Image: Notes about Elzear’s injury from his military service file (Library & Archives Canada)
Regimental Number: 101452
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Elzear was born in Cap-Saint-Ignace on November 22, 1892. He was wounded by a hand grenade in both legs and his right hand at Mount Sorrel on July 15, 1916, less than a month after he arrived in France. The injuries left Elzear dangerously ill, and in August his left leg was amputated five inches below the hip. Infection made a second amputation necessary in January of 1917. Three pieces of shrapnel remained in his right knee for quite some time. Elzear was sent back to Canada in March of 1917 aboard the HMHS Essequibo, the first hospital ship to cross the Atlantic to Canada. He was discharged in September 1918. His brothers Irene and Omer also served in the war. Elzear returned to his homestead at SE 32-76-21, where he lived with his wife Marguerite and their six children. Elzear died on February 17, 1959.
Sources: By the Peavine in the Smoky of the Peace, p. 241
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Grande Prairie Honour Roll
- Veterans Death Card
- 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.