September 6, 2008
Percy Robertson ARBUCKLE – First World War Records
Percy was Eddy’s older brother. He served in the first world war for over 4 years and was a member of the Canadian forces during the battle at Vimy Ridge (this info from EA). His service record is pretty basic, but here are a few interesting pieces:
From the pay record, we can see that Percy’s parents Samuel and Margaret moved to a new address (RR#2 in Aylmer) in 1916. Also, that Percy sent his pay home to his father. He was paid $15/month as a private; Eddy was paid $20/month as a sargeant but did not receive pay while in hospital.
Also, you have to wonder a bit about what Percy was up to before and during the war. His medical records show that he had a few infections: gonorrhea (recovered), a testicular infection (lasting 1 year) and a positive Wassermann test (a not very accurate syphilis test). All of these infections can now be treated with antibiotics – no antibiotics during WWI. But really. 1 year with aching privates! While fighting in a war!
Finally, Percy was discharged and returned to Canada.
