MelPack Posted 10 March , 2022 Share Posted 10 March , 2022 (edited) I have edited the Title of the topic so that the reports on the numerous redidications scheduled for this year can simply be added as and when they occur. News story Graves of 3 soldiers killed during the Great War are rededicated in Belgium The graves of 3 soldiers killed at the beginning and the end of the Great War are rededicated in Belgium From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 8 March 2022 All three services were conducted by the Reverend Nick Sharpe, CF. Crown Copyright. On Tuesday 8 March, the graves of Sapper (Spr) Stanley Evelyn Barnden of 17th Field Company Royal Engineers, Lance Corporal (LCpl) Owen James Munday and Private (Pte) Leonard George Holiday, both of 15th (Hampshire Yeomanry) Battalion The Hampshire Regiment, were rededicated more than a hundred years after they died. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Kandahar Farm Cemetery, Heestert Military Cemetery and Vichte Military Cemetery respectively, all in Belgium. The services were attended by serving soldiers of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment 35 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers, and veterans from the Hampshire Regiment Association. Rosie Barron, JCCC said: “It has been an honour to organise these rededication services alongside The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and 35 Engineer Regiment, and to have played a part in the identification of the graves of these missing soldiers. “Although the families of Spr Barnden, LCpl Munday and Pte Holiday were not able to attend these services today, their sacrifice has been remembered in the presence of their regimental families.” The graves of all three men were identified after researchers submitted evidence suggesting that their graves had been located. After further research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and MOD JCCC, it was confirmed as part of MOD JCCC’s adjudication process that these men had in fact been found. The initial evidence concerning the graves of LCpl Munday and Pte Holiday was submitted by Michiel Vanmarcke, a local Belgian student with a passion for First World War history. Michiel attended the services along with members of his family. Michiel Vanmarcke said: “I am deeply honoured to have contributed to the identifications of L/Cpl Munday and Private Holiday. As a 21 year old Belgian who grew up in the area where both these men were killed, I feel some sort of connection with them. Seeing Munday and Holiday honoured today, a few years after handing over my initial report, really is the cherry on the cake. “What truly matters is that two more missing heroes have been found, and that their relatives have the closure they deserve.” The services were conducted by the Reverend Nick Sharpe CF, Chaplain to 4th Battalion The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment. The Reverend Sharpe said: “Leading these Rededication Services has been a privilege and honour. The examples of and courage shown by service personnel in giving their lives is a humbling reminder that we must do all that we can to strive for peace and remember those that have paid the ultimate cost for our freedom.” Spr Barnden was born in Walton-le-Soken, Essex. He was a pre-war regular soldier, often referred to as the ‘Old Contemptibles’, who formed the British Expeditionary Force sent to the Western Front on the outbreak of war. He was killed on 12 December 1914 near Neuve-Église in Belgium aged 25. It was during fighting four years later that LCpl Munday, 26, from Stockbridge in Hampshire, was killed on 22 October 1918, and Pte Holiday, 19, from Drayton St Leonards in Oxfordshire, was killed on 26 October 1918, just weeks before the cessation of hostilities. They were recorded as missing and commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial. The headstones over their graves will now be replaced by the CWGC. Geert Bekaert, CWGC Director for the Central and Southern European Area said: “It’s a privilege to be present at the rededication of the grave of Lance Corporal Owen James Munday, his final resting place enabling us to renew our commitment to care for Commonwealth graves, in perpetuity. “Thanks to the efforts of a dedicated researcher, we are also delighted and honoured to mark the grave of Private Leonard George Holiday, who is buried in the CWGC’s Vichte Military Cemetery. And finally, to honour and respect Sapper Stanley Evelyn Barnden, who was previously recorded as missing and commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/graves-of-3-soldiers-killed-during-the-great-war-are-rededicated-in-belgium Edited 20 May , 2022 by MelPack Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 11 March , 2022 Author Share Posted 11 March , 2022 Another report: Joint investigation leads to identification of Flintshire soldier killed nearly 105 years ago A combined investigation has enabled the grave of a Flintshire born member of 10th Battalion The Welsh Regiment to be rededicated nearly 105 years after his death. Second Lieutenant Sam Hughes was 25 when killed during trench raids in the La Boutillerie Subsector, south of Armentières in France, on 6 November 1917. He was born in Bagillt and lived in Wrexham before the war. He enlisted into The Royal Welsh Fusiliers, arriving on the Western Front on 2 December 1915. On 25 January 1917 he was Commissioned and joined The Welsh Regiment. His only sibling, Gunner Isaac Newton Hughes was killed just two weeks after him on 20 November 1917 and is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial. New headstones now bear the names of 2 Lt Hughes along with Company Serjeant Major David Jones DCM, who was born in Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorgan, in 1890. The headstones were the centrepiece of a rededication service that was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Pont-du-Hem Military Cemetery, in northern France on Thursday 10 March. The service was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’. The final resting place of 2 Lt Hughes was identified after evidence collated by researcher Steve John and was submitted to the CWGC. Further research by the National Army Museum and MOD’s JCCC led to the location of 2Lt Hughes’s grave being confirmed. Whilst investigating the case, Rosie Barron a caseworker within MOD JCCC, confirmed the adjacent grave must belong to CSM Jones. Rosie Barron, JCCC said: “It has been a privilege to organise this rededication service for 2Lt Hughes and CSM Jones.” “These men died on the same day and are likely to have known each other well.” “It seems fitting that we now know they lie next to each other in Pont-du-Hem Military Cemetery and that we have been able to honour their memories today in the presence of their regimental family.” The service was attended by serving soldiers of The Yorkshire Regiment and The Royal Welsh as well as veterans of The Royal Welsh Association and was conducted by the Reverend Ben Norton CF, Chaplain to 4th Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment. The Reverend Norton said: “To be able to lead the rededication services for Second Lieutenant Sam Hughes and Company Serjeant Major David Jones DCM from The Welsh Regiment is a tremendous honour. ” “Reading their names and hearing their stories brings home to me personally their stoic courage and love for their fellow men. ” “We walk in their footsteps and embrace the light of hope that they have passed to us through their sacrifice. We hold them in our prayers as we commend them to God.” 2Lt Hughes and CSM Jones, were killed during trench raids in the La Boutillerie Subsector, south of Armentières in France, on 6 November 1917. They were recovered and buried by the Germans in Beaucamps Communal Cemetery German Extension. After the war, their remains were moved into Pont-du-Hem Military Cemetery and the two men were buried next to each other. As their identities were unknown, their names were recorded on the Ploegsteert Memorial. In October 1917 CSM Jones had been awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM). The citation for his medal published in the London Gazette read: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack.” “Reorganising part of his company, which had become detached, he led them forward and regained touch with the main body, and afterwards with four privates he attacked and captured an enemy strong point and killed the garrison.” “He showed fine qualities of resource and initiative.” Sadly, CSM Jones did not live to receive the medal, which was instead presented to his parents following his death. The headstones over their graves have been replaced by the CWGC. Xavier Puppinck, CWGC Area Director for France said: “We are grateful to the dedicated researcher who submitted the case for the identification of Second Lieutenant Hughes.” “We were delighted when the MOD JCCC was able to expand their investigation to the adjoining grave, which has now been established as that of Company Serjeant Major Jones.” “Commemorated on a Memorial to the Missing for almost 100 years, their graves can now be marked by CWGC headstones bearing their names.” https://www.deeside.com/joint-investigation-leads-to-identification-of-flintshire-soldier-killed-nearly-105-years-ago/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 11 March , 2022 Author Share Posted 11 March , 2022 and another: News story Rededication Service for Cpl Frederick Herbert Skinner Final resting place of Yorkshire Regiment soldier identified more than a century after his death. From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 11 March 2022 Kevin Knights, the great nephew of Cpl Skinner, stands at the graveside with the Reverend Ben Norton CF. On Thursday 10 March, the grave of Corporal (Cpl) Frederick Herbert Skinner of 11th Battalion, East Yorkshire Regiment, was rededicated in northern France. The rededication service took place at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Nieppe-Bois (Rue-du-Bois) British Cemetery and was attended by his family having travelled from Bermuda. The service was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, and was supported by serving soldiers of The Yorkshire Regiment and The Royal Welsh. Rosie Barron from MOD JCCC and who led on the case adjudication, said: “It is always a privilege to organise rededication services for previously missing soldiers and to see how much it still means to their family that their relative has been found. Although now more than 100 years after their deaths, it is important that men like Cpl Skinner are remembered, and their sacrifices are not forgotten.” Cpl Skinner’s great nephew, Kevin Knights, originally from Ipswich and travelled from his home in Bermuda to attend the rededication service, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to the CWGC, MOD War Detectives, and all of those who helped to identify Frederick’s final resting place. Also, to all those who arranged and participated in the rededication to make this such a special day. “He had no known grave for over 100 years, so it was an incredible experience when we discovered that he had been found. It was an immense privilege to join with others to pay respect, give thanks for his sacrifice and witness the farewell he so richly deserved. His grave can now be visited by members of our family to ensure he is never forgotten.” The final resting place of Cpl Skinner came to light after a researcher submitted evidence to CWGC suggesting that the man buried in the grave was likely to be him. After further research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and MOD JCCC, it was confirmed by MOD JCCC following completion of their adjudication process that this was indeed his final resting place. The service was conducted by the Reverend Ben Norton CF, Chaplain to 4th Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment. The Reverend Norton said: “To be able to lead the rededication service for Corporal Frederick Herbert Skinner is a humbling honour. “Corporal Skinner gave his life for love, hope and to see peace in the world. We today, as we lay him to rest and commend him to God continue his story by embracing these truths for ourselves and making sure that we continue his story in building a better world for the generations to come.” Cpl Skinner was killed on 25 June 1918 aged 26 whilst in positions around Nieppe Bois, south east of Hazebrouck in France. He was buried in Nieppe Bois (Rue-du-Bois) British Cemetery, but the marker over his grave was damaged and the identity of the soldier in the grave could not be determined. As he was missing, Cpl Skinner was commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial. The headstone over the grave has been replaced by the CWGC. Liz Woodfield, CWGC Director of External Relations said: “The Commission is honoured to be able to support the rededication of Corporal Frederick Herbert Skinner’s grave in Nieppe-Bois (Rue-Du-Bois) British Cemetery, now marked with a headstone bearing his name. His family chose to reflect the sacrifice of this young man for his nation with the patriotic music of ‘Land of Hope and Glory’. This ceremony is an opportunity for us to renew our commitment to care for his grave and those of his comrades, in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/rededication-service-for-cpl-frederick-herbert-skinner Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dickaren Posted 12 March , 2022 Share Posted 12 March , 2022 Thanks for sharing . Richard Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 23 March , 2022 Author Share Posted 23 March , 2022 MOD Honours the sacrifice of World War One soldiers during re-dedication services in Ypres Four soldiers of the Great War have had their graves rededicated in the presence of their family earlier today (Tuesday 22 March 2022). From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 22 March 2022 Lance Corporal Wilfred Horace Miller Both services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, and were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Ypres Reservoir Cemetery in Ypres, Belgium. Nicola Nash, MOD JCCC caseworker said: “After more than 100 years, these four men who were lost, have now been found. There is nothing more rewarding for us than giving a family closure and making sure that every soldier is remembered as he should be.” The first service was held for Lance Serjeant (LSjt) Edward Leonard Cottrell and Serjeant (Sjt) Joseph Frank Brookes Birkin whilst the second was to honour Lance Corporal (LCpl) Wilfred Horace Miller and LCpl Arthur Burton. All four served with the Leicestershire Regiment. Serjeant Joseph Frank Brookes Birkin Defence Minister Leo Docherty said: “We will never fail in our duty to remember those who gave their lives in the cause of freedom during the two world wars. As more fallen servicemen from both world wars are discovered, the MOD Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre will strive to confirm their identities. Their tireless efforts and dedication will ensure these soldiers’ names will live on in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s cemeteries.” The four soldiers had no known graves since tragically losing their lives in 1915, however, due to the collective efforts of the MOD JCCC and CWGC following evidence submitted, their final resting places have now been found over a century later. Private Benjamin Nicolas laying wreath on behalf of members of the Birkin family who were unable to attend Following submission of research, including from the CWGC, that was considered by the MOD JCCC as the adjudicators, additional research by the team themselves and the National Army Museum led to the four cases being confirmed. Nicola added: “Today, we honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, along with representatives from the regiment and their family.” John Williamson, great nephew of Sjt Birkin, said: “It is wonderful this work still continues; this ceremony gives final closure to the family.” Birkin family members in prayer during the service Research by MOD JCCC also led to LCpl Miller’s family being traced meaning they could be invited to today’s service to pay their respects. Maria Miller, great niece of LCpl Miller, said: “This has been the most humbling experience and a great privilege to be here today.” Maria Miller at the graveside of her great uncle Lcpl Miller's headstone The services were supported by the Royal Anglian Regiment and were conducted by the Reverend (Captain) Thomas Wilde, CF, Chaplain to the Royal Anglian Regiment, who said: “When you give a soldier a name you give them meaning a history and a voice.” The graves will now be marked by headstones provided by the CWGC. Fergus Read, CWGC Case Officer (Commemorations), said: “It is always immensely satisfying when we are able to put a name on any headstone. Here, the research for one case helped us to unlock the names of those buried in a further three graves. It is the Commission’s privilege to be part of the work to identify the last resting places of these casualties, and to care for their graves in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-honours-the-sacrifice-of-world-war-one-soldiers-during-re-dedication-services-in-ypres Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 24 March , 2022 Author Share Posted 24 March , 2022 News story Graves of Five Great War Soldiers Rededicated The final resting places of five soldiers killed in World War One have been identified, and Services of Re-dedication have taken place at their graves in northern France over the last two days (22 and 23 March). From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 23 March 2022 An officer salutes at the grave of Company Serjeant Major Bax The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, and were held at various Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) cemeteries in France. Louise Dorr, from MOD JCCC said: “It’s wonderful that thanks to two of our regular researchers we have been able to confirm their findings and return these soldiers’ names to them. “Although some of their families live overseas and have been unable to attend, each of them is well represented by their military family on behalf of a grateful nation. I’m honoured to have been able to be here to rededicate their final resting places.” The Reverend Andrew Grant, Chaplain to 4 Scots, conducted the services. A Piper and a bugler prepare to play at the re-dedication service for Corporal Thayne Details of the soldiers identified are as follows: Corporal (Cpl) William Lionel Court The 1911 Census shows William at age 24 serving with the 1st Cavalry Brigade, 19th Hussars at Wellington Lines, Aldershot, Hampshire. He died on 8 August 1918 (aged 31) while serving with the 19th Royal Hussars (Queen Alexandra’s Own). Cpl Court’s remains were originally found just south of a small wood to the east of Guillaucourt, although he was not identified at the time. He was buried as a “Soldier of the Great War – Unknown Corporal – 19th Royal Hussars”. Cpl Alexander Mayes Thayne Cpl Alexander Mayes Thayne was killed on 10 April 1917 (age 27) while serving with the 2nd Dragoons (Royal Scots Greys). His battalion’s war diary tells us that early that morning the Royal Scots Greys arrived in the village of Wailly, near Arras, before joining up with other regiments of the 5th Cavalry Brigade to make contact with other British units in the vicinity. Early that evening, the Royal Scots Greys moved on toward Wancourt and took up positions in shell holes on low ground. They stayed there throughout the night, although they were subject to periodical German artillery fire. Second Lieutenant David Bell Second Lieutenant David Bell was serving with the 13th (Scottish Horse) Bn. Black Watch (Royal Highlanders) when he was killed in action on 7 October 1918 (age 36). The war diary tells us that his battalion was in the vicinity of Gouy on the day he died, and it mentions his death specifically. The burial records tell us that the remains were originally recovered from the western slopes of Prospect Hill, close to the French village of Gouy. Company Quartermaster Serjeant Charles John Niven Company Quartermaster Serjeant Charles John Niven was serving with the 6th Gordon Highlanders when he was killed in action near Neuve Chapelle on 13 March 1915 (age 27). We now know that he is the unknown Staff Sergeant of the 6th Gordon Highlanders buried in a grave at Pont-du-Hem Military Cemetery. Company Serjeant Major (CSM) William Henry Bax CSM William Bax was a career soldier, having attested into the Regular Army on 1 July 1906 as a private soldier. He served with the 6th battalion and A Coy, 2nd battalion in France and Flanders. He died on 24 March 1918 (age 29) while serving with the 2nd Battalion Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. CWGC Commemorations Officer, David Royle, said: “It’s an honour to have hosted these Services of Rededication at our sites across France this week. We thank the dedicated efforts of many in helping us to identify these five brave men. It is our privilege to care for their graves in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/graves-of-five-great-war-soldiers-rededicated Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 7 April , 2022 Author Share Posted 7 April , 2022 News story Great War soldiers' graves rededicated in France The graves of three London Regiment soldiers of World War 1 have been rededicated in France From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 6 April 2022 Colonel Steven Lowe TD VR, Commanding Officer of The London Regiment, presents a Union Flag to Nancy Wright, great niece of Rfn Sleet. On Tuesday 5 April and Wednesday 6 April, the graves of Rifleman (Rfn) Albert George Sleet, Lieutenant (Lt) Wilfrid Ashton Piercy and Serjeant (Sjt) James Gration DCM, who died during the Great War whilst serving with battalions of The London Regiment, were rededicated after more than a hundred years. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Arras Road Cemetery, Dud Corner Cemetery and Lebucquiere Communal Cemetery Extension respectively, all in the Pas-de-Calais region of France. The graves of all three men were identified after researchers submitted evidence suggesting that their graves had been located. After further research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and MOD JCCC, it was confirmed as part of MOD JCCC’s adjudication that these men had in fact been found. Rosie Barron, from MOD JCCC, said: “It has been a privilege to work with The London Regiment to organise these rededication services and to meet the families of these men. Rfn Sleet, Lt Piercy and Sjt Gration all paid the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of our freedom and it is vital that their sacrifice is not forgotten.’” Rfn Sleet was killed in at Hulluch, north of Loos-en-Gohelle, on 15 October 1915 aged 30. He was commemorated on the Loos Memorial which surrounds Dud Corner Cemetery. His family who attended the rededication service, had previously visited the memorial to pay their respects unaware that he was buried as an unknown soldier in the same cemetery. The rededication service at Dud Corner Cemetery was attended by multiple generations of the Sleet family. Rfn Sleet’s great niece, Nancy Wright, who attended the service with her family, said: “Albert Sleet was killed before he married or had a family of his own. As grandchildren and great grandchildren of Albert’s brothers and sisters, who loved him dearly and who always remembered him, we are honoured to be representing his family. “We wish to thank all those whose dedication and hard work enabled his final resting place to be identified and who have organised a such a fitting rededication service for him. It is a great comfort for us to know that he was never missing, but buried beside his comrades all along. May they all rest in peace.” Lt Piercy was killed aged 35, near Loos-en-Gohelle on 26 September 1915, the second day of the Battle of Loos. He was commemorated on the Loos Memorial. The rededication service at Arras Road Cemetery was attended by members of his family. Angela Ridge, the great great niece of Lt Piercy, stands at his graveside. Angela Ridge, a great great niece of Lt Piercy, said: “We’re proud to be able to represent Wilfrid’s immediate family and are immensely grateful to those who did the research and enabled the rededication service to take place.” The Reverend Richard Terrado-Reardon CF, Chaplain to The London Regiment, leads the rededication service for Lt Piercy. Sjt Gration was killed on 24 March 1918, shortly after the beginning of the German Spring Offensive as British forces were overwhelmed and in retreat. Sjt Gration was recorded as missing and commemorated on the Arras Memorial. Following his death, Sjt Gration was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. The citation published in the London Gazette of 21 October 1918 stated: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. When his officer had become a casualty, he led his platoon with great courage and determination, reaching his objective and personally killing three of the enemy. During the whole time he set a fine example to his men.’ The services were attended by serving soldiers of The London Regiment and The Rifles, and were conducted by the Reverend Richard Terrado-Reardon CF Chaplain to The London Regiment. The Reverend Reardon said: “In being asked to officiate at these rededication services for Rfn Sleet, Lt Percy and Sjt Gration, these men were family members of the London regiment. This reintegration into the family of the London regiment draws us evermore close to the sacrifice of all those who lost their life in World War One, and in doing so we enrich not only our sense of heritage, but our own identity as we recognise our shared values that inspired these men to serve. “We cannot bring them home, but we can provide a home as we rededicate not only their lives but our own commitment to them and those personnel serving this day.” The headstones over their graves will now be replaced by the CWGC, who will care for their final resting places in perpetuity. Commemorations Case Manager at the CWGC, Mel Donnelly, said: “The Commonwealth War Graves Commission ensures all those who served and fell are commemorated by name. It truly is a privilege to be able to mark the graves of these three brave men with headstones bearing their names, more than 100 years after they died in the First World War. We will care for their graves in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/great-war-soldiers-graves-rededicated-in-france Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 20 May , 2022 Author Share Posted 20 May , 2022 Two Irish WW1 soldiers' graves rededicated in Belgium The graves of Capt Hugh Travers, DSO, and Sjt Frederick Cardy rededicated in Ypres. From: Ministry of Defence Published 19 May 2022 The rededication service for Capt Travers, DSO, was attended by members of his family, as well as British and Irish Defence staff. Crown Copyright. The graves of Captain (Capt) Hugh Mortimer Travers DSO and Serjeant (Sjt) Frederick Cardy, who were killed on the Western Front whilst serving with Irish regiments, have been rededicated in Belgium more than a hundred years after they died. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) New Irish Farm Cemetery and White House Cemetery, near Ypres. Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead said: “It is always a privillage to work with The Royal Irish Regiment to organise these services and to discover more of Ireland’s unique experience of the First World War. Both Capt Travers and Sjt Cardy paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of freedom and justice and it is as vital today as ever that their sacrifices are not forgotten.” Capt Travers, aged 41, was a veteran of the Boer War. For his service in South Africa he received The Queen’s South Africa Medal with five clasps and The King’s South Africa Medal with two clasps. He also received The King George V Coronation Medal. Capt Travers was wearing these medal ribbons at the time of his death, which assisted with the identification of his grave. The Adjutant of the battalion described Capt Travers as having ‘died the death of a soldier and a very gallant gentleman.’ Another member of the battalion stated that Captain Travers’ actions were ‘the coolest deed’ he had ever seen. ‘It was gloriously brave.’ As Capt Travers was recorded as missing he was commemorated on the Menin Gate. The rededication service at New Irish Farm Cemetery was attended by members of Capt Travers’ family. Guy Travers, Capt Travers’ great nephew said: “I am very happy that a service has been held for my Great Uncle, Captain HM Travers, after so many many years. I believe my grandfather, his brother, had no luck in finding him. This service is also for him. And of course Hugh’s fallen comrades. His stone is magnificent, I can’t thank the Commonwealth War Graves Commission enough.” The final resting places of Capt Travers and Sjt Cardy were discovered after researchers submitted evidence to CWGC hoping to have located them. Further research conducted by CWGC, the National Army Museum and JCCC, agreed with their findings and the identifications were confirmed. The services were attended by representatives of the British and Irish Embassies as well as serving soldiers of The Royal Irish Regiment. They were conducted by the Reverend Dr Isaac Thompson MBE, TD, DL, HCF, Chaplain to The Royal Irish Regiment. The Reverend Dr Thompson said: “Hugh Travers, born in India into a family where his father and both of his grandfathers were Army officers, joined the Royal Munster Fusiliers in South Africa in 1893. Bravery appears to have oozed from this young man’s veins. As a forty-one year old he arrived in France in October 1914 but by November 1914 he was killed near Ypres. Those who witnessed his bravery said, “He died the death of a soldier and a very gallant gentleman.” Capt Travers was a member of 5th Battalion The Royal Munster Fusiliers but on the outbreak of the First World War was attached to 2nd Battalion The Duke of Wellington’s (West Riding) Regiment. He was killed during a bayonet charge near Gheluvelt on 8 November 1914, when the battalion was ordered to retake trenches on the northern side of the Menin Road. He received the Distinguished Service Order for the part he played in this action. The citation for the gallatry medal read: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and ability on the 8th November 1914, near Ypres, in organising an attack and re-capturing a trench from the enemy, and subsequently for leading a second attack and capturing another position 50 yards further to the front. Captain Travers was killed whilst maintaining his post on this occasion.’ Sjt Cardy was serving with 7/8th Battalion The Royal Irish Fusiliers when he was killed during the Third Battle of Ypres. At around midnight on 10 August 1917 his battalion moved into the frontline north of Frezenberg. They were relieved at midnight on 12 August. It was during this time in the frontline that Serjeant Cardy was killed although the exact date is unknown. Sjt Cardy was buried and a wooden cross was erected over his grave. In 1919, his remains were concentrated into White House Cemetery, but it appears the original grave maker was damaged and he could not be identified. As Serjeant Cardy was missing he was commemorated the Menin Gate. The Reverend Dr Thompson added: “Frederick Cardy, a native of Suffolk, must have had his heart strings tugged to the limit when he learned of the birth of his son, Ralph back in England in July 1916. Within a year, in August 1917, this brave Royal Irish Fusilier, gave his life in the service of others, reflecting the motto of his regiment, “Faugh a Ballagh” (Irish for “Clear the Way”), a rallying cry that had inspired “Faughs” since 1811 and still today in their successors, The Royal Irish Regiment; young Cardy had cleared the way for his young son to grow up in a land free of war for another two decades.” The headstones over their graves will now be replaced by the CWGC, who will care for their final resting places in perpetuity. CWGC Commemorations Officer, Fergus Read, said: “Having both been commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) memorial until now, we are moved and honoured to be able to mark these brave men’s graves today. Thanks to the effort of many, the Commission will proudly care for their graves, and their memory, in perpetuity.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 20 May , 2022 Author Share Posted 20 May , 2022 News story Rededication services for Irish soldiers lost in the Great War Rededication services are held in France for Lieutenant (Lt) Frederic Hornby Lever Rushton MC and Private (Pte) John Martin Roberts From: Ministry of Defence Published 19 May 2022 The rededication service for Pte Roberts was attended by serving members of the British and Irish armies. Crown copyright. The graves of Lieutenant (Lt) Frederic Hornby Lever Rushton MC and Private (Pte) John Martin Roberts, who died whilst serving with Irish regiments in the Great War, have been rededicated in France more than a hundred years after they died. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Montcornet Military Cemetery on 17 May and Queens Cemetery, Bucquoy, on 18 May. Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead said: “It has been a privilege to work with The Royal Irish Regiment and The Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry to organise these rededication services. Both Lt Rushton and Pte Roberts were amongst the first men sent to the Western Front in August 1914 as part of the British Expeditionary Force. Their fates were very different, but ultimately both men laid down their lives in service of others. “Sharing this experience with their families brings their stories to life and ensures that their sacrifices are not forgotten.” Lt Rushton, known as Hornby, was killed aged 26 whilst leading an assault on an enemy machine gun position on 15 September 1914 at Vailly-sur-Aisne, in eastern France. Having already been treated for a wound to his shoulder, he had been urged not to go back into the attack but he had insisted on doing so. Lt Rushton was serving with 2nd Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment and had been on the Western Front since 14 August 1914 and already taken part in the Retreat from Mons where he is said to have saved the life of his Commanding Officer and the Adjutant. Members of Lt Rushton’s battalion were given permission by a German Officer to recover his body. However, after the First World War Lt Rushton was found to be missing and he was commemorated on La Ferté-sous-Jouarre Memorial. Captain Chris Rushton - Royal Irish Regiment - and great great nephew of Lt Rushton, attended the service alongside other family members. Crown copyright. Lt Rushton’s great nephew, Nigel Salt, who attended the rededication service at Montcornet Military Cemetery along with his family, said: “We are particularity grateful that Hornby’s grave has at last been identified and cannot thank enough all those involved that have made this possible. My Grandmother was totally devastated by the loss of both her brothers. This would at least have given her some consolation.” Pte Roberts, aged 30, served with The North Irish Horse. He arrived on the Western Front on 17 August 1914, just days after Lt Rushton and like Lt Rushton took part in the Retreat from Mons and the Battle of the Aisne in 1914. In March 1918 The North Irish Horse was dismounted and became a Cyclist Battalion. Having survived almost the duration of the First World War, Pte Roberts was killed in an attack near the River Ancre on 21 August 1918. He was commemorated on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial. Two of Private Roberts’ brothers were also killed during the Great War, a third died of wounds following the conflict. Captain Andrew Robertson of 'B' Squadron Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry, lays a wreath at the grave of Pte Roberts. Crown copyright. The rededication service at Queens Cemetery, Bucquoy, was attended by members of Pte Roberts’ family, including his great grandson, Craig Roberts. Craig Roberts said: “John Roberts’ involvement in WW1 was a long-forgotten story in my family. It wasn’t until I began researching my family tree that I discovered the sacrifice John and his brothers had made during the war. When I heard that John had been found, it made a person I had only read about online seem more real. Our family would like to give special thanks to Phillip Tardif, who investigated and linked John’s death and burial location, allowing John to be identified, thus enabling this ceremony to happen.” The services were attended by representatives of the British and Irish Embassies as well as members of their families and serving soldiers of The Royal Irish Regiment and The Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry. They were conducted by the Reverend Dr Isaac Thompson MBE, TD, DL, HCF, Chaplain to The Royal Irish Regiment. As part of their engagement with MOD JCCC in the run up to today’s service, the Royal Irish Regiment realised that one of their soldiers was actually related to Lt Rushton. Captain Chris Rushton is Lt Rushton’s great-great-nephew. The soldier was invited to attend the service by his regiment and attended alongside other family members who were also present. The Reverend Dr Thompson said: “Lt Rushton, came from a village from near Wrexham, but joined the 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Regiment in 1909. In August 1914 he had reached the Front where he saved the life of his Commanding Officer and subsequently that of his Adjutant. Pte Roberts, was a young Irishman, born in Dublin. Both he and his two brothers, William and Albert, lost their lives in the conflict. How the family, back in Dublin, coped with the loss of three sons, one cannot begin to imagine.” The location of Lt Rushton and Pte Roberts’ graves were discovered after researchers submitted evidence to CWGC suggesting that their final resting places could be identified. After further investigation by CWGC, the National Army Museum and JCCC, the findings of the researchers was confirmed by JCCC. The headstones over their graves will now be replaced by the CWGC, who will care for their final resting places in perpetuity. CWGC Commemorations Officer, David Avery, said: “Thanks to the efforts of many and in the presence of their families, we are honoured to mark the graves of Lieutenant Frederic Hornby Lever Rushton MC and Private John Martin Roberts with new headstones bearing their names. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission ensures that all those who served and fell are commemorated by name and today we renew this commitment to caring for their graves, and their memory with dedication in perpetuity.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 22 June , 2022 Author Share Posted 22 June , 2022 Grave of 2nd Lt Osmund Bartle Wordsworth identified Unknown WW1 soldier finally identified as descendant of poet Wordsworth From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 21 June 2022 2Lt Osmund Wordsworth. Copyright unknown. The grave of Glaston-born Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Osmund Bartle Wordsworth, the great-great-nephew of Cumbria’s world-renowned 18th Century romantic poet William Wordsworth, has been rededicated in France more than a century after his death. The new named headstone of 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. The service, organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) H.A.C. Cemetery, Écoust-Saint-Mein, near Arras, in northern France. Tuesday’s service was attended by members of the extended Wordsworth family including Araminta Wordsworth, his first cousin once removed who had travelled from Canada: Araminta said: “The identification of Osmund’s remains is the result of the combination of happenstance and brilliant detective work. When I read about the discovery just before Remembrance Day last year, I knew I wanted to be present at his rededication service. “Now he has been laid to rest more than a century after he was killed, and we can visit his grave. This is a rare privilege as hundreds of thousands of fellow combatants have no known resting place. I would like to thank the British Ministry of Defence and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission who have made this possible.” Civilians and service personnel past and present pay tribute to 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. 2nd Lt Wordsworth’s, at first, unidentified remains were found with buttons identifying him only as an Officer of The Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry (Ox & Bucks LI). But when JCCC investigated all missing Officers of Ox & Bucks LI missing in France, none had been killed close to the location where these remains were found. On further investigation Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead, found that 2nd Lt Wordsworth had initially been commissioned into the Ox & Bucks LI before transferring to another unit – it seemed he had been wearing his former unit’s buttons when he died: “Having made this discovery that no Ox & Bucks LI lay in that area, I turned the focus of my research to the location of the find; this was when I discovered that an officer named 2nd Lt Wordsworth had been killed in Henin-sur-Cojeul on the day the village was recaptured in 1917. “It was very exciting for me to have finally identified this man and to give him his name back. It is always an honour to organise rededication services such as this, they are the conclusion of a century old mystery for families such as the Wordsworths.” A graveside rededication service was conducted by the Reverend Thomas Wilde CF, Chaplain to 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, and was attended by serving soldiers of 5th Battalion The Rifles and 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment. The Reverend Thomas Wilde CF said: “I feel very privileged to conduct the rededication service for 2nd Lt Wordsworth, it is important to honour and remember this brave officer for the sacrifice he made on behalf of his country. It is very powerful when you add a name to a grave.” Floral tributes at the grave of 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. How 2nd Lt Wordsworth died On 2 April 1917, the village of Henin-sur-Cojeul was recaptured by British forces as they pursued the enemy back to the Hindenburg Line. The attack on the village was carried out by 21st Infantry Brigade. It was during this attack that 2nd Lt Wordsworth, who was serving with 21st Machine Gun Company, was killed. Reports from the day of his death suggest that 2nd Lt Wordsworth saw a gun crew was struggling to get into position and he went to assist them. He was shot through the chest and was buried in Henin-sur-Cojeul. His remains were not recovered after the Great War and, as he was still missing, 2nd Lt Wordsworth was commemorated on the Arras Memorial. How 2nd Lt Wordsworth was discovered In 2012 the remains of an Officer wearing buttons of Ox & Bucks LI, were recovered by an archaeologist in the village of Henin-sur-Cojeul. Initial research conducted by the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum pointed to the Officer being one of four men. However, after an unsuccessful DNA-led investigation, he was buried in H.A.C. Cemetery in September 2015 as an unknown Officer of the Ox & Bucks LI. During the Covid-19 pandemic, which restricted JCCC’s ability to deliver such services abroad, the JCCC took the opportunity review ‘cold cases’ where DNA had been taken but no match found. This further research successfully identified the unknown Officer as 2nd Lt Wordsworth. 2nd Lt Wordsworth had initially been commissioned into the Ox & Bucks LI and was wearing his former unit’s buttons when he died. JCCC conducted research which later suggested this unknown Officer could be 2nd Lt Wordsworth; the final piece of the jigsaw was to carry out DNA testing. A great nephew of 2nd Lt Wordsworth was located and proved to be a DNA match to the soldier. Now that his final resting place has been identified, the headstone over 2nd Lt Wordsworth’s grave has been replaced by the CWGC. They will care for his final resting place in perpetuity. Director, External Relations at the CWGC, Liz Woodfield, said: “It is a privilege and honour to be able to formally recognise Second Lieutenant Wordsworth’s final resting place at our H.A.C. Cemetery, more than 100 years after his death.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/grave-of-2nd-lt-osmund-bartle-wordsworth-identified Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 22 June , 2022 Author Share Posted 22 June , 2022 News story Graves of two Great War casualties finally rededicated The graves of Capt Clay and Sjt Morton identified and rededicated more than a century after their deaths From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 22 June 2022 Sjt Arthur Morton (copyright unknown). Capt Vivian Clay (courtesy of the Clay family). The graves of Captain (Capt) Vivian Hastings Clay and Serjeant (Sjt) Arthur Harry Morton, who were killed on the Western Front whilst serving with antecedent regiments to The Rifles, have been rededicated in northern France more than a hundred years after they died. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Warlencourt British Cemetery on 21 June and Cojeul British Cemetery on 22 June respectively. Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead said: “Although the families of Capt Clay and Sjt Morton were unable to attend these rededication services, both men are still fondly remembered by them. It has been an honour to organise these services alongside The Rifles, their regimental family. “The two soldiers’ sacrifice and devotion to duty will never be forgotten.” The graves of both men were identified after researchers contacted the CWGC presenting evidence suggesting they had been found. Further research conducted by the National Army Museum and JCCC confirmed their findings. The services were conducted by the Reverend Thomas Wilde CF, Chaplain to 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment and were attended by serving soldiers of 5th Battalion The Rifles. The padre stands by the grave as the Last Post is played. Crown copyright. The Reverend Wilde said: “It is always important to honour and remember both officers and soldiers with dignity and providing these services has been a huge privilege for me.” How the two soldiers died Capt Clay, from Forvant in Wiltshire, was killed during the Battle of the Somme, on what was his 24th birthday, 18 October 1916. He was serving with 2nd Battalion The Wiltshire Regiment which took part in an attack east of Le Sars that day. The battalion were successful in taking the first German line and were ordered to consolidate. Capt Clay is reported to have been walking about on the top of the trench encouraging his men to consolidate their position when he was fatally shot. One of his men stated: ‘After setting a splendid example in grenade throwing, he endeavoured to persuade his men to dig a communications trench to our lines. They were most reluctant, so he and I went out into the open in the hope that they would follow. Almost immediately he was struck in the back.’ After the war, Capt Clay’s remains were recovered and buried in Warlencourt British Cemetery as an unknown Captain of The Wiltshire Regiment. As he was missing, Captain Clay was commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France. Sjt Morton, aged 19, from Guillford, Surrey, was killed on 9 April 1917, the first day of the Battle of Arras. He was serving with 9th Battalion The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry which was tasked with an assault on the Hindenburg Line around the Henin-Heninel Road. They were successful at getting through the first line of German wire but were held up at the second line. The attack stalled as they came under rifle and machine gun fire. The battalion established itself in shell holes within the German wire but were unable to reorganise in daylight as German snipers were very active. At dusk companies of 10th Battalion The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry were seen advancing to occupy the road in front of the enemy’s positions. Members of 9th Battalion were then organised and started digging in on the left of 10th Battalion. It was during the fighting that day that Sjt Morton was killed. Sjt Morton was buried in Cojeul British Cemetery but his grave was recorded as that of an unknown serjeant of The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry who was killed on 9 April 1917. The headstones over their graves have been replaced by the CWGC, who will care for their final resting places in perpetuity. Although both families were traced by the JCCC, they were unfortunately unable to attend but both did provide inscriptions for the new headstones. Xavier Puppinck, Area Director for France at the CWGC, said: “We are honoured to recognise these two brave soldiers today at our cemeteries in France. It is our privilege and duty to care for their graves in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/graves-of-two-great-war-casualties-finally-rededicated Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Michelle Young Posted 22 June , 2022 Admin Share Posted 22 June , 2022 I attended the rededication to Captain Clay yesterday. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 22 June , 2022 Author Share Posted 22 June , 2022 Hello Michelle I have just seen your photos on the Captain Clay thread. Thanks for posting and making sure that Richard's research is not forgotten. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jaykayu Posted 23 June , 2022 Share Posted 23 June , 2022 23 hours ago, MelPack said: Grave of 2nd Lt Osmund Bartle Wordsworth identified Unknown WW1 soldier finally identified as descendant of poet Wordsworth From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 21 June 2022 2Lt Osmund Wordsworth. Copyright unknown. The grave of Glaston-born Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Osmund Bartle Wordsworth, the great-great-nephew of Cumbria’s world-renowned 18th Century romantic poet William Wordsworth, has been rededicated in France more than a century after his death. The new named headstone of 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. The service, organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) H.A.C. Cemetery, Écoust-Saint-Mein, near Arras, in northern France. Tuesday’s service was attended by members of the extended Wordsworth family including Araminta Wordsworth, his first cousin once removed who had travelled from Canada: Araminta said: “The identification of Osmund’s remains is the result of the combination of happenstance and brilliant detective work. When I read about the discovery just before Remembrance Day last year, I knew I wanted to be present at his rededication service. “Now he has been laid to rest more than a century after he was killed, and we can visit his grave. This is a rare privilege as hundreds of thousands of fellow combatants have no known resting place. I would like to thank the British Ministry of Defence and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission who have made this possible.” Civilians and service personnel past and present pay tribute to 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. 2nd Lt Wordsworth’s, at first, unidentified remains were found with buttons identifying him only as an Officer of The Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry (Ox & Bucks LI). But when JCCC investigated all missing Officers of Ox & Bucks LI missing in France, none had been killed close to the location where these remains were found. On further investigation Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead, found that 2nd Lt Wordsworth had initially been commissioned into the Ox & Bucks LI before transferring to another unit – it seemed he had been wearing his former unit’s buttons when he died: “Having made this discovery that no Ox & Bucks LI lay in that area, I turned the focus of my research to the location of the find; this was when I discovered that an officer named 2nd Lt Wordsworth had been killed in Henin-sur-Cojeul on the day the village was recaptured in 1917. “It was very exciting for me to have finally identified this man and to give him his name back. It is always an honour to organise rededication services such as this, they are the conclusion of a century old mystery for families such as the Wordsworths.” A graveside rededication service was conducted by the Reverend Thomas Wilde CF, Chaplain to 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, and was attended by serving soldiers of 5th Battalion The Rifles and 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment. The Reverend Thomas Wilde CF said: “I feel very privileged to conduct the rededication service for 2nd Lt Wordsworth, it is important to honour and remember this brave officer for the sacrifice he made on behalf of his country. It is very powerful when you add a name to a grave.” Floral tributes at the grave of 2Lt Wordsworth. Crown copyright. How 2nd Lt Wordsworth died On 2 April 1917, the village of Henin-sur-Cojeul was recaptured by British forces as they pursued the enemy back to the Hindenburg Line. The attack on the village was carried out by 21st Infantry Brigade. It was during this attack that 2nd Lt Wordsworth, who was serving with 21st Machine Gun Company, was killed. Reports from the day of his death suggest that 2nd Lt Wordsworth saw a gun crew was struggling to get into position and he went to assist them. He was shot through the chest and was buried in Henin-sur-Cojeul. His remains were not recovered after the Great War and, as he was still missing, 2nd Lt Wordsworth was commemorated on the Arras Memorial. How 2nd Lt Wordsworth was discovered In 2012 the remains of an Officer wearing buttons of Ox & Bucks LI, were recovered by an archaeologist in the village of Henin-sur-Cojeul. Initial research conducted by the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum pointed to the Officer being one of four men. However, after an unsuccessful DNA-led investigation, he was buried in H.A.C. Cemetery in September 2015 as an unknown Officer of the Ox & Bucks LI. During the Covid-19 pandemic, which restricted JCCC’s ability to deliver such services abroad, the JCCC took the opportunity review ‘cold cases’ where DNA had been taken but no match found. This further research successfully identified the unknown Officer as 2nd Lt Wordsworth. 2nd Lt Wordsworth had initially been commissioned into the Ox & Bucks LI and was wearing his former unit’s buttons when he died. JCCC conducted research which later suggested this unknown Officer could be 2nd Lt Wordsworth; the final piece of the jigsaw was to carry out DNA testing. A great nephew of 2nd Lt Wordsworth was located and proved to be a DNA match to the soldier. Now that his final resting place has been identified, the headstone over 2nd Lt Wordsworth’s grave has been replaced by the CWGC. They will care for his final resting place in perpetuity. Director, External Relations at the CWGC, Liz Woodfield, said: “It is a privilege and honour to be able to formally recognise Second Lieutenant Wordsworth’s final resting place at our H.A.C. Cemetery, more than 100 years after his death.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/grave-of-2nd-lt-osmund-bartle-wordsworth-identified Interesting to see that this article in the Dorset Echo of December 2021 - excerpts below- reports that the research to identify the grave of 2nd Lt Wordsworth was done by retired army officers Lieutenant Colonel Ingram Murray and Major Tom Shannon. There is no mention of this in the MOD article above taken from their website, only that he was identified by the MOD-JCCC case lead. Hmmm!! THE final resting place of an army officer from Dorset has finally been found, more than 100 years after he was killed in the First World War. Lieutenant Osmond Wordsworth, who served in the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, has been 'lost' since he fell at the Battle of Arras in 1917. The officer, a relative of English poet William Wordsworth, was shot through the heart as he rushed forward to help a machine-gun crew get into position. His body was placed by his men in an unmarked grave and known unto God for the next century. Then, in 2013, a French farmer digging in his garden in Hénin-sur-Cojeul in northern France, stumbled upon the remains of a body with some cloth fragments and several metal artefacts alongside it. THE final resting place of an army officer from Dorset has finally been found, more than 100 years after he was killed in the First World War. Lieutenant Osmond Wordsworth, who served in the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, has been 'lost' since he fell at the Battle of Arras in 1917. The officer, a relative of English poet William Wordsworth, was shot through the heart as he rushed forward to help a machine-gun crew get into position. His body was placed by his men in an unmarked grave and known unto God for the next century. Then, in 2013, a French farmer digging in his garden in Hénin-sur-Cojeul in northern France, stumbled upon the remains of a body with some cloth fragments and several metal artefacts alongside it. Then in 2017, Lt Col Murray discovered another missing officer - Lt Wordsworth - had served in the 21st Company, Machine Gun Corps in 1917 but had transferred from the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry the year before. His men had buried him on April 2, 1917 near where he fell, before his division had established a formal burial location outside Hénin-sur-Cojeul. Working on the theory that the officer probably didn't bother to exchange his uniform when he transferred regiments, the volunteers made Lt Wordsworth their most likely casualty. They were then able to trace a living descendant and a DNA sample was obtained and compared to one taken from the remains dug up in northern France. Now, in the week of Remembrance Sunday, it has been confirmed that the unknown soldier is Lt Wordsworth, a great nephew of William Wordsworth and Cambridge University graduate. The CWGC will now give the officer a named headstone and a marked grave for his relatives to visit in the future. Maj Shannon said: "I think it is immensely important to remember people like Osmond Wordsworth as it goes to the root of Remembrance. We need to keep telling their stories and describing the impact of war on their families. "It is also important that we never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice and that we carry on our work to try to identify those that remain missing from all conflicts. "It is all about remembering real people who were placed in impossible situations that the rest of us could not possibly imagine today. "Death in war is a very personal thing that affects families and community and extends far beyond an individual death. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 24 June , 2022 Author Share Posted 24 June , 2022 News story Rededication services held for two casualties of the Somme The graves of two soldiers killed on the Somme have been identified and rededicated in northern France From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 24 June 2022 The Last Post is played at 2Lt Cole's rededication service. Crown copyright. The graves of Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Ernest Lockett Cole and Serjeant (Sjt) Ernest Edward Harris, who were killed in the Somme region of the Western Front whilst serving with antecedent regiments to The Royal Anglian Regiment, have been rededicated more than a hundred years after they died. Members of the Harris family stand at his grave, together with military representatives. Crown copyright. The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Ovillers Military Cemetery on 22 June and at Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery respectively on 23 June. Rosie Barron, JCCC case lead said: “It has been an honour to work with The Royal Anglian Regiment and The Rifles to organise these rededication services. Both 2nd Lt Cole and Sjt Harris are remembered with great pride by their families, who after all this time, now know the fate of their missing relatives. To share this experience with them and to become part of that story is a privilege.” The rededication service for 2nd Lt Cole was attended by members of his family including his great niece Julie Kirkman and her sister Pat. Julie Kirkman said: “We are eternally grateful that through the hard work of the researchers we were able to pay our respects and say thanks to our Great Uncle Ernest over 100 years after his death.” 2Lt Cole (courtesy of the Cole family) 2nd Lt Cole, aged 29, came from Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria but was serving with 8th Battalion The Northamptonshire Regiment. He was attached to 1st Battalion, when he was sent to the Western Front on 6 September 1916. A few weeks later on 27 September 1916, C Company of 1st Battalion The Northamptonshire Regiment took part in an attack on the Flers Line in support of 2nd Battalion The King’s Royal Rifle Corps. The attack was unsuccessful and 2nd Lt Cole was killed during the fighting. His son, also named Ernest Lockett Cole, was born on 19 March 1917, six months after his father’s death. After the war his remains were moved into Ovillers Military Cemetery where he was buried as an unknown Second Lieutenant of The Northamptonshire Regiment. It was noted that the initials ‘EC’ were marked on this man’s underclothing. As he was missing, 2nd Lt Cole was commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France. The rededicaton service at Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery was attended by nine members of the Harris family, including Alister Dawson, the great great nephew of Sjt Harris. Alister Dawson said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to attend the rededication ceremony and we really appreciate the work of the JCCC. We thank them for taking the time to trace family members and all the effort that goes into organising the ceremony. We hope this will make something that happened over a hundred years ago much closer for our children and they will remember Sjt Harris and all the fallen in proud remembrance.” Sjt Harris (courtesy of the Harris family) Sjt Harris, aged 21, came from Takeley in Essex. He was killed on 8 August 1918 during the Battle of Amiens. The battle would mark the start of the Hundred Days Offensive, when the Allies forced the Germans into retreat and brought the First World War to a conclusion. Sjt Harris was a member of 10th Battalion The Essex Regiment which attacked north east of the village of Sailly-le-Sec. After the Great War as the battlefields were cleared the remains of 28 soldiers were moved into Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery from a location near Sailly-le-Sec. Amongst these men was a serjeant belonging to The Essex Regiment who was known to have been killed on 8 August 1918. As Serjeant Harris was missing he was commemorated on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial. The services were conducted by the Reverend Thomas Wilde CF, Chaplain to 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment and were attended by serving soldiers of 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment and 5th Battalion The Rifles. The Reverend Wilde said: “No one should die on a battlefield without a name. When we are able to identify these officers and soldiers we are able to give them a name. When we give someone a name we give them a story and a family, this is hugely important.” The graves of both men were identified after researchers contacted the CWGC presenting evidence suggesting they had been found. Further research conducted by the National Army Museum and JCCC confirmed their findings. The headstones over their graves have been replaced by the CWGC. Area Director for France at the CWGC, Xavier Puppinck, said: “It is always really special to host these poignant ceremonies at our cemeteries, and to formally recognise soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. It will be our honour to care for the graves of Second Lieutenant Cole and Serjeant Harris, in perpetuity.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/rededication-services-held-for-two-casualties-of-the-somme Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 19 July , 2022 Author Share Posted 19 July , 2022 News story Two Great War RAF officers' graves rededicated 2 Lt Alan Boswell and 2 Lt Robert Gundil's graves have been rededicated in Belgium over a century after they died From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 29 June 2022 Members of X1(F) Squadron, RAF Coningsby, pay their respects. Crown copyright. The graves of Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Alan Thompson Watt Boswell RAF and Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Robert Percy Gundill RAF who were killed on 2 October 1918, have been rededicated more than a hundred years after they died. The service which was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (MOD JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’ was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Duhallow Advanced Dressing Station (ADS) Cemetery, near Ypres Belgium on Wednesday 29 June. Tracey Bowers JCCC said: “These two brave young men served throughout the Great War firstly with the Army before transferring to the Royal Flying Corp showing courage and devotion, it is a privilege to be here today to see their names on their headstones and pay our respects to them.” The rededication service for 2nd Lt Boswell was attended by members of his family including his great nephew Russell Evans who read the poem “High Flight” at the ceremony. Russell Evans, said: “There were nine wonderful wreaths laid by various branches of the military and CWGC on the headstones of Alan Boswell and Robert Gundill, his fellow airman who both died in an aircrash in October 1918.” 2nd Lt Boswell, aged 28, came from Woolwich and was a very talented athlete and represented Wales in hockey and football, and his County at cricket and rugby. Alan was employed as a School Master when he enlisted into the Welsh Regiment in December 1914. Alan was quickly promoted to the rank of Serjeant and was discharged from the Army on being granted a commission into The Royal Flying Corps in September 1917. 2nd Lt Boswell served with 105 and 109 Squadron before joining 108 squadron in July 1918 as a Pilot. He had a total of 81 flying hours by October 1918. 2nd Lt Gundill, aged 21, came from Pontefract and was a liquorice manufacturer before he enlisted into the West Yorkshire Regiment on Dec 1914, a month before his 18th birthday. Pte Gundill served overseas, including Egypt and France, he was wounded in June 1916 when hit by shrapnel in his back. 2nd Lt Gundill was granted a commission into The Northumberland Fusiliers on 25 April 1917. 2nd Lt Gundill applied to transfer to the Royal Flying Corps where he was appointed as an Observer on 6 July 1918 and posted to 108 Squadron. The ceremony conducted by Reverend (Squadron Leader) Adrian Klos and supported by members of XI(F) Squadron RAF Coningsby was held with family members present, alongside one of the researchers who submitted the case. Newly engraved headstones for 2 Lieutenants Boswell and Gundill. Crown copyright. The Reverend Klos said: “Today, we have been rededicatin the graves of two of our service personnel, 2nd Lt Boswell and 2nd Lt Gundill, and to have Boswell’s family with us today was very moving. To hear the emotion in the great nephew as he read the words of High Flight and recognising the sacrifice of his family member made. “It was a real privilege to be here as RAF and members of the MOD, and recognising the family price these young men paid, we will honour that together.” How they died 2nd Lt’s Boswell and Gundill were flying as a tandem crew on DH9 D1080 as part of a bombing raid in the locale of Menin when they went missing on 2 October 1918. The Officer Commanding the 108 Squadron stated they left the aerodrome at 1207 hours and were last seen flying at 3,000 feet west of the objective, but they failed to return. Geert Bekaert, Area Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, said: “These brave men died in the final months of the First World War. The support they gave from the air to the infantry troops when the Allies were advancing through Belgium was critically important. It is an honour to commemorate them and we will care for their graves in perpetuity.” News story WW1 Royal Air Force officer's grave rededicated 2Lt Henry Pike's grave has been rededicated in Belgium From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 29 June 2022 Order of Service for 2 Lt Pike's rededication. Crown copyright. A rededication ceremony was held for Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Henry George Pike RAF, at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Larch Wood (Railway Crossing) Cemetery, near Ypres, Belgium. The service that was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (MOD JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, took place on Wednesday 29 June and was supported by members of XI(F) Squadron RAF who are based at RAF Coningsby and conducted by the Reverend (Squadron Leader) Adrian Klos. Helen Towler, great great niece of 2nd Lt Pike, said: “It was a really moving service and I am really privileged and proud to have been asked to attend and represent the family. “I am really glad that the JCCC, the CWGC and the wider MOD community still remember our fallen from the Great War and it is really reassuring to know that if anything ever happened to our soldiers of today, they would never be forgotten.” 2 Lt Pike's great great niece, Helen Towler, lays a wreath. Crown copyright. Tracey Bowers, JCCC said: “To pilot a plane during the Great War over the Western Front took a great deal of skill, bravery and courage. Second Lieutenant Pike was a committed, experienced soldier who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy freedom today.” 2nd Lt Pike was flying Sopwith Camel D9482 when, on 30 August 1918 he didn’t return to the aerodrome, and was presumed missing. No 65 squadron was based at Bray Dunes and flew escort missions for DH9 aircraft who were operating against targets at Bruges, Ostend and Zeebruggee. The Reverend Klos said: “I want to thank the researchers who were able to name the remains that gave us this opportunity to bring representatives from a Fighter Squadron, abiling us to recognise that unbroken line. From Second Lieutenant Pike’s sacrifice during the Great War and to their service today, and an opportunity to stand with them and be able to remember those who gave their lives for us.” Henry George Pike was born on the 29 May 1895 in East Battersea, Wandsworth to Henry George and Louisa, his father was a carpenter. After school Henry was employed as a motor mechanic for three years until April 1916 when he enlisted into the Seaforth Highlanders, an infantry regiment of the British Army. During his time in the infantry, 2nd Lt Pike became a Lewis Gun instructor indicating he was an experienced solider in a front-line position. Pike was awarded the British War and Victory medals during his infantry service. In 1917 he applied for a commission in The Royal Flying Corps, described on his record of service as being 5ft 9 and having perfect vision; his appointment as a 2nd Lt was published in the London Gazette in August 1918 into the newly formed RAF. Service for 2 Lt Pike. Crown copyright. Geert Bekaert, Area Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, said: “Flying a plane in those days was only for the brave. The medals awarded during his time in the infantry clearly show that he belonged to that category of men. It is only right that we pay tribute to him in this way.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 19 July , 2022 Author Share Posted 19 July , 2022 News story Rededication services in France The graves of two Royal Naval Division (RND) officers from the Great War rededicated in France From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 19 July 2022 The family of Alfred Cookson and British armed forces personnel. Crown copyright. The graves of Lieutenant (Lt) Alfred Owen Cookson, Hawke Battalion, RND who was killed on 8 October 1918 and Sub-Lieutenant (Sub-Lt) John Francis St. Clair Barton, Hood Battalion, RND who was killed on 13 March 1918, have been rededicated at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Proville British Cemetery (ADS) Cemetery, France and (CWGC) Ribecourt British Cemetery, France, respectively. Several members of the family attended the service for Lt Cookson which was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’. The Reverend David Conroy leads the rededication service. Crown copyright. Both ceremonies were conducted by the Very Reverend David Conroy, Deputy Chaplain of the Fleet and supported by members of the Royal Navy. A member of Alfred Cookson's family with British military representatives. Crown copyright. Nicola Nash JCCC said: These two brave young men served throughout the Great War fighting in almost all the major battles on the Western Front. It is tragic that they both lost their lives so close to the Armistance. It is a privilege to be here today to see their names on their headstones and pay our respects to them. How they died The Hawke Battalion was at the forefront of the advance to victory in the last 100 days of the war, when the Allied counter-offensive finally broke through the Hindenburg Line and drove the Germans back. Lt Cookson was recorded in the Battalion’s war diary as having died from his wounds during at attack on the village of Niergnies, on the outskirts of Cambrai. Lt Cookson was 24 years old when he was killed. The Hood Battalion war diary notes that on 10 March 1918 they relieved the Hawke Battalion in the front-line system in the centre of Ribecourt. They were heavily bombarded with gas shells over the next few days, which saw several men being injured and evacuated. On 13 March 1918 the war diary records that Sub-Lt Barton was killed on patrol having just turned 22. The Very Reverend David Conroy said: We will remember them’ is the phrase widely heard at our November ceremonies. Today, on behalf on the nation, it was a real honour to enact that promise. Area Director for France at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Xavier Puppinck, said: It is our privilege to honour Lt Cookson and Sub-Lt Barton with new headstones at our cemeteries in France today. These two brave young men died fighting for their country in the final year of the First World War. We will care for their graves in perpetuity. Background: Alfred Owen Cookson was born on 10 February 1894 in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. Alfred had one sister, whose relatives were at the service today. At the outbreak of World War One, Alfred was working as a mining student, presumably with his father who was a colliery manager. When the war began, Alfred joined the Motor Patrol Service. The following year he was transferred to the Royal Naval Division and joined the Hawke Battalion on 25 October 1915 as a ‘Bombing Officer’. He went on to serve in the Darndanelles and in France, being twice wounded in action. Unfortunately there are no photos of Alfred Cookson. John Francis St. Clair Barton was born on 1 October 1895 in Beckenham, Kent to Francis Alexander Barton (1861-1939) and Clara Elsie Pierce (1867-1961). John Francis St Clair Barton. Copyright unknown. John’s father was a surgeon and airship pioneer who was known for co-piloting the first British public airmail flight. John had one brother and one sister. When World War Onebegan, John originally joined the Honourable Artillery Company before gaining a commission in June 1917. He was later posted to the Hood Battalion in November 1917 and tragically lost his life on 13 March 1918. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 21 October , 2022 Author Share Posted 21 October , 2022 News story Graves of six Great War soldiers rededicated The final resting place of six soldiers killed in World War One have been identified and honoured in Services of Rededication around Ypres in Belgium on 18 and 19 October. From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 20 October 2022 The service, of Cpl Pearce led by Rev Andy Nicolls, CF, is attended by members of the Mercian Regiment and representatives on behalf of the British Embassy – Crown copyright The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, and were held at various Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) cemeteries. The services were conducted by The Reverend Andy Nicolls, CF and attended by representatives from the current day equivalents of these casualties’ regiments (Royal Fusiliers, the Mercian Regiment, Royal Logistics Corps and the Royal Regiment of Scotland). Details of the six soldiers who have been identified: Name Place of Birth Regiment Age at time of death Second Lieutenant Frank Wood Royton, Oldham, Lancashire 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers 19 Private Thomas Parry Tyldesley, Leigh, Lancashire Kings Own Scottish Borderers 19 Private David Christie Graham Angus, Scotland 8th Battalion, Black Watch (Royal Highlanders) 20 Second Lieutenant Herbert Ernest Martin Peterborough, Cambridgeshire 16th (attached 1st/8th) Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) 22 Corporal Gilbert (Bert) Willcocks Taunton, Somerset Army Service Corps 24 Corporal Herbert Pearce Kent 4th Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment 26 Louise Dorr, MOD JCCC case worker said: Our thanks go to several of our regular researchers, who have investigated these six graves and been able to prove who is buried in each of them. Thanks to their efforts we have been able to confirm their findings and return these soldiers’ names to them. I’m so honoured to have been able to be here to rededicate their final resting places. Stephen Gore, great nephew of Pte Parry is pictured with his wife Julie at the grave – Crown copyright Although some of soldiers’ families live overseas or have been unable to attend, family members for Second Lieutenant Wood and Private Parry were in attendance. Each of these soldiers has also been well represented by their military family on behalf of a grateful nation. The headstones over their graves will be replaced by CWGC as part of the rededication. Wreaths are laid in tribute to Pte Graham – Crown copyright Director for the Central and Southern European Area at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said: “We are privileged to be able to honour these six brave men, who all paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting in the Great War. Thanks to the research and work of many, we are able to renew our commitment to care for these soldiers’ graves, in perpetuity” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MelPack Posted 19 November , 2022 Author Share Posted 19 November , 2022 News story Graves of two soldiers killed in northern France rededicated The graves of Private (Pte) James McNeilage McLean, age 24 and Lance Corporal (LCpl) Brunton Smith, age 35, who were killed at different stages of the First World War in Northern France, have been rededicated more than a hundred years after they died. Both men served with regiments that are now antecedent to The Royal Regiment of Scotland. From: Ministry of Defence and Veterans UK Published 18 November 2022 Military Attache British Embassy Paris Col Howard Wilkinson presents the flag to Philip Maclean, great nephew of Pte McLean The services, which were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Fosse 7 Military Cemetery (Quality Street) and Bancourt British Cemetery on 17 November. The graves of both men were identified after two members of the public, Alan Gregson (for Pte McLean) and Andrew Pugh (for LCpl Smith) contacted the CWGC presenting evidence suggesting they had been found. Further research conducted by the National Army Museum and JCCC confirmed their findings. Nicola Nash, JCCC case lead said: Today we stood in two beautiful cemeteries and heard nothing but birds and the distant rumbling of everyday life. A very different scene would have faced our two soldiers over a hundred years ago, when these two men made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Having their families attend today just shows that their sacrifices will never be forgotten and they will always be remembered with grateful thanks by us all”. The rededication services for both men were attended by members of their families. Philip Maclean, great nephew of Pte McLean said: The re dedication service for our Gt Uncle James was a moving and emotional experience. We are so pleased as a family he is no longer a missing soldier. We would like to thank the MOD, CWGC and the Army for their considerable efforts”. Malcolm Clague, grandson of LCpl Smith said: The families of Brunton Hunter and Malcolm Clague wish to thank everyone for the very poignant and fitting service for our grandfather who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We thank the Commemorations team for your hard work and for bringing together representatives of the Regiment, the Padre and the CWGC. We were especially touched by the presentation of the flag by the Military Attaché from the British Embassy Paris as a tribute to the life given by L/Cpl Brunton Smith. A moving act of remembrance for which we offer our grateful thanks to all and will recall with gratitude in the years to come”. The services were conducted by the Reverend Timothy Clarke-Wood CF, Chaplain to 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland and were attended by serving soldiers of the same regiment. The Reverend Clarke-Wood said: There are key moments in our shared history that stand as vital. When within the tragedy of such epic loss as WW1, we can in our present take time to honour and consider the individual who has died - we are on the right track. The celebration of inherent human dignity is found in such moment as the rededication of our fallen heroes”. The headstones over their graves have been replaced by the CWGC. Liz Woodfield, Director of External Relations at CWGC, said: We thank Mr Gregson, Mr Pugh and the National Army Museum for their research and dedication in helping to identify the graves of Pte McLean and LCpl Smith. We are privileged to honour these two brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for their country. We will care for their graves in perpetuity. How they died LCpl Smith joined the 8th Battalion, Royal Scots in 1915. He spent almost all of the war along the Western Front, in France and Belgium. On 21 March 1918, some 6,500 German guns and 3,500 heavy mortars opened up a huge 5-hour barrage against the British 3rd and 5th Armies on the Western Front. Although the Allies knew an attack was imminent, they did not know where and how the main attack would occur. The German tactics succeeded and on the first day, British casualties amounted to 38,500 men. The Germans pushed the British back several miles, with heavy casualties inflicted during their fighting retreat. During 23-26 March, German successes continued with the capture of Peronne, Bapaume and Albert. On 24 March, as LCpl Smith’s battalion were withdrawing through Bapaume, he was one of the casualties lost during the continual artillery bombardment and fighting. Pte McLean was living in Invergordon when he joined the 10th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders. Referred to at the time as ‘the big push’, the Battle of Loos was the biggest British attack of 1915 and saw the first engagement of New Army units. Five battalions of the Gordon Highlanders saw action in this battle, with a further two involved in a subsidiary attack in Hooge, north of the Loos battlefield. Just two days before this battle began, on 23 September 1915, the 10th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders were in the front lines facing Loos-en-Gohelle. The day was spent listening to the near constant, heavy artillery bombardment of the enemy trenches. During the afternoon, the battalion ‘shewed their bayonets and cheered’ to trick the enemy into thinking an attack was imminent. It was during this day that Pte McLean tragically lost his life. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now