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The Great War (1914-1918) Forum

Remembered Today:

George Sunley


soltown

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I have been doing some digging into my grandfathers uncle who was killed in WW1. A kind soul undertook an unsuccesful search at Kew for his records but it appears his records did'nt survive.

I have'nt managed to discover much, apart from the basics that he enlisted in Darlington, his regiment, date of death.

Would it be an idea to get another person to look at the Kew records on the off chance the first person missed him?

Any advice appreciated

George

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The PRO at Kew can put you in touch with a researcher who will dig up as much info as you want on your relatives unit.

The best thing to do is got to the PRO at Kew in person and have a dig around. They have a really easy to use search computer and the staff are unbelievably friendly and helpful. Good luck!

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57742 George Sunley was born at and enlisted at Darlington and was killed in action on 28 Aug 14. His unit 118 Battery, 26 Brigade, RFA in 1914 was part of the 1st Divisional Artillery. It missed the battle of LeCateau but took part in the retreat to the Marne beginning on 27 August 1914. On the morning of 27 August the 1st Division was ordered to cover the withdrawal of the 2nd Division at Oisy and the 1st Infantry Brigade and the 26th Brigade, RFA were given the task. Two sections of 118 Battery came into action on the high ground north of Etreux in support of the Black Watch. At about 1930 hours the enemy got into Etreux and an enemy shell destroyed the gun team of the section and the other sub-section came into action at a range of 300 yards. The range was so short that the gunners were shot as they tried to get the gun into action, but they continued the battle until 2115 hours. Two officers from the battery, Major A R Bayly and Lieut. A Stewar-Cox and 10 other men were wounded and 12 men were killed.

That appears to be the only major action for 118 Battery until 7 September.

It would appear that Sunley either died in this action and the date of his death is one day off; or he died on the 28th of wounds received on the 27th; or he was killed in some other manner not related to a particular action. The War Diary of the 26th Brigade, RFA for this period is available at the PRO (National Archives) under WO95/324 and may give some addititional details.

Regards. Dick Flory

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