Title: Bryant, William Allan

Description: William Bryant was born on February 20, 1895 in Hamilton, Ontario to parents George and Mary Bryant. He was raised in Ontario with his siblings Olive, John, Hessie, Lucy, George, Cora, Frank and Graham. As a young man, he was trained and employed as a plumber. On February 7, 1916, William Bryant enlisted with the 49th Battery Canadian Field Artillery. Driver Bryant arrived in England on May 29, 1916 aboard the Empress of Britain, and remained in England until embarking for France on October 19, 1916. Shortly thereafter, Driver Bryant was taken on strength by the 39th Battery 10th Brigade CFA out of Lethbridge, Alberta. He would serve with the 39th Battery for nearly two years, seeing action at the Somme, Arras, Vimy Ridge, Hill 70, Passchendaele and Amiens. On August 29, 1918, Driver Bryant was at the rear of the column as the 39th Battery moved through a narrow spot on the road. They took a direct hit and Driver Bryant received severe shrapnel wounds to the abdomen. He died of his wounds the next day. With the loss of 8 soldiers, these were the deadliest days of the war for the 39th Battery. He was laid to rest at Ligny-St. Flochel British Cemetery. William Bryant was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Mary received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Bryant, William Allan, 1895-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Ligny-St.Flochel British Cemetery -- Averdoingt (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Cameron, John Alexander

Description: Jack Cameron was born on September 29, 1895 in Spry, Ontario to parents Ronald and Jennie Cameron. He grew up in a large family which included siblings Archibald, Sarah, Jessie, Susan, Pearly, Ronald and Finley. As a young man, Jack found employment with the Canadian Pacific Railway. His job as a CPR agent took him to southern Alberta, where he made his home for a time in Lethbridge. On April 13, 1916, Jack Cameron enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. Pte Cameron arrived in England on October 6, 1916 aboard the SS Tuscania and was shortly after taken on strength by the 16th Battalion CEF. He arrived in France on November 6, 1916 and served with the 16th Battalion at the Somme, Arras and Vimy Ridge. During the Battle of Vimy Ridge, he received a gunshot wound to his upper arm and was evacuated to England. By October 1917, Pte Cameron was well enough to be transferred to the Canadian Army Medical Corps, serving with them in England over the next year. In the fall of 1918, Pte Cameron was one of millions to fall ill during the Spanish Influenza epidemic. On October 23, 1918, he passed away and was laid to rest at Orpington (All Saints) Churchyard Extension. Jack Cameron was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Jennie received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Cameron, John Alexander, 1895-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: All Saints Churchyard -- Orpington (England)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Clarke, Allan Wise

Description: Allan Clarke Jr. was born on February 18, 1891 in Newport, Wales to parents Allan and Susan Clarke. He was raised in Wales and later in England with his brother Joseph, and sisters Emma and Josephine. In 1913, Allan immigrated to America, landing in Portland, Maine. Eventually, he moved on to Canada and settled in southern Alberta. At time of enlistment, Allan was employed as a banker. His father, Dr. Allan Clarke Sr. was already serving in France in the Royal Army Medical Corps. On November 23, 1914, Allan Clarke enlisted with the 20th Battery 5th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery. Gunner Clarke arrived in England on August 18, 1915 aboard the SS Metagama, and remained in England until embarking for France on March 31, 1916. He served on the front with the 20th Battery CFA for a grueling two years, and saw action at several key battles in France and Belgium. On May 3, 1918, Gunner Clarke was killed in action. He was laid to rest at Wailly Orchard Cemetery. Allan Clarke was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Susan received a Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Clarke, Allan Wise, 1895-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Wailly Orchard Cemetery -- Wailly (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Clayton, Thomas

Description: Thomas Clayton was born on September 21, 1877 in Kersley, England to parents Thomas and Jane Clayton. He spent his childhood in England with siblings Elizabeth, Ellen, Ernest, Minnie, Percy, Susannah, Albert and Edith. At age 23, Thomas made the trip across the Atlantic, landing in New York on February 17, 1900. He then traveled westward, eventually immigrating to Canada. He made his home in Lethbridge, Alberta with wife Anna. The couple had three children, Elsie, Percival and Ernie. Thomas was employed as a teamster, and also worked at the Alberta Meat Market. On August 16, 1915, Thomas Clayton enlisted with the 51st Battalion CEF. Pte Clayton arrived in England on April 28, 1916, and remained in England until embarking for France on June 8, 1916. Immediately after arriving in France, Pte Clayton was taken on strength by the 2nd Battalion CEF. He proceeded to the frontlines in Belgium, where he would serve for only four days before being reported missing on June 13, 1916. Pte Clayton was never seen again and it was presumed for official purposes that he had passed away on June 13, 1916. As his remains were never recovered or identified, he is remembered on the Menin Gate Memorial. Thomas Clayton was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His wife, Anna received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Clayton, Thomas, 1877-1916; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Menin Gate Memorial -- Ypres (Belgium)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Cleaver, William Frederick

Description: William Cleaver was born on May 24, 1877 in Murston, England. Not much is known about his childhood years. As a young man, he married his wife Lucy, and the couple resided on the Isle of Sheppy in England. They had two daughters, Florence and Rose. The Cleaver family immigrated to Canada and made their home in Lethbridge, Alberta, where William worked as a laborer. On July 23, 1915, William Cleaver enlisted with the 13th Canadian Mounted Rifles. Pte Cleaver arrived in England on November 23, 1915 and was immediately taken on strength by the 7th Field Ambulance Army Medical Corps. He proceeded to France for service on February 12, 1916. Pte Cleaver served with the 7th Field Ambulance at the frontlines for 16 months, transporting casualties to various field hospitals. He was twice treated for exposure to gas during this time. In the spring of 1917, tragedy struck the Cleaver family when Lucy passed away suddenly, and Pte Cleaver received a 10 week compassionate furlough home to Canada to be with his family. While in Canada, Pte Cleaver’s health began to deteriorate as a result of the gas exposure he had suffered just months earlier. On August 28, 1917, Pte Cleaver was medically discharged as it was decided that his poor health had rendered him unfit for service. He returned to his home in Lethbridge, where he lived with his daughter, Florence. William continued to struggle with lung ailments and other related complications until his untimely passing on November 23, 1926. He was laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Lethbridge. William Cleaver was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his wartime service.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Cleaver, William Frederick, 1877-1926; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Mountain View Cemetery -- Lethbridge (Canada)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Coffay, James

Description: James Coffay was born on July 25, 1878 in Stratford on Avon, England. He grew up in England with siblings Elizabeth, Esther, Margaret and Thomas. As young men, James and his brother Thomas immigrated to Canada, and settled in Lethbridge, N.W.T. When the Great War broke out, both would answer the call to service, signing up together in Calgary. At time of enlistment, James was employed as a laborer. On January 5, 1916, James Coffay enlisted with the 82nd Battalion CEF. Pte Coffay arrived in England on May 29, 1916 aboard the Empress of Britain, and remained in England until embarking for France on April 25, 1917. Shortly after arriving he was taken on strength by the Canadian Corps Head Quarter Signal Company, at which time his rank changed from Private to Sapper. He served with the Signal Company for 3 months during the summer of 1917. On August 18, 1917, Sapper Coffay was killed in action in the Pas de Calais region of France. He was laid to rest at Hersin Communal Cemetery Extension. James Coffay was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal, which were sent to his sister Elizabeth.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Coffay, James, 1878-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Hersin Communal Cemetery Extension -- Hersin (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Geater, Arthur William

Description: Arthur Geater was born on October 7, 1890 in Leiston, England to parents Thomas and Agnes Geater. He was raised in England with his siblings Alice, Amy, Dora, Thomas, Edith, Edmund and Mary. As a young man, Arthur immigrated to Canada and settled on a ranch near Midnapore, Alberta. In the spring of 1916, he met and married his wife Edith. On April 6, 1916, Arthur Geater enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. Pte Geater arrived in England on October 6, 1916 aboard the SS Tuscania, where shortly after he was transferred to the 17th Reserve Battalion. On March 19, 1917, he embarked for France and was taken on strength by the 85th Battalion CEF. Pte Geater served on the frontlines with the 85th Battalion during the spring of 1917. On June 26, 1917, Pte Geater was reported as missing after action, and later that day was confirmed to have been killed. As his remains were never recovered or identified, he is remembered on the Vimy Ridge Memorial. Arthur Geater was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. As his parents and wife had passed away prior to medal issue, they were sent to his friend, John Quance of Calgary, Alberta.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Geater, Arthur William, 1890-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Vimy Memorial -- Arras (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Hawkins, Arthur Johnson

Description: Arthur Hawkins was born on September 11, 1884 in Leeds, England. Not much is known about his childhood, but he did have a brother named Fred. As young men, the Hawkins boys immigrated to Canada and lived for a while in British Columbia where they were employed as loggers. Arthur later moved to Lethbridge, Alberta, where he lived at time of enlistment. On November 29, 1915, Arthur Hawkins enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. Pte Hawkins arrived in England on October 6, 1916 on the SS Tuscania. He was transferred to the 16th Battalion CEF on October 27, 1916 and embarked for France shortly thereafter. Pte Hawkins remained at the front lines with the 16th Battalion for about five months and saw action at key battles including the Somme and Arras. On April 9, 1917 Pte Hawkins was one of 3,598 Canadian soldiers who fell at Vimy Ridge. Sadly, like many other young Canadians that day, his remains were never recovered or identified. He is remembered at the Vimy Ridge Memorial. Arthur Hawkins was awarded the Victory Medal and the British War Medal, which were sent to his uncle, Mr. Arthur Denby Hawkins in Leeds, England.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Hawkins, Arthur Johnson, 1884-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Vimy Memorial -- Arras (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Henderson, David

Description: David Henderson was born on January 20, 1891 in Dalbeattie, Scotland. He had one brother, Wellwood. As their father had passed away, the boys were raised by their mother, Sarah. As young men, the Henderson boys joined their uncle William in Canada. David made his home in Lethbridge, Alberta where he worked as a laborer. Both of the Henderson boys would enlist for service in the Great War. On November 23, 1914, David Henderson enlisted with the 20th Battery 5th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery. He was among the first of the Lethbridge men to sign up. Driver Henderson arrived in France on January 19, 1916. He would serve with the 5th Brigade CFA in France and Belgium for nearly 3 years, enduring some of the most difficult days of the war. On October 11, 1918, exactly one month before Armistice was declared, Driver Henderson was killed in action. He was laid to rest at Ramillies Communal Cemetery Extension. David Henderson was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. These were sent to his brother Wellwood along with the death plaque and scroll.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Henderson, David, 1891-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Ramillies Communal Cemetery Extension -- Ramillies (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Holder, John George

Description: John Holder was born on March 9, 1885 in St. Catherines, Ontario. Very little information is available about his childhood, but he did eventually move west to Alberta. ‘Shorty’ as he was called, made his home in Fort Macleod with his wife, Josephine. He was a real character, well known as a cattleman and bronco buster. On November 18, 1915, John Holder enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. Pte Holder arrived in England on April 7, 1917, and remained in England until embarking for France on June 25, 1917, where he was immediately taken on strength by the 31st Battalion CEF. He served for 3 months with the 31st Battalion on the frontlines in France. On September 27, 1917, Pte Holder was killed in action. He was laid to rest at La Chaudiere Military Cemetery. John Holder was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His wife, Josephine received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband. His mother, Elizabeth also received a Memorial Cross.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Holder, John George, 1885-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: La Chaudiere Military Cemetery -- Vimy (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Kelly, Timothy

Description: Timothy Kelly was born in Deptford, England on February 8, 1869 to parents Michael and Bridgette Kelly. His family immigrated to Canada when he was just an infant. He grew up in Pembrook, Ontario with his two sisters. It was in Pembrook that he met and married his wife, Mary. As a young man, Timothy traveled west and secured employment with the Alberta Railway and Irrigation Company with wife, Mary joining him. Timothy later worked on the construction of the CPR High Level Bridge in Lethbridge, Alberta. The couple had six children, John, Lorenzo, Lucille, Mary, Corine and Timothy Jr. On September 30, 1915, at the age of 47, Timothy Kelly enlisted with the 82nd Battalion CEF in Calgary, Alberta. Determined to enlist, Pte Kelly shaved a few years off of his birth date so that he would not exceed the maximum age allowance. He arrived in England on May 29, 1916 aboard the Empress of Britain and remained with the 82nd Battalion until August 27, 1916 when he was taken on strength by the 31st Battalion CEF. On September 15, 1916, Pte Kelly proceeded to the frontlines near Courcelette and less than two weeks later, he received a gun shot wound to the head. On September 30, 1916, exactly one year to the day of his enlistment, Pte Kelly died of wounds. He was laid to rest at Ste. Marie Cemetery. Pte Kelly was awarded the Victory Medal and British War Medal. His wife, Mary received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Kelly, Timothy, 1869-1916; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Ste. Marie Cemetery -- Le Havre (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: McGowen, Frank Fernie

Description: Frank McGowen was born on May 30, 1880 in Bradford, England to parents Frank and Louisa McGowen. He was raised in England with siblings Violet, Cynthia and Donald. In the early 1900’s, the McGowen family immigrated to Canada and settled in Vernon, British Columbia. Frank would later move to Alberta, living for a time in Calgary and Lethbridge, being employed as a clerk at Molson’s bank. He was an avid golfer, and an active member of the Calgary Golf and Country Club. On February 3, 1916, Frank McGowen enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders and was commissioned with the rank of Lieutenant after completing an officers training course. Lieutenant McGowen arrived in England on October 6, 1916 on the SS Tuscania. He was transferred to the 16th Battalion CEF on October 27, 1916 and embarked for France shortly thereafter. Lieutenant McGowen remained at the front lines with the 16th Battalion for about five months and saw action at key battles including the Somme and Arras. On April 9, 1917 Lieutenant McGowen was one of 3,598 Canadian soldiers who fell at Vimy Ridge. He was laid to rest at Ecoivres Military Cemetery. Frank McGowen was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal, which were sent to his sister Violet. His father, Frank McGowen Sr. received the death plaque and scroll in honour of his son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: McGowen, Frank Fernie, 1880-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Ecoivres Military Cemetery -- Mont-St. Eloi (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Norman, John Watson

Description: John Norman was born on March 23, 1872 in Sheffield, England to parents John and Myriah Norman. He spent his childhood in England with sisters Ellen and Lilley. As a young man, he immigrated to Canada, making his home in Lethbridge, N.W.T. with his wife Maria. The couple had two daughters, Margaret and Susan. While in Lethbridge, he found employment as a baker. On September 24, 1914, John Norman enlisted with the Canadian Army Service Corps in Valcartier. He was among the first young Canadians to answer the call for service. Pte Norman arrived in France on April 26, 1915 and was immediately assigned as a cook for the Canadian troops. He would hold this position for more than two years. In February 1918, Pte Norman returned to Canada where he remained employed with the CASC until July 5, 1918 where he was taken on strength by the 13th Battalion Canadian Garrison Regiment CEF. Pte Norman was discharged from military service on July 15, 1918. On October 23, 1918, he passed away. He was laid to rest at Lethbridge (Mountain View) Cemetery. John Norman received the 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal for his wartime service.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Norman, John Watson, 1872-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Mountain View Cemetery -- Lethbridge (Canada)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Perry, Stanley Victor

Description: Stanley Perry was born on April 2, 1880 in Kent, England to Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Perry. He was raised in England and as a young man, immigrated to Canada. He lived for a time with his wife, Sarah in Cranbrook, British Columbia. The couple later moved to the Lethbridge, Alberta area, where Stanley took up ranching. The Perry’s were devout members of the Wesley Church in Lethbridge. Following Stanley’s enlistment, Sarah Perry and their only child took up residence in Ireland to wait out the war with her parents. On November 30, 1914, Stanley Perry enlisted with the 20th Battery 5th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery. He was one of the first Lethbridge area men to answer the call for service. Battery Sergeant Major Perry arrived in England on August 18, 1915 aboard the SS Metagama, and remained in England until embarking for France on January 15, 1916. He served in France and Belgium for 3 months with the men of the 5th Brigade CFA. On April 20, 1916, Battery Sergeant Major Perry was killed in action in Belgium. He was laid to rest at Dickebusch New Military Cemetery. Stanley Perry was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His wife, Sarah received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Perry, Stanley Victor, 1880-1916; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Dickebusch New Military Cemetery -- Ypres (Belgium)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Renton, Sidney Chambers

Description: Sidney Renton was born on August 10, 1885 in Stilesville, New Brunswick to parents John and Margaret Renton. He spent his childhood in New Brunswick with siblings Alpuns and John. As a young man, Sidney found employment with the CPR as an engineer. He was working in Alberta at time of enlistment. On September 22, 1914, Sidney Renton traveled to Valcartier and enlisted with the 10th Battalion CEF. He was among the first Canadians to answer the call for service. Pte Renton traveled directly to France with the 10th Battalion. He served with the Fighting Tenth on the frontlines in France and Belgium during the early battles of the Great War. On April 22, 1915, Pte Renton was reported as wounded and missing in action. Later that day, his status was changed to presumed killed in action. As his remains were never recovered or identified, he is remembered on the Menin Gate Memorial. Sidney Renton was awarded the 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Margaret received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Renton, Sidney Chambers, 1885-1915; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Menin Gate Memorial -- Ypres (Belgium)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Wallace, James Everett

Description: James Wallace was born on September 7, 1892 in Inwood, Ontario to parents Alfred and Euphemia Wallace. He grew up in a large family which included his brothers John, Daniel, Duncan and George, and sisters Euphemia, Margaret and Annie. By 1907, the family had moved to Alberta, making their home in Albion Ridge, a farming district near Lethbridge. James was working on the farm at time of enlistment. On December 15, 1915, James Wallace enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. He left Calgary as a Corporal and Instructor of Musketry, and upon arrival in England on October 6, 1916, was teaching musketry at the instruction school. By this time, he had been promoted to Sergeant. Eager to do his part on the frontlines, Sergeant Wallace took a voluntary demotion to Private. He arrived in France on November 14, 1916 and was taken on strength by the 43rd Battalion CEF. Pte Wallace served in the trenches with the 43rd Battalion for nearly a year, seeing action in France and Flanders. On October 23, 1917, while serving at Passchendaele, Pte Wallace was killed in action. He was laid to rest at Tyne Cot Cemetery. James Wallace was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Euphemia received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Wallace, James Everett, 1892-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Tyne Cot Cemetery -- Zonnebeke (Belgium)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Wallas, William Allen

Description: William Wallas was born on September 29, 1888 in London, England to parents Thomas and Mary Wallas. He grew up in England with siblings Alexander, Arnold, Christina, Dorothy, Graham and Trevin. By the time William reached adulthood, his mother had passed away and his father moved to Sydney, Australia. Some of the Wallas children remained in England, while others, including William immigrated to Canada. William found his way to Bassano, Alberta where he tried his hand at ranching. On April 15, 1916, William Wallas enlisted with the 61st Battery 15th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery. He was promoted to Sergeant while still in Canada. Sergeant Wallas arrived in England on September 22, 1916 aboard the SS Cameronia and remained in England until embarking for France on August 21, 1917. He served in France and Belgium with the 15th Brigade CFA for a little over a year, seeing action at Ypres, Passchendaele and Amiens. In late August 1918, during the bloodiest days of the battle of Amiens, Sergeant Wallas received gunshot wounds to the thigh, hand and stomach. On September 2, 1918, he succumbed to his wounds and was laid to rest at Faubourg D’Amiens Cemetery. William Wallas was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal, which were sent to his sister Dorothy. His brother, Alexander received a death plaque and scroll in memory of William.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Wallas, William Allen, 1888-1918; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Faubourg d'Amiens Cemetery -- Arras (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Willoughby, Dick Lewis

Description: Dick (Richard) Willoughby, also known as Harry Lewis was born on May 17, 1888 in London, England. Not much is known about his early life or why he chose to use two names. He served in the Royal Medical Corps during the Boer War. When the Great War broke out, Dick was living in Lethbridge, Alberta and working as a nurse in the city. On January 15, 1916, Dick Willoughby enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. He trained with the Kilties for a couple of months, then became gravely ill. Pte Willoughby was diagnosed with typhoid fever and hospitalized for treatment. On April 3, 1916, Pte Willoughby passed away as a result of his illness. He was laid to rest with full military honours at Lethbridge (Mountain View) Cemetery. Dick Willoughby was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His wife, Christine Lewis received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Willoughby, Dick Lewis, 1888-1916; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Mountain View Cemetery -- Lethbridge (Canada)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Wittet, Archibald Charles

Description: Archibald Wittet was born on November 10, 1888 in Bridge of Erin, Scotland to parents William and Mary Wittet. He was the youngest of seven children including Helen, Isabella, James, Margaret, Mary and William. As a young man, Archibald immigrated to Canada, and gained employment with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. By 1915, he was living in Lethbridge, Alberta and working at the local branch of the CIBC. On August 23, 1915, Archibald Wittet enlisted with the 13th Canadian Mounted Rifles. Pte Wittet arrived in England on July 6, 1916 aboard the SS Olympic and was taken on strength by the 8th Battalion CEF Winnipeg Black Devils. Pte Wittet arrived in France on October 22, 1916 during the worst days of the battle of the Somme. He served on the frontlines with the Black Devils for 9 months, and also saw action at Arras and Vimy Ridge. On July 21, 1917, Pte Wittet was killed in action in France. He was laid to rest at Loos British Cemetery. Archibald Wittet was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Mary received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Wittet, Archibald Charles, 1888-1917; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Loos British Cemetery -- Loos-en-Gohelle (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]

Title: Bone, George Drummond

Description: During the early days of the 20th century, the majority of Canadian immigrants were of British origin. They came from all walks of life, and settled in communities across the country, including southern Alberta. The bonds to their homeland were very close, as in many cases they had left behind parents, siblings, and other extended family. On August 3, 1914, Britain formally entered the First World War, and so too did her colonies, including Canada. Most men joined up with the Canadian Expeditionary Forces, but some patriotic young British men chose to return home and serve with the British Expeditionary Forces and other branches of the British military. One such man was George Drummond Bone. George Bone was born in 1887 in Scotland to parents William and Mary Bone. He grew up in Scotland with siblings, Agnes, William, Andrew, Robert, David, May, Hugh and James. George came to southern Alberta around 1913, and quickly established himself in sporting circles. George was said to have been the best footballer ever seen in these parts, and during one year of play with the Callies, George scored more goals than all the other players combined. Having been a member of the Black Watch when he was a young man in Scotland, George Bone was called back to serve with the unit again in the Great War. He quickly rose though the ranks to Second Lieutenant, and had at one time been erroneously declared dead. Receiving word of his demise, he quickly fired off a letter to friends to tell them that he was very much alive and well. On May 9, 1915, Second Lieutenant Bone was leading his men in the capture of a German breastwork, when halfway to the line he fell wounded. Following the action, the men of his unit searched for hours but could not find him. Second Lieutenant Bone was presumed to have died that day, and as his remains were never recovered or identified, he is remembered on the Le Touret Memorial. George Bone was awarded the 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Mary received the death plaque and scroll in honour of her son.

Creator: Brett Clifton

Subject: Bone, George Drummond, 1887-1915; Lethbridge (Alta.) - History, Military - 20th Century; Soldiers - Alberta - Lethbridge--Biography

Location: Le Touret Memorial -- Richebourg L'Avoue (France)

Relevant Dates: [not supplied]

Rights: [not supplied]