358 POW Coy

[aelfwine]

After fighting stopped, my great-grandfather, according to his service record, was attached to 358 POW Coy until he was demobilised in November 1919. I was wondering what 358 POW Coy was and what they did. Could someone shed some light on this?

Thanks

[Stebie9173]

That would be 358 Prisoner of War Company of the Labour Corps (since he retained his Northamptonshire Regiment number then he would have been attached rather than fully transferred). As the name suggests, the company's main duty was in guarding prisoners of war. He was attached to them from 2 April 1919 until sent back to the UK for demobilisation. The 5th Northamptons were in the last throes of their existence at that time and men were either being sent in large numbers for demobilisation or to other units in France/Flanders. The war diary notes that 2 officers and 60 other ranks were dispatched to 358 POW Company at Avion on 1 April 1919. The 5th Northamptons were based at Aniche at that time. (2 officers and 43 other ranks went to 351 POW Company at Bethune on the same day).

Steve.

[Phil Evans]

You might find some of this web page of interest. Scroll down to the section entitled "Letters from the Front during WW1"

Phil

[Stebie9173]

I recognise that chap! In fact I use his picture in my Regimental folder as a perfect example of the battalions badges...

Steve.