The story of the 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion in the Great War via the deeds of action, decorations and awards, bestowed upon the Officer’s and Other Ranks from the Second Battle of Ypres to the Pursuit to Mons.
Organization of the 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion
Organized in Valcartier Camp September 1914 and composed of recruits from MD2 (Aurora, Brampton, Brantford, Hamilton, and also Niagara Falls). Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel W.S. Buell, replaced within days by Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Hodgetts Labatt. Just over one month before the 4th deployed to France in February 1915, Labatt relinquished command due to illness. When his replacement, Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Percival Birchall was killed in action at the second battle of Ypres on 23 April 1915, Labatt resumed command of the battalion. LtCol W S Buell also wounded in the same action.
4th (Central Ontario) Battalion embarked Quebec City 23 September 1914 aboard TYROLIA, and later disembarked in England 14 October 1914, with a strength of 44 officers, 1121 other ranks. Disembarked in France 11 February 1915 with the 1st Canadian Division, 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade. Reinforced by 3rd Canadian Reserve. Battalion.
Lt.-Col. Labatt in command. Valcartier Camp, August 24th to Sept. 22nd. Sailed from Quebec, Sept. 23rd. Private L G Cook (no service number), having attested on 23 September 1914, was dead the following day. Held in Gaspe Bay for 7 days, and then sailed for Plymouth, England. Arrived in Plymouth 14th October, and disembarked on the 22nd, entraining for Bustard Camp same date. BUSTARD CAMP, SALISBURY PLAINS. Moved camp on several occasions on account of mud. Very little training.
December 1914
Still on the Plains. Little training, too much mud. Lieut.-Col. Labatt to hospital, Lieut.-Col. Buell assumes command. On Christmas Day, members of the battalion sick in hospital remembered, each taken a box of fruit, etc (36 sick).
January 1915
Still on the Plains. Not much training, too much mud. Lieut.-Col. Birchall, Royal Fusilers, assumes command of 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion.
On 12 January 1915, Private Thomas Rose died (NETHERAVON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD), the only cerebrospinal meningitis 4th Battalion casualty.
February 1915
Battalion in Bustard Camp to Feb. 7th, entrained at SALISBURY for AVONMOUTH, embarked AVONMOUTH same day, and sailed for ST. NAIZAIRE, arriving at ST. NAIZAIRE on 11th Feb. Disembarked ST. NAIZAIRE on 12th Feb., and entrained for STRAZEELE, arriving there on 13th.
First Casualty
Whilst travelling by train with his battalion, Private Frederick Herbert Norris 11273, son of Edwin and Annie Norris, of Islington, London, accidentally fell off outside the village of Darnétal. The car wheels passing over the top of his head killing him instantly (ST. SEVER CEMETERY, ROUEN).
The battalion marched to OUDERSTEEN, then to ARMENTIERES AREA.
20 February 1915
Forty-eight hours in trenches for instruction.
At this time a minor outbreak of scarlet fever affected “D” Company, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion.
March 1915
Marched to FIEUVAIL AREA. 4th March, first tour in line as a battalion. Three tours of 4 days. Took part in NEUVE CHAPELLE, fake attack. Relieved in trenches about 28th by 3rd British Division. Moved to NEUFBERQUIN.
- Private Gerald Stewart Patterson 11014, 08-03-15, (LONGUENESSE (ST. OMER) SOUVENIR CEMETERY)
- Private James Huggins 10990, 20-03-15, (LONGUENESSE (ERITH (ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST) CHURCHYARD)
- Pvt George Edward King 11046, 31-03-15, (SAILLY-SUR-LA-LYS CANADIAN CEMETERY)
April 1915
4th (Central Ontario) Battalion moved to YPRES AREA, 16th. Battalion in Mill at VLAMERTINGHE on 20th April. In Division Reserve. 22nd April, Gas attack by Huns on French and Canadian troops. Battalion counter attacked on 23rd April, gaining a hill north of WEILTJE and ST. JEAN. Were relieved on 26th. Brigade on two large working parties. 30th moved to VLAMERTINGHE and marched to BAILLEUL AREA for re-organization. Lt.-Col. Birchall killed 23-4-15, and Lt.-Col. Rogers assumed command.
No. 10538 L/Sgt. HART, W. E.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29286, 6-9-15.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry, ability, and devotion to duty on the 23rd April, 1915, at LANGEMARCKE, when he carried many messages for the commanding officer under a very heavy rifle and machine-gun and shell fire. From the 28th to 31st May, at FESTUBERT, he repaired, on no less than eleven occasions in broad daylight under a very heavy shell fire and while being constantly sniped at, breaks in the telephone wires. He was also every night engaged on this hazardous work. At GIVENCHY his cool bravery and excellent work, in the face of severe and constant fire, was mainly instrumental in keeping communication intact.
No. 10857 Lieut. KAYE, A. W.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29202, 22-6-15.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For gallant conduct and devotion to duty at Pilckem Ridge, from 23rd to 26th April, 1915, in dressing and assisting the wounded throughout the action.
No. 11428 Sgt./Capt. ROTHERY, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29608, 3-6-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For most exemplary service during twelve months spent continuously on service with the battalion in Flanders. And for his heroic conduct at YPRES on April 23rd, 1915, when his platoon commander was stricken down, assuming at once command of his platoon, he gallantly led his men to one of the foremost positions, which was maintained under the most galling artillery, machine gun and rifle fire, when all of his company officers were either killed or wounded. And for his subsequent excellent work as platoon sergeant at Festubert and Givenchy.
May/June 1915
Operations for AUBERS RIDGE near FESTUBERT, 24th/25th May. 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion in reserve to brigade in trenches near INDIAN VILLAGE. Relieved 3rd Canadian Infantry Battalion in Canadian Orchard. Casualties very heavy from machine-gun fire. Dug in. Relieved by the 4th Black Watch. Eleven days in line. Lt.-Col. Labatt taking over from Lt.-Col. Rogers.
Lt.-Col. Colquhoun taking over from Lt.-Col. Labatt. 5th, moved to ST. FLORIS. 6th, to trenches in GIVENCHY-LABASEE AREA. Issued with Lee Enfield rifles. Eight days in line, 11th, moved near BETHUNE for rest. 24th, inspection by Sir J. French. Moved to PLOEGSTERTE, two days march. Trenches in this area on 28th/29th June.
Fall 1915
In PLOEGSTEERT AREA doing 6 days in front line, 6 days in support, 6 days in reserve. Very few casualties. A great part of the time spent in repairing trenches. 4th Oct., moved to DRANOUTRE AREA, doing 6 days in front line, 6 days in support, 6 days in reserve. Occasional tours of 8 days. Usual trench warfare. Few casualties.
No. 10718 Sgt. Maj. BENTON, B.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29447, 22-1-16.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry at Wulverghen on 20th October, 1915, when he volunteered to go with Private J. Donaghue to the rescue of a comrade who had been shot down near the enemy s lines. He crawled 300 yards, found the wounded man in a shell hole near the German wire, dressed his wounds, and guided Private Donaghue, who carried him back to our trenches.
No. 10535 Pte. DONOGHUE, J.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29447, 22-1-16.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry at Wulverghem on October 20th, 1915, when he volunteered to go out with Company Sergeant-Major Benton and attempt to rescue a comrade, who had been severely wounded near the enemy s lines. They crawled some 300 yards, found the wounded man in a shell hole, and after his wounds had been dressed by Company Sergeant-Major Benton, Private Donoghue crawled in with him on his back. One rescue party had already gone out, but failed to locate the wounded man.
No. A36224 S/Major (now Capt.) MATHESON, J. D.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29447, 22-1-16.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 30204, 26-7-17.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry at WULVERGHEM, on Oct. 20th, 1915, when two of his patrol had been wounded, but could not be located owing to enemy s heavy fire. He led remainder of patrol to our lines in safety and then went out alone under heavy fire and crawled along the enemy’s wire searching for his wounded comrades.
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. After the capture of an enemy position he displayed the greatest courage and initiative in several times pushing forward, sometimes single handed, at other times with a patrol, and returning with information of the greatest value. Though severely wounded he carried on until ordered by his commander to report to his medical officer.
December 9th, moved from AIRCRAFT FARM to ARMY CORPS RESERVE near MONT DES CATS. 30th, moved back to AIRCRAFT FARM, DRANOUTRE AREA.
No. 11262 McCAULEY, M. G.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29438, 14-1-16.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry. When all the members of his machine-gun team were either killed or wounded while advancing to take up a position, he snatched the gun from the last man hit and mounted it for action. In endeavouring to fire he found that the gun had been rendered temporarily useless by a shell. He at once voluntarily went out, in the face of severe shell and rifle fire, and procured sufficient spare parts from his comrades, returned, dismounted the gun, and finally succeeded in repairing it. He rushed out again and obtained ammunition, which had been dropped several hundred yards in the rear, and returned to his gun, opened fire, and rendered invaluable services to the advancing infantry. On many occasions his bravery and devotion to duty have been most marked.
Ploegsteert Wood Military Cemetery
Ploegsteert Wood Military Cemetery made by the enclosure of a number of small regimental cemeteries. Plot II originally the SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY CEMETERY, made by the 1st Battalion in December 1914. The 32 graves it contains, as well as ten in Plot I, are from that battalion. Plot IV, the BUCKS CEMETERY, made by the 1st/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion, Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry, in April 1915. 11 of the 20 graves it contains are from that battalion.
Plot III contains 16 graves of the 1/5th Gloucesters, made between April and May 1915, and in Plots III and I there are 12 graves of the 8th Loyal North Lancs from October to December 1915. However, these plots were known as CANADIAN CEMETERY, STRAND, from the 28 Canadian graves of June to October 1915 in Plot III, and from the trench running nearby.
Twenty-eight identified Canadian soldiers include several from 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion.
February/March 1916
On the 28th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion moved to Corps Reserve. 29th, BERTHEN, POPERINGHE AREA.
No. 63640 Pte. MILLARD, J.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29438, 14-1-16.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29453, 27-1-16.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry. He accompanied an officer on a daring reconnaissance, and, when the officer had been challenged and fired on near the enemy s parapet, and had got hopelessly entangled in the wire, Private MILLARD, regardless of the rapid fire opened on him by the enemy, rushed in, freed the officer and helped him back to safety.
April/May 1916
9th, trenches in “THE BLUFF.” Trenches in “THE BLUFF,” “MT. SORREL,” and HILL 60. Lt.-Col. Colquhoun proceeds to Canada on leave. Lt.-Col. Rae assumes command of 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion.
No. 11041 Pte. BOOKER, G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29780, 11-10-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For distinguished conduct and coolness under fire. During the period in the trenches 25th May to 30th May, 1916, during heavy bombardments and after wire communications had been broken, Pte. Booker volunteered to carry messages from battalion headquarters to the front line. Although in full view of the enemy, and under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, he made several trips over the open and delivered the messages.
No. 63325 Pte. ELLIOTT, J. D.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29780, 11-10-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For distinguished conduct under fire on the 27th May, 1916. During a bombardment of the trenches and points in the rear, telephone communications were broken. Pte. ELLIOTT volunteered to attempt to re-establish communications with Battn. Hdqrs. He went out over the open ground under a very heavy artillery and machine gun fire and succeeded in carrying out his object. For previous good services in volunteering and repairing wires under fire.
No. 22058 Sgt. GRAHAM, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29780, 11-10-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For bravery and coolness under fire, during a heavy bombard ment of our trenches, on the 27th May, 1916, after his platoon commander was killed Sgt. Graham took command of the platoon, and by his bravery and coolness succeeded in rescuing five of his men who had been buried.
No. 18160 Sgt. Lieut. ROBITAILLE, J. N.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29780, 11-10-16.
Name brought to notice of the Secretary of State for War for valuable services rendered in connection with the war. W. O. Comm., 13-8-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For distinguished conduct and bravery under fire. During a heavy bombardment of our trenches on April 12th, 1916, ten men were wounded and buried under debris. Sgt. ROBITAILLE, by his remarkable coolness did much to steady the men and succeeded in rescuing the buried ones and in bandaging them under enemy fire.
ONTARIO CEMETERY, SAINS-LES-MARQUION
June 1916
Still in POPERINGHE AREA. 13th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion took part in counter attack for Mt. Sorrel, heavy casualties.
No. 10828 Pte. WATSON, W. D.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29719, 23-8-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous gallantry at OBSERVATORY RIDGE, on 13th June, 1916. His courage and devotion to wounded were very marked.. Himself wounded, and under heavy fire, he continued his work of dressing the wounded until he collapsed.
No. 452374 Pte. ATHERTON, E.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29719, 23-8-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal He was employed as a stretcher bearer during the attack on Observatory Ridge, on 13th June, 1916, and showed great gallantry and devotion to duty. When all other stretcher bearers of his company were wounded he kept moving over the ground from one flank to another dressing the wounded of other units besides this battalion, also several wounded Germans. He remained with his company for forty-eight hours until relieved, under continuous shell fire, often very intense, and under the most trying weather conditions, and his endurance and care undoubtedly assisted in saving many lives.
No. 18603 Pte. DELANEY, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29719, 23-7-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal In an attack on 13th June, 1916, Sgt. Delaney assisted a L/Cpl. who was seriously wounded, to cover, thus helping to save his life. Later in the day when in charge of a party carrying ammunition to the front line in the open, he showed great leadership and encouraged his men both by word and action under very heavy fire. His company was exposed for two days to continuous shell fire. During this time he continued to perform his duties in a most efficient manner, and was of great assistance after several of the Officers had become casualties.
No. 436057 Pte. PEARSON, A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29719, 23-8-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal He was on duty as a stretcher bearer during the attack on OBSERVATORY RIDGE, on 13th June, 1916. He worked unceasingly on the
wounded in the open, under an intense shell fire, and was then wounded in the forearm by a piece of shell. In spite of this, he continued working on the wounded under a heavy fire another six hours, until his arm and hand were so stiff unable to tie bandages.
No. 63726 Pte./Lieut. POWELL, U.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29719, 23-8-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During the attack on OBSERVATORY RIDGE, on 13th June, 1916, he was employed as a runner. He was on duty continuously for a period over 50 hours without sleep and without shelter under the most trying weather conditions. His services in keeping in touch with individual units of the battalion and neighbouring troops were most successful in establishing connection where touch had been lost and other runners had failed. On several occasions he volunteered to guide parties of other units who had lost their way to their destinations, and during the whole of this period he was exposed to a continuous and often very violent shell fire. He has previously distinguished himself by his willingness and coolness to
work under fire.
July 1916
Still in POPERINGHE AREA. Night of 7th/8th, raided enemy trenches. Unsuccessful on account of wire.
August 1916
9th, moved to STEENVOORDE. 10th, moved to NOORDEERNE AREA, 11th, POLINCOVE. 12th ZOUAFQUES. 27th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion entrained AUDRUICQ. 28th detrained AUX LE CHATEAU and marched to AGENVILLE. 30th, ALBERT. 31st, trenches at LA BOIZELLE, SOMME AREA.
Key feature: La Boiselle.
Fourth Army Front: vertical aerial reconnaissance of the La Boisselle salient prior to the Battle of Albert, (Battle of the Somme). ‘Mash Valley’ is at the top with the Albert-Bapaume road running diagonally to top right. The results of heavy mine fighting in 1915 can be seen in the ‘Glory Hole’, the no-man’s land between the British and German lines.
September 1916
4th (Central Ontario) Battalion in trenches for tours, repelled two enemy attacks. Losses heavy on both sides. Still in SOMME AREA.
No. 451231 Pte. HACKMAN, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29854, 9-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Pte. HACKMAN, with two others were members of a party detailed to act as stretcher bearers for another battalion on the night of 9th/10th Sept., 1916. All communications were being heavily shelled, and while on the way up these men were buried by a shell which killed and wounded several others of the party. After being extricated, they proceeded to the front line and carried a wounded man back to the aid post.
They returned immediately to the front line and took another casualty out, and when returning to the front line again they were buried by a shell. Dug out by men of another battalion, continued on to the front line, took a third man out, after which they started to return to the front line for the fourth time, when they were met in the communication trench by the officer in charge of the party, who seeing their condition ordered them to turn back. They did so, being the last of the party to return to headquarters.
No. 10795 Pte. KLEPPER, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29854, 9-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For great bravery in the trenches in front of Courcelette, from 17th to 21st Sept., 1916. Pte. KLEPPER carried in wounded men and dressed their wounds under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire. He displayed great coolness and continued doing wonderful work until seriously wounded on the 21st September. This man has previously been recommended for his good work as a stretcher bearer on several occasions.
No. 10681 Pte. MATHEWSON, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29854, 9-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal He with another were detailed to act as stretcher bearers for another battalion on the night of 9th/10th Sept., 1916. All communications were being heavily shelled, and while on the way up these men were buried by a shell which killed and wounded several others of the party. After being extricated, they proceeded to the front line and carried a wounded man back to the aid post.
They returned immediately to the front line, took another casualty out, when returning to the front line again they were buried by a shell. Dug out by men of another battalion, continued on to the front line and took the third man out, after which they started to return to the front line for the fourth time, when they were met by the officer in the communication trench, who seeing their condition ordered them to turn back. They did so, being the last of the party to return to headquarters.
No. 405633 Pte. MILLS, E.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29854, 9-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Pte. MILLS displayed great bravery during enemy counter attack on our trenches in front of COURCELETTE on the night of 19th/20th
September, 1916. When communications had been broken, he volunteered to carry messages, making five trips through enemy artillery and machine gun fire, in order to establish communications with the units on the flank of his company and with the supporting company.
No. 491373 Pte. NUTE, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29854, 9-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For remarkable courage on the night of the 20th and 21st September, 1916, at COURCELETTE. Pte. NUTE, having been wounded in the head and legs was proceeding to the dressing station, when he met a company of the relieving battalion whose guides had become casualties. Although suffering intensely from his wounds, he guided the company back through a heavy barrage of fire to its position in the front line. In all probability this company would have gone astray if it had not been for Pte. NUTE’S bravery and determination.
October 1916
8th/9th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion attacked REGINA TRENCH. Severe casualties. 10th, moved to ALBERT and BOUZINCOURT. 20th GOUY SERVINS. Trenches CARENCY SECTOR for 4 days.
No. 11371 Lieut. JOHNSON, F. L.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on German trenches near Courcelette on 8th October, 1916, this man and three others were members of a party of bombers who cleared 300 yards of trench, capturing a German machine-gun and over 100 prisoners and getting in touch with the adjoining battalion on the right. In the afternoon of the same day, when a heavy German counter attack was made, the same men were members of a party which made three counter attacks on the enemy, holding up their advance until dusk, when the party was forced to retire owing to shortage of bombs.
No. 201510 Pte. WATERTON, A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on German trenches near COURCELLETTE, 8th October, 1916. This man with three others were members of a party of bombers who cleared 300 yards of trench capturing a German machine gun and over 100 prisoners and getting in touch with the adjoining battalion on the right. In the afternoon of the same day, when a heavy counter attack was made, the same men were members of a party which made three counter attacks on the enemy, holding up their advance until dusk, when the party were forced to retire owing to the shortage of bombs.
No. 141803 Pte. WATSON, F. C.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29893, 6-1-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near COURCELLETTE, on 8th October, 1916, Pte. WATSON and Pte. WILSON behaved with great gallantry whilst the trenches were being taken. Later in the day whilst engaged in repelling a German counter attack they behaved with great coolness and determination. Their steadiness and good example did a very great deal to encourage the other men, many of whom were in the trenches for the first time.
No. 142599 Pte. WILSON, A. S.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29893, 6-1-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near COURCELETTE, on 8th October, 1916. Pte. WILSON and another behaved with great gallantry whilst the trenches were being taken. Later in the day, whilst engaged in repelling a German counter attack, they behaved with great coolness and determination. Their steadiness and the good example they set did a very great deal to encourage the other men, many of whom were in the trenches for the first time.
No. 21819 Sgt. (A/C.S.M.) CHAPMAN, P. L. A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack near Courcelette, 8th Oct., 1916, this N. C. O. was one of the first to reach the German trenches. He did great service in clear ing the trenches, setting a fine example to the men by his coolness and courage, and after this trench had been captured was of the greatest assistance to his Company Commander in re-organizing and consolidating the position. Severely wounded but continued his good work until forced to go out. He also did good work in steadying the men and setting a fine example Sept. 20th, 1916.
No. 406884 Pte. FALCONER, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack near Courcelette, 8th Oct., 1916, this N. C. O. was one of the first to reach the German trenches. He did great service in clear ing the trenches, setting a fine example to the men by his coolness and courage, and after this trench had been captured was of the greatest assistance to his Company Commander in re-organizing and consolidating the position. Severely wounded but continued his good work until forced to go out. He also did good work in steadying the men and setting a fine example Sept. 20th, 1916.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29893, 6-1-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During action of Oct. 8th, 9th, near Courcelette he showed great bravery and untiring devotion to duty in repairing telephone wires under heavy fire. He made twelve trips over a shell-swept area on this duty, and when communications were cut, he carried an S. O. S. message back to a relay station through a very heavy artillery barrage. Pte. FALCONER has been previously recommended for a similar act of gallantry.
No. 63635 Pte. McKINNON, A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near Courcelette on 8th Oct., 1916. This man with two others were acting as Stretcher Bearers. They remained in the open under heavy shelling and machine gun and rifle fire, dressing the wounded and placing them in shell holes. They afterwards continued their good work in the trenches, and whilst in the performance of this duty Pte. McKINNON was wounded.
No. 444248 Pte. MERRITT, T. A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near Courcelette on 8th October, 1916. This man with two others were acting as stretcher bearers. They remained out in the open under heavy shelling and machine-gun and rifle fire, dressing the wounded and placing them in shell holes, etc. They afterwards continued their good work in the trenches, and whilst in the performance of this duty Pte. McKinnon was wounded.
No. 406202 Sgt. WREN, H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31142, 24-1-19.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31128, 16-1-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During the attack on Drocourt-Queant line, on 31st August, 1918, his company came under very severe machine-gun fire, but he rushed forward with great gallantry and initiative, and skilfully manoeuvring a section of his platoon captured two machine guns and 30 prisoners, and cleared up a difficult situation. His prompt and determined action enabled the company to advance without casualties.
Military Medal On the afternoon of October 8th, 1916.
The Germans made a heavy counter attack on the trenches near COURCELETTE, which had been occupied by 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion in the morning, during a counter attack made by us. L/Cpl. WREN, with a party of men got out in the open and charged the enemy, using both bombs and rifles, and succeeded in driving him back about 100 yards. He then, halting his party in the open, held the enemy back until a further supply of bombs could be got up. His coolness and courage were splendid examples to the men.
No. 401683 Pte. CULLINANE, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on German trenches near Courcelette on 8th Oct., 1916. This man and three others were members of a party of bombers who cleared 300 yards of trench, capturing German machine gun and over 100 prisoners and getting in touch with the adjoining Battn. on the right. In the afternoon of the same day when a heavy German counter attack was made, the same men were members of a party which made three counter attacks on the enemy, holding up their advance until dusk, when the party was forced to retire owing to shortage of bombs.
No. 10903 L/Sgt. (Now Lieut.) GLAZIER, L. M.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During the attack on the enemy s trenches on 8th Oct., 1916, this N. C. O. reached the trenches with the first line and did excellent work in clearing the sector allotted to his platoon. He, with four others, held a block for nearly four hours, holding the enemy by continuous bombing and rifle fire, finally advancing and forcing the enemy to retire. During a heavy counter attack he displayed great courage and initiative, assisting his company commander in rallying the men, passing up bombs and helping to resist the attack by every means in his power.
No. 405256 L/Cpl. DUNN, W. E.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near COURCELETTE on 8th Oct., 1916. This man, with two others, were acting as stretcher bearers, they remained in the open under heavy shelling and machine-gun and rifle fire, dressing the wounded and placing them in shell holes, etc. They afterwards continued their good work in the trenches, and whilst in the performance of this duty Pte. McKinnon was wounded.
No. 452968 Pte. McQUATER, T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30064, 11-5-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Has done very excellent work with the Battn. since Nov., 1915. 8th Oct., 1916, at the SOMME, he displayed great gallantry and courage, remaining with his Lewis Gun until he was the only one of the crew left. He still carried on with great devotion to duty until relieved.
Lieut. (A/Capt.) LYON, C. D.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31043, 2-12-18.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer, under heavy machine-gun fire, advanced with a TANK, directing it against nests which were checking the advance. He then went to the right flank of the attack and assisted directing Lewis gun fire against machine-gun nests of seven guns, and the capture of the crew. Later he dashed up a communication trench, and with a Lewis gun dispersed a large party of the enemy, establishing a defensive flank as the next unit did not come up.
No. 406572 Pte. MASON, H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on German trenches near COURCELETTE, on 8th October, 1916, Pte. MASON and three other men were members of a party of bombers who cleared 300 yards of trench, capturing a German machine gun and 100 prisoners, and getting in touch with adjoining battalion on the right. In the afternoon of the same day, when a heavy German counter attack was made, the same men were members of a party which made three counter attacks on the enemy, holding up their advance until dusk, when the party was forced to retire owing to shortage of bombs.
VIMY MEMORIAL
No. 63778 Sgt. REEKIE, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On the afternoon of the 8th October, 1916, near COURCELETTE, the enemy made a heavy counter attack on trenches that had been attacked and occupied by us that morning. The party to which Sgt. REEKIE belonged was cut off from the rest of the battalion and forced to retire down the trench. He got his men out in the open and made three counter attacks on the enemy, throwing bombs and then using his rifle with good effect. His coolness and courage were a splendid example to the men, who continued to struggle, when they were forced to retire owing to shortage of bombs. Sgt. REEKIE assisted in withdrawing the men to the next trench, which they reached in good order.
No. A36498 Sgt. TAYLOR, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 29873, 21-12-16.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During an attack on enemy trenches near COURCELETTE, on 8th October, 1916, this N. C. O. took charge of his company after all the officers had become casualties, displaying great coolness and initiative, later in the day he went out over the open under heavy shell and rifle fire to bring up ammunition and bombs, the supply of which had begun to run out.
November 1916
8th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion in trenches 16 days, moved back to GOUY SERVINS.
No. 63632 Pte. McMAHON, E. J.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29824, 14-11-16.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry in action. Although wounded he stuck to his post. Later, he carried bombs to the front line and acted as a Stretcher Bearer displaying great courage and determination throughout.
No. 18679 Sgt. R.Q.M.S. REYNOLDS, C. H.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 29824, 14-11-16.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31388, 5-6-19.
(Murmansk) (4th Battn., France, attached Malamute Coy., Russia.)
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry in action. He assumed command of his platoon and handled his men throughout with great courage and initiative.
December 1916
One tour in line of 16 days. 17th, moved to LE COMTE for rest.
17th, moved from LE COMTE to BOUVIGNY HUTS. SOUCHEZ SECTOR, six days in line, six in ABLAIN ST NAIZARIE, six days in BOUVIGNY HUTS. 3rd, moved to BARLIN.
February 1917
4th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion moved LAPUGNOY, 8th, moved HALLI COURT. 9th, ESTREE CAUCHIE, 27th, BOIS DE ALIEUX.
April 1917
28th, trenches in MAISON BLANCHE SECTOR. 9th, attack on VIMY RIDGE. Casualties light. Rest for eight days, in line for six days. Rain and snow. In brigade support for attack made by 2nd Brigade on ARLEUX on 27th inst. 3rd, support for attack on FRESNOY by 1st Brigade. 6th, moved to VERDREL.
No. 455489 Cpl. A.C.S.M. ABRAHAM, E. G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31173, 11-2-19.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal – For marked gallantry and good work on the 27th Sept., 1918, at the Canal du Nord, in leading his platoon, when his platoon commander had been killed. When the Canal du Nord had been passed the enemy came out of deep dugouts behind us. In the face of terrific machine-gun fire he coolly led his men, surrounded the guns, and killed about fifteen of the enemy. Then he re-organized his platoon and carried on the attack forward. On the first of October he again did excellently.
Military Medal – During operations on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th and 10th, 1917, Pte. Abraham showed great bravery and devotion to duty when acting as a runner under heavy fire. He carried on when no other runners were available, although he was himself in a very exhausted condition.
No. 13602 L/Cpl. ANDERSON, E. C.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During operations on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th and 10th, 1917, L/Cpl. ANDERSON, E. CM and Pte. CREELMAN, H. S., were employed as telephone linesmen. They frequently repaired breaks in the wires under heavy shell fire, and it was due to their efforts that telephone communication was maintained throughout the action. L/Cpl. ANDERSON, in addition carried up through a heavy enemy barrage two reels of wire which required considerable strength and endurance in addition to personal courage. Both these men have been previously noted for their good work.
No. A36249 Pte., Sgt. (L/Cpl.) CREELMAN, H. S.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31469, 23-1-19.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During operations on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th and 10th, 1917, Pte. CREELMAN, H. S. and L/Cpl. H. C. ANDERSON, were employed as telephone linesmen. They frequently repaired breaks in the wires under heavy shell fire, and it was due to their efforts that telephone communication was maintained throughout the action. Both these men have been previously noted for their good work.
No. 730009 Pte. DRINKWATER, A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-19.
Deed of Action
Military Medal At VIMY RIDGE on April 10th, 1917, this man was one of the patrol which went out in front of the outpost line by daylight to drive off some enemy snipers and ascertain the disposition of the enemy. They encountered a superior force of the enemy whom they drove off, killing two. Two of our party were wounded, one being unable to walk. Pte. DRINKWATER with another man, started to carry him out, but this other man was wounded almost immediately. Pte. DRINKWATER then came back by himself and got the assistance of another party to carry out the wounded. This party also came under machine gun fire, but Pte. DRINKWATER guided them over dangerous ground without a casualty.
The enemy’s fire then became too heavy to permit of movement, so the party remained where they were until dusk, when they brought out the two wounded men, although the enemy was still sweeping the ground with machine guns. The determination and valour shown by Pte. DRINKWATER in assisting these wounded are most commendable.
No. 21841 Pte. GILLESPIE, A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During operations on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th and 10th, 1917, he showed great initiative and daring. Acting directly as assistant to the Medical Officer he aided stretcher parties to find the aid post, and dressed several cases himself in the open. His work in the aid post itself was deserving of the highest praise. He has previously done very good work as a stretcher bearer, particularly on the SOMME, where although suffering from slight shell shock, he continued to carry out his duties.
No. 772393 Pte. LACEY, G. A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal During operations on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th and 10th, 1917, Pte. LACEY showed great gallantry and devotion to duty in acting as a runner under heavy fire. On the afternoon of April 10th. he crossed the open for 100 yards in full view of the enemy under rifle and machine-gun fire carrying an important message to his company commander.
No. 11660 L/Cpl. HOUGHTON, J. H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal This N. C. O. was a section commander during the attack on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th, 1917. He was wounded during the action, but refused to leave until the digging of a new trench was completed and the position consolidated. His devotion to duty was an example to all.
Lieut. (Capt. A/Major) LOUNT, Samuel Kenyon
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 30204, 26-7-17.
Bar to Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 30530, 18-2-18.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. His company gained their objective and consolidated their position. During the whole time they were holding this position the area was heavily shelled, but he maintained his organization, and throughout set a splendid example to his men.
Bar to Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He was in command of a support company during an attack, and led it forward to assist in consolidating the captured ground. Showed great ability and initiative in leading his men to the position through an intense barrage with few casualties, and in controlling and encouraging his men at their work under very heavy fire. He did splendid work on this and several other occasions.
No. A36797 Sgt. MURPHY, H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Sgt. MURPHY led his platoon with great gallantry during the attack on VIMY RIDGE on April 9th, 1917. On the afternoon of April th he was ordered to move forward to an advanced position and dig in. He succeeded in getting his platoon forward through a heavy artillery barrage, and also machine gun fire, without a casualty, and established his position where he remained. He received 5 bullets through his clothing during this advance, and his conduct throughout was an example and inspiration to his men in very difficult circumstances.
BOULOGNE EASTERN CEMETERY
No. 814616 Pte. PIDGEON, F. G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Pte. PIDGEON was formerly a company sergeant major and reverted to private on coming to France about 13th January, 1917. On the afternoon of April 9th, 1917, he was one of a party which entered a German battery position on VIMY RIDGE, immediately our barrage lifted off it. He showed the great est initiative and fearlessness in entering and clearing the dugouts where a number of the enemy were still remaining, and his leadership was an example to all the remainder of the party. His conduct was remarked on by both his company officer and also by another officer who was present.
No. 13134 Pte. PRINTY, E. G.
.Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal Pte. PRINTY is range taker in the Colt Machine Gun Section of the 4th Canadian Infantry Battn., and as such he accompanied his unit in the attack on VIMY RIDGE, on 9th April, 1917. Owing to the way in which the attack developed, the Colt Gun Section reached the final objective with the leading lines of the infantry. Seeing enemy transport retiring in the distance, Pte. PRINTY rushed forward and set up his instrument under heavy enemy machine-gun fire. He found the range at great personal risk so accurately that when the guns opened fire they caused casualties amongst the transport and blocked the road. During the remainder of the time the battalion was in this area, Pte. PRINTY did very good work, often under heavy shell fire.
No. 33616 Cpl. ROGERS, G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29200, 22-6-15.
(Also shown on C. A. M. C.)
Deed of Action
Military Medal Cpl. ROGERS has been N. C. O. of the water detail of the 4th Can. Battn. since organization of the C. E. F. He is also a trained stretcher bearer, and as such volunteered for duty in the Regimental Aid Post during operations on VIMY RIDGE, on April 9th and 10th, 1917. He rendered most valuable service in dressing the wounded, and in addition on several occasions guided stretcher and other carrying parties over the open under heavy shell fire.
In particular, on April 10th, when the area about the aid post was being heavily shelled, he volunteered to guide a party to fetch water and additional stretchers, which were urgently required, accomplishing his mission successfully. This N. C. O. has previously been noted on many occasions for his initiative and devotion to duty, particularly at YPRES, in June, 1916, and on the SOMME. He has volunteered
for duty in the aid post on every occasion when the battalion has gone into action.
No. 10813 Cpl. SHARP, T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30172, 9-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On April 10th, 1917, at VIMY RIDGE, this N. C. O. took charge of a platoon, after the platoon officer and all senior N. C. O. s were casualties. He held his men together in an area where they were subject to very heavy shell fire and continued in command until the battalion was relieved. During this period he n\ade several valuable reports to his company commander regarding the position.
May 1917
No. 401424 Pte. BROTHERSTON, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30188, 18-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On May 3rd, 1917, the company to which Pte. BROTHERSTON belongs was ordered up to reinforce the troops who had just captured FRESNOY. Pte. BROTHERSTON was acting as runner, and carried messages on May 3rd, and 4th, 1917, over open ground continually swept by enemy artillery, machine-gun and rifle fire. He not only performed the duties he was ordered to do, but several times volunteered for extra duties involving considerable danger. Pte. BROTHERSTON was wounded on May 4th, in the execution of his duty.
No. 11459 Cpl. BULL, G. R.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No.30188, 18-7-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On May 3rd, 1917, the Platoon to which Cpl. Bull belongs, along with another platoon of the same Company, took up a position near FRESNOY, immediately after its capture. They were exposed to heavy enemy artillery and machine gun fire, and all the N. C. O. s in the two platoons became casualties except Cpl. BULL. He continued to perform his duties with the greatest devotion, exposing himself fearlessly in doing so. His coolness and energy were an example and inspiration to the men, and he rendered most valuable assistance to the sole remaining Officer in charge of these Platoons.
CAIX BRITISH CEMETERY
No. 657601 Pte. Cpl. GRASSER, G. J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30188, 18-7-17.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31142, 24-1-19.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On 3rd May, 1917, after the capture of FRESNOY, Pte. GRASSER took the lead in organizing a stretcher party to carry a badly wounded man from the front line trench to the Regimental Aid Post. The ground was open and swept by enemy machine gun and rifle fire. At one spot, which was particularly dangerous and where an officer had been killed a few minutes before, the other men of the party hesitated. Pte. GRASSER, seeing this, immediately volunteered to take the end of the stretcher nearest the enemy and succeeded in getting his party safely to the Aid Post.
BUCQUOY ROAD CEMETERY, FICHEUX
June 1917
Lt.-Col. Rae leaves battalion, and Lt.-Col. A. T. Thompson takes over. 3rd, moved to divisional reserve at F. 11, sheet 51 C. Trenches in ARLEUX LOOP on 10th inst. 14th, in railway embankment in front of VIMY VILLAGE, 19th, ELBE TRENCH. Divisional support. 24th, LE PENDU HUTS.
Lt.-Col. RAE, Wm.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29422, 1-1-16.
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 29438, 14-1-16.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29890, 4-1-17.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31089, 31-12-18.
French Croix-de-Guerre, London Gazette, No. 31393, 7-6-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
July 1917
5th trenches in MERICOURT SECTOR for 8 days. Rest Fraser Camp. 20th, GAUCHIN LE GAL. 21st, BRUAY. 23rd, LES BREBIS. 24th, support in LOOS AREA.
Lieut. SALSBURY, Harry Edwin
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 30204, 26-7-17.
Bar to Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 30340, 18-10-17.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He personally reconnoitered “NO MAN S LAND,” when the unit was going to cross. The whole area which he was preparing for the attack was under continuous fire of all kinds, but in spite of this he carried out his work successfully.
Bar to Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an intense hostile bombardment he went out a number of times and reconnoitered well in front of our position, in the course of one reconnaissance passing through the enemy s line to a point 250 yards in rear of it.
On hearing the enemy speaking he located their positions accurately and returned safely. The four counter-attacks which followed this reconnaissance were repulsed entirely owing to the knowledge which he gained by his determined and gallant act, and also to the coolness which
he displayed whilst with his platoon. He displayed indefatigable energy through out and was unceasing in his efforts in preparing for the next counter-attack.
August 1917
3rd, LES BREBIS. 4th, BRACQUEMONT. 6th, HAILLECOURT. 9th, FOSSE 2. 10th, trenches in Hill 70 Sector. 14th, FOSSE 2, 15th, supported 2nd Brigade in attack on Hill 70. 16th, took over front line, repelled four counter attacks. Severe enemy casualties with our machine gun and rifle fire. 20th, relieved, moved to LES BREBIS. 21st, FOSSE 7. 23rd, BAILLEUL AUX CORNAILLES.
No. A/36020 Pte. GALLICHAN, G. T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On 15th Aug. to
21st Aug., 1917, while acting as company runner, this soldier made numerous trips under the most intense shell fire. He was also on duty day and night through out the tour guiding wounded out and ration parties to his company. During some of the counter attacks he carried ammunition and bombs to the line.
EDMONTON CEMETERY, ALBERTA
No. 10548 Sgt. GARDNER, G.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 30706, 28-5-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31092, 1-1-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For continuous good service and devotion to duty since he came to France in Feb., 1915, as a teamster on the battalion transport. His work has come particularly under notice for his cool courage and reliability, especially in offensives. In the attack on Hill 70, in August, 1917, when the transport officer was wounded while passing through an enemy barrage he took charge, and by his example got rations and water delivered to the front line.
No. 142616 Pte. FRANCKOM, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On August 15th to 21st 1917, while acting as stretcher bearer, Pte. FRANCKOM worked continuously throughout the tour with little or no rest, dressing the wounded in the open under any kind of shell-fire. On the night of 16th/17th Aug. he was buried by a shell and disinterred by another almost immediately. He was very badly shaken but refused to be evacuated, and carried on in the most admirable way throughout the tour.
Captain CAMERON-SMITH, Andrew Harvey, C. A. M. C.
Military Cross, Authority, London Gazette, No. 30234, 16-8-17.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Following his battalion closely in its attack, he displayed the greatest courage and skill in establishing aid posts at the nearest possible points, regardless of his own personal safety. Though his posts were frequently under heavy shell fire, the completeness of his medical arrangements, and the quickness with which aid was available, proved invaluable to the wounded. His work at all times has been marked by the same devotion and gallantry.
No. 802996 Pte. YORKE, E. R.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty, on August 15th to August 21st, 1917. On the night of 17th/18th August, 1917, during one of the counter attacks on the CHALK PIT, his section commander having become a casualty, Pte. YORKE took charge of the section, and although badly bruised from a large piece of shell which struck him, he distributed enemy bombs to his men when our supply had been buried. By his splendid example he kept his section together, greatly assisting in repelling the counter attack.
No. 730083 L/Cpl. BOOTY, C. J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 303S9, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On Aug. 15th to 21st, 1917, L/Cpl. BOOTY went forward and cut a block in a communication trench which led to the enemy s line. At the time, the enemy s exact position was very uncertain, and as he kept firing across the spot with M. G. and continued bombing some distance along this communication trench, L/Cpl. BOOTY S task was very hazardous, yet he completed the block and posted his men, holding it throughout the tour. He brought in a number of wounded men of another unit from in front of his post, and generally behaved in a splendid manner.
No. 402493 Pte. DENNIE, N.
Military Medal, London Gazette No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On Aug. 15th to 21st, 1917, Pte. DENNIE as Battalion Runner carried messages between Headquarters and the front line and guided parties continuously. Most of these runs were carried out under intense shell fire; for example, during one night the enemy counter attacked three times each time throwing an intense barrage; Pte. DENNIE was making regular trips to the front line during this period.
No. 201415 Pte. KENNEDY, H. C.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31142, 24-1-19.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery, coolness and devotion to duty. On August 15th to 21st, 1917, while acting as battalion runner, this soldier displayed great devotion to duty, courage and remarkable endurance. He made repeated trips to the front line companies over an area completely churned by shell fire and void of all landmarks, by night as well as day.
He was running during a number of the enemy counter attacks when they covered the whole area with a heavy barrage. On one occasion his two companions were killed, and although wounded, he continued his run and delivered his message, and continued through out the tour to guide stretcher parties and ration parties, and on a number of occasions connected up small party carriers with their main body from which they had strayed in the darkness.
No. 438881 L/Cpl. JANCEY, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On Aug. 16th to 21st, 1917, L/Cpl. Jancey was in charge of a bombing post which protected a flanking Lewis gun. His post was thirty yards in advance of our line on the edge of CHALK PIT, yet he held on against four successive counter attacks, holding his section together and meeting the massed attacks with rifles and bombs, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy who came very close to his post each time.
No. 13654 Sgt. KIEVILL, G. R.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On Aug. 15th to 21st, 1917, as Sgt. of the Signalling Section, he kept communication with the brigade in the rear and three of our four front line companies, throughout the tour. Nothing but the greatest perseverance, knowledge of his work and personal example could have kept battalion headquarters in touch by wire. When the wires would be broken, under his personal supervision they were promptly repaired.
No. 796074 Pte. PETERS, E. B.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On Aug. 15th to 21st, 1917, Pte. PETERS was acting as company runner. He made many trips from the front line company to battalion headquarters under intense shell fire most of the time. On the night of Aug. 17th/18th he was wounded in the hip, but continued to run for the remainder of the tour, and is still with the battalion. Under shell fire he apparently had no thought to his own safety, but guided parties and carried messages and joined up disconnected parties and never appeared to rest.
No. 141994 L/Cpl. SECORE, T. H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On the 15th to 21st August, 1917, this N. C. O. was in charge of a Lewis Gun, which did splendid work throughout the tour. On the night of the 18th/ 19th, his gun was mainly instrumental in breaking up an enemy counter attack when the enemy had almost reached his post. He kept his crew together and repulsed the attack. This N. C. O. accompanied Lieutenant MacDonald on a daylight reconnaissance, where a machine gun was located accurately and later destroyed by artillery being directed on to it.
September 1917
3rd to BARLIN. 5th, FOSSE 10. 11th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion to trenches in CITE STE. PIERRE SECTOR. 21st, to FOSSE 10. 2nd, to DIVION.
Major BLACKSTOCK, George Grant
1st Central Ontario Regt.
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 31158, 1-2-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and fine leadership in the attack on the Canal du Nord on 2nd to 4th Sept., 1918. He commanded the battalion during this operation with great ability and judgment, and his example of coolness and gallantry under heavy fire in the front line, where he was continually present, had a most inspiriting and encouraging effect on officers and men, and was largely responsible for the determined dash with which the attack was pushed home. He personally made daring reconnaissances under heavy machine-gun fire, which enabled him to make skilful dispositions for further advances.
No. A36130 Sgt. EARLE, G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30389, 19-11-17.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty, on 15th to 21st August, 1917. On the night of the 17th/18th August, Sgt. EARLE was completely buried, but was dug out, badly bruised and shaken. He refused to be evacuated and remained on duty with his platoon the remainder of the tour. On the night of the 16th/17th when his company took over the newly won position, he reconnoitered and eventually got in touch with the Battalion on our flank, keeping up communication throughout the tour.
October 1917
5th, to NOULETTE HUTS. 6th, to trenches in CITE DU NOULETTE SECTOR. 13th, NOULETTE HUTS. 15th, BARLIN. 19th, BRUAY. 20th, LA MIQUELLERIE. 21st, THIENNES. 22nd, ST. MARIE CAPPELLE.
No. 18212 Sgt. KNIGHT, L.
(1st C. O. R. Att. A. P. M. Can. Corps)
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30540, 23-2-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On the afternoon of the 28th October, 1917, on the ZONNEBEKE ROAD, in the vicinity and west of FREEZENBERG, when under heavy shell-fire at great risk to his life directed the traffic on that part of the road which was being shelled, and thereby prevented congestion. His prompt and energetic action, at a point where his duty did not require him to be, saved lives and property, and at the same time prevented delay in the delivery of ammunition and material.
Capt. MacDONALD, N. F.
Military Cross. London Gazette, No. 30340, 18-10-17.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. With his company he held a captured position for ninety-six hours against repeated and heavy hostile counter-attacks and when enfiladed by a machine gun he crawled forward in daylight with splendid disregard of personal danger and located its exact position, after which it was destroyed by our artillery. When his platoon Sgt. was completely buried, Lieut. MacDONALD dug him out under most intense shell fire with the greatest coolness and courage. During the whole of this trying period he got practically no sleep, preferring instead to encourage his men and reconnoitre the ground on his front.
November 1917
2nd, entrained BAVIN GHOVE, detrained YPRES, and marched to ST. JEAN CAMP. 5th, to line, POMMERN AREA. 6th, GRAFENSTRAFEL AREA attacks on PASSCHENDAELE, in brigade support. 7th, entrained YPRES, detrained VLAMERTINGHE, marched to RED ROSE CAMP. 10th, embussed STE. FLORIS. 11th, embussed FOUQUERIUL. 12th, embussed FOSSE 10. 13th, trenches in LIEVIN SECTOR. 19th, Lt.-Col. A. T. Thompson killed. 20th, Lt.-Col. Nelles assumes command. 2nd, battalion in GOUY SERVINS.
Sergeant William Merrifield VC, MM
No. 8000 Pte. Sgt. MERRIFIELD, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Victoria Cross, London Gazette, No. 31108, 6-1-19.
Deed of Action
Victoria Cross For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the attack near ABANCOURT, on the 1st October, 1918. When his men were held up by an intense fire from two machine-gun emplacements, he attacked them both single-handed. Dashing from shell-hole to shell-hole he killed the occupants of the first post, and, although wounded, continued to attack the second post, and with a bomb killed the occupants. He refused to be evacuated, and led his platoon again until severely wounded. Sgt. MERRIFIELD has served with exceptional distinction on many former occasions and throughout the action of the 1st October showed the highest qualities of valour and leadership.
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery in the operations at PASSSCHENDAELE, on Nov. 6th to 7th, 1917. Pte. MERRIFIELD is a stretcher bearer, and
accompanied his platoon forward to support the 1st Battalion. Passing through a heavy barrage, he was wounded, along with several others of his platoon, but disregarding his own wounds he bandaged five men and got them sent back to the aid post, and then carried on, overtook his platoon, and remained until next day, when he was forced to go out to have his injuries properly attended to.
No. 730632 Pte. WADSWORTH, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE RIDGE, on November 5, 1917. On the night of the 5th, when his platoon was proceeding to the assembly area, Pte. WADSWORTH was acting as stretcher bearer. The platoon came under some very heavy shell fire, scattering them and leaving several wounded. This man, with utter disregard of his own safety, went about dressing the wounded, some of whom were in a critical condition. His prompt attention and skilful appliance of the bandages undoubtedly saved lives and his calm, fearless, behaviour was a wonderful example to his comrades.
No. 183418 Pte. GOROVENKO, V.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE RIDGE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. Pte. GOROVENKO (a Russian/Ukraninian) took charge of his section when his N. C. O. was killed, on the 7th. By his fearless manner and willingness to attempt any dangerous task, this man set a splendid example. On one occasion during this operation he continued to carry wounded back to the aid post through intense shell fire for five hours, until forced to stop from exhaustion. This man had done splendid work in the line in every action for the past 17 months.
No. 11241 A/Sgt. HUTCHINSON, W. N.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For most conspicuous gallantry in face of intense fire during the operations of both the Canal du Nord, 27th Sept., and Abancourt Ridge, 1st Oct., 1918. In the hand to hand fighting in the neighbourhood of the steel bridge during the assault of the Canal du Nord he fought splendidly, killing several enemy. He then bombed an enemy post under the bridge and killed all the occupants, after which he cleaned out a dug-out single handed, also killing all the occupants. Throughout the operations his courage was of the highest order, and he did magnificent work.
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th, 1917. Sgt. HUTCHINSON was platoon sergeant of one of the platoons which was in the support of the attack. During the operations the area was heavily shelled and many of his men were wounded. Sgt. HUTCHINSON set a splendid example in going about attending to the wounded and cheering the men.
No. 730652 Pte. A/Cpl. A/L/Cpl. HARTUNG, G. E.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations of Nov. 6th and 7th at PASSCHENDAELE. This N. C. O. was in charge of the Lewis Gun Section of No. 2 Platoon during the operations on Nov. 6th and 7th, and during that time handled his section in a most exemplary manner. During the advance through the enemy barrage on the morning of Nov. 6th, No. 1, carrying the gun, was knocked over by the explosion of a shell and the gun was thrown from him and became buried in the mud.
HARTUNG at once rushed forward, extricated the gun, cleaned it and moved his section forward to the final position. All this was successfully carried out under terrific shell fire, and but for this N. C. O. s prompt action his section would have been rendered useless. He at all times displayed extreme coolness during the operation, and set a wonderful example of courage and bravery.
No. 769203 Pte. GIBSON, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For bravery and devotion to duty during operations of Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917, at PASSCHENDAELE. During the operations of the 6th and 7th Nov., this man was stretcher bearer of No. 4 platoon. On the morning of the 6th the other stretcher bearer of this platoon was wounded and a double burden of work therefore devolved upon Pte. GIBSON. On both days the shell-fire was of a most severe nature and the work carried out by this man was an extreme ordeal. He continued to dress the wounded and assist in carrying them out for forty-eight hours without rest, and his conduct was beyond praise.
During the whole time he was untiring in his efforts and displayed the highest courage. But for him, it is impossible to imagine what might have happened to the wounded; and the work of a good stretcher bearer, and this soldier in particular, cannot be over-estimated. His devotion to duty and perseverance were a high example to all those with whom he came in contact.
No. 730394 Pte. L./Cpl. BUTTON, E. W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and valuable services in the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. Pte. BUTTON belonged to the Lewis Gun Section of one of the platoons going forward to support the 1st Battn. While passing through a heavy barrage he was buried with his N. C. O. and his Lewis Gun, and also was wounded. The N. C. 0. rescued him and although his wound was very painful he assisted the Cpl. in cleaning and repairing the gun, and together they hastened forward and overtook their platoon before they reached their position. Although wounded, Pte. BUTTON continued to do excellent service throughout the operation.
No. 141839 Sgt. WARD, F.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during operations of Nov. 6th and 7th at PASSCHENDAELE. On the morning of Nov. 6th, Sgt. WARD S platoon was ordered to move forward to reinforce the 1st Btn. An extremely heavy barrage was being laid down by the enemy, and the nature of the ground was also very unfavorable to a well ordered advance. Several casualties occurred shortly after the advance commenced, and the whole platoon was in danger of straggling and getting out of control.
In the rear section some men became exhausted and took refuge in an old trench where they would undoubtedly have become detached had not Sgt. WARD returned and led them forward. During the whole period of the advance this N. C. O. continued to encourage the men by his coolness, and by constantly exhorting them and keeping them in hand. Later on, while digging in under a very heavy shell-fire, Sgt. WARD continued to inspire his men by moving among them with an utter disregard of his own personal safety, and by getting them under cover, with the utmost possible speed. Until the platoon was relieved on the night of the 7th, this N. C. O. was untiring in his efforts to keep his men cheerful and their excellent morale throughout the whole operation was in great measure due to his splendid example.
No. 11109 Sgt. BRADLEY, L.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Belgian Croix-de-Guerre, London Gazette, No. 30792, 12-7-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE 6th and 7th of Nov, 1917. On the afternoon of Nov. 5th, while taking his platoon to their assembly position this N. C. O. was blown up and badly shaken by a shell. He insisted upon carrying on and got his platoon into position. This N. C. O. received orders to move forward and dig in.
Sgt. Bradley was wounded but he encouraged his men to keep moving forward. Later, when his wounds were dressed, he made his way forward and rejoined his platoon. Subsequently he was ordered to report to the Aid Post by his company commander. This N. C. O. has been with the battalion since Feb., 1915, and has at all times shown great spirit and set a very high example of courage and bravery to his men.
No. 475790 Pte. BROOMHALL, F. W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. When the signallers of an attacking battalion became casualties Pte. BROOMHALL went forward through an intense barrage of artillery and machine-guns. He was buried and terribly shaken up but plodded on through the darkness and finally reached the Signal Station of the attacking battalion. He was able to re-open communication, thereby greatly assisting the operation.
No. 730370 Pte. DAYUS, W. D.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18..
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on November 6th and 7th, 1917. When the Signallers of an attacking Battalion had become Casualties, Pte. DAYUS started forward, but while passing under a heavy barrage, two of his party were wounded. Pte. DAYUS retired a short distance with these Casualties, dressed their wounds and sent them out. He then went forward again with two other Signallers, passed through the bar rage safely, arrived at the attacking Battalion s Signal Station and took it over, thus re-opening the suspended communications and assisting the operation considerably.
No. 412363 A/C.S.M. Sgt. DURRAN, G. W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18..
Distinguished Conduct Medal. London Gazette, No. 30450, 1-1-18.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry, and devotion to duty. On one occasion he went out from an advanced post, and cut away the wire from an enemy advanced post, and although daylight was beginning, and he was heavily sniped at, he, with great courage, persisted until the whole wire had been dragged to outpost and added to its defences.
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery, devotion to duty and valuable services rendered during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on the 6th and 7th Nov., On the morning of Nov. 6th “A” Company moved forward from their assembly positions through a very heavy barrage where they had to dig in under intense shell fire. C.S.M. DURRAN went through this barrage and reconnoitred the position, came back, and guided the Company through the barrage to its new position and superintended the digging in of the Company. By his wonderful example of coolness and bravery displayed he encouraged the men greatly. This N. C. O. did splendid work at MOUNT SORREL, THE SOMME, VIMY, FRESNOY, and HILL 70.
VILLERS STATION CEMETERY, VILLERS-AU-BOIS
No. 18039 Pte. FRAME, J. E.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on November 6th and 7th, 1917. After his Section Commander and several other men in his section (Lewis Gun) had become casualties he at once took charge. His Lewis gun with all panniers had been lost on the way to the assembly area on the night of 5th/6th Nov. He spent two hours locating his gun and panniers after the remainder of the platoon had gone to the assembly area. He then reported to his company commander and got a party to go back with him to bring up his gun and ammunition. Pte. FRAME did excellent work throughout the operation and set a fine example to his men.
No. 413042 Cpl. A/Sgt. GREENING, T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Miltary Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations of Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917, at PASSCHENDAELE. On the morning of Nov. 6th, his platoon was ordered to move forward. They had to pass through a very heavy hostile barrage and the platoon commander became a casualty. This N. C. O. immediately took charge and led his men forward. The shelling was intense, and the men were on the point of becoming disorganized. The splendid example of coolness and bravery, and the cheerful way he encouraged his men forward was no doubt responsible for the fact that they got into position with few casualties.
No. 438079 Sgt. GREENWOOD, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and good leadership during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. Sgt. GREENWOOD took charge of his platoon when his officer became a casualty, and carried on under the most trying conditions while his position was being very heavily shelled. He moved about visiting all his sections, encouraging the men and setting a remarkable example of courage. One funk hole was hit by a shell burying its occupants. Sgt. GREENWOOD, seeing what had happened, by his prompt action was able to save two of the men from suffocation. These men would no doubt have shared the fate of their comrade but for Sgt. GREENWOOD’S efforts.
No. 21955 Sgt. MATTHEWS, H.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. Sgt. MATTHEWS was platoon sergeant of one of the platoons supporting in the attack. During the operations the area occupied by his men was heavily shelled, and quite a number of the platoon became casualties. This N. C. O. went about with apparent disregard of his own safety, attending to the wounded, supervising their evacuation and visiting his sections. By his splendid example he encouraged the men to withstand the terrific bombardment.
No. 23172 Cpl. MYERS, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31011, 15-11-18.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal Acting as C. S. M. when only one officer and very few N. C. O. s were left, owing to machine gun fire, he dashed forward to a heavy belt of wire, and reconnoitring the passages through it, led a section up when he was wounded. His energy and dash were a great incentive to his men at a critical time.
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and valuable services in the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. Cpl. Myers was in charge of a Lewis Gun Section and was going forward with his Platoon to support the 1st Battalion in the front line, but while passing through the intense barrage a shell burst beside him burying him and Pte. Button, who was carrying the Lewis Gun. Cpl. MYERS though severely shocked, extricated himself from the debris, dugout Private BUTTON who was wounded, and rescued the Lewis Gun. Cpl. MYERS, assisted by Pte. Button cleaned the gun as well as they could, got it into working order and hurried forward, overtaking their Platoon before they got into position.
Throughout the tour this N. C. O. continued to do most valuable work.
No. 404409 Pte. McCANN, T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. When the Signallers of one of the attacking Battn’s became Casualties, Pte. McCANN was one of the party sent forward to assist in keeping up communications. He acted as linesman during the remainder of the operation, and although the area was subjected to incessant shell-fire and the wires being continually broken, yet by his courage and perseverance Pte. McCANN was able to keep up communication.
No. 730806 Pte. McCARTHY, T.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operation at PASSCHENDAELE on November 6th and 7th, 1917. Pte McCARTHY was a stretcher bearer during the operations. While attending to the wounded a shell burst close beside him and he received several fragments of shrapnel. However, there were men around him more seriously hit, so Pte. McCARTHY kept on attending to them, although he must have suffered considerably from his own injuries. When another stretcher bearer seeing the condition he was in wished to bandage MCCARTHY S wounds, he said, “Don’t worry about me. I’m all right, fix up those other chaps,” and carried on with his work. He would not go out until the following day.
No. 201437 L/Sgt. McKENNA, J.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and good leadership during the operations of PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917. While moving forward to the Assembly Area on night of Nov. 5th, Sgt. McKenna s Platoon Officer was wounded while passing through a very heavy barrage, and in the darkness and excitement the men became confused and began to scatter for cover.
This N. C. O. seeing his officer fall, immediately took charge and set about collecting the men and supervising the dressing and evacuation of the wounded with such calm assurance and apparent ability that this platoon immediately regained their confidence in their leader and rallied around him. Sgt. McKenna took them for ward to their position. During the three days in the forward area this N. C. O. proved himself a leader of men and set a splendid example to this Platoon, always being willing and cheerful under the most adverse conditions.
No. 142488 L/Sgt. Sgt. O DONNELL, F. A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31011, 15-11-18.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal This N. C. O. led his platoon in the first wave of the attack through intense machine-gun fire. Although practically all his men became casualties he gained the objective. The following day, while acting as platoon sergeant, he was severely wounded by a shell burst early in the attack. He has always distinguished himself.
Military Medal For devotion to duty, bravery and good leadership during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th, 7th, 1917. After arriving in the assembly area on 6th November, 1917, when his platoon commander had become a casualty, Sgt. O DONNELL took charge of his platoon, re-organized his sections and set a splendid example to his men throughout all the operation. He dug out, under intense shell fire, four who had been buried, and supervised with great ability the evacuation of the wounded.
No. 195181 Sgt. O HERON, H. M.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31011, 15-11-18.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal This W. O. went forward with his company, which was checked by terrific machine-gun fire from a bit of ground overlooking the level along which the attack was coming. The company commander and both the officers of the leading platoon became casualties. Without any hesitation he took command and reached the objective. His coolness and resource led to the final success of
the company s attack.
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in the operation of PASSCHENDAELE, on the 6th and 7th of Nov., 1917. Sgt. O HERON was A. C. S. M. during this operation. The area occupied by his company was subjected to heavy shell fire; however, this N. C. O. carried out his work with the utmost disregard to his own safety. On two occasions he was completely buried by shells bursting in the immediate vicinity, and on another he inhaled a severe dose of gas before he was able to adjust his small box respirator. However, he refused to be evacuated, and carried on his work with great courage, setting a most admirable example. Sgt. O HERON has done excellent work at all times, especially at VIMY, FRESNOY and HILL 70.
Lt-Col Alexander Thomas Thomson DSO, MC
Casualties
- Lt Thomas Jaffray Robertson killed-in-action 5 November 1917 (VLAMERTINGHE NEW MILITARY CEMETERY)
- Lt William Harvey Aggett killed-in-action on 6 November 1917 (MENIN GATE (YPRES) MEMORIAL).
December 1917
2nd, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion to ALBERTA CAMP. llth. to front line AVION SECTOR. 18th, GOUY SERVINS. 19th, DIVION.
21st, HERSIN. 22nd, CITE STE PIERRE. 31st, CITE STE. EMILE SECTOR of trenches.
No. 451322 Cpl. VEITCH, W.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30424, 12-12-17.
Bar to Military Medal, London Gazette, 31142, 24-1-19.
Deed of Action
Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and coolness under shell fire. Pte. VEITCH carried S. A. A. and bombs under intense barrages of artillery fire during the counter attacks which were launched against our position in the CHALK PIT. When a sergeant was completely buried, Pte. Veitch under intense shell fire assisted in the digging of him out.
February 1918
8th, MAZINGARBE. 16th, LOOS. 23rd, HILL 70 SECTOR of trenches.
No. 18368 Sgt. MacNAUGHTON, R. (Att. Malmoot Co.)
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31359, 27-5-19.
Silver Medal for Valour, (Serb.) London Gazette, No. 32085, 15-10-20.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at NACTOVISTE, on Feb. 19th, 1918, while in command of a Lewis Gun. He advanced over most difficult country through deep snow under enemy fire. Owing mainly to his judgment and skill the village was cleared of snipers. Later he seized a sleigh and drove his crew over 800 yards of open ice against a strong enemy position. By his courage and quickness in handling his gun the enemy resistance was overcome without loss.
March 1918
4th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion to BRACQUEMONT. 20th, HILL 70 trenches. 23rd, HERSIN COUPIGNY. 27th, FRASER CAMP. 28th, embussed to MARLOUX. 29th, embussed THIEVREE to WANQUENTIN, and marched to DAINVILLE.
April 1918
1st, TELEGRAPH HILL SECTOR of trenches. 5th, BURNEVILLE. 6th, BRUAY. 11th AUDREY CAMP. 14th to ST. LEURENT, ARRAS SECTOR. 20th, FAMPOUX. 27th, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion to ST. AUBIN.
May 1918
4th, MONT ST. ELOI. 5th, IZEL LES HAMEAU. 19th, ANZIN.
June 1918
2nd, CAMBLIGNEUL. 30th, ECOIVRES.
July 1918
12th, FAMPOUX sector of trenches. 19th “Y” CAMP. 23rd, AGNY-TELEGRAPH HILL AREA. 31st, embussed AGNY to WARLUS.
August 1918
1st, embussed to GRAND RULLECOURT. 4th, entrained PETIT HAUVIN STATION for NORMAN DUESE, and marched to ST. MAULVINE. 5th, embussed to BOVES WOOD, GENTELLES WOOD. 7th, assembly area for attack on L. C. C. operations on August 8th. 8th Battalion attacked, going through 3rd Brigade. 9th Battalion again attack, and had a number of casualties. Lt.-Col. Nelles wounded.
Major G. G. Blackstock takes temporary command. 16th moved to FOLIES. 19th, to MARCELCAVE. 22nd, to GENTELLES WOOD. 23rd, to DURY. 26th, entrained PROUEEL and detrained TINQUES, embussed to ARRAS. 27th, TELEGRAPH HILL and NEUVILLE VITASSE AREA. 29th, VIS-EN-ARTOIS. 30th, attack on UPTON WOOD. 31st, moved to HENINEL AREA.
No. 772226 Lieut. McNAUGHTON, J. A.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31846, 1-4-20.
Deed of Action
Military Medal On August 9th, 1918, in an attack on Rouvroy, this N. C. O. owing to his Officer and Sergeant becoming casualties, took charge of the Platoon and handled it with great skill. By crawling forward he located the enemy machine-guns, and by skilful employment of Lewis Gun fire put them out of action.
No. 642813 L/Cpl. FERRIS, D. E.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31128, 18-1-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During a counter attack at Upton Wood on 30th August, 1918, he led his Lewis gun section with great gallantry and skill through thick undergrowth under heavy high explosive and machine gun fire and taking up a favourable position, he inflicted casualties of the heaviest description on the advancing enemy. His able and determined leadership inspired his men with complete confidence.
Lieut. Capt. MORROW, Herman Gladstone
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29890, 4-1-17.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31158, 1-2-19.
Bar to Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross On 30th August, 1918, during the counter-attack on Upton Wood, he led his company forward with great gallantry and skill in spite of intense fire, and attacked and captured the enemy trenches with four machine-guns, success of the operation was largely due to his promptitude and energy, and the tactical ability with which he handled his men.
Bar to Military Cross He was entrusted with the task of leading the assault on the Canal du Nord over the whole brigade frontage with his Company. He brilliantly performed this difficult task. He was the first to get over the bank and seeing a group of six enemy he went for them single-handed and accounted for four of them. Throughout these operations his courage and determination were a splendid example to those with him.
Captain MORROW, Thomas Alvin
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31043, 2-12-18.
Bar to Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31158, 1-2-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer coolly led his company through a heavy barrage at the beginning of the attack and finding that two companies had been badly cut up and were unable to cover the objective, rushed his company up under heavy fire, and organized an outpost line in advance of them thus clearing the way for the successful advance by the battalion.
Bar to Military Cross In the counter-attack on Upton Wood on 30th August, 1918, he distinguished himself by his conspicuous gallantry under heavy fire, and the skill with which he led his company to clear the Wood of the enemy. He completely surprised and captured 40 men and five machine guns, and also a large party of reinforcements who came up unaware that their men had lost the position. He carried out a difficult operation with admirable judgment and determination, which resulted in our troops suffering only seven casualties.
Captain McLEAN, Henry John Gibsone
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31158, 1-2-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross During the counter-attack on 30th August, 1918, he led his platoon forward with great gallantry through an intense barrage to the place of assembly, and then took them through Upton Wood in spite of thick undergrowth. On emerging from the Wood he rushed a nest of machine guns, capturing four guns and over forty prisoners. His coolness and skill and good leadership inspired his men with great confidence, and enabled the advance to be made with very few casualties.
No. 10863 Sgt. NIXON, J.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31128, 16-1-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During the attack on Upton Wood on the night of 31st August, 1918, during a very intense bombardment he took the place of the C. S. M. who was badly wounded. He displayed conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in organizing stretcher parties and looking after the wounded under most trying circumstances.
No. 469402 Sgt. (A/C.S.M.) STOKER, J. W.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31128, 16-1-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During the attack on Upton Wood on 30th August, 1918, he led his platoon with great gallantry and skill through an intense barrage of machine-gun and high explosive shell fire, materially contributing to the capture of two machine guns and several prisoners. Later, in the attack on the Canal du Nord he led a battle patrol forward to the bridgehead on the canal, getting in touch with the enemy with great ability. He took over the duties of C. S. M. when the latter was wounded. Throughout the operations his conduct inspired all under his command with great confidence, and his men followed him unwaveringly.
September 1918
2nd, attack on VILLERS LES CAGNICOURT. Lt.-Col. Nelles returns and resumes command. 3rd, attack on INCHEY-EN-ARTOIS and CANAL DU NORD. Casualties fairly heavy. 4th, BUISSY SWITCH. 5th, WAILLY HUTS. 8th, MONTENESECOURT. 15th, HENEN COURT. 18th, CAGNICOURT AREA. 25th BUISSY SWITCH AREA. 27th, attacked on CANAL DU NORD. 28th, DELIGNY MILL AREA. 29th, EPINOY HALENCOURT AREA.
Captain FLEMING, Albert Grant, C.A.M.C.
Military Cross, Authority, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross During the attack of 27th September, 1918, he displayed great gallantry and devotion to duty. He established his aid post for the attack in the extreme eastern portion of Inchy, within 400 yards of the enemy outpost line, and occupied this position during the night, despite a heavy high explosive and gas bombardment in order to be as close as possible to the attack.
Lieut. AITCHISON, J. M.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross During the assault of the Canal du Nord, on the 27th Sept., 1918, he showed marked gallantry. After the canal was crossed he noticed that a large enemy dugout near the canal had been overlooked. About twenty enemy had come out of this dugout and were getting their machine-guns into position to fire upon the attacking companies from the rear. He immediately led his men back to attack the enemy. Though badly wounded, he continued to give orders until the enemy resistance was overcome.
Lieut. DUFF, Harry Donavon
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette No. 31089, 31-12-18.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and initiative on the 27th Sept., 1918, in the attack on the Canal du Nord, and subsequently capture of high ground about Deligny Mill. He also showed great coolness and determination during the attack on the Abancourt Ridge. Throughout his work was excellent. He carried out many reconnaissances under heavy fire, and obtained most valuable information.
Captain DENSMORE, Lambert Douglas, 1st Fid. Am. C. A. M. C.
Military Cross, Authority, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the Bourlon Wood operations, 30th September, 1918. He went forward to collect and evacuate considerable numbers of wounded who were lying in the vicinity of the Douai-Cambrai Road, east of Heynecourt, and succeeded in evacuating them to the advanced dressing station.
No. 18921 Pte. BROWN, G.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 30573, 13-3-18.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During the attack on the Canal du Nord, 27th Sept., 1918, he greatly distinguished himself by his fine courage and dash. During the attack near Abancourt, on 1st Oct., he attacked and bayoneted the entire crew of an enemy machine gun. On seeing this, several of the enemy began to run back from a neighbouring trench. He shot them all. He did magnificent work. Military Medal For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the operations at PASSCHENDAELE on Nov. 6th and 7th, 1917.
Pte. BROWN is a Company runner and during the heaviest of the bombardment, he continued to carry messages back to the Battn. Commander and on each trip he was forced to pass through the enemy barrage line, which was a very hazardous task. He continued to run, under the most adverse conditions until quite exhausted, and showed a most cheerful spirit throughout. At HILL 70 his exceptional work while guiding a stretcher party, the N. C. O. became excited and hesitated at a very critical moment and Pte. BROWN took charge immediately and saved the situation.
Lieut. DUFF, Harry Donavon
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette No. 31089, 31-12-18.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For conspicuous gallantry and initiative on the 27th Sept., 1918, in the attack on the Canal du Nord, and subsequently capture of high ground about Deligny Mill. He also showed great coolness and determination during the attack on the Abancourt Ridge. Throughout his work was excellent. He carried out many reconnaissances under heavy fire, and obtained most valuable information.
Lieut. ELLIOTT, E.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 27th Sept. 1918, during the assault on the Canal du Nord. He attacked a machine gun post single handed killing all of the defenders. During the subsequent advance he and his platoon killed twenty-seven of the enemy. When the final objective was reached he was wounded, but refused to be evacuated, and carried on through the attack of 1st October.
Lieut. HARRIS, A. B.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross During the assault of the Canal du Nord on 27th Sept., 1918, he displayed the greatest courage. He rushed a machine-gun post single handed, killing four of the enemy and knocking out a fifth with his stick. Throughout the remainder of the attack he showed the same splendid dash and initiative. On the 1st October, during the attack on the Abancourt Ridge, he again distinguished himself.
No. 451888 A/C.S.M. McDADE, H.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty during the attack on 27th Sept,, 1918, on Canal du Nord. At a critical juncture the company began to waver. He rallied the men and led them on to their objective. During the advance he exhibited the greatest gallantry, rushing three machine-gun posts, with one other man and killing all the crews. During the attack of 1st Oct. he again did splendid work.
Lieut. (A/Capt.) KEMP, F. G.
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 31266, 2-4-19.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31158, 1-2-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and presence of mind at critical times. During the assault on the Canal du Nord, on 27th Sept., 1918, he did excellent work. Upon reaching the Canal du Nord line his men came under heavy machine-gun fire from the left. He rushed the enemy posts in the trench with two men, killing and wounding three or four himself and scattering the others with a bomb. In the advance he, by fearless leadership, captured two field guns and killed all the enemy machine-gunners holding the emplacements. Throughout these operations he did excellently.
Military Cross On 2nd and 3rd September, 1918 at CAGNICOURT and BUISSY VILLAGE he led his platoon forward in most exposed positions with great gallantry and skill which enabled the advance to be made with comparatively few casualties, in spite of intense machine-gun fire and artillery firing at point-blank range. He rendered valuable service in patrolling the Canal du Nord, and his example was at all times a great encouragement to his men.
No. 797505 L/Sgt. LEFLER, L.
Military Medal, London Gazette, No. 31173, 11-2-19.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For most marked gallantry during the attack on the Canal du Nord, on 27th Sept, and the engagement near Abancourt, on 1st Oct., 1918. During the attack on the Canal du Nord, he led his men to a trench full of the enemy, attacked them, and killed at least twenty himself. Early in the attack he was wounded, but carried on and took command of the platoon near the red objective. On the 1st Oct., he again did splendid work.
Military Medal Particulars not available.
No. 201499 Sgt. THOMAS, W. R.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31225, 12-3-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal For most conspicuous gallantry and good work during the attack of Canal du Nord, on 27th September, 1918. His platoon was held up by two machine guns. He rushed ahead of his section and charged one crew. He killed the man on the gun, and then his section came up and got the others. Then rushed a trench mortar in the face of several of the crew firing at him with revolvers. He despatched three of them. He then reorganized his section and carried on with the attack to the objective.
Lieut. TOBIN, K. E.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31219, 8-3-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For fine courage and leadership. After crossing the canal, and while attacking the Canal du Nord line on 27th September, 1918, every officer in his company, with exception of himself, became a casualty. He immediately took command, reorganized his company under heavy fire, and attacked and captured the Canal du Nord line on half the 1st Brigade frontage. He personally bombed out a machine-gun post. During the attack of 1st October he was the only one to reach the railway embankment.
October 1918
1st, attack ABANCOURT. 2nd, DELIGNY HILL. 3rd, CAGNICOURT AREA. 7th, CAMBRAI ROAD, 11th, MONCHY LES PREUX. 14th, PROSPECT FARM, near BREBIERES. 17th, crossed CANAL DU SENSEE to LA RACQUITE AND DECHY. 18th, attack on MONTIGNY. 19th, RECQUENCOURT, MARCHIENNES. 20th, railway ST. AMAND, HASNON, CANTAINE captured. 21st, HASNON, 23rd PECQUENCOURT.
Lieut. A/Capt. HARDING, Percy Seccombe Downe
Order of the Merite Agricole (Chevalier) London Gazette, No. 31586, 7-10-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31089, 21-12-18.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31266, 2-4-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For great initiative and determination during the pursuit of the enemy to the Foret de Raismes on the night of 20th/21st Oct., 1918,
immediately after our troops had gained the eastern outskirts of Hasnon, he under a very heavy shell fire, brought up the cookers to all the companies, and thus provided the troops with a hot meal after a very strenuous day’s fighting. It was necessary on more than one occasion to man-handle the convoy through large mine craters and across ditches.
Lieut. LOOMIS, Douglas Alanson
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 31266, 2-4-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross For most conspicuous gallantry and enterprise during the pursuit of the enemy to the Foret de Raismes. On 20th Oct., 1918, when his platoon was checked by machine-gun fire he went forward, and with his revolver shot three of the first crew, the remainder of which ran. He then advanced towards the second gun and killed three of its crew, the rest of which, and also the crew of the third gun, he drove from their position. He did splendid work.
No. 11355 Sgt. GAYDON, J. H.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31370, 3-6-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal During the attack on Hasnon, the battalion was held up by determined resistance east of the village. He volunteered to go for ward, and under very heavy fire reconnoitered the whole of the battalion front, bringing back very valuable information to battalion headquarters.
Oct. 24th PECQUENCOURT, battalion in rest.
November 1918
Nov.13th March via SOMAIN, ERRE, HORNAING, WALLERS to BELLAING, arriving at 1.30 p.m.
Nov. 14th March started 9.10 a.m., via HERIN, LA SENTINELLE, VALENCIENNES-MONS ROAD to QUIEVRECHAIN, arriving 2 p.m.
Nov. 15th 10 a.m. marched via BOUSSU to ST. GHISLAIN.
Nov. 18th MONS ROAD, JEMAPPES, MONS, OBOURG, ST. DENIS, THIEUSIES” to SIRIEUX, arriving 4.30 p.m.
Nov. 21st March via NAAST, LE DOURIRE, DEVAL to FELUY arriving 2.30 p.m. 7.30 a.m. via ARQUENNES, PETIT ROEULX, FRASNES LES GOSSELERIES, VILLES PERWIN, arriving MARBAIS, 3.40 p.m.
Nov. 25th Start 9 a.m. Route SOMBREFFEE, LEDOCQ, CORROY LE CHATEAU, BEUZET, arriving ST. DENNIS 3.30 p.m.
Nov. 27th Marched to ANDENNELLE via WARISOULX, MARCHOVELETTE, FRANC WARET, VENZIN, arriving ANDENNELLE, 4.p.m.
Nov. 28th Battalion marched 33 kilometers along RIVER MEUSE, through HUY, along RIVER HOUVOUX to AMAS AREA.
Nov. 30th Move to HAMOIR.
No. 769474 Sgt. NUTTER, J. W.
Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette, No. 31011, 15-11-18.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Conduct Medal This N. C. O. led the platoon across the open and charged a machine gun which was holding up the advance. Although wounded, he insisted on carrying on, and when the front line companies were held up by machine-gun fire near the final objective, he led two sections forward in support, charging up a hill and gaining the crest, where he was again wounded while gallantly pressing on.
Major JONES, Terence Percival
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 29886, 1-1-17.
Bar to Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 31266, 2-4-19.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29623, 15-6-16.
MiD, London Gazette, No. 29890 4-1-17.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
Deed of Action
Bar to Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and devotion in the operations near Valenciennes from the 1st to 6th November, 1918. His work as brigade major was of the highest order, and largely contributed to the success of the brigade in the capture of Valenciennes and towns further east. He also made several daring personal reconnaissances under severe fire and secured exact information which enabled the enemy s disposition to be effectively dealt with and the advance to continue.
Action not stated for D. S. 0.
December 1918
Dec. 2nd 9.15 a.m. 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion marched via VILLE, LANDRECY, HOUPET, GRAND TRIXHE to CHEVRON, arriving 1.30 p.m.
Dec. 3rd TO BASSE BODEAU, via FORGES, CHAUVEEHEID.
Dec. 4th Via STAVELOT, across the German Frontier at REFAT to LIGNEUVILLE.
Dec. 5th to AMEL.
Dec. 6th Via BULLINGEN, LOSHEIMER, GRAHEN, NEUOF, to RESCHEID.
Dec. 7th Via HOLLERATH, HELLENTHAL, SISTIG, KALL to STREMPT.
Dec. 9th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion to LOMMERSUM via EUSKIRCHEN.
Dec. 10th Via DERKIM, WELLERSWIST, DORF, SCHWADORF, to SECHTEM.
Dec. 13th Battalion crossed the RHINE at COLOGNE, and marched to ENSEN.
Dec 14th Occupation of COLOGNE-BONN Bridgehead, marched via PORZ, URBACH, ALTENRATH, to LOHMAR.
Dec. 16th Battalion in outpost area.
Dec. 17th At SEELSCHEID on outpost duty.
Dec. 27th Relieved by 2nd Battalion, and moved back to LOHMAR.
Dec. 28th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion at WAHN ARTILLERY BARRACKS.
1919
Jan. 9th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion entrained at WAHN, detrained HUY (Belgium) at 10 a.m. on the 10th.
Jan. 10th Proceeded to BRAIVES.
Jan. 21st Marched to THISNES.
March 1919
Mar. 10th Moved from THISNES to WANZE.
Mar 18th Entrained HUY. Route CHARLEROI, MONS, MONTIGNY, ARRAS,
TINQUES, DOULLENS, AMIENS.
Mar. 19th ROUEN.
Mar. 20th 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion arrived LE HAVRE, 4.45 a.m. To No. 2 Rest Camp.
Mar. 23rd Embarked on S. S. “VIPER,” at 1 a.m., disembarked at WEYMOUTH, Eng., 12.45 p.m.., by train to LIPHOOK, 8 p.m. marched to BRAMSHOTT CAMP.
April 1919
April 14th Midnight, entrained at LIPHOOK and sailed from SOUTHAMPTON on April 15th board S. S. “OLYMPIC,” at 11 a.m., on 15th.
April 21st Disembarked at HALIFAX about noon, entrained 2.25 p.m. April 23rd Arrived TORONTO. Demobilization.
Lieutenant Colonel R. H. Labatt – 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion
Ottawa appointed Labatt to the three-member Board of Pension Commissioners in June 1916. While he promised to avoid the “pension evil” of uncontrolled government expenses, by May 1918 Labatt’s position on the board became a focus for controversy. Newspaper editors and members of Parliament objected that Labatt drew a civil service salary as well as his disability pension. For many critics, a man could not legitimately receive compensation while at the same time remain a functioning government employee.
Accusing the government of nepotism, Vancouver Conservative H. H. Stevens argued, “in my view, either Colonel Labatt is in receipt of his pension by virtue of misrepresentations or undue favour through powerful influences as it is clear that he is not suffering from Total Disability at all…” To avoid a public scandal, Labatt resigned from the Pension Board in June 1918. Eight months later, he was dead (HAMILTON (WOODLAND) CEMETERY).
Major (Lt.-Col.) NELLES, Lafeyette Harry
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 29886, 1-1-17, 1st Bn.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29890, 4-1-17, 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 30706, 28-5-18.
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 30716, 3-6-18.
Bar to Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 31043, 2-12-18.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31089, 31-12-18.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
Deed of Action
Military Cross Particulars not available.
Distinguished Service Order Particulars not available.
Bar to Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This Officer led his battalion in an attack on two villages, moving across open ground under heavy fire. Although wounded in the leg by machine-gun fire, he continued to command until the close of the fight, encouraging and inspiring his men.
Lieut-Colonel ROGERS, Joseph Bartlett
Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George,
London Gazette, No. 31370, 3-6-19.
Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 30188, 18-7-17.
Bar to Distinguished Service Order, London Gazette, No. 31043, 2-12-18.
Military Cross, London Gazette, No. 20438, 14-1-16.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 29422, 1-1-16.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 30448, 28-12-17.
MiD, London Gazette, No. 31089, 31-12-18.
Mentioned in Despatches, London Gazette, No. 31448, 11-7-19.
Deed of Action
Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his battalion in the attack with great tactical skill, and showed great prompt ness and sound judgment in dealing with the difficult situation which had arisen in consequence of the troops on his flank having failed to reach their objective.
Bar to Distinguished Service Order For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While directing the attack of his battalion, a heavy mist obscured the operations, and he suddenly found his party confronted by about 60 of the enemy, who had passed by. He promptly collected the details and led them across the open against the enemy. His conduct in face of an awkward situation was an example to all.
Lt-Col James Ballantine DSO
Perpetuated by the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry and the Dufferin Rifles of Canada (from 1936, The Dufferin and Haldimand Rifles of Canada).
Lt-Col John Handley
Lt-Col Walter Carruthers Towers
Major James Ross DSO
Major John Westry Stagg MC
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