Duncan Cenotaph – Charles Hoey Park

As part of our project to document the names on Duncan’s Cenotaph in Charles Hoey Park on Canada Avenue, here is what we know about Leslie William Proctor, who died, aged 27, during the Battle of the Somme in France on 22 September 1916 while serving with the 6th Brigade, Canadian Field Artillery. He is buried in Becourt Military Cemetery, Becordel-Becourt, France.

Here is the report of Leslie William Proctor’s death in the local Cowichan Leader newspaper:

“ROLL OF HONOUR

Gunner Leslie William Proctor

Gunner L.W. Proctor has been killed in action. Born in Lancashire and educated in England, he came out here some years ago and was articled to Messrs. Hirsch & Clague, B.C.L.S. He was on several survey parties which went out from Duncan. He was assistant inspector of descriptions at the Land Office, Victoria for a year previous to enlisting in the 88th Regt. in March 1914.  He left in June 1915 with the 48th Bn.  and in England transferred to the Canadian Field Artillery in which he served until death. His mother and sister reside at Oak Bay. His loss is mourned by many friends in Cowichan.”

(Source: Cowichan Leader, 12 October 1916, from Cowichan Valley Museum & Archives collections)

Here are links to more information about Gunner Leslie William Proctor:

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