The O'Leary Collection—Medals of The Royal Canadian Regiment

Colonel Frederick William Utton

The Royal Canadian Regiment

By: Capt (ret'd) Michael M. O'Leary, CD, The RCR

Frederick William Utton was born at London, Middlesex, England, on 9 Apr 1873.

Having emigrated to Canada, Utton joined the Canadian Permanent Force on 12 Jul 1892 when he attested for three years service in the "Canadian Regiment of Infantry." On enlisting in the Permanent Force, Utton was given the regimental number 6559. The following year the regiment's name would change to "The Royal Regiment of Canadian Infantry."

It did not take long for Utton to establish himself as a leading athlete in the garrison. The November, 1894, edition of "V.R.I. Magazine," published by the V.R.I. Club, reported on the Royal Canadian Artillery Annual Sports, which were held on 27 Sep 1894 at the Quebec Amateur Athletic Grounds. Many N.C.O's and soldiers of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Infantry participated in the sports. Corporal Utton placed first in the Long Jump, the Hop, Skip and Jump, the 100 Yard Dash, and the Hurdle Race.

Utton did not complete his first full three-year Permanent Force engagement, choosing instead to purchase his discharge after 2 years 203 days service. He returned to civilian life on 31 Jan 1895. The May, 1895, edition of "V.R.I. Magazine," published by the V.R.I. Club, referred to Utton's departure: "Unfortunately we have lost a good all round cricketer in Lance Corp. Utton, who thought civilian life more suitable for his ambitions, so did not re-engage at the expiration of his first three years."

Few details of Utton's activities from 1895 to 1899 have been found. On 18 Feb 1901, The Daily Gleaner, of Fredericton, N.B., included in a newspaper article this line referring to Utton: "At the outbreak of the Spanish-American war he enlisted in the American army and served through it all."

Accessed through the website familysearch.org, United States Registers of Enlistments in the U.S. Army, 1798-1914, include an entry for a steamfitter named "Frederick W. Utton." Enlisted at Fort Warren, Mass., U.S.A., on 19 May 1898, this Utton claimed a birthplace of Chelsea, Mass., a small city across the Mystic River from Boston. Aged 23 years 11 months on enlisting in the US Army, he would have a birthdate in April 1874, only one year off the date identified for Utton. Other discrepancies are found in his height, with 5 feet 5 3/4-inches recorded in the U.S. vice 5 feet 7 ˝ or 8 inches recorded for his South Africa war attestation in late 1899, and dark brown versus light brown hair in Canadian records. The coincidences of name and dates, however, make it likely that the Utton enlisting in the U.S. Army in Mar 1898 is the same man.

The US Army register shows that Utton was assigned to the Second (Regular) Regiment of Artillery, Battery "M". It is likely that Utton enlisted in anticipation of seeing operational service in the Spanish-American war. Two batteries of the Second Regiment, "A" and "F" Light Batteries, went to Cuba. The remainder of the regiment was dispersed to stations in the continental U.S. "M" Battery, manning 12-inch coastal mortars, was sent to Grover's Cliff Military Reservation (later named Fort Heath) in late 1898 and remained part of the Boston Harbour defences.

By the summer of 1899, a year into his three-year engagement, Utton was facing two more years of watching the Atlantic Ocean over the ramparts of Grover's Cliff. That same summer, no doubt the news of a potential conflict in South Africa was also reaching the local papers, a conflict he would surely also miss if he remained in the U.S. Army.

On 13 Aug 1899, Frederick W. Utton was recorded as a deserter from "M" Battery, Second (Regular) Regiment of Artillery, of the U.S. Army. It is possibly this manner of departure that resulted in an absence of its mention in Utton's Canadian records.

Returning to the Canadian Permanent Force on 25 Sep 1899, Utton re-attested for a new three-year commitment at Fredericton, N.B. Shortly after, on 30 Sep 1899, he was transferred to No. 5 Regimental Depot at St John, Quebec. He did not remain in this garrison for long, as he volunteered to serve with Canada's First Contingent for the South African War.

On 1 Nov 1899, Utton transferred to 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment. The 2nd Battalion arrived in South Africa on 29 November 1899 after a month at sea. The battalion trained while executing lines-of-communications duties for the first few months after it arrived in South Africa. On 12 Feb 1900, the battalion joined the British 19th Brigade which was marching toward Pretoria, the capital of the Transvaal. This campaign took the unit to the Battle of Paardeberg, where the Royal Canadians distinguished themselves at a cost of over 30 fatalities and many others wounded. The Canadians were engaged directly with the Boers on the first and last days of the battle, the 18th and 27th of February, respectively. The RCR still celebrates the victory at Paardeberg on 27 Feb 1900. Utton, however, was of the wounded on the earlier date, 18 Feb 1900.

In the weeks before Paardeberg, Utton distinguished himself once again in sports, this time against stiff international competition. On 17 Jan 1900, the 2nd Battalion held regimental sports instead of their usual daily parades. Most of the prizes reportedly went to Australian competitors, including the long jump, in which second place was taken by Sergt. Utton of "F" Company.

A Medical History form completed on Utton in February 1920 recorded the following synopsis of his experiences following the opening day of the Battle of Paardeberg: "Patient states he was wounded in the South African War, February 18, 1900, in left ankle and foot. Treated No. 1 Base Hospital Winberg. Invalided to England in May 1900. Treated at Herbert Hospital, Woolwich. Transferred for special treatment to Rochester Row and returned to Canada in July for further treatment. Treated at Quebec and thence to new Brunswick for special treatment for nervous condition of his leg. To duty but under special observation at Halifax."

The telegraph and undersea cables ensured that Canadians were informed of action in South Africa soon after they occurred. Papers across the country readily published any details they received, and especially noted those names with connections to their local readers. Lord Roberts' Despatch, dated 31 Mar 1900, included Sergt. Utton among other Royal Canadians mentioned for their actions at Paardeberg. The 5 Apr 1900 edition of The Listowel Banner noted that Utton had been evacuated from South Africa by Hospital ship, sailing on 10 Mar 1900 aboard the Greek.

The London Advertiser edition of 1 May 1900 printed the complete list of the wounded in "the Affair of Feb 18." Among the "Slightly Wounded" for "F" Company, Quebec Company, was Pte. F.W. Utton, Royal Canadian Regiment of Infantry. A later official list in the same paper, dated 7 Apr 1900, gave Utton's rank as Sergeant and noted his injury as "ankle, slight." That later report also provided the first mention of Utton being among those who distinguished themselves on the 18th of February. On 5 May 1900, The London Advertiser reported that among the invalided Canadians was: "Color-Sergt. F.W. Utton, R.C.R.I., wound in foot, Woolwich Hospital."

On 18 Jul 1900, The Fredericton Daily Gleaner quoted the Moncton Transcript of the preceding Saturday:

"A Hero of Two Wars

"Fred W. Utton, a Former Moncton Boy, is in the City

"The Moncton Transcript of Saturday says: Mr. Fred W. Utton, instructor in the Halifax battalion, is in the city renewing old acquaintances. Mr. Utton prior to 1893 worked in the I.C.R. shops here. In that year he went to Fredericton and served three years in the military school. At the outbreak of the Spanish-American war he enlisted in the American army and served through it all. He then returned to Quebec and when the South African war broke out he volunteered and was accepted and went to the front. Monctonians have no doubt read in the press despatches of Private Utton who was shot while carrying despatches from Col. Otter to Col. Buckam (sic) [Buchan]. Well, Fred Utton, the Moncton boy, is the individual in question. The incident occurred near Paardeberg and as he was proceeding along he was shot in the foot and the calk of the leg but he succeeded in delivering the despatch, which was an important one, and was subsequently laid up for some time. His many friends in this city are pleased to give him the hearty hand shake, as he is a hero of two wars."

The 30 Jul 1900 London Advertiser also reported Utton's return to Canada with this brief item:

"Quebec, July 29. — Color-Sergt. F.W. Utton, who arrived by the steamship Tunisian yesterday morning, having been invalided to London, was attached to E Company, 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment. He was one of the Canadians wounded at Paardeberg on the 18th of February, when Commandant Cronje's forces were bagged. He received a bullet wound in the ankle and foot and still walks with a limp."

Back with the Permanent Force, on 1 Aug 1900, Utton was transferred to No. 4 Regimental Depot at Wolseley Barracks, London, Ontario. The St. John Daily Sun edition of 7 Aug 1900 included a short item from Fredericton about the return of Utton to that garrison city:

"Fredericton, Aug. 6—Sergt. Fred Utton, who arrived in this city from South Africa Saturday afternoon, has only words of praise for the treatment he received in the British hospitals. He was three times on the operating table under chloroform, ready to undergo the operation of having his wounded foot removed. The doctors, however, at last decided that the member might be saved and refrained from the operation. Sergt. Utton hopes to have it entirely well in a short time."

Utton was officially discharged from operational service after the South African War on 21 Aug 1900. Official confirmation of Utton's recognition for his actions at Paardeberg came some time after his return to duty in Canada. The London Gazette issue published 8 Feb 1901 contained news of his being awarded a Mention in Despatches. This was the outcome of having been mentioned in the despatches prepared by Lieut.-Col Otter following the conclusion of the battle of Paardeberg on 27 Feb 1900.

For his service in the South African War, Utton was awarded the Queen's South Africa Medal with two clasps, "Cape Colony" and "Paardeberg." He received his medal on parade at Wellington Barracks, Halifax, N.S. on 19 Oct 1901, during one of the last official ceremonies of the 1901 Royal Tour. Utton's medal was presented by His Royal Highness (who later ascended the throne as His Majesty King George V).

Utton again decided to purchase his discharge rather than complete a full three-year permanent force obligation. On 28 Feb 1902, he was discharged at Fredericton, N.B., after 2 years and 157 days of service. In accordance with regulations, to be discharged at that point in his contact, he paid $16 to obtain his release, an amount that was based on his remaining months to complete his three-year obligation. A regimental enrollment ledger notes his rank and character at that time as Sergeant and Exemplary.

Utton wasn't out of uniform for long. On 22 May 1902, he attested at Halifax, N.S., for one year of service with the 3rd (Special Service) Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment of Infantry. Declaring five years prior service with the "1st RCR", Utton identified his mother, Susan Utton, Burnside, Highcliff Rd., Hornsey Rise, London, Eng., as his next of kin. On his attestation form, at 29 years of age, Utton was described as 5 feet 8 inches in height, with a 42 1/2-inch chest, a fair complexion, blue eyes and light brown hair. Under distinctive marks was noted "bullet wounds left ankle." For his service in Halifax with the 3rd Battalion, Utton was given the regimental number 1773.

Formed to garrison Halifax and replace the 1st Battalion Prince of Wales Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians) for service in South Africa, the 3rd (Special Service) Battalion would spend two years on the ramparts of Citadel Hill and other sentry points in the Nova Scotia capital. Housed principally at Wellington Barracks, they would become an integral part of the military presence in that garrison city. During the unit's brief existence the regimental title would change on 1 Nov 1901 from "Royal Canadian Regiment of Infantry" to "The Royal Canadian Regiment." In October 1902, the 3rd (Special Service) Battalion, The RCR, was disbanded.

About a week after joining the 3rd (Special Service) Battalion, on 30 May 1902, Utton was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Another week later, on 6 Jun 1902, he was a Sergeant once again.

Before the 3rd Battalion at Halifax was disbanded, Utton was representing the unit, and the Regiment, at shooting competitions. The Hamilton Times of 6 Sep 1902 reported on the results of the Dominion Rifle Association matches held the previous day at Connaught Ranges near Ottawa. Utton is listed among the prize winners in the Harold. L. Holden Match, seven shots at 500 yards with a high possible score of 35. The winner of the cup, medallion, and $20, with a high possible score of 35, was Capt D.J.C. Monroe of the 44th Regiment. Utton, with four others, scored 34, and his share of the prize money was $12.

On 22 May 1903, Utton re-engaged for a further three years of Permanent Force service. Soon after, he married Agnes Knowles Patterson (Spinster) at St John's, Quebec, on 1 Jul 1903. The couple would have five children: Frederick William (b. 16 Jun 1904, St John's Que.), Robert John Walter (b. 17 Apr 1905, Toronto, Ont.), Burnside Wolseley (b. 3 Jul 1906, London, Ont.), Earle Stanley (b. 16 Apr 1907, Toronto, Ont.), Gwendolyn Florence (b. 3 Nov 1909, Toronto, Ont.). Before the end of that month, on 20 Jul 1903, Utton would be placed on the Regiment's married roll.

Utton was promoted to the rank of Colour Sergeant on 1 Aug 1903. The following winter he attended the Royal School of Signalling at St John's, Quebec, between 22 Nov 1903 and 28 Feb 1904. Utton achieved a Grade of "B" in completing the requirements for his Certificate in Army Signaling.

The Permanent Force did not expect men to remain at each rank level for any predetermined period of time. Once a man progressed to the N.C.O. ranks, he could move upward as vacancies presented them selves and as he was willing to move where those vacancies appeared. On 24 Nov 1904, Utton was promoted again, this time to Quartermaster Sergeant. A week later, on 1 Dec 1904, he was transferred to No. 2 Regimental Depot at St John's, Quebec.

The Conduct Sheet maintained on each soldier by the Regiment contained both disciplinary incidents and also recorded the presence of a soldier on inspections by visiting senior officers. Utton's conduct sheet recorded that, on 2 Feb 1905, he was inspected by Colonel W.D. Otter, A.D.C., District Officer Commanding (D.O.C.), Military District (M.D.) No. 2.

On 3 Jun 1905, Utton changed regimental station again, being transferred to No. 1 Regimental Depot at Fredericton, N.B. here, on 1 Jul 1905, he was promoted to Warrant Officer (Sergeant Major), with seniority of 8 years and 265 days.

By 1905, Utton's skill as a marksman was continuing to be displayed in reported competition results. The 24 Aug 1904 edition of The Hamilton Evening Times reported on matches at Long Branch Ranges that day: "In the Duke of Cornwall and Yorks match at the 600 and 800 yard ranges Sergt.-Major F.W. Utton, of the R.C.R., took first prize [$25] and the silver medallion, with a score of 68 out of a possible 70, while Pte. D. Mitchell, of the 13th Regiment, secured second prize and the bronze medal, with a score of 67."

As required every three years for continuous service, Utton re-engaged once more on 22 May 1906. This was followed by another transfer between station and on 1 Oct 1906, he returned to No. 2 Regimental Depot at St John's Quebec.

In 1908, Utton's skill as a marksman led to him representing Canada at the Olympic Games. On 9 Jul 1908, he competed at the 1908 London Summer Olympic Games in the United Kingdom. One of 50 competitors shooting the Mens' 1000 Yard Free Rifle event, he finished with a score of 91 points out of a possible 100 and tied for ninth place with fellow Canadian Charles Crowe. They were behind another Canadian (Harry Kerr) who placed in a three-way tie for sixth place and ahead of another (Sydney Brown) in a tie for 11th place. (Crowe, an artillery officer from Guelph, Ontario, would later have a regimental connection, his son Ralph Marston Crowe would be killed in action whilst commanding the Regiment in Sicily in 1943.)

The 1908 yearbook for the University of Toronto, Torontoensis, included a mention of Sergt.-Major F.W. Utton, of Stanley Barracks. In an article on the U. of T. Rifle Association, he was a speaker at a dinner held by the group, providing "a very instructive talk on rifle shooting."

Utton's skills as a soldier and Warrant Officer were not limited to the classroom, drill square, and shooting range. In May, 1909, the Third Edition of the booklet "Aid to Obtaining an Infantry Certificate" was published. Originally authored by Capt. A.P.B. Nagle, R.C.R., this edition was "Corrected to date by Sergt.-Major Utton, R.C.R."

Utton re-engaged on 22 May 1909 and later that year, on 11 Nov 1909, his conduct sheet noted another inspection, during a visit to the garrison by Major General Sir P.H.N. Lake, K.C.M.G., C.B., Inspector General.

In June of 1910, the Canadian Bisley Team was selected from military marksmen across the country. Two Royal Canadians, Sergt.-Major, W. Dymond and Sergt. F.W. Utton, were respectively sixth and eighteenth on the list of eligible shooters. Neither man, however would be on the Bisley team. As reported in the London Advertiser of 15 Jun 1910, "only those connected with the Canadian Militia can compete at Bisley." It appears that a fine distinction had been drawn between the soldiers of the Militia and those of the Permanent Force.

Utton attended the Royal School of Infantry at Toronto between 20 Nov 1911 and 30 Dec 1911 to qualify as an Instructor on the Instructional Cadre. The 1912 Report of The Militia Council for the Dominion of Canada provided this synopsis of the Instructional Cadre:

"Instructional Cadre.

"An Instructional Cadre of cavalry and infantry non-commissioned officers has been organized to assume the duties of the instruction of the Active Militia. These non-commissioned officers are selected from units of the Permanent Force after a special course in instructional duties and, on passing a qualifying examination, they are posted to the Cadre.

"At present the establishment of the Instructional Cadre is 101. This allows of one non-commissioned officer to every two regiments of cavalry or battalions of infantry, but as more instructors become available, and as they may be found useful or necessary, the establishment may be increased to meet requirements.

"Detailing certain non-commissioned officers to perform the duty of instructing the Active Militia leaves the Permanent Force more free to perform its own necessary training, and prevents the interference of the one duty with the other to the extent which formerly obtained, while the absence of non-commissioned officers on instructional duty does not now deprive the permanent units of the non-commissioned officers required to learn on their own regimental work. The system also ensures better instruction for the Active Militia.

"Provision has also been made for the non-commissioned officers of the Instructional Cadre to revert to regimental duty, periodically, to prevent them losing touch with practical work."

Utton's conduct sheet noted another inspection on 25 Mar 1912, again during a visit to the garrison by Major General W.D. Otter, C.V.O., C.B., Inspector General. Before the end of the year, on 2 Dec 1912, he was on parade for another inspection by a senior visitor, Major General F.L. Lessard, C.B., General Officer Commanding (G.O.C.) 2nd Division.

As the three-year engagement he was on ran out, Utton duly re-engaged again on 22 May 1912. This term of service would see him move from the company staff of N.C.Os. to the Instructional Cadre. On 12 Feb 1913, he was transferred to the Instructor Cadre, where he would be on probation for one year, and appointed Sergeant Major Instructor.

The London Advertiser of 18 Aug 1913 reported that Utton shot a high possible score in the first stage of the City of Toronto match, firing seven bulls-eyes at 500 yards for a score of 35. The following day he lost the final stage of the match to fellow Royal Canadian, Q.M.S. Dymond, who shot 34 to Utton's 32.

In the summer of 1914, Utton was swiftly caught up in the first stages of Canada's mobilization for the First World War. On 6 Jul 1914, he attested at Camp Valcartier for service in the First World War and joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force.

The Daily Gleaner of Fredericton, N.B., in its edition published 3 Sep 1914, reported on Utton's first position of employment in the First World War. In a column referring to the men assembling at Camp Valcartier to form the Canadian Expeditionary Force, the paper reported:

"The Camp Sergeant Major

"The camp sergeant major is Fred Utton, who was at one time stationed at Infantry Station No. 3, in this city, and was one of the best athletes seen in the maritime Provinces. He was an excellent runner and a star football player. Sgt Major Utton went to the South African war with the first contingent where he distinguished himself and was among the wounded at Paardeberg."

On 18 Sep 1918, Fredericton's Daily Gleaner reported:

"Fred Utton, Formerly of the Local Military Depot, Wins Fine Promotion

"Lieut. Quartermaster F.W. Utton, formerly sergeant-major of the Royal Canadian Regiment, has been appointed quartermaster with the rank of honorary lieutenant in the Ninth Provisional Infantry Battalion at Valcartier.

"He was the only one of those at Valcartier who was honored with a promotion in the appointments announced at Valcartier last evening, the others having suffered a reduction in ranks.

"Lt. Utton, when at Infantry Station No. 3 in this city, was one of the best qualified military men and he won honors for himself in South Africa during the Boer war. His many friends will join in congratulations on his latest honors."

Utton and the 9th Canadian Infantry Battalion sailed from Quebec aboard the S.S. Zealand on 4 Oct 1914. Utton went overseas as the unit's Quartermaster holding the rank of Honorary Captain.

As a Captain in the C.E.F., Utton was paid a daily rate of $3.00 (three times a soldier's pay) and received a field allowance of 75 cents per day. He also received $1.00 per day Messing Allowance and when he held the appointment of Adjutant he would receive an extra 50 cents per day in pay. Out of his monthly pay at this time, Utton maintained a Pay Assignment which sent $50 per month home to his wife. Utton would increase this pay assignment to $85 in December 1914, to $95 in February 1915, and to $115 in March 1917. His wife, Agnes, also received $35 per month Separation Allowance.

Utton was admitted to No. 1 General Hospital at Bulford for a right inguinal hernia on 31 Dec 1914. His case notes recorded: "In 1911 had operation for appendicitis, drained for several weeks. Last March noticed a protrusion in right groin and it has been increasing. Transfer to [??] for operation." An operation was performed on 9 Jan 1915 and by 1 Feb 1915 his case notes included the remark that he had a "Perfect recovery."

Frederick Utton offered his services as a Lieutenant in the C.E.F. on 4 Jan 1915 at Bulford Camp, Wiltshire, England. At the age of 41 years 5 months, he was found fit to serve. His attestation form (used in lieu of the usual Officer's Declaration) described him as 5 feet 7 1/2-inches in height, with a 44-inch chest, blue eyes and greying hair. He was noted as having a bullet wound of the left ankle and foot, an appendectomy scar, and tattoo marks on both forearms. Utton identified his wife, Mrs. Agnes Knowles Utton, 341 Concord Ave, Toronto, Ont., as his next of kin. He gave his trade as "military" and reported prior service in the Permanent Force (RCR).

On 21 Feb 1915, Utton was transferred from the 9th Reserve Battalion to the Infantry Base Depot at Tidworth. His appointment here was to be that Adjutant, Base Details. Utton continued to be shuffled around to fill jobs while waiting a more permanent appointment. On 7 Mar 1915, he was transferred back to the 9th Res. Bn. from the Infantry Base Depot, and on 23 Mar 1915, he was drafted to France to serve with the Royal Canadian Dragoons (R.C.D.).

As an old soldier of the Permanent Force, Utton would have been a known quantity to the senior appointments of the R.C.D. As it happened, he would be on the cavalry unit's roll for mere days and, on landing in France on 23 Mar 1915, would actually be taken on strength of the 15th Battalion and promoted to Temporary Captain and Adjutant, 15th Bn. (Supp to LG, 17 Jul 1915). On 26 Mar 1915, Utton's latest change of units would be confirmed when he was transferred from the R.C.D. to the 15th Battalion as Adjutant.

The Daily Gleaner in Fredericton continued to follow the path of Utton's career. The 13 Jul 1915 edition, reporting "Special from The Daily Gleaner's leased wire": "London, July 13.—Quartermaster Honorary Captain F.W. Utton, from the Royal Canadian Dragoons, has been gazetted temporary Captain and Adjutant of the Fifteenth Canadian Battalion." A supplementary note provided: "Capt. Utton was a non-commissioned officer in the Royal Canadian Regiment and stationed at No. 3 Military Depot, Fredericton, a few years ago."

On 16 Sep 1915, Utton was granted seven days leave of absence from 16 Sep 1915, rejoining the unit on 23 Sep 1915. he went on another week-long leave furlough later that year beginning 26 Nov 1915.

Utton's background as a Permanent Force instructor probably form part of the decision to send him On Command (i.e., a temporary duty assignment without changing parent units) to the Divisional School of Instruction on 1 Jan 1916. He would remain at the School until 16 Mar 1916. While he was employed at the School, Militia General Orders published in the Canada Gazette on 29 Jan 1916 listed the award of the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal to No. 1773 Sergeant Major (W.O.) F.W. Utton, Royal Canadian Regiment. Although Utton was serving as a commissioned officer in the C.E.F. at this time, the long service medal was awarded to him in his substantive Permanent Force rank.

Shortly after his service the the School of Instruction ended, Utton went to hospital sick on 19 Mar 1916. He was admitted to No. 3 Canadian Field Ambulance and the same day transferred to the Officers Rest Station at Mount Noir, suffering from influenza. He rejoined the unit on 23 Mar 1916.

Utton went on leave again on 11 Apr 1916. Based on a Medical Certificate, his leave was extended to 26 Apr 1916, and again until 3 May 1916. While he was on leave Utton was transferred to the 14th Cdn. Inf. Bn. in the field and struck off the strength of the 15th Battalion on 27 Apr 1916. He joined his new unit on 6 May 1916 and held the appointment of Adjutant.

The regimental history of The Royal Montreal Regiment, 14th Battalion, C.E.F., 1914-1925 (R.C. Fetherstonhaugh, 1927) notes the arrival of Capt F.W. Utton as Adjutant. In the early days of June, 1916, the battalion was engaged in the bloody battle of Mount Sorrel, including the counter-attack at Maple Copse and Observatory Ridge on the night of 2/3 Jun 1916.

"Speaking of the advance, an officer of the 3rd Brigade Staff says, "It was one of the finest things I have ever seen. One hears occasionally of troops advancing 'as if on parade'. There was no question of this being a parade. Under the leadership of Major Powell, the old 14th advanced coolly, steadily, and splendidly. The lines were torn and bent by shell, rifle, and machine gun fire, but there was no faltering. When the front line was staggered and withered by fire, there always seemed someone to step into the gaps". (Fetherstonhaugh, p. 88)

"After the line advanced Capt. Utton and Capt. E.A. Whitehead carried out a reconnaissance and, following their report, Headquarters was moved to a dugout under the crest of Observatory Ridge. Between this dugout and the front line the Signallers, under Sergt. A. Close, established and maintained communication, their work being of the finest character. It is a principle of military operations that routine must continue under the most difficult circumstances, this probably accounting for the fact that on June 3rd a runner, who had made his way through the enemy barrage, arrived grimy and exhausted at 14th Battalion Headquarters with a message from London asking how many members of the Battalion had subscribed for War Loan." (Fetherstonhaugh, p. 89)

"On arrival at Dominion Lines Capt. F. W. Utton, without delaying for food or sleep, began preparation of those lists which it is the duty of the Adjutant to produce following a great battle. To assist in obtaining accurate information on which to base these, Lieut.-Col. Clark, who had returned from leave, called for volunteers to proceed to the scene of the attack on June 3rd and search the torn ground for wounded." (Fetherstonhaugh, p. 92)

"Following the series of trench tours in the Ypres Salient in June, 1916, the 14th Battalion spent ten days in Brigade and Divisional Reserve, five days at Dominion Lines and an equal time at Patricia Lines. Then followed another series of tours in the Salient, these being completed on August 9th and the Regiment thereafter marching to a special area to train for participation in the Battles of the Somme.

"All unconscious of what lay before them, the Royal Montrealers trained at Dominion Lines and Patricia Lines during the early days of July. Recognizing that a smart appearance helps to maintain morale, particularly after a month such as the Battalion had just experienced, Capt. Utton ordered company commanders and officers commanding details to pay strict attention to the neatness of their men. As a result of these orders and of the co-operation which the men extended, the Battalion, when it marched from Dominion to Patricia Lines, presented an appearance leaving little to be desired." (p. 98)

On 13 Jun 1916, Utton relinquished his appointment as Adjutant on returning to regimental duty (i.e., as a line officer vice battalion staff). Utton was appointed to the rank of temporary Major, "whilst Commanding a Company of the 14th Battalion" on 1 Jul 1916.

He would hold this appointment for one month, until 31 Jul 1916 when he was attached for duty to the Canadian Section, General Headquarters (G.H.Q.) 3rd Echelon, at Rouen, from 31 Jul 1916 until 6 Aug 1916. After another month back with the 14th Battalion, Utton was again attached for duty to Canadian Section, GHQ 3rd Echelon, Rouen, on 13 Sep 1916.

Utton's short periods of duty with the G.H.Q. now set the path for his next employment. On 28 Sep 1916, relinquished the acting rank of Major on ceasing to Command a Company and was seconded for duty at G.H.Q. 3rd Echelon. Here he replaced Capt L.O. Bentley, C.F.A., who went to England. The announcement regarding the relinquishment of acting rank for Utton, which appeared in List 118, d/ 13 Jan 1917, was canceled and the associated Gazette entry of 10 Feb 1917 was also cancelled.

Perhaps enabled by the increases in the Assigned Pay that Utton was sending home, his wife moved and he provided a new next-of-kin address for his service record. On 5 Dec 1916, the family address changed from 34 Concord Ave., Toronto, to 103 Empress Crescent, South Parkdale, Toronto, Ont.

On 17 Jan 1917, Utton went on leave to the United Kingdom, returning on 28 Jan 1917. A few weeks later, on 16 Feb 1917, he assumed the duties of Staff Captain, Canadian Section, Assistant Adjutant General (A.A.G.), at Rouen (vice Capt. Sir Charles Piers having assumed duties as Deputy Assistant Adjutant-General (D.A.A.G.). The two officers returned to their original appointments on 25 Apr 1917.

Utton's appointment required some travel from Rouen. He proceeded to Etaples (CSD) on duty from 25 to 30 May 1917. He later proceeded on duty to the Canadian Forestry Corps at Conches from 8 to 11 Sep 1917.

On 6 Dec 1917, Utton was promoted to Temporary Major in the Quebec Regiment, the regionally-based regimental establishment he belonged to as a result of his last regimental service with the 14th Battalion. Proceeding on 15 days leave to the U.K. on 30 Dec 1917, Utton would be honoured whilst on leave when his name appeared among those Mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig's Despatches of 28 Dec 1917 published in the London Gazette issue No. 30448. He returned from leave on 15 Jan 1918 and two weeks later, on 1 Feb 1918, he relinquished the appointment of Staff Captain.

On 1 Jul 1918, the Canadian Corps Championships were held at Tincques, France. In the program of track and field events, the Officers race was won by Maj F.W. Utton.

Utton was re-appointed Staff Captain on 21 Aug 1918 and posted to be Adjutant, Canadian Section, G.H.Q. 3rd Echelon. He was back in England on leave from 12 to 28 Oct 1918.

On 8 Nov 1918, Utton received another Mention in Despatches, as a result of Sir Douglas Haig's Despatch of 8 Nov 1918. (London Gazette 31089, dated 31 Dec 1918). On 1 Dec 1918, he was struck off the strength of the Canadian Section, GHQ, 2rd Echelon and proceeded to England where he was appointed Officer In Charge of Records, "G" Branch, London. Here he was attached for duty with pay and allowances, and taken on strength of the Central Records Office and detached to C.R.O. London.

Utton's name appeared in the new Year's Honours List on 1 Jan 1919. He was Gazetted as an Officer of the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (L.G. 31092, d/ 31 Dec 1918). Published in the Supplement to the London Gazette, his entry appeared as: "Capt. (A./Major) Frederick William Utton, 14th Canadian Infantry Battalion."

The Daily Gleaner of Fredericton, in its edition of 11 Jul 1919, noted Utton's return to shooting after the war:

"On the Bisley Team

"Major Fred Utton, who served as adjutant of the 14th Battalion for some time and was afterwards at the Canadian Section of the 3rd Echelon at Le Havre on the staff, is a member of the Canadian team in the Bisley match. He was with the Royal Canadian Regiment in Fredericton a good many years and is well remembered here."

Utton shot well enough in the first stage for the King's Prize that he was in a three-way tie-breaking shoot off for the bronze medal. After the second stage, the paper reported a few days later that Utton's overall standing was 51st in a field of 100 competitors.

On 18 Jul 1919, Utton was one of 14 Overseas Forces competitors who qualified to shoot for the King's Prize, the top shot in the Empire. The Prize was taken by a New Zealander, Sergeant L. Loveday, M.M., with a final score of 253. Utton was ninth among the 14 overseas shooters, tallying 235 points. Although Utton did not place in the prizes for the King's Prize competition in 1920, he did take home two aggregate score prizes in other contests.

Continuing to be employed with Canada's forces overseas, Utton was attached to H.Q. Overseas Military Forces of Canada (O.M.F.C.) on 26 Jul 1919, and transferred to the H.Q. in London. On 7 Sep 1919, he appointed D.A.A.G.

On 20 Dec 1919, Utton was entitled to a War Service Gratuity of £338 / 8 / 6. His wife was entitled to a further Separation Allowance of £61 / 12 / 11. Each of these were paid to them in three installments on 20 Dec 1919, 6 Jan and 14 Jan 1920. At this time, Utton's payments were being sent to him care of the Bank of Montreal, 9 Waterloo Place, London SW 1. Agnes, who had moved to England to join Utton, was receiving her cheques at 11 Victoria Rd., North Side, Clapham Common, S.W. As of 31 Dec 1919, the total amount of Assigned Pay which Utton had sent home to his wife was $6450. The monthly amount being sent on his behalf in January, 1920, was $115.

With the war over and the administrative work still being conducted in England soon to end for many of those still employed there post-war employment in or out of uniform was the next concern for the servicemen yet to return to Canada. Utton was one of the lucky few to secure a position to return to in the permanent Force. In addition, he would not have to revert to his pre-war rank. The Free Press of London, Ont., on 11 Jan 1920, announced Utton's commission in the Permanent Force:

"Utton Now Captain in Permanent Force

"Sergeant-Major F.W. Utton, O.B.E., R.C.R., has been given rank of captain in the permanent force. Mr. Utton, who was formerly stationed at Wolseley Barracks here, held a number of important administrative appointments overseas, and for a long time was in charge of the staff at the Canadian Section, G.H.Q., 3rd Echelon, Rouen. He held rank of major in the expeditionary force."

A Medical History Form completed on Utton on 3 Feb 1920 described him as 47 years of age and weighing 180 pounds. The form notes his time of service in the Great War, including service in France from 23 may 1915 to 2 Dec 1919. For operational injuries, the form concentrated on the bullet wound Utton suffered in South Africa at Paardeberg on 18 Feb 1900. It was noted that he "Cannot march as well as he did previously." Despite this old wound, Utton was assessed as fit for general service, Category "Ai".

Utton ceased to be attached to H.Q. O.M.F.C. on 26 Feb 1920 and was discharged from the C.E.F. to the Permanent Force on 31 May 1920. He sailed from Liverpool for Canada on 6 Sep 1920 and was taken on the strength of the General List C.E.F. H.Q. Detachment pending disposal. Utton returned to Canadian shores in September, 1920, aboard the S.S. Prinz Friedrich Wilhelm and disembarked at Quebec City.

On 3 Dec 1920, Utton was struck off the strength of the General List, C.E.F., at Military District No. 2 on appointment to a commission in the Permanent Force. The Militia Orders published 11 Nov 1920 included notification of Utton's promotion to Captain in the Permanent Force, effective 4 Dec 1920. The Militia General Orders published 2 Apr 1921 announced the award of a Brevet Majority to "Captain F.W. Utton, O.B.E., Permanent Forces," effective from 7 Dec 1917, the date of his first promotion to temporary major.

For his service in the C.E.F., Utton was entitled to receive the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and the Victory Medal. He received these medals on 19 Dec 1921. Interestingly, a medal card in Utton's service record notes that "A duplicate B.W. & V.M. intended for 127094 Pte MONTGOMERY, Thomas Wilfred, and which appeared on Roll "B" Page 7671 has been re-engraved for Major F.W. UTTON whose original medal card has apparently been misplaced."

On 12 Jan 1922, Bro. F.W. Utton was installed as the Junior Warden of the newly instituted Rideau Lodge of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons (A.F.&A.M.) of Canada. The new Lodge in Ottawa was established with 68 Masons and 14 applicants. In 1923, Utton would attend the Mason's Grand Kofge in Toronto, representing Acacia Lodge of London, Ont.

In 1922, Utton was back at Bisley with the Canadian team. In shooting for the Kolapore Cup, an international team match, the Canadians took second place and among the team's shooters, Utton held the second highest aggregate. Shooting at 300, 500, and 600 yards, with ten rounds counting at each range for a high possible score of 150, Utton scored 139 points.

Shortly after returning from England, Utton was back on the ranges for the 1922 City of Toronto rifle matches. The London Free Press, on 9 Aug 1922, headlined a column with:

"Major Utton Wins Gold medal for 114 Rifle score

"Toronto, August 8.—Major F.W. Utton, of the C.S.A.S. of Ottawa, to-day won the gold medal presented by the Corporation of the City of Toronto, when he scored 114 in the City of Toronto match at the Ontario Rifle Association meeting being held at the Long Branch Rifle Ranges. He led the field in the first stage with a score of 67, and finished up the 10 shots at 600 yards with 47 out of a possible 50. Major Utton returned from England only last Sunday where he had been in charge of the Bisley team."

Utton was one of three top scoring shooters for the McDougall Cup at the D.C.R.A. shoot held at Connaught Ranges on 13 Aug 1923. Tied at 67 of a possible 70 with Privates P. Selwood (72nd Regt., Vancouver) and W. Irwin (Ottawa), the challenge cup and accompanying $25 prize money went to Selwood for more consistent shooting results.

Back on the ranges at Connaught in August, 1924, Utton shot the Sherwood rapid fire competition in which he was in a three-way tie for first place. He and the other two shooters, Lieut.-Col. W.O. Morris and Sergt.-Maj. J. Traynor, both of Toronto, each shot 47 points of a possible 50. The three competitors split the prizes three ways.

Utton is included in the Permanent Force lists in the Department of National Defence (Militia and Air Service) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1927. Listed under pay and allowances, he is shown to be serving with the Canadian Small Arms School and earning an annual pay of $3,467.50. The Militia List of April, 1927, recorded the following details of Utton's career:

As a staff officer in the Military District headquarters in Toronto, it was inevitable that Utton would be assigned secondary duties outside the specifics of his principal appointment. Evidence of this appears occasionally in the pages of the University of Toronto Undergraduate newspaper, The Varsity. The 22 Feb 1924 edition identifies Capt. & Bt.-Major F.W. Utton, O.B.E., C.S.A.S. (and erroneously adding "M.C.") will be a member of a board to examine candidates from the U. of T. Contingent, Canadian Officer Training Corps (C.O.T.C.), for Certificates "A" & "B" part 1, Practical.

Utton also had reason to communicate with the University's C.O.T.C. on matters promulgated from his own desk. On 3 Dec 1925, The varsity published details from a letter from Utton announcing the final standings of the Intercollegiate Rifle matches. U. of T., with a score of 720, had placed second, only three points behind the winning Queen's University. The U. of T. Corps' Rifle Association would take back the Inter-Collegiate Rifle Cup in 1926.

No doubt a result of his own continuing interests in rifle shooting and his proximity to the U. of T. C.O.T.C., Utton was named the Corps' Rifle Association's Honorary Captain in the 7 Oct 1926 issue of The Varsity.

On 30 Oct 1926, Utton was again a member of a board examining C.O.T.C. candidates for their Certificates. The other board members were Major and Bt. Lieut.-Col R.J.S. Langford (The RCR) and Capt. and Bt. Major. J.H. Van den Berg, D.S.O. (P.P.C.L.I.). Utton would chair another board for Infantry certification in February, 1927.

The university' paper published announcements for a lectures by Utton for the Corps' marksmen in 1927-28. One lecture, titled "The Art of Marksmanship," was described in the 30 Nov 1927 issue: "Major Utton's remarks were addressed mainly to beginners in the sport and dealt with the care and handling of the rifle, with a brief summary of its various parts and their purposes. he also devoted a few words on target shooting in general and the methods to practice to be followed."

The Ottawa Citizen edition of 5 Aug 1931 noted Utton's own continuing competitive skills in rifle shooting:

"Lieut.-Col. F.W. Utton, Toronto, won the City of Toronto Gold Medal and $50 for highest individual score in the city match, scoring 117, two higher than his nearest competitor, Sgt. Woods of Hamilton. Woods will receive the silver medal offered by the city. The match began yesterday, when the first stage, 500 and 600 yards was fired. Today the marksmen opened up at 900 yards only to face the terrific rainstorm. Col. Utton, an old-timer at the rifle game, never worried a particle about the weather conditions, and hammered his shots home unerringly."

Utton retired from military service in September, 1932. But he did not give up shooting competitively in the Rifle Association sponsored meets.

In the summer of 1933, Utton was again back at Bisley demonstrating his skill. In the first round of shooting for the King's Prize he was the top Canadian competitor. In 1934, he again went to Bisley as one of the team's shooters. In 1935, Utton wasn't listed for Bisley, but he shot a record high possible score of 150 in the first stage of the Governor General's Gold Medal match at Connaught ranges. 1936 again saw Utton shooting well and winning prize money in the City of Toronto Match.

Utton was still demonstrating his competitive shooting skills in 1935 at the age of 62. The Montreal Gazette of 16 Aug 1935, in a column headlined "Toronto Rifleman Records Possible" reported on Utton's performance at Connaught the previous day:

"Col. Utton Turns in Record-Equalling Score in Qualifying Round

"Connaught Rifle ranges, South March, Ont., August 15.—A record-equalling possible 105 today shot Lieut.-Col. Fred W. Utton, Toronto Bisley marksman, into the lead of 150 qualifiers for the Governor-General's gold medal, feature award of the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association's annual meet. Lieut.-Col. Utton stood alone at the top of the heap after the closest race on the records.

"The South African and Great War veteran equaled a mark that has been touched only once before when he scored the maximum number of bulls-eyes at 200, 500 and 600 yards. Two years ago Cadet E. Winser, of England, did the trick when he won the preliminary stage.

"Behind Lieut.-Col. Utton five marksmen had 104, 14 had 103, and almost 30 had 102. In all 114 qualified outright for the final Saturday with scores of 100 or better but 47 with scores of 99 had to shoot off for the remaining 36 places."

Utton did not manage to repeat his performance the following day and was out of the top scores for the final stage of the Governor-General's gold medal competition. The top award for that year went to Capt. Roy Harrison, another Toronto marksman and Great War veteran in a tie-breaking five-round shoot-off for the win.

Frederick Utton died at Toronto on 23 Jan 1939 at the age of 65. His death certificate gives his cause of death as pulmonary edema due to carcinoma of the spine. Utton is buried in Prospect Cemetery, Toronto.

The Globe and Mail edition of Tuesday, 24 Jan 1939, printed an obituary notice following Utton's death:

"Col. F.W. Utton Died, Aged 65

"Lieut.-Col. F.W. Utton, O.B.E., ten times a representative of Canada at Bisley, and for many years a prominent figure in Canadian military affairs died yesterday at his home, 121 Lauder Avenue, following a lingering illness.

"Colonel Utton was mentioned in despatches during both the South African War and the Great War. He was the second son of the late John and Susan Utton, and was born in London, England sixty-five years ago. He joined the service in 1887. He came to Canada two years later and enlisted with the Royal Canadian Regiment at Fredericton, N.B. He saw active service with that unit in South Africa in 1899-1900, and was wounded at Paardeberg.

"On the outbreak of war in 1914 he was promoted to the rank of captain at Valcartier, and proceeded overseas with the first contingent. He saw active service with the 14th and 15th Battalion. and was appointed to the staff in 1917. After the Armistice, he remained in England as D.A.A.G. until September, 1920. He was District Weapon Training Officer for Military District No. 2 for eight years, and retired in 1932.

"He was a member of St. Chad's Anglican Church, of Rideau Lodge, A.F. & A.M. Ottawa, and of St. George's Society, Toronto, He acted on the councils of both the. Dominion of Canada Rifle Association and the Ontario Rifle Association.

"Surviving are his wife, formerly Agnes Knowles Patterson of Quebec. and five sons, Frederick W. Jr., H.W., F. R., and H.G. Utton of Toronto, and E.S. Utton, Sudbury."

Following Utton's funeral, detailed were published by The Globe and Mail in their 26 Jan 1939 edition:

"Funeral Service Held For Lieut.-Col. F. W. Utton

"Military associates and members of regiments with which he had served in two wars, were among the many who attended the funeral yesterday of Lieut.-Col. Frederick W. Utton, retired Canadian officer, yesterday. Frigid weather failed to prevent a large number of men and women from attending the service in the chapel of McDougall and Brown, St. Clair Avenue West. The service was conducted by Rev. F. Nicholson of St. Chad's Anglican Church. Honorary pallbearers were: Prof G.H. Lucas, Lieut.-Col. G.T. Chisholm, Lieut.-Col. W. Black, Major E.A. Steer, Captain G.F. Mackenzie and Captain S. W. Graham. Active pallbearers were members of the Royal Canadian Regiment, They were S.M.I. J.S. Tiffin; S.M.I. R.F. Bicknell; Q.M.S.I. J.D. Shawe; C.S.M. E. D. Hersey, and Sergeant H.K. Maxted. Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Bugle Major W.K. Tooze of the 48th Highlanders. Interment was in the Soldiers' Plot, Prospect Cemetery."

The following year, Utton's death was listed in the 1940 Proceedings of the Grand Lodge A.F.&A.M. (i.e., the Masons) of Canada for the province of Ontario. Also noted in 1940, The Varsity newsletter of the University of Toronto noted that members of the university's Rifle Association could compete for, among other prizes, the Lt.-Col F.W. Utton Memorial Cup.

One of the competitive matches still conducted by the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association (D.C.R.A.) is The Gibson (#618). Firers shoot at distances of 300m, 600y and 800m, firing 10 rounds at each range. The prize is The Gibson Trophy, which was originally presented by the late Major General Sir John M. Gibson, and was won outright by the Lieut.-Col. Utton. The trophy was subsequently offered by Mrs. Utton as a memorial to her late husband.

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