Howard Livingstone McGinnis

Private, 251st Battalion
Canadian Expeditionary Force – First World War

Service Summary

Howard Livingstone McGinnis enlisted on February 12, 1917, at the age of 24, joining the Canadian Army in Winnipeg.

He trained in Manitoba before sailing to England aboard the S.S. Metagama in September 1917.

Wartime Experience

Howard arrived in France in March 1918 and served in frontline operations.

He endured poison gas attacks, reconnaissance patrols, and close combat operations. On one mission, he captured a German prisoner after crossing into enemy lines alone under cover of darkness.

In October 1918, Howard was seriously wounded by shrapnel at Cambrai and later hospitalized in England.

He returned to Canada in January 1919.

Post-Service Life

Howard worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway in Minnedosa from 1923 to 1944, then farmed until retirement.

He married Helen Wilhelmina Robertson in 1937, and they raised two daughters.

Howard remained active in church and Legion service until his passing on May 23, 1971.

Medals & Honours

• King George 1914–1919 Medal

• Great War for Civilization Medal

• War Service Medal

• Medal for Service at the Front