William Henry Beckley DCM

[andalucia]

Hi All

I have a WILLIAM HENRY BECKLEY who was awarded the DCM, sadly he later dies of his wounds. I take it he was involved in the Somme Battle? SDGW list him as Died of wounds, and his cemetery is near a a dressing and ambulance station so would it be near to the front?

William is a friends ancestor and they have tried everything. I have told him that looking for the war diaries may shed more info. Just posting here in case anyone knows anything about his regiment at that time. To be honest I think he is trying to find out what caused Williams injury that led to his death. His regiment seem to have been using large guns so probaly a shell hit them? ( i have no idea on this, just guessing sorry )

By the way its worth reading why William was awarded the DCM, one very brave chap.

SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 16 MAY, 1916. 4931

His Majesty the KING has been graciously

pleased to approve of the award of the Distinguished

Conduct Medal to the undermentioned

Warrant Officers, Non-commissioned Officers

and men for acts of gallantry and devotion to

duty in the field: —

53448 Gunr. W. H. Beckley, 40th Trench

Mortar By., R.G.A.

For conspicuous gallantry. When a live

•bomib fell i-n his emplacement he immediately

picked it up and unscrewed the fuze,

which exploded as he threw it away. This

prompt action certainly saved casualties.

C.W.G.C.

--

Name: BECKLEY

Initials: W H

Nationality:United Kingdom

Rank: Bombardier

Regiment/Service: Royal Garrison Artillery

Unit Text: 12th Heavy Bty.

Force:

Age: 28

Date of Death: 31/07/1916

Service No: 53448

Awards: D C M

Cemetery:DIVE COPSE BRITISH CEMETERY, SAILLY-LE-SEC

cheers

Ant

[high wood]

SDGW has:

Beckley, William Henry, B. Bootle, Liverpool, E. Seaforth (Bootle),53448, Bdr, d. of w, F&F 31/7/1916. D.C.M.

[andalucia]

Thanks High Wood

I have the SDGW info. Just posting in hope someone may know what he was up to at the time of his death/wounds.

cheers

Ant

[liverpool annie]

Hi Ant !

Somebody on the Lancashire site was looking for Honorah Beckley - ( your soldiers sister ) some time ago .... it maybe your friend ... but thought it was worth a mention in case you'd like to get in touch !!

http://www.liverpool-genealogy.org.uk/phpB...4405beb9f3baacc

Annie