George Pearkes was wounded five times in battle:
March 25, 1916: wounded in arm (letter excerpt available below)
May 19, 1916: severely wounded head and arm
Oct. 1, 1916: wounded
Oct. 30, 1917: wounded left thigh
Sept. 17, 1918: wounded arm and side (letter excerpt available below)
March 26. Sunday [1916]
Dearest Mother,
I am afraid you will have heard that I have been wounded [at Hooge] so am writing a note to tell you that it is really nothing. I asked the Chaplain to do so too as I came through the dressing station. I am wounded very slightly in the arm and head, caused by a German bomb when they attacked our out post on Friday [23 March]. The bombers did fine work and drove them out again at once. I do feel proud of the boys my section has all the work to do and they did it like heroes, although they are only young chaps. [Losing these boys] hurts more than anything and they were my best friends but we gave the Huns more than they gave us. Now don't worry dear, I'm alright in the Canadian General Hospital and shall soon be out.
Goodbye dear.
George.
(ACC 74-1 Box 10.4)
In the Field, Sept.22nd. 1918
Mrs. Pearkes, Mount Tolmie, Victoria B.C.
Dear Mrs. Pearkes:
You have already received word that your son, Lieut-Colonel Pearkes, V.C. M.C. Croix de Guerre, has been severely wounded. We have also sent word that the operation he has had has been very successful, and he continues to improve every day.
I was speaking to him this morning and he asked me to let you know his present condition. He is quite bright, anxious to see everyone who comes in and talks quite cheerfully. It will be a matter of weeks before he will be able to be out of bed, but as far as we can see at present, there seems to be no occasion for worry as he appears to be now quite passed any danger.
He was wounded through the body by a small piece of shrapnel which also went through his arm above the elbow. This was removed and it was found that no vital organ had been injured, so that is all in his favour.
He is receiving the very best of care, and I have no doubt in a few days he will be writing you himself.
With sympathy and my best wishes.
Yours very sincerely, A.B. Coty, Capt. 116th Bn.Can.
(ACC 74-1 Box 10.4)