Sgt Herbert Shires 1/5th KOYLI

[Guest Nigelofaberdeen]

My Grandfather was Sgt Herbert Shires, he was in the KOYLI. I know very little about his war or the actions his batallion were engaged in, can you fill in any details?

I know he went to France in March/April 1915, I think he was in the 1/5th, who became part of the 49th West Riding Division. Between April and November 1915 he was mildly gassed, shot but recovered, wounded by shrapnel and I think received frostbite at "Plugstreet Wood" just South of Ypres.

I am going to Ypres with some friends in September 2005, and would like to know more so I can visit the places where he and his comrades spent time. can you help?

[Arnie]

Nigel I hope this will be of help. The 1/5th KOYLI were at;

!4th April 1915 Billited in La Gorgue.

30th April 1915 Relieved the 1/4 KOYLI in the trenches near Bos Grenier

29th June 1915 Moved to Proven in Belgium to Join the Indian Corps inspected by Gen Plumer.

7th July until 21st July 1915 in trenches at Bosinghe suffered gas attack.

31st. July 1915 Severe fighting around Hooge Germans used liquid fire 1/5th Lost 29 officer and men

Have a good trip

Arnie

[Guest Nigelofaberdeen]

Arnie, thankyou, you are a gem!!!!! Anyone out there who can add another piece to the jigsaw??

Nigel