Pte. Valentino Rinaldi

Private Valentino Rinaldi served on the Western Front during the final months of the First World War before returning to help build life in Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass.

The First World War

The Canadian Expeditionary Force, 31st Battalion, CEF

Private Valentino Rinaldi was born on 29 November 1891 in Sedegliano, Italy. He immigrated to Canada as a young man, eventually settling in Blairmore, Alberta, where he worked as a labourer. A Roman Catholic and single at the time of enlistment, his next of kin was his father, Vincenzo Rinaldi, also residing in Blairmore.

Valentino was drafted under the Military Service Act of 1917 and enlisted on 12 February 1918 in Calgary. He completed his medical exam in MacLeod, Alberta, on 19 November 1917 and was classified fit for overseas service. He initially joined the 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment, before embarking from Canada on 3 April 1918 aboard the S.S. Grampian, arriving in Liverpool on 8 April 1918. He was taken on strength with the 21st Reserve Battalion in England before being transferred to the 31st Battalion, CEF, on 6 August 1918.

Valentino proceeded to France on 15 August 1918 and joined his battalion in the field on 18 August 1918. At this time, the 31st Battalion was engaged near Amiens during the final phase of the Hundred Days Offensive, which would eventually force German troops back toward the Armistice. Serving on the front lines, Valentino experienced the harsh realities of trench warfare and the intensity of the final Allied offensives of the war.

His discharge came on 11 June 1919 at Military District No. 13 in Calgary following demobilization. His service was recognized with the Victory Medal, the British War Medal, and the War Service Badge.

After the war, Valentino returned to civilian life in Blairmore, Alberta, where he had spent more than thirty years contributing to the community. He worked ranching on the Blue Grouse Ranch between Frank and Lille and later operated a poolroom in Blairmore until entering semi-retirement. Known locally as “Val,” “Count,” or “Porky,” he was well regarded throughout the Crowsnest Pass district. Valentino passed away suddenly on 17 September 1939.

Valentino Rinaldi’s life reflects the experiences of Italian immigrants in Western Canada who served during the First World War and later returned home to help build their communities while balancing the lasting effects of war with civilian life and family responsibilities.

Sources

• Library and Archives Canada, Personnel Records of the First World War, Service No. 3206811

• Blairmore Enterprise, “Valentino Rinaldi Passes Suddenly,” 22 September 1939, Page 1. Accessed via Peel Library, University of Alberta website

Research and compiled by Luigi Audia