st Battalion, CEF - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Hespler, Ontario; trade as farmer; single; no current or previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 2.25 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; fresh complexion; grey eyes; dark brown hair.

Joined the 91st Battalion, CEF, in St. Thomas, Ontario, on 31 January 1916 (number 189932) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 20 or 21 August 1916 - killed in action on 18 November 1916 - name inscribed on the Vimy Memorial, France.

Awarded the Military Medal - no citation - unit recommendation dated 21 November 1916: "In attack on Desire Trench, Nov. 18/16, these N.C.O's and men did valuable work in maintaining communication throughout the Battn, all the time being under heavy shell fire. They also assisted, in bringing in the wounded."

(Updated with a photo of Pte Smith's inscription on the Vimy Memorial that I took in August 2012).

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org; 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))

Corporal William Oswald Wright, MM

Born on 3 April 1898 in Filay, Yorkshire, England - son of Mr. J.Y. Wright, South Mountain, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in South Mountain, Ontario; trade as cheesemaker; single; no current military service; previously served with the Baden-Powell Scouts (three years); Church of England; height of 5 feet 7.5 inches; chest of 36 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; brown eyes; black hair.

Joined the 154th Battalion, CEF, in South Mountain, Ontario, on 7 October 1916 (number 634185) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 24 May 1917 - wounded on 27 September 1918 - invalided to England on 29 September 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal (as a lance-corporal) - no formal citation - unit recommendation dated 7 September 1918: "For gallantry during Scarpe Operations, Sept 1st and 2nd 1918."

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org; 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))

Private William Cameron Armstrong, MM

Born on 29 June 1898 in Fordwich, Ontario - son of Louis Armstrong, Gormley, Ontario - attestation form notes trade as farmer, single, not now nor previously a member of the military, height of 5 feet 4 inches, chest of 33.5 inches, fair complexion, blue eyes, brown hair, Baptist.

Joined the 91st Canadian Infantry Battalion on 26 November 1915 (number 189478) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion in France on 20 or 21 August 1916 - wounded on 18 or 19 November 1916 - rejoined the battalion on 11 November 1917 - wounded on 16 or 17 March 1918 - invalided to England on 26 March 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal - unofficial citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an enemy raid of 16th March 1918.  While the raid was in progress Pte Armstrong was wounded in seven places.  He was a member of a bombing post and had thrown several bombs when a shell burst close by wounding him.  Although nadly [sic] wounded he continued to hand out bombs to his comrades and refused to go out of the line until the raiders were repulsed.  It is considered that Pte Armstrong by his gallant conduct and the cheerful manner in which he bore his wounds, and assisted his comrades is entirely worthy of an immediate award." (awarded by Corps Order 26 March 1918; announced by London Gazette, 25 April 1918." - unit recommendation from 19 March 1918: "During enemy raid Mar. 16/18 this man displayed exceptional pluck and devotion to duty. After having his right arm broken and six other wounds, he continued to hand up bombs to those who were able to throw them."

(sources: Library and Archives Canada (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca), online attestation papers; Library and Archives Citation Cards, via www.ancestry.ca; The London Gazette, 6th Supplement to No.30652, 25 April 1918; 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))

Sergeant Robert Armishaw, MM

Born on 22 November 1894 in Walsall, South Staffordshire, England - son of Herbert Armishaw, South Wellington, British Columbia - attestation form notes trade as miner, single, not now nor previously a member of the military, height of 5 feet 6.5 inches, chest of 36 inches, fair complexion, grey eyes, light brown hair, Methodist.

Joined the 121st Canadian Infantry Battalion on 2 November 1915 (number 760069) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion in France on 15 November 1916 - wounded on 28 September 1918 - invalided to England on 4 October 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal on 17 September 1917 - unofficial citation: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty near AVION, during the operations from 26th to 28th June, 1917.  When in AVION TRENCH this Non-commissioned Officer had charge of a bombing Group which while the work of consolidation was going on and afterwards was in an exposed position and subjected to very heavy shell fire. By showing and [sic] example of coolness and daring himself, he was successful in keeping his Section at all times under perfect control, and directed most effective rifle grenade fire on enemy posts. So well did he arrange the disposition of his men, he brought his Section through the engagement without any casualties.” (awarded by Corps Order 31 July 1917) - unit recommendation date unknown: "For bravery in the Field."

(sources: Library and Archives Canada (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca), online attestation papers; Library and Archives Canada, Honours and Awards Citation Cards, via www.ancestry.ca; The London Gazette, 5th Suplement to No.30287, 17 September 1917, p.9614; 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))

Private Lansing Affleck, MM

Born on 10 July 1895 in Lanark, Ontario - next of kin, Archie Affleck, father - attestation form states printer by trade, single, never previously a member of the militia, weight 130 lbs, height of 5 feet 5 inches, chest of 35.5 inches, fair complexion, grey eyes, dark hair, Baptist or Congregationalist.

Joined the 130th Canadian Infantry Battalion on 14 January 1916 (number 787101) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion in France on 15 November 1916 - transferred to the Canadian Machine Gun Corps on 1 May 1918 - wounded on 1 October 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal - unofficial citation (awarded by Corps Order 17 December 1917, announced by London Gazette, 2nd Supplement to No.30573, 13 March 1918): "For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during operations before PASSCHENDAELE from October 29th to November 2nd 1917.  This man was employed as a Runner and repeatedly volunteered for the most dangerous runs, when the shelling was such as would make it appear impossible for anyone to get through.  On the night of October 31st he delivered an important message under the most dangerous conditions and immediately volunteers to take out the next message although not his turn to do so.  His work was most inspiring to his fellow Runners." - unit recommendation dated 6 November 1917: "This man displayed exceptional gallantry in carrying out his duties as Battn. runner."

(sources: Library and Archives Canada (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca), online attestation papers; Library and Archives Canada, Honours and Awards Citation Cards, via www.ancestry.ca; The London Gazette, 2nd Supplement to No.30573, 13 March 1918, p.3249; 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); Library and Archives Canada, Honours and Awards Citations Cards, via www.ancestry.ca)

Private John Andrew Wilson, MM

Born on 4 December 1896 in Maitland, Ontario - son of Mrs. E. Wilson, Maitland, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Maitland, Ontario; trade as chauffeur; single; currently a member of the Canal Patrol (six months); no previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 6.5 inches; chest of 34.5 inches fully expanded; medium complexion; blue eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 156th Battalion, CEF, in Brockville, Ontario, on 1 March 1916 (number 639820) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 18 or 19 September 1918 - wounded on 30 September 1918 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 2 November 1918 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unite recommendation dated 7 September 1918: "For gallantry during Scarpe Operations, Sept 1st and 2nd 1918."

(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))

Private Ernest Sheppard Wilson, MM

Born on 30 March 1896 in Sudbury, Ontario - son of David Wilson, Pembroke, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as bookkeeper; single; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 9 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; rather fair complexion; blue eyes; dark hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 22 January 1915 (number 410661) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated November 1918: "For gallantry during operation around Valenciennes from Nov. 1 to 5/18."

(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))

Lance-Corporal John Patrick Willis, MM

Born on 4 March 1894 in London, England - brother of Mary Willis, London, England - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as farmer; single; no current or previous military service; Roman Catholic; height of 5 feet 6.5 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; ruddy complexion; hazel eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 26 February 1915 (number 410437) - 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 30 October 1916 - invalided to England on 1 November 1916 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 4 May 1917 - wounded on 30 October or 1 November 1917 - invalided to England on 4 November 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 11 October 1918 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 3 July 1917: "Performed valuable work in assisting in the attack on an enemy machine gun emplacement during attack on Avion Trench June 28/17."

(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))

Sergeant Roscoe Josiah Wilder, MM and Bar

Born on 11 October 1885 in Rising Sun, Wisconsin - husband of Elizabeth Wilder, Melville, Saskatchewan - at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Melville, Saskatchewan; trade as farmer; married; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 7.75 inches; chest of 37.5 inches fully expanded; ruddy complexion; gray eyes; dark hair.

Joined the 212th Battalion, CEF, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on 25 April 1916 (number 261253) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 16 or 17 February 1917 - struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal (as a corporal) - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 15 August 1918: "For bravery and determination during operations between Lihon and Chilly 11th Aug. 1918."

Awarded the Bar to the Military Medal (as a corporal) - no official citation - unit recommendation dated November 1918: "For gallantry during operation in around [sic] Valenciennes from Nov. 1 to 5/18."

(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))

Acting-Sergeant Arthur Mills White, MM

Born on 15 December 1892 in Buckingham, Quebec - son of Edward Augustus White, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as bank clerk; single; no current or previous military service; Baptist; height of 5 feet 5.5 inches; chest of 36 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; blue eyes; landy hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 20 July 1915 (number 410226) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - struck off strength to the Officers' Training Course on 29 October 1918 - later promoted to acting-sergeant.

Awarded the Military Medal - no citation - unit recommendation dated 5 October 1918: "For Gallantry during the operations in the vicinity of Bourlon, 29th Sept 1918".

(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))

Private William George West, MM

Born on 21 September 1897 in Essex, England - son of Mrs. Emelina West, Toronto, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as labourer; single; no current or previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 6 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; light complexion; blue eyes; light hair.

Joined the 77th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 2 August 1915 (number 144628) - departed Canada for overseas on 19 June 1916 - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, in England on 6 July 1916 - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - wounded on 26 June 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 27 June 1917 - struck off strength to the Canadian Machine Gun Pool, CEF, on 13 May 1918 - repatriated to Canada on 22 May 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal (announced in London Gazette 9 July 1917) - citation: "For conspicuous bravery during the operations on Vimy Ridge, between 9th and 13th April, 1917, especially during the assault on the 9th April, when he was knocked down by a shell, and the Lewis Gun which he was carrying blown out of his hands. Although badly shaken, he calmly picked up the gun and continued to his objective, where he immediately got his gun into action and succeeded in knocking out some Snipers who were playing havoc amongst some of his comrades. The rest of the crew being casualties, he organized a new gun crew from men of various Units lying scattered around him in shell holes. His coolness and courage throughout the whole operation was most marked and it is considered that he is fully deserving of an immediate reward." - unit recommendation dated 17 April 1917: "For gallant conduct during operations Apr. 9th 1917."

(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); anonymous, An Historical Sketch of the Seventy-Seventh Battalion Canadian Expeditionary Force (Ottawa: War Publications Limited, 1926), p.153)

Lance-Corporal Walter Wendland, MM

Born on 22 March 1889 in Liverpool, England - husband of Ethel Wendland, Ottawa, Ontario - at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as baker; married; no current or previous military service; Wesleyan; height of 5 feet 9.75 inches; chest of 36 inches fully expanded; hearthy complexion; hazel eyes; blonde hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 22 February 1915 (number 410223) - served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda - landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 - declared missing, presumed dead, on 30 October 1917 - name inscribed on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial (panel 10-18-26-28), Belgium.

Awarded the Military Medal - no official citation - unit recommendation dated 6 November 1917: "On night Oct. 31/17 this N.C.O., although wounded and gassed, remained on duty when the pack train became disorganized through heavy shell fire and displayed efficient leadership and courage in assembling the remainder of the train and guiding them out of the shelled area."

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org)

Acting-Sergeant (Private) Albert Danby Ward, MM

Born on 20 January 1896 in Nottingham, England – cousin of John Simpson, Nottingham, England – at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as farming; single; no current or previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 5 inches; chest of 37 inches fully expanded; fresh complexion; blue eyes; light brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 26 February 1915 (number 410425) – 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 21 November 1916 – rejoined the 38th Battalion on 22 April 1917 – killed in action on 30 October 1917 – name inscribed on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial (panel 10-18-26-28), Belgium.

Awarded the Military Medal – no citation (announced 17 September 1917). Unit recommendation date unknown: “For bravery 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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, “Debt of Honour” register, www.cwgc.org; 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)))

Private Clifford Beaudoin, MM

Born on 5 August 1895 in Michiganni, Michigan - son of John and Angelina Beaudoin, Terrebonne, Quebec - attestation form notes trade as clerk, single, no current or previous military service, height of 5 feet 7 inches, chest of 35 inches, weight of 138 pounds, dark complexion, blue eyes, black hair, Roman Catholic.

Joined the 130th Canadian Infantry Battalion on 5 January 1916 (number 789142) - taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion in France on 14 or 15 November 1916 - wounded on 31 July 1917 - invalided to England on 4 August 1917 - rejoined the battalion on 30 November 1917 - killed in action on 29 September 1918 - name listed on the Vimy Memorial, France.

Awarded the Military Medal - no citation - unit recommendation 7 September 1918: "For gallantry during Scarpe Operations, near Dury, Sept 1st and 2nd 1918."

(Updated with a photo of Pte Beaudoin's inscription on the Vimy Memorial that I took in August 2012).

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, "Debt of Honour" register, www.cwgc.org; 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))

Private Thomas Henry Waite, MM

Born on 31 August 1890 in Toronto, Ontario – son of May Waite, Owen Sound, Ontario – at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address same as mother; trade as clerk; single; no current or previous military service; Methodist; height of 5 feet 7 inches; chest of 34 inches fully expanded; fair complexion; blue eyes; dark hair.

Joined the 147th Battalion, CEF, in Camp Niagara, Ontario, on 18 June 1916 (number 839127) – taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 26 or 27 June 1917 – wounded on 27 August 1917 – invalided to England on 14 September 1917 – rejoined the 38th Battalion on 12 April 1918 – killed in action on 27 September 1918 – buried in Quarry Wood Cemetery (grave III.A.4), France.

Awarded the Military Medal – no official citation – unit recommendation dated 15 August 1918: “For courageous conduct during operations between Haugard and Hallu Aug 8th to 11th, 1918.”

(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; Commonwealth War Graves Commission, “Debt of Honour” register, www.cwgc.org; 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))

Sergeant Gillie Urquhart, MM

Born on 4 September 1897 in Greenfield, Ontario – son of Alex Urquhart, Greenfield, Ontario – at the time of his enlistment in 1916: present address in Greenfield, Ontario; trade as “farmers son”; single; no current or previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 8.75 inches; chest of 36 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; brown eyes; brown hair.

Joined the 154th Battalion, CEF, in Maxville, Ontario, on 22 January 1916 (number 633317) – taken on the strength of the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 24 May 1917 – wounded on 31 July 1917 – invalided to England on 10 August 1917 – rejoined the 38th Battalion on 11 November 1917 – sent to England for the Officers’ Training Course on 27 October 1918.

Awarded the Military Medal – no official citation – unit recommendation dated 15 August 1918: “For consistent good work during operations between Haugard and Hallu from Aug. 8th to 12th, 1918.”

(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))

Sergeant Thomas Clifford Briscoe, MM

Born on 17 August 1895 in Northcote, Ontario - son of James A. and Alice Adeline Briscoe (nee Beach), Renfrew, Ontario - enlistment records note the following: trade as merchant, single, no current military service, previously served with the Renfrew Cadets, Presbyterian, height of 5 feet 5.5 inches, chest of 35.5 inches fully expanded, dark complexion, brown eyes, black hair.

Joined the 130th Canadian Infantry Battalion on 24 November 1915 (number 788520) - taken on the strength of the 38th Canadian Infantry Battalion in France on 14 or 15 November 1916 - wounded on 5 April 1917 - rejoined the 38th Battalion on 9 May 1917 - killed in action on 27 June 1917 - buried in La Chaudière Military Cemetery (grave III.A.4), France.

Awarded the Military Medal - no citation - unit recommendation dated 3 April 1917: "For gallant conduct in rescuing and assisting in the resuscitation of others overcome by gas 26-3-17."

(Updated with a photo of Sgt Briscoe's headstone in La Chaudière Cemetery that I took in August 2012).

(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))

Regimental Quartermaster-Sergeant Hubert Richard Travers, MM

Born on 3 December 1892 in Toronto, Ontario – brother of Private Harold Fergus Travers, 38th Battalion, CEF – son of Mrs. Minnie Swan Travers, Ottawa, Ontario – at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as manufacturer; single; currently a member of the 43rd Regiment, Duke of Cornwall’s Own Rifles (five years); no previous military service; Presbyterian; height of 5 feet 5 inches; chest of 33 inches fully expanded; healthy complexion; blue eyes; dark brown hair.

Joined the 38th Battalion, CEF, in Ottawa, Ontario, on 22 February 1915 (number 410907) – served with the 38th Battalion during its period of garrison duty in Bermuda – landed in France with the 38th Battalion on 13 August 1916 – struck off the strength of the 38th Battalion on 16 June 1919.

Awarded the Military Medal – no citation – unit recommendation dated 6 November 1917: “On night Oct. 31st and Nov. 1st/17 this N.C.O. displayed excellent initiative and devotion to duty in delivering rations under extremely difficult conditions.”

Commissioned as a lieutenant with the 4th Machine Gun Battalion, Canadian Machine Gun Corps, on 19 January 1920 – promoted to major on 13 December 1920.

(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); Directorate of History and Heritage, Kardex 163.009 (D73), Corresp & slates of offr re reorg of CH of O & 4 MG Bn – Apr 36 / Feb 37)

Corporal William Francis Tomlinson, MM

Born on 18 July 1893 in Toronto, Ontario – son of Samuel Tomlinson, Toronto, Ontario – at the time of his enlistment in 1915: trade as clerk; single; no current or previous military service; Church of England; height of 5 feet 6.5 inches; chest of 35 inches fully expanded; dark complexion; gray eyes; black hair.

Joined the 59th Battalion, CEF, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, on 23 April 1915 – transferred to the 38th Battalion, CEF, on 22 June 1915 (number 410420) – 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 22 or 24 February 1917 – rejoined the 38th Battalion on 6 April 1917 – struck off strength to England in order to be commissioned 17 May 1917 – commissioned as a lieutenant – later served in the 7th Reserve Battalion and 6th Reserve Battalion.

Awarded a Military Medal – no citation – unit recommendation date unknown: “For bravery in the field”.

(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))