Final farewell to a Canadian soldier killed in First World War
Lieutenant Francis Henry Hemsley laid to rest over a century later
June 16, 2025 - Capt Graeme Kaine, Public Affairs Officer, 39 Canadian Brigade Group
Lieutenant Francis Henry Hemsley was one of approximately 2,000 Canadians killed in August 1917 during the Battle for Hill 70 – a vital strategic overlook near the French city of Lens that Canadian soldiers wrested from German forces after days of intense combat.
The ferocity of the fighting rendered Hill 70 unrecognizable, burying the identities of friend and foe alike beneath layers of mud and destruction. Over a century later, on April 29, Lt Hemsley's remains were finally laid to rest in France by his modern‑day comrades, bringing closure to a long‑standing chapter of history.
His remains – first uncovered in 2012 – were identified through a combination of historical records and recovered artifacts including fragments of a helmet, a gas mask and buttons bearing the insignia of the 16th Battalion, Canadian Scottish Regiment. Confirmed by DNA analysis in February 2024, this marks the fifth soldier from the battalion to be identified and buried through the tireless efforts of the Canadian Casualty Identification Program.
The Battle of Hill 70, fought from Aug. 15 to 25, 1917, was a pivotal moment for the Canadian Corps. It marked their first major engagement under a Canadian commander, Lieutenant‑General Sir Arthur Currie. Despite suffering significant casualties – around 2,000 soldiers lost – Canadian forces inflicted substantial losses on the Germans and secured the high ground until the end of the war. Over 1,300 of the fallen soldiers remain with no known grave.
In recognition of Lt Hemsley's sacrifice, a contingent of current members of the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) travelled to France to conduct a full military funeral, honouring him with dignity and respect.
“We have no greater obligation than to ensure the sacrifice of our fallen comrades is properly honoured,” said Lieutenant‑Colonel Slade Lerch, commanding officer of the regiment. “It is a profound honour to participate in this ceremony. After more than a century, Lt Hemsley has been laid to rest among his comrades. The significance of this moment resonated deeply with all who attended.”
Lt Hemsley’s family, including his grandson Richard, were present at the ceremony, joined by representatives from the Canadian government. Full ceremonial honours were observed, including a casket party, the playing of the Last Post, and a funeral service that concluded with a moment of silence.
“Participating in this ceremony was deeply humbling,” shared a junior member of the regiment. “To stand here and pay tribute to a soldier who gave everything for his country is an experience we will never forget. It left a lasting impression on us all.”
Caption
A party of current Canadian Armed Forces members of the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) flew to France to bury Lieutenant Hemsley with full military honours.
Photos supplied
Born in Ealing, Middlesex, England, in 1880, Lt Hemsley immigrated to Canada in 1911. He worked as a farmer near Prince Albert, Sask., before enlisting at age 37. He initially served in the 52nd Prince Albert Volunteers Militia Regiment, receiving his commission as a lieutenant in December 1915. In February 1916, he joined the 183rd Battalion (Manitoba Beavers) in Winnipeg, sailing for England in October. After training with the 108th Battalion and the 14th (Manitoba) Reserve Battalion, he qualified as a Lewis gun instructor. In April 1917, Lt Hemsley transferred to the 16th Battalion (The Canadian Scottish), arriving in France in May.
The Battle of Hill 70 remains a defining chapter in Canadian military history. It was the first major offensive led entirely by Canadian forces and a significant demonstration of tactical innovation under LGen Currie. Despite heavy casualties, it established a strategic position that contributed to Canada’s emerging national identity and military prowess – paralleling the legacy of Vimy Ridge.
Today, the Loos British Cemetery memorializes over 3,000 casualties of the First World War. Nearly two‑thirds of these soldiers remain unidentified, with memorials commemorating those believed to be buried among them, including two Canadian soldiers and four from the UK. Other memorials honour 44 Canadian and 12 British soldiers whose graves were destroyed by shellfire.
The Canadian Armed Forces remain dedicated to honouring these sacrifices, ensuring that the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.
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