2nd Bn., Rifle Brigade - 12 May 1916

[Guest Tony Laverick]

I am trying to discover how my great uncle Rifleman Norman Laverick (2nd Bn., Rifle Brigade) died. I know he is buried at MERICOURT-L'ABBE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION and that he died on 12 May 1916. This, obviously, is before the first 'Battle of the Somme', so was he just unlucky and was killed by a stray German bullet or shell? How can I find out.

Any suggestions will be gratefully recieved.

[stiletto_33853]

Tony,

The war diaries might help you as they sometimes mention individuals. Unfortunately this War Diary I do not have for this month. The war diary is at Kew, the document is WO95/1731 and is an original document, hence you cannot download from their site.

The War Service Record for this time is sparse:-

From 9th April to 1st July the Battalion was in the line six times in the Thiepval - La Boiselle sector, the tours of duty varying from two to eight days. The trenches occupied were comparatively dry, but far inferior to the breast works of Fleurbaix.

In preparation for the coming offensive, artillery and trench mortars were exceedingly active, and our casualties were comparatively heavy. Many successful reconnaissances were carried out; particularly by 2nd Lieutenant H. Daniels and 2nd Lieutenant Murray, ot to and through the German wire.

Whilst out of the line special attention was directed to practice the assault, and to exercises in open warfare. A battle platoon composed of specially selected volunteers from "A" and "D" Companies was formed and trained.

Hope this helps you a little.

Andy

[Guest Tony Laverick]

Andy,

Thanks for that. It adds more information than I had previously. I think its going to be like - adding little bits of information until I have the full story (if ever).

Regards,

Tony