James Duff Stuart died of wounds on this day in 1917.
James was born in Vancouver on 2 October 1894, the son of Col. James Duff Stuart and his wife, Mary. He was educated at Langara College and the Royal Military College at Kingston.
He enlisted in October 1915 initially in the Strathcona Horse, later serving as a Lieutenant in the 1st Canadian Pioneers. James arrived in France on 9 March 1916. Further promotions followed, with his appointment as Adjutant in December 1916. In February 1917, James was attached to the RFC, undertaking a month’s course in observation at Shorncliffe.
On 6 March 1917, James, now in 43 Squadron in France, was part of a reconnaissance mission, escorted by FE8s from 40 Squadron when Jasta 11 were scrambled to intercept them. In the ensuing fight, a number of German aircraft were shot down - one of whom was Von Richtofen. But also James and 2nd Lt Pepler were shot down in flames.
Initially reported as ‘missing’, it was later reported through German sources that James had died on 7 March 1917. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Flying Services Memorial.
Arras Flying Services Memorial. Photo - CWGC
During the war, his father served as Brigade Commander, CEF and with the British Canadian Recruiting Mission in USA.