Canada, CEF. A First War Pair to Pte. Arthur James Dyer, Boys Battalion and 19th Infantry

A British War Medal, silver, full size, rim impressed 273073  PTE. A. J. DYER 19-CAN. INF., original ribbon, very dark patina, very fine. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 273073  PTE. A. J. DYER 19-CAN. INF., original ribbon, wear and oxidation presenting a green tinge, near very fine. 

Footnote: Arthur James Dyer was born in London, England in  January 1899. At the time of his enlistment, he was residing in Huntsville, Ontario, and was employed as a tannery worker. Standing just 4’10’’ and 91 lbs, he joined the 216th on March 14, 1916 in Toronto at the age of 17. A special note on his record states “not to be sent overseas until 19 years of age.” 

He arrived in England in April 1917 via the SS Scandinavia. He was taken on strength with the 3rd reserve battalion. In July 1917, he was struck off strength to the 1st Canadian Overseas Reinforcement Division, and proceeded in August to the Boys Battalion at Bexhill. This unit, later renamed the ‘young soldiers’ battalion’, was organized in July 1917 and trained boys under 18 until they reached the legal age for overseas service. 

From June 1918 until November 1918, Dyer served with the 19th Battalion. In August 1918, he was wounded in the field, suffering from gas, debility and flat feet. 

He sailed home on the HMT Scotian from Liverpool to St. John, embarking on March 25, 1919. Dyer was officially struck off strength on April 6, 1919. 

The 216th Battalion (Bantams) was based in Toronto, Ontario, and began recruiting in 1916. They sailed to England in 1917 and was absorbed into the 3rd Reserve Battalion. This battalion was specific for men under the height of 5’2’’.