Image: Left to right: Charlotte Bickell, Bob Given, Georgina Given, Wesley Given, William George Given, and Lily Given. Used in “Across the Smoky,” p. 102. ca. 1940 (SPRA 116.09.01.01.0070)
Regimental Number: 50467
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 31st Battalion
William was born in Dunkineely, Ireland on November 14, 1883. He immigrated to Canada in 1911 and headed west to Calgary. William enlisted in the Canadian army in 1914 and was sent overseas. On September 5, 1918, he was awarded the Military Medal and received the following citation: “This NCO was in charge of the water details. During the Amiens offensive on the 10th August when a watering point was under heavy shell fire he carried on back and forwards until his cart was filled. Later in the Arras offensive he worked day and night to keep the men in the line watered.” William married Elizabeth Walker in November of 1918. They returned to Calgary after William was discharged in 1919. They moved to Grande Prairie with their young children in 1929. William died in Grande Prairie on September 8, 1976.
Sources: Across the Smoky p. 100
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Family moves to Debolt (May 31, 1929)
- Armistice (Nov. 16, 1933)
- Military Medal
- Find A Grave
Soldier Spotlight highlights veterans from the Archives’ online Soldiers’ Memorial. Each week, our volunteers select a remarkable individual to showcase in this blog series. The Soldiers’ Memorial commemorates more than 1,100 WWI veterans and 2,300 WWII veterans from our region. Three dedicated volunteers have contributed over 1,200 hours to this project by researching and writing biographies. Our goal is to have all South Peace soldiers acknowledged for their service. If you know of someone who lived in the South Peace and should be listed on the Memorial, or would like to get involved by researching a local veteran, please contact the Archives.