19th Battalion CEF
Sergeant Frederick William (Bill) Doran (Later Captain)
From The Private Collection of My Maternal Great Grandfather
Captain Frederick William (Bill) Doran
Served in both The Great War 1914-1918 & World War Two 1939-1945
Captain Frederick William Doran
Maternal Great Grandfather
Regiment Number:
55124
Enlisted:
April 11th, 1914 - 19th Birthday
Served:
WW1
Queens Own Rifles - 2 months
19th Battalion CEF
WW2
Queens Own Rifles
Date of Birth:
April 11, 1895 Belfast, Ireland
Frederick William (Bill) Doran
Frederick William Doran, my great-grandfather lived a remarkable life that we only recently uncovered. Born on April 11th, 1895, in Belfast, Ireland, he and his family immigrated to Canada in 1908, seeking a better future. Little did we know that he would go on to play a significant role in one of the most tumultuous periods in history.
It was not until recently that we stumbled upon his history as a World War I soldier. The realization came as a revelation, and we were filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the sacrifices he made in his life. Although both he and my grandfather have now passed on, it is our duty as the younger generations to champion and preserve the stories and history of our families.
Frederick William Doran's story serves as a reminder of the immense bravery and resilience exhibited by countless men during the war. His willingness to put his life on the line for the freedom we enjoy today is a testament to his character and sense of duty. As we reflect on his service, it becomes evident that we should never forget the sacrifices made by these exceptional individuals.
With his War service records, I feel a strong obligation to share my great-grandfather's story. By doing so, I hope to inspire others to delve into the histories of their own families and honor the legacies of those who came before us. The act of remembering and preserving their stories ensures that their sacrifices are not in vain.
So let us remember Frederick William Doran, a brave soldier who fought for our freedom. Through his story, let us acknowledge the countless others like him, whose names may have faded but whose contributions should forever be etched in our collective memory. By sharing these stories, we pay homage to these exceptional individuals and pledge to never forget the sacrifices they made for us all.
Great grandpa Bill Doran had a privileged and idyllic childhood in Northern Ireland. Born in 1895 in Belfast, he and his small family - his parents Charles and Margaret, moved to the picturesque coastal town of Bangor shortly after his birth. This was where his younger sisters and brother were born.
In Bangor, they resided in a magnificent seafront red brick home called Red Hall, which was designed by Bill's father Charles. The house featured a lovely glass conservatory and stunning landscaped gardens, providing a breathtaking view of the sea.
Not only did they have a beautiful home, but Bill's mother Margaret's sister and her family also lived nearby. This closeness allowed them to have a strong bond and built a tight-knit community within the town. Charles, Bill's father, played a significant role in the community as one of the key founders and the architect of the Bangor Golf and Country Club, established in 1903.
However, in 1908, everything changed for the Doran family. They decided to sell most of their belongings, including their beloved home, Red Hall, and embarked on a new journey to Canada. On March 7th, 1908, at the age of thirteen, Bill, along with his parents, two younger sisters, and one younger brother, left behind their familiar home and community in Bangor.
They boarded the SS Laurentian from Belfast, Ireland and arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada on March 18th, 1908. From there, they made their way to Toronto, Ontario, where they would start a new chapter in their lives.
Leaving behind their childhood memories and the place they called home, Great-grandpa Bill Doran's childhood in Northern Ireland was marked by the beauty of Bangor, the closeness of family, and the sense of community. Though they left all of that behind, their journey to Canada presented them with new opportunities and experiences as they embraced their future in a new country.
From The Private Collection of My Great-Grandfather
Captain Frederick William Doran
19th Battalion Canadian CEF of The Great War 1914-1918
Not too long after arriving in their new country, Bill and his family faced unimaginable tragedy when his younger brother Percy passed away in 1911 at the tender age of 8, leaving him with two sisters to care for. Shortly after that, back in Bangor, Northern Ireland, his mother’s sister and husband both died in a tragic car accident, leaving his young cousins orphaned.
The outbreak of World War I would soon put Great-Grandpa Doran's courage and resilience to the ultimate test. Joining countless others in the fight for freedom, he marched alongside his comrades, ready to face the unknown horrors that awaited them on the battlefield.
Lieutenant Frederick William (Bill) Doran
First World War, 1914-1918
19th Battalion Canadian Expeditionary Forces (CEF)
Bill Doran in his well-tailored uniform with two wound stripes visible on his left arm.
Private Frederick William Doran
Age 19 Years
April 11th, 1914, on his nineteenth birthday, Great-Grandpa Doran enlisted with the Queen’s Own Rifles, later to be transferred to the 19th Battalion CEF in Toronto, Ontario on 11 November 1914. This would shape his character and provide him with the necessary skills to navigate the perils of war. His unwavering sense of duty and loyalty were evident from the moment he stepped foot into the training grounds.
His enlistment papers included details as follows. Private Frederick William Doran, Regiment #55124, Born on April 11, 1895, he was the son of F.C. Doran of 62 Edgewood Ave., Toronto, Ontario. His next of kin was his father, and there was also a note to notify Mrs. F.C. Doran (Margaret Doran nee Seeton), who resided at 59 Yonge St., Toronto.
Before enlisting, Frederick worked as a clerk, displaying his dedication and attention to detail. Later, he became a draftsman, showcasing his talent for precision and technical skills. Prior to his service in World War One, Frederick had served for two months in the Queen's Own Rifles Regiment, gaining some military experience.
Frederick was assigned to "A" Company.
Allan Liner S.S. Scandinavian
On May 12, 1915, he embarked on the SS Scandinavian from Quebec City, Quebec. His journey brought him to Plymouth, England, where he then proceeded to the West Sandling Camp near Hythe, Kent. Continuing his training, Frederick confirmed his rank as a Lance Corporal on July 1, 1915.
During the early stages of the First World War, Canada gallantly responded to England's call for assistance, demonstrating unwavering support. By February 1915, a significant number of Canadian troops, approximately 40,000 soldiers, were stationed in various training camps across Kent, England. Situated in Shorncliffe, Hythe, Dibgate, East and West Sandling, Westernhanger, and Otterpool, these camps bustled with activity as our brave soldiers prepared themselves for the battles that awaited them.
One notable aspect of their training was the proximity to the front lines, allowing them to swiftly transition from training exercises to the actual trenches within a matter of hours. Combining rigorous training sessions with the reality of war, these soldiers could be found diligently honing their skills one day and then find themselves on the front lines by the next.
Among the camps, the soldiers stationed at East and West Sandling Camps in Saltwood, Kent, specifically engaged in crucial training activities. A significant element of their preparation involved engaging in "Entrenchment" on Tolsford Hill. Here, they diligently dug practice trenches, gaining valuable experience in constructing defensive positions before heading to the front lines. This exercise also served as a means to familiarize themselves with the techniques required to successfully navigate the treacherous scenario of going "over the top" and into battle.
The dedication and commitment exhibited by these Canadian soldiers during their training in England were unparalleled. They recognized the urgency and importance of their role as they prepared themselves to face the numerous challenges and sacrifices that awaited them in the trenches. With their unwavering resolve and unwavering loyalty to their country, these soldiers displayed a level of determination that would prove instrumental in the battles that lay ahead.
Canada's contribution to the war effort during this period epitomized the spirit of camaraderie and international cooperation. Their presence in England exemplified their commitment to partnering with their British allies and supporting them in their time of need. The training camps in Kent stood as a testament to the Canadian soldiers' preparedness, discipline, and resilience, as they eagerly readied themselves to confront the horrors of war on the front lines.
S.S. Queen in Folkestone
On September 14, 1915, Bill's battalion marched to Folkestone and boarded the SS Queen, and the following day, at 2.45 am, they disembarked in Boulogne, France. From there, they proceeded to the Ostrohove Camp, where they continued their duty.
These soldiers departed the shores of England with a profound understanding of the challenges that lay ahead, their training serving as a foundation of strength and courage. Their time spent in England not only prepared them physically and mentally for the trials of war, but it also fostered a sense of unity among the troops and strengthened the bond between Canada and England.
As they embarked on their journey to the front lines, these Canadian soldiers carried with them the indomitable spirit of their homeland. The training they received on English soil would prove invaluable, as it equipped them with the necessary skills and mindset to face the horrors of the Great War head-on. Their unwavering resolve and tenacity would forever be etched in the annals of history, serving as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Canadian soldiers during World War 1.
Their arrival at the port of Boulogne in Northern France on September 14 marked the beginning of their journey to the front lines. The 2nd Canadian Division wasted no time and was immediately deployed to the front.
Over the course of four and a half months, the 19th Battalion had endured treacherous conditions and alternating tours of duty in the front lines and reserve positions at Vierstraat. Despite their inexperience and occasional carelessness, casualties had already started to occur shortly after their arrival in September and before the end of the year Bill was appointed Corporal. However, it was during the St Eloi operation in April that Corporal Bill Doran fell victim to the brutalities of war.
On Bill's 21st Birthday April 10/11th, 1916, Corporal Bill Doran of the 19th Battalion was wounded during the disastrous operation at the St Eloi craters in Belgium near Ypres. He suffered shrapnel wounds to the right side of his face while participating in counter-attacks to dislodge the Germans from the craters. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was immediately evacuated to the No. 2 CFA (Casualty Field Ambulance) for first aid. From there, he was transferred and admitted to the No. 4 medical facility in Camiers, France.
The St Eloi operation proved to be a challenging and perilous undertaking for the 19th Battalion and other Canadian forces involved. The battalion had initially entered the crater sector on April 7-8, relieving a worn-out British division. However, they faced a devastating German counter-attack before they could effectively solidify their positions. Inaccurate intelligence further worsened the situation, hindering Canadian efforts with misidentified craters and poorly coordinated attacks.
With shrapnel wounds to the right side of his face, it is likely that Corporal Doran's injuries were significant and required urgent medical attention. Evacuating him to the No. 2 Canadian F Ambulance ensured that he received immediate first aid to stabilize his condition. Subsequently, he was moved to the No. 4 medical facility in Camiers, France, via Vlamertinge and Lijssenthoek where he would receive further treatment and care.
Bill could not rejoin his unit until 6 June, when it took him to Hill 62, Mount Sorrel in the southeastern portion of the Ypres Salient, where the next major Canadian battle unfolded. From 5 to 11 June 1916, he courageously held the lines near the Ypres-Comines railway with the 19th Battalion, despite facing difficult and deadly conditions due to relentless German artillery attacks. On the 13th of June, the Canadian Corps recaptured the lines lost at the beginning of the Battle of Mount Sorrel (Hill 62).
Canadian Corps left Belgium to participate in the Battle of the Somme in late August 1916. On 15 September, as the attacking infantry advanced, they were preceded by a deadly creeping barrage from the artillery. The 19th Battalion, alongside the 4th Brigade, charged forward, reaching their assigned objectives and securing the morning's gains. They endured relentless German shell fire throughout the day, working tirelessly to fortify their positions.
However, on 17 September, during the intense attack on Courcelette, Bill Doran was wounded by shrapnel in his thigh and both wrists. As a result, he was evacuated to Edgbaston, near Birmingham, England, for medical treatment. Despite his injuries, Bill's dedication to his fellow soldiers and the cause of his country never wavered, and his actions during this portion of his war service exemplify his bravery and selflessness in the face of extreme adversity.
Sergeant Bill Doran front left with his men shortly before the Canadian attack
on Courcelette in September 1916
Hospital Ship Maheno
September 17th, 1916 Invalided to England aboard the Hospital Ship Maheno.
On arrival in England he was admitted to the 1st Southern General Hospital in Birmingham, England.
Southern General Hospital, Birmingham England 1917
Following this severe injury, Sgt. Doran urgently received first aid at the field ambulance before being transported to the casualty clearing station. While in the hospital, he was posted to the Canadian Casualty Assembly Centre for pay purposes.
On October 6th, 1916, he was transferred to the Canadian Convalescent Hospital in Bearwood Park, Wokingham, to continue his recovery. He was discharged to duty from the convalescent hospital on November 21st, 1916, and granted sick leave.
On January 19th, 1917, after the expiration of his leave, he reported to the CCAC in Hastings, England. He was then attached to the CCD (Canadian Discharge Depot) in Buxton, England, on March 2nd, 1917. Because of his wounds, he was transferred back to Canada. On March 5th, 1917, he boarded the S.S. Metagama in Liverpool, England, a Canadian Pacific Liner.
Canadian Pacific Liner S.S. Metagama
After arriving in Canada, on March 10th, 1917, he was transferred to the 1st CORD (Central Ontario Regimental Depot) in Hastings while on leave. He disembarked in Saint John, New Brunswick, on March 16th, 1917, and proceeded to Toronto, Ontario. From April 19th, 1917, he ceased to be shown on leave to Canada and was posted to the Special Training Depot in Military District No. 2 in Toronto.
WA portrait of the 19th Battalion Senior NCO's
Photo Postcard from the Collection of Captain F.W.Doran
Research By LCol Tom Compton, CD, BA
Director, Argyll Regimental Museum & Archives
Great-grandpa Doran served with these confident-looking men when he was a Sergeant, a postcard taken in 1917. A tough-looking bunch with cigars in hand: 19th Battalion Senior NCOs in France, likely 1917. Standing at rear, left to right: CQMS W. Robinson, MM; Sgt. J. Seymour, MSM; unknown; unknown. Seated in chairs, left to right: Sgt. G.A. Annand, MM; CQMS G. Bryan. Seated cross-legged in front: Sgt. R. MacKenzie, MM. All five of those identified represented the best in leadership at the platoon and company level.
Company Quarter-Master Sergeant William Robinson, MM
CQMS Robinson was born in Belfast, Ireland, in 1876. He joined the 19th Battalion on 10 November 1914. He was quickly appointed Lance Corporal and eventually rose through the ranks to CQMS. Robinson was awarded the Military Medal in 1916, likely for his actions during the battle of the Somme. He survived a case of bronchitis while overseas, and this likely left him susceptible to influenza. He had been sent home in the fall of 1918 to work as part of Instructional Staff but contracted influenza, leaving him with “shortness of breath, night sweats and greatly weakened.” He was discharged on June 1919 as medically unfit.
Sergeant James Seymour, MSM
Sgt Seymour was born in London, England, in 1883. He initially joined the 10th Royal Grenadiers in Toronto on 12 November 1914, but was subsequently transferred to the 19th Battalion. Seymour was recognized for his leadership abilities and was promoted to Sergeant in 1917. In recognition of his excellent service in the field, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. He returned with the bulk of the 19th Battalion in May 1919 and was subsequently discharged on demobilization 24 May 1919.
Lieutenant George Alexander Annand, MM
Lt Annand was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1890. Annand initially joined the 91st Highlanders before the war broke out and volunteered to go overseas with the 19th Battalion on 14 November 1914. He rose through the ranks to Sergeant and was subsequently selected for commissioning. George Annand was awarded a Military Medal for bravery in 1917, likely for his actions during the battle of Passchendaele. He was gassed and wounded by shell fragments on two occasions in April (possibly during the attack on Vimy) and November 1917. Annand was promoted to Lieutenant in 1918 in time for the final push that defeated the Germans. On 15 September 1918, he was wounded while on patrol in the area of the Canal du Nord. His patrol was looking to confirm the positions of German troops opposite them and bumped into an enemy patrol, which resulted in a skirmish and his being wounded by grenade fragments in both legs and his left arm. George Annand was discharged on demobilization in April 1919.
Warrant Officer Second Class George Bryan
George Bryan was born Plymouth, Devon, England, in 1887. Bryan joined the 19th in Toronto on 26 January 1915. Probably because of his nine years' previous service with the Royal Marines, he was quickly identified for promotion and worked his way up until achieving the rank of WO II or Company Sergeant Major. His brother William T. Bryan also served in the 19th and was a Corporal on discharge. WO II Bryan was wounded in action twice and was treated for synovitis (swelling of joints), scabies and influenza, all likely as a result of living in the filthy, wet conditions of the trenches. WO II Bryan returned to Canada with the 19th and was discharged in May 1919 on demobilization.
Lieutenant Robert MacKenzie, MM
Lt MacKenzie was born in Bootle, Liverpool, England, in 1894. He joined the 19th Battalion on 20 April 1915 and was identified for his leadership potential and eventually achieved the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded a Military Medal for bravery in the field in 1917, possibly for his actions during the battle of Passchendaele. MacKenzie was sent on officer training in England in 1918 and rejoined the battalion in time for the final battles of the war. Lt MacKenzie survived the war without any wounds reported and was discharged on 25 May 1919 on demobilization. His brother Richard MacKenzie also served in the 19th Bn.
Lieutenant F.W. Doran is seated front and centre, flanked by another lieutenant and a sergeant. This is A Coy Detachment, Draft No. 44, which he trained in Canada before they proceeded overseas on 2 May 1918.
Draft No.44
On July 17th, 1917, he was transferred to the 48th Battalion, and on August 15th, 1917, he was transferred to the 1st Depot Battalion, COR (Central Ontario Regiment), in Toronto, Ontario. On October 15th, 1917, he was appointed to the Commissioned rank of Lieutenant.
Finally, on December 20th, 1918, Great Grandpa Frederick William Doran was discharged from the CEF (Canadian Expeditionary Force) in Toronto, Ontario, with the rank of Captain. Following his discharge, he received the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and Victory Medals, which were sent to him at 46 Edgewood Ave., Toronto.
1914-1915 WW1 Trio British Star War & Victory Medals.
Frederick William Doran CEF Certificate of Service WW1
After surviving the horrors of World War One, Captain Frederick William Doran married Margaret Audrey Young in 1926, and together they built a family with three children.
Tragically, their first-born child, a daughter, passed away at birth. Soon after his son Terence (my grandfather) and a second daughter Molly arrived, both healthy babies.
WORLD WAR TWO - 1939-1945
Captain Frederick William Doran
2nd(res) Battalion The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada, C.A.
Toronto, Sunday, April 4th, 1943
Captain Frederick William Doran had a remarkable life filled with love, accomplishments, and the admiration of many. He became a beloved and adored grandfather to his nine grandchildren, who all have cherished memories of his kind, generous, and loving nature.
In his professional life, Captain Doran proudly rose to the position of Manager at the T. Eaton Co. in Toronto, Canada. This achievement connected him to his roots in Belfast, Ireland, and his fellow Irishmen. His dedication and hard work in his career were evident, and he was highly respected by his colleagues.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Captain Doran also became actively involved in sports as a golf captain and curler. He dedicated his time as an umpire and junior curling coach, earning the admiration of many young athletes who looked up to him as an incredible role model. His impact was so profound that a trophy was created in his honor and donated for the clubs' championship, solidifying his legacy as a respected figure within the sporting community.
Our family tragedy struck on the 17th of January, 1970, when Captain William (Bill) Doran passed away suddenly at the age of 74, from a heart attack at the Toronto Cricket Curling Club. His departure left a void in the hearts of his entire family and friends. He was deeply missed and will forever be remembered for his bravery, sacrifice, and heroism in both World War One and World War Two.
Captain Frederick William Doran's life after World War One was filled with love, accomplishments, and a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him. His kind and generous spirit, along with his dedication to his family and community, will always be fondly remembered by his loved ones.
If you wish to start your own search you may find these sites helpful.
Family Search: https://www.familysearch.org/en/
Find a Grave: https://www.findagrave.com/
Ellis Island: https://heritage.statueofliberty.org/
Ship manifest site: https://www.gjenvick.com/
CWGC: https://www.cwgc.org/
ABMC: https://www.abmc.gov/
In Flanders Fields Museum: https://www.inflandersfields.be/en
For Jewish history, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum is a good place to start (NY), as is Yad Vashem (Jerusalem)
USHMM: https://www.ushmm.org/
Yad Vashem: https://www.yadvashem.org/Hollandsche
Arolsen Archives; https://arolsen-archives.org/en/
The Royal Archives (London); mostly British or Commonwealth focused,
and the researchers are quite helpful if you submit queries.
Let us know if you have any questions and good luck!
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