Canada, CEF. A First War Pair to Sapper Krowchuk, 8th Canadian Railway Troops

 A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 258243 SPR. M. KROWCHUK. C.R.T., bright, extremely fine. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 258243 SPR. M. KROWCHUK. C.R.T., light wear, near extremely fine. 

A 211th Infantry Battalion “Alberta Americans” Cap Badge, in pickled brass, voided, two lugs on the reverse, measures 47.5 mm (w) x 44.6 mm (h), extremely fine. 

Footnote: Michael Krowchuk was born in Barasba, Russia in May 1884. At the time of his enlistment, he was residing in Banff Alberta, with his wife Melania, and working as a labourer. He joined the 211th battalion on May 13, 1916. 

In March 1917, he was transferred to the Canadian Railway Troops (8th battalion). In February 1918, he was hospitalized for ‘mental stupor’ and was ultimately invalided to Canada the following June. The records states

 “Mental - Residuals of depressive react. Pt. not very communicative, poor understanding of English. History of marked depressive cond’n. Fr.
Feb 18. Went A.W.L fearing he was to be hanged. Would have periods of acute terror and agitation. Is now quiet, has fixed express’n suggesting depression - voice - plaintive monotone. Not self assertive. Has expressed suicidal thoughts. 
12-8/18 - very little change. Fixed expression. Has gained Wt. Now weighs 125. 
2/9/18 - Weight 127 - sits on floor most of the day. Is depressed and takes little interest in surroundings.

12-9/18 - Shows fair improvement. Has been asking to get out of work, and calling for wife and children. Not so much objective evidence of depression. 

29/8/18 - Allowed on parole Wd.”

Krowchuk died in April 1965, in Mineral Springs Hospital, Banff, Alberta.