Machine Gun Section

85th Battalion (Nova Scotia Highlanders)

Halifax, NS

Circa 1915-1916

The view is looking south on North Park Street in Halifax. The Halifax Commons is visible on the right. The Halifax Armoury would be just behind the photographer.

In the centre of the photo, holding a cane, is the commanding officer of the Machine Gun Section, Lieut. Glidden Campbell. Glidden Campbell was born in Weymouth, Digby County, NS, and was a lumberman before the war. Prior military experience included service with a Canadian militia artillery unit. In October, 1915, Glidden enlisted in the 85th Battalion (Nova Scotia Highlanders) in Halifax, and was appointed to the commissioned rank of lieutenant. He commanded the Machine Gun Section of the battalion. Glidden trained with the 85th Battalion in Halifax and Aldershot, NS, and proceeded to England with the unit in October, 1916. In July, 1917, while the battalion was in France, he was promoted to the rank of captain. During the 85th Battalion’s attack at Passchedaele at the end of October, 1917, Glidden was wounded in the face. He was later awarded a Military Cross for his actions during that battle. In June, 1918, Glidden was transferred to the Canadian Forestry Corps, possibly as a result of his prewar lumbering experience. He served in the 46th and later the 79th Companies of the Canadian Forestry Corps. He returned home after the war and was demobilized in March, 1919

Photographer:  MacLaughlan, Halifax, NS
Ref. Number:  19-04 (1.3)
Image Information:  Received as electronic file
Source:  Mahone Bay Museum Digital Collection courtesy of the Mahone Bay Legion