When the First World War broke out in 1914, Dr. Charles Edward Doherty didn't hesitate to enlist.
In honour of Remembrance Day, the Archdiocese of Vancouver, along with St. Peter's Catholic Church in New Westminster, unveiled a new series meant to shed a light on the remarkable people buried in its cemetery.
Doherty is the first person in the "Celebrating Life" series.
In 1914, the doctor was superintendent of the Provincial Hospital for the Insane – later renamed Woodlands – when he enlisted in the Canadian Army Medical Corps. He spent one year serving in France before travelling to England, where he helped care for soldiers as the assistant director of Medical Services of the Canadian Forces, according to an archdiocese media release.
Upon his return to Canada, Lt.-Col. Doherty was an active member of the executive of the Great War Veterans' Association of Canada. He spearheaded improved treatment for mentally ill patients at Woodlands and across the country, and he spent most of his medical career helping veterans suffering from what is now known as post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the release.
Doherty died only two years after the First World War ended – he was 48 years old. He received a full military funeral and a procession from Sixth Street to St. Peter's Catholic Church, where he was buried in the cemetery at 150 Richmond St., according to the release.
