Witness to War: Sunday April 29, 1917

Witness to War: Sunday April 29, 1917

Private Raymond Duval, MM, was a soldier of the 14th Battalion (Royal Montreal Regiment) CEF who served overseas during the last two years of the First World War. He participated in some of the fiercest fighting seen by Canadians during the war and was decorated for bravery at Passchendaele. Determined to preserve his memories of the First World War, he maintained a daily record of his experiences. Here is what he wrote precisely 100 years ago today:

Sunday April 29, 1917: Church parade in 23 Bn very impressive service. Beautiful band. This is the army for fair. We were on our feet all day getting equipment no rest for the weary here. This is one H- of a place. Hope we get to France soon home to the little girl.

The RMR Foundation thanks Natalie Dyck for generously sharing her publication of “The Diary and Memoir of Private Raymond Duval” in order for us to be able to share his story with you 100 years on. You can learn more about Private Duval here.

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