The legacy of Montenegrin soldiers who fought in the Canadian military during World War I is being highlighted through recent research. This initiative sheds light on the contributions and sacrifices made by individuals such as Jovan Martinovic, a soldier who faced the horrors of chemical warfare during pivotal battles in France.
Jovan Perov Martinovic was born on December 27, 1886, in Bajice, Montenegro. He served with distinction in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, joining the Third Battalion of the Special Canadian Expeditionary Forces, which arrived in Britain in September 1914. His military journey began after he emigrated to the United States around 1905, eventually making his way to Canada.
In early 1915, Martinovic and his unit were deployed to the Western Front, where they engaged in fierce combat against German forces. He participated in significant battles, including the Battle of Neuve Chapelle and the Second Battle of Ypres, which commenced on April 22, 1915. This latter battle marked the first large-scale use of poison gas in warfare, a strategy that led to devastating casualties among Allied troops.
During the battle for Ypres, Canadian troops, including Martinovic, faced a new and terrifying weapon: chlorine gas. Described as having a smell reminiscent of pineapple and pepper, the gas caused severe respiratory distress, leading to high mortality rates among soldiers. Martinovic was seriously injured and captured by German forces as a result of the gas attack. He was later interned in Switzerland due to the lasting effects of his injuries.
While in Switzerland, Martinovic met Freda Bretscher, a nurse, and they married on November 26, 1918. His bravery did not go unrecognized; he received multiple commendations, including the War Medal, the Victory Medal, and the 1914-1915 Star.
Researching Montenegrin Contributions
The ongoing research conducted by Dr. Srđa Martinović focuses on Montenegrin emigrants in foreign armies, including those who served in Malta, Italy, and across North and South America. Over the past decade, Dr. Martinović has diligently compiled information that typically requires extensive institutional resources. His work aims to celebrate the contributions of Montenegrins not only in the Canadian military but also in various global conflicts.
Among the Montenegrin soldiers who fought in the Canadian forces, numerous individuals displayed remarkable courage and commitment. For instance, Boško Nikitović, born on December 25, 1876, in Drobnjak, and Pero Radovanov Perović, born on August 15, 1881, in Montenegro, both served in different battalions. Their stories, alongside those of many others, reflect a rich history of Montenegrin involvement in international military efforts.
Legacy and Recognition
The sacrifices made by these soldiers, such as Martinovic, have left a lasting impact on both Canadian and Montenegrin histories. Canadian military records reveal that their bravery was often praised by commanding officers, highlighting the respect these soldiers earned on the battlefield. Notably, a Canadian commander once stated, “If I had a thousand soldiers like Jovan Martinovic, I would take Berlin.”
As the research continues to unfold, it aims to bring greater awareness to the roles played by Montenegrins in the Canadian military and the broader context of World War I. The stories of these soldiers serve as a testament to their valor and commitment to their homeland and the countries they fought alongside.
This initiative not only honors the legacy of these brave men but also enriches our understanding of the complex tapestry of military history involving diverse ethnic groups. The ongoing work of Dr. Martinović is crucial in ensuring that these narratives are preserved and recognized for their significance in shaping the future.
