Canada, CEF. A Memorial Cross to Pte. C. Baird, 28th Battalion, Died of Wounds 1918

A Memorial Cross, in silver, reverse engraved 73318 Pte. C. BAIRD, reverse marked STERLING, measures 31.9 mm (w) x 34.9 mm (h), dark patina, extremely fine.

Footnote: Charles Baird was born in Dumfrieshire, Scotland in 1885. He was a Teamster with 1.5 years experience with the Royal Engineers in Glasgow when he enlisted in October 1914 at Port Arthur. Baird served overseas with the 28th Battalion. 

On October 5, 1918, Baird suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. He was admitted to No. 12 Casualty Ambulance, and was later transferred to the 22nd. He died of these wounds five days later, on October 10 1918. He was buried at Bucquoy Road Cemetery in France. 

In October 1918, the 28th Battalion (Northwest), CEF was serving with the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Division, and was heavily engaged in the final phase of the war known as the Hundred Days Offensive.

During this month, the battalion was advancing through northern France as part of the Canadian Corps’ push to break the remaining German defensive lines.