George Elliott Ashton - Lest We Forget

George Elliott Ashton was born February 24, 1886 at Warden, Quebec, the son of Daniel Ashton.  He was single and employed as a brakeman for the Canadian Pacific Railroad out of Revelstoke. At the time of his entlistment, he was a member of the Rocky Mountain Rangers.               

George Elliott Ashton enlisted on September 21, 1915 in Vancouver.  He was 29 years of age, 5’5” tall with brown eyes.  He was examined medically in Revelstoke by Dr. W.H. Sutherland.  He stated his religion as Anglican.  He enlisted with the 72nd Seaforth Highlanders.  The September 29, 1915 edition of the local newspaper noted that he was one of a number of recruits who marched off to the train depot where a large crowd had gathered to say their farewell.  The December 29, 1915 edition notes that George was one of a number of 72nd Battalion soldiers who had returned to the city for Christmas.  The April 13, 1916 edition of the local newspaper noted that George was one of a number of 72nd Battalion soldiers spending time in Revelstoke visiting their many friends.

George died October 31, 1917 during the battle of Passchendale.  He was 31 years of age.  At the time of his death he was a Private in the 72nd Battalion, Canadian Infantry (British Columbia Regiment).  He is buried at the Ypres Reservoir Cemetery, Belgium.  To view his gravestone on the internet go to the Canadian Virtual War Memorial Site and search for Ashton, George.  Click on the digital photo icon.

George Ashton’s name is inscribed on the Revelstoke Methodist Church Honor Roll as well as the Courthouse and Cenotaph plaques.