The Intelligencer August 2, 1918 (page 5)
“New Customs Official. Bombardier Ernie L. Phillips, a well known Bellevillian and returned soldier, has been appointed collector of customs in Belleville, in place of the late Mr. William Williamson. The appointment is not only a popular one but is deserving. Bomb. Phillips was a member of the 34th Battery of this city when the war broke out, and went overseas with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, C.F.A., and was on active service for some time.
He was severely wounded and his wounds were of such a nature that his life was despaired of. He was invalided home, after being in a hospital for months. Previous to his present position Bomb. Phillips was for some time a clerk in the local Post Office. He entered upon his new duties yesterday.”
First World War Belleville 