Whittaker, Charles Kenneth

Charles Whittaker was born on April 7, 1888 to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Whittaker in Saint John, New Brunswick. As a child he lived for a time with his grandparents, James and Elizabeth Whittaker in New Brunswick. Later, as a young man, he found employment with the CPR as a ticket seller. Charles and his wife, Nellie made their home in Lethbridge, Alberta with their sons Kenneth and James. He was active in the community and a member of Lethbridge Masonic Lodge #39. On October 6, 1915 Charles Whittaker enlisted with the 39th Battery 10th Brigade CFA and was commissioned with the rank of Lieutenant. In May 1916, Lieutenant Whittaker proceeded overseas to England and arrived in France a short time later. He saw action at the frontlines for nearly a year and commanded his men at the Somme, Arras and Vimy Ridge. Lieutenant Whittaker was twice decorated for valour, receiving the Military Cross and bar posthumously in June 1917. The citation remarks on his courage and leadership in moving guns over impassable roads in full view of the enemy. These guns would prove vital to the success of the infantry advance that day. On April 25, 1917 Lieutenant Whittaker was killed in action. He was laid to rest at Ecoivres Military Cemetery. In addition the Military Cross and bar, Charles Whittaker was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His wife, Nellie received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband