191st Labour Corps, Durham Light Infantry

[Guest Ros]

I would be grateful for any help trying to find out about my Grandad's part in the Great War

His details are

THOMAS BANKS

24.2.1898 WIGAN, LANCS

ARMY NO; 214982

DISCHARGED 23.11.1918

Why did Thomas end up in the Durham Light Infantry when he lived in Wigan?

What Battles did he take part in?

Where was he gassed ( he was ill for the rest of his life through the gas)

He lost an eye - did he lose it in the war and if so where was he when this happened?

I know this is a lot to ask but do not know anything about Army, Great War etc but for my Genealogy Project need to know what happened to Grandand while he was at war.

Thanks for any info. Ros

[Armoured Farmer]

Ros,

His Medal Index Card, searched for here

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/documen...amp;queryType=1

records this: -

Medal card of Banks, Thomas

Corps Regiment No Rank

Durham Light Infantry 25810 Private

Labour Corps 213982 Private

It tells us that he went overseas whilst serving in the DLI, then was transferred to the Labour Corps. It is probable that he joined the DLI, or he may have enlisted in another regiment and been transferred before going overseas.

Joining a regiment that was not local is not uncommon. Perhaps he was living/working in Durham when the war started.

To download the card costs £3.50

It may record a Silver War Badge, which sounds likely if he lost an eye.

Look at the parent site here: -

http://www.1914-1918.net/grandad/grandad8.htm

[Guest Ros]

Thank you for taking the time to send me this info - I am now looking into what you have said.

[philg]

try sending an email to Ivor Lee here: labourcorps@btinternet.com

he's an expert on the Labour Corps.

Phil