Circumstances of Casualty: Killed in Action. Whilst on duty in the front line trenches on the night of 25/26th February 1916 at about 5.04 p.m. he was hit in the head and instantly killed by an enemy rifle bullet.
BX February 29, 1916
Captain Alfred Joseph Matthews Killed at Front – Son of George S. Matthews of This City Gave up His Life
Capt. Alfred Joseph Matthews of the 27th Battalion, son of Mr. George S. Matthews, 50 Lorne Crescent, director of Matthews-Blackwell, Ltd., was this morning reported killed in action. He was assistant manager here before going to Winnipeg to take charge of the Winnipeg distributing warehouse.
While living in Brantford, Capt. Matthews was connected with the 38th Dufferin Rifles and for over three years held a commission with that regiment. He enlisted in Winnipeg and went to the front with the 2nd Contingent.
Capt. Matthews was a veteran of the South African War and one of the first to offer when the present war broke out. He was for years an officer in General Sam Hughes own regiment, the 42nd, and the Minister of Militia speaks most highly of him, both of his personal character and his ability as an officer.
Condolences were received last evening by the father, Mr. George S. Matthews, from Sir Sam Hughes, and they were also wired to the deceased officer’s brothers and wife. He is survived by his wife, who is at present residing in Winnipeg.