248046 Private
2nd/2nd Battalion London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers), 173rd Infantry Brigade, 58th Division
Age: U/K
Date of Death: 21.12.17 DoW
Buried: Mendinghem British Cemetery VI.BB.25 https://www.theypressalient.com/post/mendinghem-british-cemetery
Family history: Husband of Janet and they lived at 368 Thornhill Road, Falkirk with their five children Joan, Margaret, George, William, and James. Before he enlisted he was employed by the Falkirk Iron Company. He enlisted in the Army Service Corps before being transferred to the London Regiment.
The action leading to his death
On the 20 December the battalion relieved the 2/1st London Regiment in the line at Poelcappelle. On the 21 December they sustained 1 Officer killed and 33 Other Ranks killed and wounded.
William died of wounds received to the right arm, left leg, and the face. In a letter to his wife the Wesleyan chaplain at Mendinghem wrote: ‘He was admitted in the early morning hours of 21 December. He had been wounded in several places. I am sorry to say that he was in a dying condition, and was unable to speak. He passed away at 6.20am, a short time after his admittance. Your husband’s funeral took place at 2pm, 21/12/17, and I laid him to rest side by side with other brave soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice for righteousness’ sake.’
Medals Awarded:
The British War Medal, Victory Medal.
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