Dr Cluny MacPherson, a Newfoundlander and Newfoundland Regiment Medical Officer, was the inventor of the gas mask which was the most important protective device of the First World War, protecting countless soldiers from blindness, disfigurement or injury to their throats and lungs. For his services, Dr MacPherson was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1918.
Dr. Fredrick Banting co-discover of insulin was a member of 13 Field Ambulance during World War One. During his time with the unit he was wounded at the Battle of Cambrai. Despite his injuries he helped other wounded soldiers for sixteen hours. He was awarded the Military Cross in 1919 for heroism.