Witness to War: Friday June 15, 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:

Friday June 15, 1917: Drill in Forenoon Rifle Grenades Visual training and sports in afternoon. Major Warrel O.C. line at Burbune gave a short resume of 14th RMR service coming to France very warm again so had sports in afternoon Guess we will go up the line soon. Had a long talk about the war with the old lady here it’s a pathetic tale she tells about bleeding France. This is a wonderful period to be living in but one must feel sorry for this country.

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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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