Lieutenant William Richard Wright

Lieutenant, 18th Battalion, Infantry (Army).

Son of Henry P. Wright, M.D., and Marion Wright, of Ottawa.

Bio from image at CVWM"

Born in Ottawa, William Wright was one of Appleby's original students, having followed founding Headmaster John Guest from Upper Canada College. While at Appleby he played on the First Rugby (Football), Hockey and Cricket teams. Upon graduating from Appleby in 1916, he at once enlisted in the Fifth University Company, and on going overseas obtained a commission in the 35th Battalion. Having been transferred to the 18th Battalion only days earlier, he was killed by a high-explosive shell as he was looking for some men who were lost while on a working party in advance of the front-line trenches. His immediate superior, Capt. I. O. H. Rayward, said in a letter to Wright's mother, " your son died cleanly and bravely, doing that which he set his hand to in a manner which became his rank and station." From the Appleby College Archives. Source: CVWM

Contributed by E.Edwards www.18thbattalioncef.wordpress.com

War Diary Entry Relating to This Soldier's Death

Night of May 12/13, 1917

During the night Brigade called for two parties to carry wire to the front line. Lieut’s G.E. Lucas and W.R. Wright being detailed to take charge of these parties. Lieut. G.E. Lucas completed his task with the loss of 4 O.R’s “Wounded”. Lieut. W.R. Wright and party on returning was heavily shelled in MT. FORET ROAD, scattering the party, Lieut. W.R. Wright and Sgt. T. Clark being “Killed” and 6 O.R’s “Wounded”.

Contributed by E.Edwards www.18thbattalioncef.wordpress.com