Compton, Charles Duncan: Service no. 769230

Source: April 1917 casualty.

This soldier was under age and had a brother, Private Harold Compton, reg. no. 201344, of the 60th Battalion who was killed in action November 26, 1916.

SECOND BROTHER KILLED
Star Reporter Breaks the News of Boy’s Death to Mother

No telegram brought the news to 696 Ashdale avenue that Pte. Chas. D. Compton had been killed in action April 19, and the family was not aware of the until a Star reporter called. The sad news was a second blow to the family, as their other son, Harold, 19 years old was killed.

“Why, what is the news?” asked the mother wen The Star reporter called. “Is he killed?” The news was then told Mr. Compton. Pte. Charles Compton was only 16 years of age when he enlisted with the “Pals” Battalion. He trained with that unit at Camp Borden and went overseas in August last. In a letter received from him only a week ago he stated he was quite well, but having a rough time of it, being up to his waist in mud and water. The family formerly lived in Ripon, Yorkshire, England and came to England three years ago.

Source: Toronto Star – May 3, 1917

Birth certificate showing true date of birth. Compton stated his year of birth on his attestation papers as 1897 when, in fact, it was 1899. Source Susan Routledge via CGWP site.

31829_B016730-01194 — “Killed in Action” At the capture of Vimy Ridge, his Company reached their objective early in the morning. He and some others dug out a large shell hole for shelter. About 4 p.m. he and a comrade were asleep in it when an enemy shell made a direct hit upon the spot, instantly killing both of them.

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