[1][2] The battalion was created on 2 September 1914 with recruits from "Military District 1" which was Western Ontario.

The battalion set off for England on board the Laurentic berthed in Quebec.

They arrived in England on 14 October 1914 with a strength of 45 officers and 1121 men.

The battalion became part of the 1st Canadian Division, 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade where it saw action at Ypres and along the Western Front.

[1][2] Lieutenant Frederick William Campbell was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroism in action 15 June 1915 at Givenchy, France; he died of wounds four days later.