Royal Marine drowned at Dover, Nov.1914

[clive_hughes]

Hi,

I have been writing up the service record of Pte Joseph Augustine MORRIS RMLI, who came from Holyhead.

He was a long-serving Royal Marine (23 years including Boy service) and had the 1911 Coronation Medal. Transferred to the RM Reserve in 1911, he was mobilised in August 1914 and joined HMS REVENGE at Dover on 26 October. I believe the ship was engaged in occasional bombardments of the Belgian coast.

The CWGC states that he died on 25 November 1914, being buried in St.James' Cemetery, Dover. His ADM/159 service record states "Found drowned at Dover" with the date 22 Nov. 1914. I may also have seen a statement somewhere to the effect that he was accidentally drowned while trying to board his ship, but can't lay hands on it at present.

Does anyone have access to the subsequent inquest proceedings, or local newspaper coverage which might throw more light on the exact date and circumstances please?

LST_164

[grantowi]

Royal Marine Medal Roll 1914-1920 - details

First name(s): Joseph Augustine

Last name: MORRIS

Number: CH/4649

Rank: Private

Awards:

Medals & clasps earned: 1914-15 Star, Victory & British War Medals

How issued or disposed of: Brother

Service branch: Royal Marine Light Infantry

Unit: HMS "Revenge"

Date of death: 25 Nov 1914

Cause of death:

Remarks: I.C.6183/1915

Not nemtioned in the RND list

Grant