838884 Pte. George Alexander Bell, DCM was born in April 1897, in Derby Township, Grey County, Ontario.
Living on 6th Street East, Owen Sound, at the time of signing on, George was a labourer by trade when he attested into the 147th (Grey) Battalion, in Owen Sound, on February 22nd, 1916.
The 147th BN became part of the 8th Reserve Battalion in January 1917. George was subsequently assigned to the 4th CMR, joining them in the field on May 12th, 1917.
The 4th CMR was in the line 5km to the east of Arras when they were involved in a planned attack on Monchy-le-Preux on 26th August 1918. During that action George excelled himself in the line of duty, and was subsequently awarded his DCM - Distinguished Conduct Medal. The citation for this reads as follows:
"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the action near Monchy on 26th August, 1918. While following a company in the attack, with two other scouts, for report work, he found the company held up by a nest of machine guns. With the other two men he worked round the flank, shot one gunner, wounded another, and captured fourteen prisoners and four machine guns."
Having survived this attack, George was wounded by gas two days later, on 28th August 1918, in the push on Boiry. However, he survived the war and was struck off strength on 19th March 1919.
This image is with thanks, and is courtesy of George Auer and The Grey & Simcoe Foresters, who perpetuate the 147th & 248th Battalions today.