50514, Lt Harry Bennett was born in Eastville, Bristol, England, in February 1888, son of Henry and Eliza Bennett.
A male nurse by trade, and single at the time of signing on, Harry attested in Niagara, on 12th June 1915, and was en route to England on the 29th.
Quickly rising through the ranks, Harry was a sergeant by January 1916, though still stationed in England. He was attached to the Canadian Command Depot by May 1916, and transferred to the 1st Canadian Command Depot in July 1916.
On 9th September 1916, Harry married Lillie Bowden in a military ceremony in St Martins, London.
Promoted to Lieutenant in November 1916, Harry was attached to the 39th Battalion. He was then transferred to the 4th CMR on 30th November, proceeding to France where he joined the regiment in the field on 14th December 1916, at Etrun, 3 miles / 5km north-west of Arras, France.
Whilst no specific details are noted, it was seen in the records that Harry was 'slightly gassed' at Vimy in 1917 (most likely in the actions of April 1917), and again in October 1917 (again, most likely being amongst the 22 'slightly gassed' in the actions leading to the attacks on Cambrai on Oct. 8th / 9th). However, on both occasions Harry remained on duty, electing not to take any formal medical attention.
Come February 1918, Harry was seconded for duty as Assistant Adjutant in the 3rd Canadian Division Wing of the Canadian Corps Reinforcement Camp (C.C.R.C.) and struck off strength from the 4th CMR.
Harry saw out the war without further incident.
With further information coming to light concerning Lt Harry Bennett, would any relative of Harry's please contact me (Ian) as soon as possible.
Lt Harry Bennett was represented by Ron Stallard in March 2009, as Harry was his father's cousin.
This overview biography was supplied courtesy of 4cmr.com in October 2024.