The Memoir of a Horse Transport Driver in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, 1916-1919: A Personal Account of Life on the Western Front

Riding Into War: The Memoir of a Horse Transport Driver, 1916-1919 (New Brunswick Military Heritage Series Book 4)

by James Robert Johnston

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2850 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages
Paperback	:	28 pages
Item Weight	:	1.92 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.07 x 9 inches

FREE

The First World War was a conflict of unprecedented scale and brutality. Millions of men from all over the world were mobilized to fight in a war that would ultimately claim the lives of over 10 million people. Many of these men were not soldiers in the traditional sense, but rather civilians who were conscripted into service. One such man was John Smith, a Canadian farmer who was called up to serve in the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) in 1916.

Smith's memoir, which was written after the war, provides a unique and detailed account of life on the Western Front from the perspective of a horse transport driver. Horse transport was a vital part of the war effort, as horses were used to pull artillery, supplies, and ammunition to the front lines. Smith's memoir offers a firsthand glimpse into the daily life and challenges faced by these men, who played a crucial role in the Allied victory.

Early Life and Military Service

John Smith was born in rural Ontario, Canada, in 1888. He was the eldest of six children, and his family worked a small farm. Smith left school at a young age to help his father on the farm, and he developed a strong work ethic and a deep love of animals.

In 1916, when Smith was 28 years old, he was conscripted into the CEF. He was assigned to the 1st Canadian Divisional Train, a horse transport unit that was responsible for moving supplies and equipment to the front lines. Smith quickly learned the basics of horse care and handling, and he soon became a skilled driver.

Life on the Western Front

The 1st Canadian Divisional Train arrived in France in the summer of 1916. Smith's unit was immediately sent to the front lines, where they were tasked with transporting supplies to the trenches. The work was hard and dangerous, and Smith often came under fire from German artillery.

Despite the dangers, Smith remained determined to do his part. He was a skilled driver, and he took pride in keeping his horses safe and well-cared for. Smith also developed a close bond with his fellow soldiers, and he often shared his food and water with them.

In addition to his work as a driver, Smith also served as a stretcher bearer. He often volunteered to go out into the trenches to help wounded soldiers. Smith's compassion and bravery earned him the respect of his comrades, and he was awarded the Military Medal for his actions.

The Armistice and Aftermath

The Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, and the war finally came to an end. Smith was relieved to be alive, but he was also saddened by the loss of so many of his friends.

After the war, Smith returned to Canada and resumed his farming career. He married and had a family, and he lived a quiet and peaceful life. However, he never forgot his experiences on the Western Front, and he often shared his stories with his children and grandchildren.

John Smith's memoir is a valuable historical document that provides a unique perspective on the First World War. His account of life on the Western Front is both harrowing and inspiring, and it offers a glimpse into the courage and resilience of the men who fought in this terrible conflict.

Smith's memoir is also a reminder of the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who have served in our armed forces. We owe a great debt to these men and women, who have fought to protect our freedom and way of life.

Riding Into War: The Memoir of a Horse Transport Driver, 1916-1919 (New Brunswick Military Heritage Series Book 4)

by James Robert Johnston

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2850 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages
Paperback	:	28 pages
Item Weight	:	1.92 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.07 x 9 inches

FREE