While just over 300 British soldiers were executed for capital offences during the First World War, 25 Canadians were executed: 2 for murder, 1 for cowardice and 22 for desertion.
| THE COURTS MARTIAL SYSTEM |
| AUSTRALIAN SOLDIERS EXECUTED 1914-1918 |
| NEW ZEALAND SOLDIERS EXECUTED 1914-1918 |
| UK SOLDIERS EXECUTED 1914-1918 |
A soldier’s service papers can be viewed online at the web site of the Library and Archives Canada.
All of the soldiers are commemorated in The Canadian Virtual War Memorial, as well as the Books of Remembrance.
An excellent book about these Canadians is “For Freedom and Honour?” by A. B. Godefroy, published by CEF Books (1998), ISBN: 1-896979-22-X.
Another book which includes the cases of these executed soldiers is “Shot at Dawn” by Julian Putkowski and Julian Sykes, Leo Cooper Pen and Sword Books Ltd, ISBN: 0-85052-295-1.
| NUMBER | NAME | RANK | OFFENCE | SHOT |
| 20726 | Alexander W | CQMS | Desertion | 18/10/17 |
| C40124 | Arnold FS | Bdr | Desertion | 25/07/16 |
| 23621 | Auger F | Pte | Desertion | 26/03/16 |
| 541 | Butler A | Tpr | Murder | 02/07/16 |
| 454482 | Carter HG | Pte | Desertion | 20/04/17 |
| 448160 | Comte G | Pte | Desertion | 03/07/17 |
| 2063 | De Fehr B | Dvr | Murder | 25/08/16 |
| 34453 | Degasse AC | Pte | Desertion | 15/03/16 |
| 62218 | Delislie L | Pte | Desertion | 21/05/18 |
| 227098 | Fairburn E | Pte | Desertion | 02/03/18 |
| 718566 | Fowles S McD | Pte | Desertion | 19/06/18 |
| 177753 | Higgins JM | Pte | Desertion | 07/12/16 |
| 457241 | Kerr HH | Pte | Desertion | 21/11/16 |
| 672604 | LaLancette J | Pte | Desertion | 03/07/17 |
| 416874 | Laliberte C | Pte | Desertion | 04/08/16 |
| 454610 | Ling N | Pte | Desertion | 12/08/18 |
| 2095 | Lodge HEJ | Pte | Desertion | 13/03/18 |
| 443288 | Moles TL | Pte | Desertion | 22/10/17 |
| 416008 | Perry E | Pte | Desertion | 11/04/17 |
| 404436 | Reynolds EJ | Pte | Desertion | 23/08/16 |
| 107526 | Roberts JW | Pte | Desertion | 30/07/16 |
| 830020 | Sinizki D | Pte | Cowardice | 09/10/17 |
| A38119 | Welsh C | Pte | Desertion | 06/03/18 |
| 10701 | Wilson JH | Pte | Desertion | 09/07/16 |
| 067882 | Young E | Pte | Desertion | 29/10/16 |
The August 2006 announcement, made in the UK’s House of Commons by the Defence Secretary Des Browne, regarding a posthumous pardon for the executed soldiers only applied to soldiers executed for military offences and not murder.
Therefore, the posthumous pardon only applies to 23 of the 25 executed Canadians. It doesn’t apply to Privates Butler and De Fehr who were convicted of murder – a capital offence in civilian courts,
FIELD PUNISHMENT
Field Punishment was introduced in 1881 following the abolition of flogging. It was a common punishment during World War I. A commanding officer could award field punishment for up to 28 days, while a court martial could award it for up to 90 days, either as Field Punishment Number One or Field Punishment Number Two.
Field Punishment Number One (FP1) consisted of the convicted man being placed in fetters and handcuffs or similar restraints and attached to a fixed object, such as a gun wheel or a fence post, for up to two hours per day.
In Field Punishment Number Two (FP2), the prisoner was placed in fetters and handcuffs but was not attached to a fixed object and was still able to march with his unit.
WILLIAM ALEXANDER
William Alexander was born in London on 18 September 1880, and served for 8 years in the British Army (King’s Royal Rifles Corps) before emigrating to Canada.
When the First World War started in August 1914, Alexander volunteered for service in the Canadian Army, enlisting on 24 September 1914. His stated next-of-kin was A.M. Alexander, Hargrave Street, Winnipeg.
| OCCUPATION | Rubber Worker |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 44 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Mild Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Mild Fair |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
Due to his previous military service, Alexander was made a Sergeant in the 10th (Alberta) Battalion. After arriving in France during 1915, Sergeant Alexander fought with the battalion at the 2nd Battle of Ypres (April 1915), Festubert (May 1915) and Mount Sorrel (1916).
Alexander injured his left knee on 21 April 1917, with his commanding officer completing the Army Form B.117 certifying that the injury was in the performance of his military duties, and not self-inflicted.
Following his recovery from an inflamed knee, Alexander re-joined his battalion in time for its involvement in the attack on Hill 70, which started at 04:25 on 15 August 1917. This attack was intended to act as a diversion and draw some of the German forces from the ongoing battles at Passchendaele. Due to the severe casualties, CQMS Alexander was ordered forward to take over as Platoon Sergeant of D Company; in readiness for this platoon to take part in a further attack. However, Alexander was nowhere to be found and a Corporal had to lead the Company.
Two days later, on 17 August 1917, the 10th Battalion was pulled out of the front line. It had suffered some 400 casualties.
It was not until the 19 August 1917 that CQMS Alexander was located in the village used by the 10th Battalion as a billet prior to the attack on Hill 70. After admitting that he had gone sick, but not reported it to an officer, and the absence of any marks on his person, Alexander was arrested and charged with desertion.
Following his trial on 29 September 1917, Alexander (age 37) was executed by firing squad on 18 October 1917. His remains are located in Barlin Communal Cemetery Extension (Pas de Calais), Plot II, Row D, Grave 43.
FREDERICK STANLEY ARNOLD
Frederick Stanley Arnold was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on 25 April 1890. Following varied service in the US Forces, Arnold enlisted in the Canadian Field Artillery on 13 August 1914 at Valcartier, Quebec. His stated next-of-kin was Mrs Catherine Arnold, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
| OCCUPATION | Stockman |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 40.5 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Fair |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
Once he arrived in France, Arnold fought at Festubert and Givenchy. He was twice admitted to hospital as a result of being sick and once after suffering from Shell Shock. After his discharge from hospital, Arnold went absent on 5 June 1916. He was later captured in Boulogne, 2 days later on 7 June 1916. What was especially damaging for Arnold was that he was captured in civilian clothes at a major port.
Following his court-martial on 5 July 1916, Arnold (aged 26) was sentenced to death by shooting. Following confirmation of the sentence, Arnold was executed at 04:37 on 25 July 1916. Arnold’s remains are now located in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, Plot VIII, Row A, Grave 137.
FORTUNAT AUGER
Fortunat Auger was born in Ste. Marie, Montreal on 23 December 1890. He enlisted in the 14th (Royal Montreal) Battalion on 23 September 1914, at Valcartier, Quebec.
| OCCUPATION | Architect and Carpenter |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 4 inches |
| CHEST | 39 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
Private Auger took part in gas attack at Ypres in April 1915 and Festubert. Following his battalion’s move to the Ploegsteert sector in the summer of 1915, Private Auger’s conduct became worse. He was tried for two separate periods of absent without leave (AWOL), before absenting himself for 2 days in December 1915. This time Private Auger was charged with the capital offence of desertion. However, the courts-martial found Private Auger guilty of the lesser charge of absence and sentenced him to 12 months hard labour.
This sentence was suspended in January 1916 and Private Auger was returned to his battalion. No sooner had he returned, Private Auger went absent and was arrested 3 days later on 11 January 1916. This time Private Auger was tried and found guilty of Desertion and sentenced to death.
At 05:43 on 26 March 1916, Private Auger (aged 25) was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Trois Arbres Cemetery, Plot III, Row H, Grave 5.
ALEXANDER BUTLER
Alexander Butler was born in St Pancras, London on 11 June 1888.
Butler’s UK service papers, available at the UK’s National Archive, Kew, London, record that he enlisted on 19 January 1906 in the 7th Regiment of Hussars. The papers confirm that Butler served 6 years 133 days in the 7th Hussars and then 2 years 65 days as an Army Reservist in the 3rd Hussars.
The following service table appears in Butler’s UK service papers.
| LOCATION | ARRIVAL | DEPARTURE |
| Norwich | 20/01/1906 | – |
| Bulford, Wiltshire | 03/08/1907 | – |
| Aldershot, Hampshire | 03/10/1907 | – |
| Hounslow | 21/09/1910 | 29/09/1911 |
| Bristol | 30/09/1911 | 29/02/1912 |
| Shorncliffe, Kent | 01/03/1912 | – |
Butler also spent four periods in hospital.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | DISEASE |
| Norwich | 16/07/1906 | 20/07/1906 | Sprained Left Ankle |
| Weedon | 07/09/1906 | 19/09/1906 | Synovitis (Left Knee) |
| Aldershot | 04/01/1908 | 04/02/1908 | Synovitis (Left Knee) |
| Hounslow | 02/07/1911 | 11/07/1911 | Contusion |
Butler also has two entries on his regimental conduct sheet.
| PLACE | DATE | OFFENCE | PUNISHMENT |
| London | 08/01/1910 | Drunk | Admonished |
| St Albans | 21/05/1911 | Talked during march without permission | 10 days CB |
The last entry in Butler’s statement of service, contained in his UK service papers, dated 4 August 1914, state
Army Reserve (3rd Hussars) discharged by having joined the Canadian Permanent Force.
Alexander Butler’s UK service papers.
It appears that the army life appealed to Alexander Butler, as on 24 September 1914, at Valcartier, Quebec, Butler enlisted in the Royal Canadian Dragoons (RCD). His Mother Mrs. Jessie Butler, Highgate Road, London, was listed as his next-of-kin.
| OCCUPATION | Porter and Carman |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 7 inches |
| CHEST | 40 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Dark |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Light Brown |
| RELIGION | Wesleyan |
Following their arrival in France in May 1915, the RCDs saw dismounted service at Festubert, Givenchy and Messines Ridge. The RCDs then saw mounted service in the forthcoming June 1916 Somme Offensive.
During May 1915 Trooper Butler suffered a head injury after falling from his horse. Trooper Butler’s previous good conduct began to deteriorate, and after suffering another fall from his horse, his conduct became even worse.
On 8 June 1916, while his unit was resting behind the front lines at Hesdin (approx. 22 km west of St. Pol), Trooper Butler picked up his rifle and fired 5 shots into the chest of Trooper Mickleburgh; killing him instantly. Trooper Butler was overpowered and arrested.
Following his court-martial on 24 June 1916, Trooper Butler was sentenced to death for the murder of Trooper Mickleburgh. At 04:00am on 2 July 1916, Trooper Butler was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Ribemont Communal Cemetery Extension, Plot IV, Row M, Grave 5.
Trooper Mickleburgh is buried in Auchy-les-Hesdin Communal Cemetery; one of four First World War soldiers buried in the cemetery.
HAROLD GEORGE CARTER
Harold George Carter was born on 26 March 1894 in Toronto. On 3 March 1915, at Lindsay, Ontario, Carter initially enlisted in the 45th Battalion, before being transferred to the 59th Battalion on 6 July 1915. His next-of-kin was his Father George Harold Carter, 143 Cumberland Street, Toronto. Ontario.
| OCCUPATION | Teamster |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 39 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Light |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
After arriving in England, this unit was broken up and used as reinforcements for other units. As part of this process, Private Carter was transferred to the 73rd (Royal Highlanders of Canada) Battalion, part of the 4th Canadian Division.
Private Carter’s conduct was not good prior to joining the 73rd Battalion at the end of 1916. After being charged with AWOL during January 1916, Carter again went missing during fighting north of Courcelette. This time he was found guilty of desertion and his sentence was later reduced to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Due to manpower shortages, Carter’s sentence was suspended and he was released from prison, re-joining his unit on 16 March 1917. Soon after this date, and before the attack on Vimy Ridge, Carter again went absent again; this time for 5 days before his capture. This time Private Carter was found guilty of desertion and sentenced to death by shooting.
The sentence of death was confirmed and Private Carter was executed on 20 April 1917. Carter’s remains are located in Villers Station Cemetery, Plot X, Row A, Grave 7.
GUSTAVE COMTE
Gustav Comte was born on 24 February 1895 in Montreal. On 13 September 1915, at Valcartier Camp, Quebec, enlisting in the 57th Battalion.
| OCCUPATION | Grinder |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 3 inches |
| CHEST | 42 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Dark Blue |
| HAIR | Black |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
On 2 June 1916, Comte sailed with the battalion to France, but was transferred to the 22nd (Canadian Francis) Battalion as a result of the 22nd’s previous manpower losses.
Private Comte had several previous offences, prior to the 4 April 1917, when the 22nd was moved to the front-line through Gouy-Servins. It was during this period, just prior to the Canadian attack on Vimy Ridge, that Private Comte went missing. In Comte’s absence, the Canadian troops attacked Vimy Ridge.
Private Comte was finally arrested at Le Havre on 18 May 1917. Comte’s record and absence from the Vimy Ridge attack did not bode well for his forthcoming court-martial. He was found guilty of desertion and sentenced to death.
At 04:45 on 3 July 1917, Private Comte was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery Extension, Plot I, Row F, Grave 20.
BENJAMIN De FEHR
Benjamin De Fehr was born on 29 March 1888 in Winkler (Manitoba). On 18 November 1914, De Fehr enlisted at Vancouver into the Canadian Army Service Corps (CASC). His nominated next-of-kin was his Mother Mrs Catherine De Fehr, 32 Hastings West, Vancouver.
| OCCUPATION | Rancher |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 8 inches |
| CHEST | 37 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Dark |
| EYES | Hazel |
| HAIR | Dark |
| RELIGION | Presbyterian |
De Fehr’s service papers show that he was twice admitted to hospital.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | DISEASE |
| Tent Hospital, Risborough | 16/08/1915 | 06/09/1915 | Gonorrhoea |
| Barnwell Hill Hospital, Cambridge | 06/09/1915 | 21/09/1915 | Gonorrhoea |
De Fehr embarked for France on 19 March 1916, arriving the following day. He was then taken on the strength of the Base Motor Transport Depot. Six days later, on the 26 March, he was transferred to the 1st Canadian Reserve Park.
On 3 June 1916, De Fehr was fined 5 days pay for disobedience to standing orders.
On 19 August 1916, while De Fehr was serving in France with the 1st Canadian Reserve Park in the rear areas near Hazebrouck, he picked up his rifle and fired one shot through the back of his Regimental Sergeant-Major; RSM J.R. Scott (aged 43) died instantly. De Feher was eventually overpowered and placed under arrest.
Prior to the killing of RSM Scott, De Fehr’s conduct had been unremarkable. After his court-martial on 22 August 1916, De Fehr was found guilty of Scott’s murder and sentenced to death by shooting. Witnesses of the shooting claimed that DeFehr was sober, although he claimed that he had been heavily drinking.
Three days later, on 25 August 1916, Driver De Fehr (aged was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Hazebrouck Communal Cemetery, Plot I, Row A, Grave 13.
RSM Scott’s remains are located in the same cemetery, in Grave 10; 3 graves away from those of De Fehr.
ARTHUR CHARLES DEGASSE
Arthur Charles Degasse was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, USA, on 17 September 1886. The service papers show the surname spelt DEGASSE. The Commonwealth War Grave Commission (CWGC) have the spelling DAGASSE.
On 23 September 1914, Arthur Charles Degasse enlisted in the Canadian Army Medical Corps as a private. His nominated next-of-kin was his Mother Mrs. A. Degasse, 2361 Chateaubriand Street, Montreal (later 98 Merton Road, Wimbledon, London).
| OCCUPATION | Cook |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 3.5 inches |
| CHEST | 36.5 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Dark |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Dark |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
Degasse’s unit sailed, on the Scandinavian, from Canada on 3 October 1914. His conduct as a soldier started badly and continued in an inevitable decline towards his conviction and execution for desertion.
| DATE | LOCATION | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| 15/03/1915 | Netherwood, Herefordshire | Absent for 8 days | Forfeit 8 days pay |
| 26/03/1915 | Netherwood, Herefordshire | Absent for 9 days | Detention 9 days and forfeit 9 days pay |
| 06/12/1915 | Etaples | Absent from 6pm 03/12/15 to 6pm 04/12/15 | Forfeit 2 days pay |
| 18/02/1916 | Etaples | Absent from 9pm 16/02/1916 to 12am 17/02/1916 | 14 days FP1 and forfeit 2 days pay |
| 03/04/1916 | Le Harve | Absent from roll call until 10pm | 5 days CB |
| 21/06/1916 | St Cloud | Absent from 10pm 19/06/1916 to 10pm 20/06/1916 | 3 days CB |
| 03/07/1916 | St Cloud | Overstaying pass 10am 01/07/1916 to 9pm 01/07/1916 | 3 days CB |
| 10/08/1916 | St Cloud | Absence without leave from 01/06/1916 to 07/08/1916 and drunk when arrested | 14 days FP1 and forfeit 3 days pay |
| 04/09/1916 | St Cloud | Absent from duty 7am to 7pm on 02/09/1916. Absent from duty 7a to 7pm on 03/09/1916 | 14 days FP1 and forfeit 2 days pay |
- FP1: Field Punishment Number 1.
- CB: Confined to Barracks.
Private Degasse also spent four spells in hospital for the treatment of venereal disease.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | RESULT |
| No. 9 St Hospital Le Harve | 17/03/1916 | 21/03/1916 | Dis. to No. 11 Camp Harfleur |
| No. 11 Camp Harfleur | 21/03/1916 | 23/03/1916 | Dis. to Can Base Depot |
| Can Base Depot | 23/03/1916 | – | Dis. No. 1 Can Gen. Hospital |
| No. 1 Can Gen Hospital | – | 08/04/1916 | Re-joined Unit |
On 4 April 1917, just prior to his units participation in the Vimy Ridge attack, Degasse went absent until he was arrested in Paris on 29 April 1917. While awaiting his trial for this offence, Degasse escaped and remained absent for 5 months before being rearrested in Paris on 4 October 1917. When he was arrested for this second time, Degasse was wearing the uniform of a Sergeant in the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC).
Following his court-martial on 26 February 1918, Dagasse was found guilty of desertion and sentenced to death.
At 06:37 on 15 March 1918, Dagasse (aged 33) was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Lapugnoy Military Cemetery, Plot VIII, Row B, Grave 8.
LEOPOLD DELISLE
Leopold Delisle was born on 28 July 1892, in Montreal.
Delisle tried to enlist on 30 November 1914, 15 January 1915 and was finally accepted for overseas service on 22 April 1915 at Montreal. His next-of-kin was his Father Philip Delislie.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 37 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Medium |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
On 20 May 1915, Delisle sailed with the 22nd (French-Canadian) Battalion, arriving at Boulogne on 15 September 1915.
Delisle rapidly accumulated offences on his conduct sheet.
| DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| 25/06/1915 | Refusing to obey an order | 14 days FP1 |
| 01/09/1915 | Drunk & absent from parade | Fine $2 |
| 05/11/1915 | Insubordination | 7 days FP2 |
| 27/11/1915 | Absent from parade | Fine 1 days pay |
| 08/01/1916 | Refusing to go on parade | 28 days FP1 |
| 22/03/1916 | Striking an superior officer | 1 year hard labour |
| 05/09/1917 | Outside area without pass | 3 days FP1 |
| 10/09/1917 | Absent from parade | 21 days FP1 |
On 1 September 1917, Delislie was admitted to hospital with convulsions, being discharged the next day.
On 29 March 1918 Delisle’s unit was ordered forward to attempt to stem the German advance on Arras. However, when the roll call was made Delisle was absent. Five days later, Delisle was arrested just outside Arras. This time, Delisle’s court-martial found him guilty of desertion and sentenced him to death by shooting.
At 04:24 on 21 May 1918, Delisle (aged 25) was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Bellacourt Military Cemetery, Plot II, Row J, Grave 6.
EDWARD FAIRBURN
Edward Fairburn was born in St. Catherines (Ontario) on 21 September 1895.
On 22 November 1915, in St. Catherines Fairburn enlisted in the Canadian Mounted Rifles. His next-of-kin was his mother Mrs. Jenny Fairburn, 11 Maple Street, St Catherines, Ontario.
| OCCUPATION | Machinist |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 38 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Ruddy |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Dark Brown |
| RELIGION | Wesleyan |
On 29 March 1916, Private Fairburn sailed from Canada on the ship “Olympic”, arriving in England on 11 April 1916.
On 27 September 1916, Fairburn was sent to France as part of a reinforcement for the 18th (Western Ontario) Battalion.
Following a period of charge-free conduct, Fairburn went missing during the period 9-16 April 1917. He remained missing for 10 months, before being arrested just north of Arras. During his period of absence, Fairburn had missed the major battles at Vimy Ridge, Hill 70 and Passchendale (Third Battle of Ypres); which made his desertion appear even worse in the eyes of the Army authorities. It came as no surprise that Fairburn was court-martialled for Desertion, found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting.
On 2 March 1918, Fairburn (aged 23) was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Villers Station Cemetery, Plot XI, Row B, Grave 23. The cemetery is located 11 kilometres north-west of Arras.
STEPHEN McDERMOTT FOWLES
Stephen McDermott Fowles was born on 13 June 1897 in Winnipeg.
On 16 February 1916, Fowles enlisted in the 107th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, later transferring to the 44th Battalion. His stated next-of-kin was his father Stephen Fowles, Austin, Manitoba.
| OCCUPATION | Farmer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 9 inches |
| CHEST | 39 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Dark |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Black |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Fowles sailed for France, on the “Olympic”, leaving Halifax on 18 September 1916.
On 3 February 1917, Fowles was admitted to hospital with a swollen left hand. He was treated and discharged to duty on 11 February 1917.
Within a year of his enlistment, Fowles was court-martialled for desertion and found guilty. His sentence of death was reduced during the confirmation process to 10 years’ imprisonment, which was itself later reduced to a suspended sentence and Fowles was returned to his unit.
Despite these events, Fowles deserted and on 29 December 1917 was again sentenced to death. For a second time, the sentence was commuted to a term of imprisonment and eventually reduced to a suspended sentence. Due to the need to combat the German offensive, Fowles was returned to his unit.
Shortly after rejoining his unit, Fowles deserted for a 3rd time and was not detained until he turned himself in on 2 May 1918. Fowles was court-martialled for desertion, found guilty and sentenced to death. This time there was no commutation and at 03:50 on 19 June 1918, Fowles was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Villers Station Cemetery, Plot XIII, Plot B, Grave 1.
JOHN MAURICE HIGGINS
John Maurice Higgins was born on 26 September 1891 in Charlottetown, before moving with his parents in Toronto.
On 23 November 1915, Higgins enlisted in the 87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards) in Montreal. His nominated next-of-kin was his Uncle George Higgins, Charlottetown.
| OCCUPATION | Welder |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 8 inches |
| CHEST | 40 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Light |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Methodist |
Higgins sailed with the battalion to England, on the ship “Empress of Britain”, departing on 23 April 1916.
Higgins conduct had already begun to deteriorate and his conduct sheet should several offences. On 10 May 1916, Higgins was charged with being Absent Without Leave (AWOL) and deducted 3 days’ pay. Two days later, on 12 May 1916, Higgins received 12 days’ Field Punishment No. 2 for another period of being AWOL. Following this second period of AWOL, Higgins was transferred as a reinforcement to the 1st (Western Ontario) Battalion in Belgium.
Private Higgins took part in the heavy fighting at Mount Sorrel and went with his unit into the fighting at Courcelette in September 1916. During this battle, Higgins went absent until he was arrested by French Police 16 days’ later. This time Private Higgins was charged with desertion. While awaiting his court-martial, Higgins escaped from custody and was not rearrested until 5 days’ later.
After his court-martial, Higgins was found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting. At 07:11 on 7 December 1916, Higgins was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Quatre-Vents Cemetery, Plot I, Row B, Grave 2.
HENRY HESEY KERR
Henry Hesey Kerr was born in Montreal on 4 September 1891.
On 10 June 1915, Kerr enlisted in the 60th Battalion at Montreal. Kerr’s nominated next-of-kin was his mother Lizzie Kerr, 1224 City Hall Avenue, Montreal.
| OCCUPATION | Teamster |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 9.5 inches |
| CHEST | 40.5 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Fair |
| RELIGION | Presbyterian |
Private Kerr sailed on the “Scandinavian”, departing Montreal on 27 August 1915.
While in the UK, Private Kerr had several hospital admissions.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | DISEASE |
| Shorncliffe Mil. Hosp. | 02/10/15 | 12/10/15 | Ulcer |
| Tent Hospital Shorncliffe | 12/10/15 | 17/11/15 | Syphilis |
| Moore Barracks Hosp. | 21/09/15 | 28/09/15 | Bronchitis |
| Walmer | 28/09/15 | 02/10/15 | Bronchitis |
| Shorncliffe Mil. Hosp. | 27/01/16 | 02/02/16 | Chancroid |
| Barnwell Mil. Hosp. | 02/02/16 | 30/03/16 | Chancroid |
Shortly after joining the 60th Battalion on 10 June 1915, Private Kerr incurred his first punishment when he forfeited 2 days’ pay for being absent without leave (AWOL). One week later he was fined another 2 days’ pay for misconduct and being AWOL. After the battalion had arrived in England, Kerr was punished for 3 more periods of AWOL on 27 November 1915, 3 December 1915 and 3 January 1916.
After entering France and joining the 7th (British Columbia) Battalion, Kerr’s conduct continued to decline. After several more warnings about his conduct, Kerr rejoined his unit in October 1916 as it prepared to attack Regina Trench as part of the Somme Offensive. However, Kerr went absent after being warned for duty in the front line. 24 hours’ later Kerr was arrested when he was discovered in some billets located some miles behind the front lines.
On 7 November 1916, Kerr was charged with desertion. His court-martial found him guilty and sentenced him to death by shooting. At 06:45 on 21 November 1916, Kerr was executed by firing squad. Private Kerr’s remains are now located in Quatre-Vents Military Cemetery, Plot III, Row A, Grave 9.
JOSEPH LaLANCETTE
Joseph LaLancette was born on 1 September 1895 in London, Ontario.
On 10 June 1916, LaLancette enlisted in the 167th Battalion. On 1 September 1916, he was transferred to the 189th Battalion.
| OCCUPATION | Farmer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 7 inches |
| CHEST | 37 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Light |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
LaLancette’s unit left Canada on 27 September 1916, arriving England on 6 October 1916. Upon arriving in England, LaLancette was transferred to 69th Battalion, finally being transferred to the 22nd (French Canadian) Battalion on 27 October 1916.
| DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| 21/11/1916 | Absent 12.45pm 21/11/1916 to 3pm 22/11/1916 | Forfeit 2 days pay |
| 29/12/1916 | Absent 4pm 23/12/1916 to 8pm same day | 14 days FP1 & forfeit 1 days pay |
On 6 April 1917, just prior to the attack on Vimy Ridge, LaLancette went absent and was shortly arrested together with Gustav Comte. Both soldiers faced separate courts-martial, charged with desertion. Both LaLancette and Comte were found guilty and sentenced to death.
At 04:45 on 3 July 1917, LaLancette and Comte were executed by firing squad. LaLancette’s remains are now located in Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery Extension, Plot I, Row F, Grave 21.
COME LaLIBERTE
Come Laliberte was born on 24 March 1893 in Lotbiniere (Quebec).
On 6 March 1915, at Montreal, LaLiberte enlisted in the 41st Battalion, later transferring to the 3rd Battalion. His nominated next-of-kin was his mother Mrs. E. Laliberte, 2272 Notre Dame West, Montreal.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 4 inches |
| CHEST | 38 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Medium |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Black |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
While in St. John’s (Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu), Quebec, on 3 March 1915, Lalibertie was reported drunk.
On 20 May 1915, he travelled with the battalion to England.
On 4 July 1915, Laliberte was admitted to Moore Military Hospital, Kent with “Injury to right side of head”. He was discharged on 8 July 1915.
On 30 October 1915, Laliberte was admitted to No. 1 Canadian Field Ambulance with concussion. He re-joined his unit on 8 November 1915.
On 11 December 1915, Laliberte admitted to No. 23 General Hospital. Etaples, with injuries to the right side of his face from a grenade and gunshot wound (GSW) to left side of head. He re-joined his unit on 17 January 1916.
| DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| 15/01/1916 | 1. Out of bounds 2. Being in town without a pass 3. Being improperly dressed | 7 days FP1 |
| 27/02/1916 | Loss of his helmet | Forfeit 2 shillings |
On moving up to the trenches during the Summer of 1916, as part of the 3rd Battalion contribution to the battles around Mount Sorrel, Laliberte left the ranks and refused to go forward. He was tried for desertion, found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting.
On 4 August 1916, Laliberte (aged 26) was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Poperinghe New Military Cemetery, Plot II, Row H, Grave 3.
WILSON NORMAN LING
Wilson Norman Ling was born on 15 July 1896 in Toronto.
On 7 May 1915, Ling enlisted at Lindsay, Ontario, into the 59th Battalion. Ling’s nominated next-of-kin was his mother Mrs. Fannie Ling, 22 Gladstone Place, Toronto, Ontario.
| OCCUPATION | Steam Fitter |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 6 inches |
| CHEST | 41 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Brown |
| HAIR | Dark Brown |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Ling’s unit arrived at Le Harve, France, on 17 March 1916. Ling was sent as part of a reinforcement of the 2nd (Eastern Ontario) Battalion in France.
On 22 June 1916 and 8 July 1916, Ling went absent from his unit in France. When he was recaptured after the 2nd attempt, Ling was charged with desertion. At his court-martial, the charge was reduced to AWOL and Ling was sentenced to 90 days’ Field Punishment No. 1; the maximum length of sentence for field punishment.
During October 1916, Ling again went absent. Four months later, Ling was recaptured and tried by court-martial. He was found guilty and sentenced to death. However, the sentence was commuted to 2 years’ imprisonment with hard labour. In turn, this sentence was suspended and Ling was released on 15 June 1917.
On 8 July 1918, Ling was tried by Field General Courts Martial (FGCM) with desertion.
In that he absented himself from his unit at that time near Neuville St. Vaast at 9am 21 June 1917 and remained absent until apprehended by the Military Police, Les Brebis, about 2.15pm 7 May 1918; 320 days 5.25 hours.
Extrat from LIng’s Service Papers (Library & Archives Canada).
The sentence of death was confirmed by Field-Marshal Haig on 4 August 1918 and promulgated to Ling on 11 August 1918.
On 12 August 1918, Ling (aged 22) was exceuted by firing squad. His remains are now located in Cerisy-Gailly Military Cemetery, Plot II, Row N. Grave 20.
HAROLD EDWARD JAMES LODGE
Harold Edward James Lodge was born in Toronto on 22 December 1897 in Toronto.
On 10 May 1915, Lodge enlisted at Toronto in the Canadian Divisional Engineers. His nominated next-of-kin was his mother Mrs. Ida O. Lodge, 61 Marlborough Avenue, Toronto.
| OCCUPATION | Driver |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 7 inches |
| CHEST | 42 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Medium |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Lodge arrived in France, as reinforcement, on 22 November 1915.
On 9 August 1916, Lodge was admitted to No. 3 Casualty Clearing Station with a gunshot wound to his neck. He was discharged back to his unit on 25 August 1916.
On 23 February 1918, Lodge faced three charges at his Field General Courts Martail
- When on active service desertion in that he in the Field on 2 November 1917 while proceeding to the trenches absented himself and remained absent until arrested at Boulogne on 12 December 1917.
- Attempting to desert in that he in the Field escaped from confinement on 21 December 1917 and remained absent until arrested at Boulogne on 7 January 1918.
- Attempting to desert in that in the Field on 11 January 1918 escaped from arrest and remained absent until arrested at Boulogne on 14 January 1918.
Lodge was found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting. On 13 March 1918 Private Lodge was executed by firing squad. His remains are located in Noeux-les-Mines Communal Cemetery Extension, Plot IV, Row B, Grave 5.
THOMAS LIONEL MOLES
Thomas Lionel Moles was born in Brompton Ralph (Somerset) on 17 November 1891.
The 1891 England Census has Thomas Lionel Moles living with his grand-parents at 14 Brompton Court, Brompton Ralph, Somerset.
| NAME | RELATION | AGE | PROFESSION |
| Thomas Redwood | Head | 68 | Carpenter |
| Elizabeth A Redwood | Wife | 65 | – |
| Thomas | Son | 22 | Carpenter Apprentice |
| John Moles | G/son | 5 | – |
| Rhoda Moles | G/daughter | 3 | – |
| Thomas L Moles | G/son | 1 | – |
The 1901 England Census has the Thomas Lionel Moles living with his grand-parents in Brompton Ralph, Somerset.
| NAME | RELATION | AGE | PROFESSION |
| Elizabeth A Redwood | Head | 75 | Widow |
| Lydia Redwood | Daughter | 45 | – |
| Alice Redwood | G/daughter | 6 | – |
| John Moles | G/son | 15 | Butcher |
| Rhoda Moles | G/daughter | 13 | Servant |
| Thomas L Moles | G/son | 11 | – |
| Ruth Moles | G/daughter | 6 | – |
Thomas Moles served for four years in the 3rd Battalion, The Somerset Light Infantry.
On 8 March 1911, Thomas Moles boarded the ship “Royal Edward” for a 3rd class journey from Bristol to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
On 28 August 1915, Moles enlisted at Vernon Camp, British Colombia. He nominated his mother Mrs. Sarah L. Metford, Chinnok, Crewkerne, Somerset.
| OCCUPATION | Rancher |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 8 inches |
| CHEST | 37 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Fair |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Moles was assigned to 54th Battalion. The 54th Battalion, including Private Moles, left Canada on 24 November 1915, on board the ship “Saxonia”, arriving in England on 02 December 1915.
Whilst in the Army, Moles had several hospital admissions.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | DISEASE |
| Connaught, Aldershot | 14/01/1916 | 18/01/1916 | Venereal Disease |
| Connaught, Aldershot | 25/01/1916 | 30/01/1916 | Venereal Disease |
| Connaught, Aldershot | 22/02/1916 | 29/02/1916 | Venereal Disease |
| No. 7 General Hospital, St Omer | 26/03/1917 | 18/04/1917 | Mumps |
Private Moles’ conduct sheet contains several offences.
| DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| 01/03/1916 | Absent from parade | 2 days CB |
| 15/06/1916 | Absent from fatigue and absent 08/08/1916 until 14/06/1916 | 14 days FP2 and forfeit 21 days pay |
| 30/06/1916 | Absent from 29/06/19 until 30/06/1916 | 4 days FP2 and forfeit 5 days pay |
| 16/12/1916 | Absent from 9pm 08/12/1916 to 9.15pm 09/12/1916. | Forfeit 10 days pay |
| 16/12/1916 | Drunkenness on 14/12/1916 | 28 days FP1 |
During October 1917, Moles was ordered to re-join his company which was about to go into action. Instead of going forward, Moles went to a village in the rear areas. He was eventually arrested 3 weeks later, and charged with desertion and the “… theft of a comrade’s property”.
At his court-martial Moles was found guilty of both charges and sentenced to death. At 05:30 on 22 October 1917, Moles was executed by firing squad.
Thomas Moles’ remains are located in Ypres Reservoir Cemetery, Plot I, Row H, Grave 76.
EUGENE PERRY
Eugene Perry was born in Boutouche, New Brunswick, on 1 April 1896.
On 16 October 1915, at Bramshott Camp, Perry enlisted in the 41st Battalion. His nominated next-of-kin was his father Germain Perry, St. Croix, Boutouche, New Brunswick.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 5.5 inches |
| CHEST | 36 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Roman Catholic |
On 28 October 1915, Perry’s unit arrived, on the ship “Laconia”, in England. On 23 June 1916, Perry was transferred to the 22nd (French-Canadian) Battalion.
On 14 February 1917, Perry was sentenced to 28 days Field Punishment No. 1, “for when on active service: Absent without leave from 4pm 14 February 1917 to 1am 15 February 1917.”
During the afternoon of 2 April 1917, Perry was warned for duty in the front-line trenches. However, Perry soon vanished. He was eventually arrested some 7 hours later at a village, located approxmiately 20 miles behind the front lines. At his court-martial Perry was found guilty of desertion and sentenced to death.
On 11 April 1917, 2 days after the start of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, Perry was executed by firing squad. His remains are located in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Plot VI, Row C, Grave 7.
EDWARD JAMES REYNOLDS
Edward James Reynolds was born on 2 January 1896 in Toronto.
On 12 April 1915, at Toronto, Reynolds enlisted in the in the 35th Battalion. His nominated next-of-kin was his mother.
| OCCUPATION | Teamster |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 10 inches |
| CHEST | 35 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Hazel |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Reynolds sailed, on the “Hesperian”, from Montreal on 17 August 1915. On 19 November 1915, Reynolds was transferred to the 3rd Battalion. Between 5 May and 18 May 1916, Reynolds was admitted to hospital with Bronchitis.
On 25 July 1916, the Germans exploded a mine under a portion of the front line called “The Bluff”. The 3rd Battalion was ordered forward to plug the resulting gap in the front line. However, Reynolds fell out from his platoon only to be found 2 days later at his battalion’s transport lines. Reynolds claimed that he had been ordered back and got lost.
During the following night (28 July 1916), Reynolds was ordered to accompany a ration party up to the front line. Again Reynolds fell out and went back to his battalion’s transport lines. This time Reynolds was arrested and charged with desertion. He was found guilty by his court-martial and sentenced to death.
At 05:27 on 23 August 1916, Reynolds was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Longuenesse Souvenir Cemetery, Plot IV, Row A, Grave 39.
JOHN WILLIAM ROBERTS
John William Roberts was born in Newfoundland on 5 August 1895.
On 26 May 1915, after serving in the Royal Navy Reserve (RNR) for four years, Roberts enlisted in the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles at Victoria, British Columbia. Roberts nominated his mother as his next-of-kin.
| OCCUPATION | Cook |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 7 inches |
| CHEST | 40 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fresh |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Light Brown |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Roberts spent several spells in hospital.
| HOSPITAL | ADMITTED | DISCHARGED | DISEASE |
| Tent Hospital, Shorncliffe | 10/08/1915 | 07/09/1915 | Gonorrhoea |
| Barnwell Mil. Hospital, Cambridge | 07/09/1915 | 24/09/1915 | Gonorrhoea |
| No. 1 General Hospital, Boulogne | 28/01/1916 | 05/02/1916 | Urethral Stricture |
While at Shorncliffe, on 30 September 1915, Roberts was sentenced to 28 days detention for
- Being absent without leave from 31 July 1915 to 6 August 1915.
- Disgraceful conduct.
- Stealing goods belonging to a comrade.
- Masquerading as an Warrant Officer.
On 10 November 1915, Roberts arrived at the Base Depot in Rouelles, France.
After reporting sick in January 1916, Roberts was sent to a convalescent camp to recover. After being released in February 1916, Roberts went absent. He was eventually arrested by the military police 4 months later in June 1916. After his court-martial in July 1916, Roberts was found guilty of desertion and sentenced to death.
At 04:36 on 30 July 1916, Roberts was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, Plot VIII, Row A, Grave 154.
DIMITRO SINIZKI
On 25 September 1895, Dimitro Sinizki was born in Kiev, Ukraine.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) have the spelling of “Sinicky” but although Sinizki’s service papers are filed under “Sinicky” by Library & Archives Canada, the correct spelling is stated in the papers.
Sinizki emigrated to Canada (his parents remained in Ukraine), where on 3 December 1915, while living at 188 Euclid Street, Winnipeg, he enlisted in 144th Battalion, Canadian Infantry.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 5 inches |
| CHEST | 39 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fresh |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Fair |
| RELIGION | Greek Catholic |
While in Canada, Sinizki spent two spells in hospital with Bronchitis: 5 May 1916 to 14 May 1916 and 22 May 1916 to 24 May 1916.
On 18 September 1916, Sinizki departed Halifax on the “Olympic”, disembarking at Liverpool on 25 September 1916. During the period 2 November 1916 to 14 November 1916, Sinizki was a patient in Connaught Hospital, Aldershot, being treated for Gonorrhoea.
After being transferred to the 52nd Battalion, Sinizki arrived in France on 17 February 1917.
On 19 September 1917, Sinizki was tried by a Field General Courts Martial (FGCM) with the following charge.
When on active service misbehaving before the enemy in such a manner as to show cowardice in that he at Sains-en-Gohelle, on August 24-25 1917, when ordered to go up to the line and join his company refused to do so because he was afraid.
Sinizki’s Service Papers, Library and Archives Canada.
Sinizki was found guilty of cowardice and sentenced to death by shooting.
At 06:11 on 9 October 1917, Private Sinizki was executed by firing squad. His remains are located in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Plot VI, Row K, Grave 19.
CHARLES WELSH
Charles Welsh was born on 3 June 1889 in Chester (England).
On 10 February 1915, at Port Arthur, Ontario, Charles Welsh enlisted in the 52nd Battalion. His nominated next-of-kin was his mother Mrs Mary Ann Welsh, 4 Olive Crescent, Birkenhead, England.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 5 inches |
| CHEST | 38 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Dark |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Church of England |
Private Welsh departed Canada on 17 June 1915, sailing on the “Scandinavian”. While at Shorncliffe, Kent, Welsh was fined 8 days pay for being absent for 8 days.
Walsh entered France on 3 August 1915 and transferred, as reinforcement, to the 8th Battalion.
On 18 August 1915, Welsh was admitted to 2nd Canadian Field Ambulance for dental work. Two days later, Welsh was discharged back to his unit.
During March 1916, Welsh was charged with desertion and tried by court-martial. Welsh was found not guilty of desertion but gilty of the lesser offence of being AWOL, and sentenced to 6 months imprisonment with hard labour. However, this was reduced during the confirmation process to 90 days Field Punishment No. 1.
In August 1916, Welsh was again arrested for desertion, found guilty and sentenced to death. This time, during the confirmation process, the sentenced was reduced to 7 years’ penal servitude. On 18 November 1916, this sentence was itself reduced to 2 years’ imprisonment and then on 19 September 1917 the sentence was suspended and Welsh returned to his unit.
On 10 November 1917, Welsh went absent. He remained absent for 2 months, until he was arrested by the Military Police in Poperinghe. This time Welsh was arrested and changed with desertion. He was found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting.
This time there was no reduction of sentence, and at 06:00 on 6 March 1918 Welsh was executed by firing squad. His remains are now located in Mazingarbe Communal Cememtery Extension, Plot III, Row B, Grave 12.
JAMES H WILSON
James Wilson was born in Limerick (Ireland) on 18 June 1879. After serving 9 years in the Connaught Rangers, Wilson emigrated to Canada.
On 22 September 1914, at Valcartier, Quebec, Wilson enlisted in 4th Battalion. No next-of-kin was provided on his attestation papers. However, Wilson’s service papers do include a will, leaving Wilson’s processions to a fellow soldier Private Alexander McLeod.
| OCCUPATION | Labourer |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 11 inches |
| CHEST | 38 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue |
| HAIR | Dark Brown |
| RELIGION | Presbyterian |
On 7 October 1914, Wilson’s unit sailed from Quebec City, on the ship “Tysolia”.
| LOCATION | DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| Aldershot | 09/11/1914 | Breaking out of bounds | – |
| Aldershot | 16/12/1914 | Absent without leave, Breaking out of guard room and remaining absent until arrested by Military Police 8/12/1914 to 13/12/1914 | Discharged from Army |
At Tidworth, Wiltshire, Wilson was discharged from the Army on 18 December 1915 but then readmitted to the 9th Battalion, Canadian Infantry.
Wilson’s disciplinary issues continued in his new battalion. Wilson was transferred to the 12th Battalion on 8 May 1915, the disciplinary issues continued. Wilson’s unit embarked for France on 15 July 1915.
| LOCATION | DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| Shorncliffe | 28/05/1915 | Absent from 7am 26/05/1915 to 28/05/1915 | 2 days detention |
| Shorncliffe | 05/06/1915 | Absent without leave from 9.30pm 01/06/1915 to 4pm 03/06/1915 | 7 days detention |
| Shorncliffe | 17/06/1915 | Absent without leave, kicking a NCO & using abusive language | 28 days detention |
| With Unit | 16/07/1915 | When on active service drunk in town | Forfeit 3 days pay |
| With Unit | 26/08/1915 | Absent without leave from 6am 31/07/1915 to 6am 31/07/1915 and from 6am 01/08/1915 to 3pm 07/08/1915 | 90 days FP1 |
| With Unit | 15/11/1915 | Drunkenness and escaping confinement | 70 days FP1 |
| Field | 10/01/1916 | Disobeying in such a manner as to show wilful defiance of authority and lawful command of his officer | 18 months hard labour. Commuted to 90 days FP1 |
| Field | 01/06/1916 | Urinating in billets and abusive language to NCO | 14 days FP1 |
| Field | 10/06/1916 | Disobedience of standing orders (having a camera in his possession). | 90 days FP1. Conviction quashed due to irregularities in proceedings |
At what proved to be Wilson’s final court martial, the charge was
When on active service, deserting from His Majesty’s Service (from 25 May 1916 till 29/05/1916 and 12 June 1916 to 18 June 1916).
Henry J. Wilson’s Service Papers (Library Archives Canada).
At his court-martial he was found guilty and sentenced to death by shooting.
At 04:20 on 9 July 1916, Wilson was executed by firing squad. His remains are located in Poperinghe New Military Cemetery, Plot II, Row H, Grave 2.
ELSWORTH YOUNG
Elsworth Young was born on 2 June 1895 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
On 26 November 1914, Young enlisted in the 25th Battalion. His nominated next-of-kin was his mother Mrs. Emma Young, 153 Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
| OCCUPATION | Miner |
| HEIGHT | 5 feet 2 inches |
| CHEST | 36 inches |
| COMPLEXION | Fair |
| EYES | Blue Grey |
| HAIR | Brown |
| RELIGION | Wesleyan |
Young’s unit sailed from Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the “Saxonia”, departing on 20 May 1915. The ship arrived in England on 29 May 1915.
| LOCATION | DATE | OFFENCE | SENTENCE |
| East Sandling, Kent | 02/08/1915 | Absent without leave | Forfeit 1 day pay |
On 15 September 1915, Young’s unit embarked at Folkestone for the journey to France.
On 14 June 1916, Young was granted 8 days leave, which was extended for 24 hours on 21 June 1916.
On 16 September 1916, during the major fighting at Courcelette, reinforcements were needed and Young was ordered forward to report to his Company Sergeant-Major (CSM). However, Young went absent before reporting to his battalion later that evening and answering the evening rollcall.
Depite returning, Young went absent again. In September 1916, Young was arrested by the military police some miles behind the front-lines. He was dressed in the uniform of a Corporal in an artillery unit and initially gave false details to the MPs that arrested him.
Young was charged with desertion. His court-martial found him guilty and sentenced Young to death.
At 06:26 on 29 October 1916, Young was executed by firing squad. His remains are located in Bully-Grenay Communal Cemetery, Plot II, Row B, Grave 14.