The Intelligencer April 27, 1916 (page 7)
“What The Local Y.M.C.A. Is Doing. Whilst we are hearing so much of what the Y.M.C.A.’s all over are doing amongst the soldiers, we want the citizens of Belleville to know that we too are doing our share. After perusal of the following letter you will see how much the men are appreciating the free use of our splendid building, and it encourages us to receive this letter and enables us to go on and do all in our power, not only for the soldiers, but for every young man in the city. …
It may also interest the public to know that about 104 of our members have enlisted and gone forth to do their share for King and country. …
Following is the letter received from the Officer Commanding: Belleville, Ont., April 25, 1916. From The Officer Commanding, 80th ‘Overseas’ Battalion, C.E.F. To The Directors, Y.M.C.A., Belleville, Ont.: Gentlemen,— I desire to convey to you the very deep sense of appreciation which is felt by the whole Battalion under my command at the uniform kindness which has been accorded to us by the Y.M.C.A. while located here.
I feel that it will be gratifying to you to know that the free use of the Y.M.C.A. buildings, so generously placed at our disposal, has greatly assisted us in preserving the health of the troops and in carrying out courses of physical training and instruction.
Please accept, on behalf of the officers and men of the Battalion, our most sincere thanks for the splendid work done by the Y.M.C.A. and for the valuable assistance accorded us by your capable Secretary, Mr. Sharpe, and his efficient staff. Yours truly, (Signed) W.G. Ketcheson, Lt.-Col. Officer Commanding 80th Batt. C.E.F.”
First World War Belleville 