Previous Military Experience: Veteran of World War 1 and a member of the Kent Regiment (MG)

History After Enlistment: Served in Canada.

Born in 1896, married to Myrtle, they lived at 239 Park Street, Chatham, ON.   Percy and Myrtle had 5 daughters:  Jean (Warren Wadsworth), Marjorie (William Fellowes Jr), Phyllis (John “Jack” Ellis), Patricia (William Longmore) and Joan (George DeBruyne).

A veteran of the Great War. Percy was reported returning to his unit after a visit with his family. Served in Canada only. CDN 2/02/42.

Percy immigrated to Canada from England as a stowaway on a cattle boat. He would have died if the crew had not brought him food. 

He was one of 13 children and was born in Richmond, Surrey, England.  He served in WW I as part of the 186^th CEF, enlisting in St. Thomas.  After WW I, he settled in Kent County with his wife Myrtle and 5 daughters.  Percy worked as a lineman for the Bell Telephone Company, settling in Chatham after the Great War.  He was colour blind but memorized the position of the various wires, which were all colour coded, so that he could install them correctly.

Upon the declaration of WW II Percy, (now in his 50’s) was first in line in Chatham to sign up for active duty. As a courtesy, he stepped into second place to allow the CO of the Kent Regiment to enlist first.

He served in Canada during WW II and was always disappointed that he was considered too old to go overseas. He attained the rank of Medical Sergeant and trained young recruits.

Percy died in May of 1977 at the age of 87 years.

Source:  Joan Taylor DeBruyne and George DeBruyne

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Sources

IODE, CC-HC, NB, KRA, Joan Taylor DeBruyne, George DeBruyne

Birthplace	Richmond, England
Religion	Anglican
When Enlisted	July 26th 1940
Next of Kin	Myrtly May Taylor (Wife)

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