GREAT WAR MEMORIAL

1914 – 1918 GREAT WAR CHURCH MEMORIAL

By Frank Toogood, Accredited Member of the International Guild of Battlefield Guides, Badge No. 39
and also a Battlefield Guide working for Anglia Tours.

The names of those on the War Memorial are listed below alphabetically, together with as much information as I've been able to find, such as; the unit they served, when and how they died, where they are buried or commemorated etc, and the circumstances leading up to their deaths. There are a few men I have yet to trace, but if you have any stories about any of the men listed, or a photograph I could add to their bio, please do drop me a line here. I'd also be interested to learn of those who survived and what they went on to do after the war, as there contributions are equally as important and often not recorded.

Unfortunately about 60% of the soldiers’ Service Records were irretrievably damaged or lost completely as a result of enemy bombing in 1940 during the Second World War. The exact number of serving British soldiers is not known because of the loss of the records. I have tried to ensure the information is correct and where possible verified by cross-referencing different sources, which are listed at the end of this page.

ROLL OF HONOUR

Maurice George Amey

Rank and Number: Acting Corporal 1240. Formally Bombardier 697219
Unit: 'D' Battery, CCLXXV Brigade, Royal Field Artillery (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Ipswich
Died: Killed in Action: 30/11/1917, Age 35
CWGC: Panel 1, Cambrai Memorial, Louverval, France
Born: Church Road, Bocking, Essex
Resident: Location not known
Son of: Son of Mr and Mrs Martin Amey, of Bocking
Husband of: Marjorie Amey, of The Haven, St. James' Road, Sutton, Surrey
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

'D' Battery, CCLXXV Brigade, Royal Field Artillery
Raised for the original 31st Division but when this was broken up and put on the artillery reserve.Joined 37th Division by 15 April 1915

Battles of the Somme
Battle of the Ancre: 13-18 Nov 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 9-11 April 1917
Capture of Monchy le Preux: 11 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23 and 24 April 1917
Battle of Arleux: 28 and 29 April

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Pilkem Ridge: 31 July – 2 Aug 1917
Battle for the Menin Road Ridge: 22-23 Sept 1917
Battle of Polygon Wood: 27 Sept – 3 Oct 1917
Battle of Broodseinde: 4 Oct 1917
Battle of Poelcappelle: 9 Oct 1917

Edward C. Archer

Rank and Number: Driver L/4883
Unit: 'C' Battery, CLIII Brigade, Royal Field Artillery (Kitchener Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 12/08/1917, Aged 33
CWGC: Panel 5 and 9, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium
Born: Surbiton, Greater London
Resident: 1911 - Boarder at 7 Cleaveland Road, Surbiton, Greater London
Son of: Thomas Archer and Lucy Archer, of Bocking, Braintree
Husband of: Rose Ellen Archer, of Staines Road, Sunbury, Middlesex
Occupation: Butcher's Assistant
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 26/11/1915

‘C’ Battery, CLIII Brigade, Royal Field Artillery
Joined 36th Division on formation in early 1915

Battles on the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 and 2 July 1916

Battles
Battle of Massines: 7-9 June 1917
Capture of Wytschaete: 7 June 1917

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Langemark: 16 and 17 August 1917

George Atkins

Rank and Number: Private 10063
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 13/05/1915, Age: 18
CWGC: Panel 39, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Son of Mr and Mrs. G. Atkins, of Church Street, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Farm Labourer
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 22/08/1914
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
Battle of Frezenberg Ridge: 8-13 May 1915

Battalion War Diary entry:

YPRES, BELGIUM

13 May 1915, 04.00 a.m. Germans start heavy bombardment with heavy artillery all along the front from SHELL TRAP FARM (about 1000 yds. N. of WIMLTJE (Sheet 28) southwards.

05.30 a.m. Some Cavalry retired on right. (cav. Were holding line from St. JULIAN – WIELTJE Road southwards). Line from SHELL TRAP Fm. to Cav. Held by 11 Bde.

05.40 a.m. Lull in bombardment.

05.55 a.m. Bombardment commences again.

0655 a.m. Body of men some hundred or so seen retiring back from ridge about 100 yds. S. of SHELL TRAP FARM.

07.00 a.m. C Company (Lt. Alkinson) ordered to advance on SHELL TRAP FARM and support it or retake it id found in the enemy’s hands. A Company ordered from reserve trench to take C Company’s place in support trench

07.35 a.m. Leading section of C Company reach ridge. FARM found to be in possession of the enemy. Attack held up by heat round farm into which several men fell. Enemy eventually driven out of farm by fire. C Company had carried out the advance and attack in good order under heavy artillery fire and rifle fire. A machine gun was splendidly brought into action by Sgt. Cousens. (Lt. Atkinson Wounded.)

06.20 a.m. Following the message received from G.O.C. 11th Bde. (under whose orders the Battalion were) “Retake at once front line from SHELL TRAP FARM to FORTUIN – WIELTJE ROAD”

SHELL TRAP FARM having been already retaken by C Company. The remainder of the Battalion was ordered to attack as follows: - A Company (Lt. Erwin) to retake trenches between FORTUIN - WIELTJE and ST. JULIE – WIELTJE roads with its left on road junction 500 yards N.E. of point where WIELTJE – ST JULIE and FORTUIN – WIELTJE join. B Company (Capt. Pechell) were ordered to prolong the line to the left with the right on the road junction above. D Company (Lt. Smith- Masters) were ordered to side slip up the support trench to the position N Company were going to vacate and follow up as a reserve in the rear of B Company. It was thought that when B and A Company has retaken their trenches D could be diverted half left and retake the remainder of the trench to left of B Company assisted by B on the right and C on the left (SHELL TRAP FARM).

08.30 a.m. A and B companies moved off. The attack by these two companies was splendidly carried out with great determination. They were subjected to a very heavy artillery fire both high explosives and shrapnel, and on reaching the ridge to heavy machine gun fire; they never faltered in spirit of fairly heavy casualties. The ground nearly to the ridge was covered in quick time, the last 350 yards being covered at the double. On arrival in the trench is was found to be blown almost to pieces and could only be held in places. It was also found that on the left of B Company the E. LANC. REGT. Were holding the ridge, D Company were therefore ordered to dig in in the rear which they did making use of numerous shell holes.

10.15 a.m.  The Battalion was settled in the trench and were clearing the parts which had been blown in. The Battalion were relieved in the trench by KING’S OWN on the right and by the reserve company of the EAST LANCS. At SHELL TRAP FARM and withdrew to the Div. support trench vacated in the morning and reorganised, sections and companies giving got rather mixed up in the attack. On arrival in the support trench, wet and very cold, the Battalion had the pleasure of finding that their packs and great coats had been ransacked by the troops sent to occupy the trench when the Battalion moved out. The following message was received in the evening: -

ESSEX
General DE LISLE commanding 1st Cavalry Div. wishes to convey his thanks to the ESSEX REGT. For their assistance this morning. The Cav. Division’s opinion is voiced by the hole of the 4th Div.

Casualties – 37 Killed, 94 Wounded, 49 Missing

Harry Bearman

Rank and Number: Private 19137
Unit: 11th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 24/05/1916, Age: 38
CWGC: II. N. 18. Essex Farm Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: BockingSon of: Emily Bearman, of Poplar Row, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Labourer at Dye House
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 04/10/1915
 

11th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warley in as part of K3 and attached to 71st Brigade in 24th Division.January 1915: Moved to Shoreham and then to billets in Brighton.March 1915: Returned to Shoreham.June 1915: Moved to Blackdown. 30 August 1915: Landed at Boulogne.

Battles
Battle of Loos: 25 and 26 Sept 1915

11 October 1915: Transferred with Brigade to 6th Division. 27 October 1915: Transferred to 18th Brigade in same Division.

Battalion War Diary entry:

YPRES, BELGIUM
23rd May 1916 – DispositionsC Coy on the YPERLEEA Coy NORTH FARGATE and Bombing PostB Coy SOUTH FARGATE, COLNE VALLEY, BUTTS 19, 20, 21 22.D Coy WHITE TRENCH, BUTT 18.Relief complete at 11.00 p.m. Casualties O.R. 1 Killed.
24th May 1916 – A quite day on the whole but two crump shrapnel fell in the WHITE TRENCH causing all the casualties. Casualties O.R. (Other Ranks) 2 Killed, 7 Wounded.

Frederick James Benham

Rank and Number: Rifleman (Private on memorial in St Mary's) 41282
Unit: 10th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles (Regular Army). Formerly 31899, Essex Regiment
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action: 06/08/1917, Age: 33
CWGC: Panel 39, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Bradford Street, Bocking
Son of: William and Emilie Benham
Marital status: Not known
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

10th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles (South Belfast)
28 August 1914: Formed as part of the 107th Brigade, 36th (Ulster) Division. July 1915: Moved to Seaford, Sussex.October 1915 : landed at Boulogne.October 1915: Moved to Flesselles 10 miles north of Arras in France. 5 November 1915 to 3 February 1916: Brigade attached to 4th Division for instruction around Abbeville.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 and 2 July 1916

Battles
Battle of Messines: 7-9 June 1917
Capture of Wytschaete: 7 June 1917

Edward Butcher

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal 12501
Unit: 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 20/10/1915, Age: 25
CWGC: Panel 85 to 87. Loos Memorial, France
Born: Gosfield
Resident: 1911- Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Mrs. Elizabeth Butcher, of Church Street, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Silk Dyer
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 30/05/1915

9th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: Formed at Warley as part of K1 and attached to 35th Brigade in 12th (Eastern) Division. March 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and in went to Blenheim barracks at Aldershot. 31 May 1915: landed at Boulogne

Battles
Battle of Loos: 1-8 Oct 1915
The Quarries (Hulluch): 13-19 Oct 1915
Hohenzollern Craters: 2-18 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 2-8 July 1916
Battle of Pozieres Ridge: 28 July – 13 Aug 1916
Battle of Transloy Ridges: 1-18 Oct 1916
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

VERMELLES QUARRIES (15 miles North of ARRAS, FRANCE)

19 October 1915, 09.00 a.m. – C Coy. Relieved D Coy in the new trench – during this day and the following all the trenches near QURRIES were most accurately shelled by the enemy, and in spite of this work continued without interruption and the men stood their ground splendidly. Our own artillery communication was not at that could be desired and they dropped many shells short, most unfortunately killing Capt. H. L. Watts with one. 04.30 p.m. to 08.00 p.m. As this hour Capt.  Green C Coy was observing with a periscope near the barricade end of the new trench and saw a German Officer pointing out our trench. The Coy was “Stood to” and bombers and M.G. warned and just ready for action when 3 squads each of 6 German bombers advanced from the edge of the QUARRY. Only one or two of them succeeded in reaching throwing distance and none returned. While our men were still on the fire step awaiting a further advance heavy rifle fire was opened up from the edge of the Quarry, which was seen to be thickly manned. This was finally silenced by our rifle an M.G. fire and operations were limited to bombing at the barricade which continued for a long time in which we finally gained superiority. Great credit is due to the N.C.O.s and men of the Bombing Section who worked themselves to exhaustion and without the guidance of an officer – Lt Hickox being in command of D Coy owing to Capt. Watts being killed – until Lt. Bright of the Suffolks came up about an hour or so later. Credit should also be given to the M.G. Section for their readiness and cool action on being warned. Lieut. C. H. Bearblock worked unceasingly till wounded, and L/Cpl Butcher showed great resource and bravery in moving his forward gun to an excellent position in rear of the trench where he could sweep the front of the barricade and did so for a long time. Several further attempts to creep up within bombing distance were made by the enemy during the night but all were repulsed.

20 October 1915 – The trenches were again heavily shelled during the day. The Commanding Officer narrowly escaped, two men near him being instantly killed. During the night another attempt was made by the enemy to surprise the bombers of the Sussex Regt and Fusiliers who had relieved ours at the barricade. A curtain amount of damage was done and slight panic was threatening when a relief of Essex and Middlesex bombers arrived and order was soon restored. Mention must be given during this night by certain officers who knowing the strain to which we had been put come voluntarily to relieve us – Of these I would like to record our thanks especially to Lt leach – Middlesex Regt. (Bomb Officer) Capt Woodham (Sussex Regt) and Capt Brown (Middlesex Regt).

Fred Butcher

Rank and Number: Driver 55727
Unit: 28th Battery, CXXIV Brigade, Royal Field Artillery (Kitchener Army)
Enlisted: Warely, Essex
Died: Died of Wounds: 09/10/1917, Age: 25
CWGC: II. O. 6A. Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport, France
Born: Braintree
Resident: Braintree
Son of: Son of Joseph Butcher, of 18, Orchard St., Moulsham, Essex
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not Known
 

28th Battery, CXXIV Brigade, Royal Field Artillery
Raised for the original 31st Division but when this was broken up and put on the artillery reserve. Joined 37th Division by 15 April 1915

Battles of the Somme
Battle of the Ancre: 13-18 Nov 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 9-11 April 1917
Capture of Monchy le Preux: 11 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23 and 24 April 1917
Battle of Arleux: 28 and 29 April

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Pilkem Ridge: 31 July – 2 Aug 1917
Battle for the Menin Road Ridge: 22-23 Sept 1917
Battle of Polygon Wood: 27 Sept – 3 Oct 1917
Battle of Broodseinde: 4 Oct 1917
Battle of Poelcappelle: 9 Oct 1917

Charles Candler

Rank and Number: Private 442114
Unit: Employment Company, 214th Division, Labour Corps. Formally 32044 Essex Regiment
Enlisted: Braintree
Died: 07/11/1918, Age: 39
CWGC: XLIX. C. 19. Estaples Military Cemetery, France
Born: Shalford, Essex
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Sarah and the late George Candler, of Cut Hedge, Shalford, Essex
Husband of: Elizabeth A. Candler, of High Garrett, Essex
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

214th Divisional Employment Company
16 June 1917: Joined 12th (Eastern) Division

Battles of Cambrai
The Tank Attack: 20 and 21 Nov 1916
Capture of Bourlon Wood: 28-28 Nov 1916
German Counter-Attacks: 30 Nov – 3 Dec 1916

First Battles of the Somme
First Battle of Bapaume: 25 Mar 1918
Battle of Arras: 28 Mar 1918
Battle of the Ancre: 5 April 1918

The Advance to Victory
Battle of Amiens: 8 and 11 Aug 1918

Second Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 22-23 Aug 1918

Battles of the Hindenburg Line
Battle of Epéhy: 18 Sept 1918
Battle of St. Quenrin Canal: 29 and 30 Sept 1918

Alexander Easter

Rank and Number: Private 7189
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 02/05/1915, Age: 29
CWGC: Panel 39, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium
Born: White Notley, Essex
Resident: 1911 - Stansted House, Stansted, Essex
Son of: Alfred and Hannah Easter, of 38 Beaconsfield Road, Canning Town, London
Husband of: Kate Easter, of 15 South Street, Braintree
Occupation: Domestic Chauffeur
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 14/09/1914
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

YPRES, BELGIUM

2 May 1915, 05.00 p.m. Enemy attack with gas – a thick wall of gas some 60 or 70 feet high of a greenish yellow colour was seen all along the front of the trenches held by the 12th Bde. The gas appeared to be thickest in front of the trenches held by the Lancs. Fus. On the right and by XXXX this Bn, on the left. Our trench was held by B and D Companies and one platoon from A Company. This garrison was driven from the trenches in spite of having respirators, with the exception of Capt. Pechell and 12 N.C.O.s and men of B Company, this party stuck it out until the trenches were reoccupied. The names of the N.c.o.s and men who stayed with Capt. Perhell are – C.S.M. Tipler (Killed) – C.Q.M.S. Turl, St. Coomers, Sgt Barker, Pte. Brown, Maynard, Howes, Read, Curts, Finch, Pte. Sonetten (A Coy), Pte. Briggs. When B and D Companies retired 2 Lt. Irwin, who was in charge of the right support consisting of 2 platoons A Company and were some 400 yds. Back. Rushed his men in the face of heavy shrapnel fire, through the gas and reoccupied the right end of the trench. C Company under Lt. Atkinson moved up from the reserve some 1500 yards back and in spite of a heavy shrapnel fire and machine gun fire reoccupied the left and centre of the front trenches. Both the French and our own artillery kept magnificent covering fire on the enemy’s trenches and absolutely prevented him from leaving them. After the trenches had been reoccupied the enemy twice left his trench opposite our right but was driven back each time. A hostile aeroplane also came over flying low and was brought down by the Battalion, but unfortunately fell just in his own lines. One company 1st 2nd Monmouthshire Regt. Was sent up to occupy right support trench as the Battalion had not enough men to do so. A large number of men were missing, these had been gassed and were admitted to hospital.

Casualties. Officers: 4 Wounded, 1 Gassed, 2 Missing, Other Ranks: 23 Killed, 67 Wounded, 175 Missing.

Thomas French

Rank and Number: Private 4032
Unit: 1/5th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford
Died: 30/03/1916, (Buried 04/04/1916) Aged: 35
CWGC: C.7. 5. 80. Braintree and Bocking (Bocking) Cemetery
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Bridge End Place, Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Isaac and Sarah French
Marital status: Not known
Occupation: Mechanics Labourer
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: N/A - Home
 

1/5th Battalion Essex Regiment
Aug 1914: In Chelmsford.Late 1914: Moved to Norwich.April 1915: Moved to Colchester.May 1915: Became part of the 161st Brigade in 54th (East Anglian) Division.Late May 1915: Moved to St Albans. 21 July 1915: Sailed from Devonport for Gallipoli, going via Lemnos. 12 Aug 1915: Landed at Suvla Bay.4 Dec 1915: Evacuated from Gallipoli and moved to Mudros.17 Dec 1915: Arrived at Alexandria.28 Dec 1915: Moved in to the Western Desert in connection with the Senussi Rising. 2 April 1916: As part of Division, took over No. 1 (Southern) Section, Suez Canal Defense

As Pte. Thomas French was buried in a private family plot and therefore does not have a CWGC headstone. As a consequence his grave is not maintained by the CWGC. Thanks to Rebecca Ellison and Michael Ashby at Braintree District Council for help in locating the grave.

Frederick Harold Fuller

Rank and Number: Rifleman S/28579
Unit: "A" Coy. 7th Battalion, Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own). (Kitchener New Army)
Formerly R/24061, K.R.R.C.
Enlisted: Braintree
Died: Killed in Action: 15/10/1917, Age: 19
CWGC: Panel 145 to 147. Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium
Born: Rayne, Braintree
Resident: 1911 - The Rayne Gore, Braintree
Son of: Frederick James and Annie Fuller, of "Alwyne," Coggeshall Road, Braintree
Marital status: Not known
Occupation: Errand Boy
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
 

7th (Service) Battalion, Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own)
21 August 1914: Formed at Winchester on as part of K1 and attached to 41st Brigade in 14th (Light) Division. November 1914: Moved to Aldershot before going onto Elstead.March 1915: Moved to Aldershot.May 1915: landed at Boulogne.

Battles
Hooge (German Liquid Fire Attack): 30 and 31 July 1915
Second Attack on Bellewarde: 25 Sept 1915

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Delville Wood: 13-30 Aug 1916
Battle of Flers-Courcellete (First use of Tanks in battle): 15 and 16 Sept 1916

Battles
German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line: 14 Mar – 5 April 1917

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 9-12 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 3 and 4 1917

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Langemark: 18 Aug 1917
Fighting on the Menin Road: 22-28 Aug 1917
First Battle of Passchendaele: 12 Oct 1917

W. Godman

Arthur Charles Harrington

Rank and Number: Private 40075
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 23/10/1916, Age: 25
CWGC: Pier and Face 10 D. Thiepval Memorial, France
Born: Location not known
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Florence May Harrington, of 119 Bradford Street, Bocking
Marital status: Not known
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres

Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
Battle of Frezenberg Ridge: 8-13 May 1915
Battle of Bellewarde Ridge: 24-25 May 1915

5 November 1915 to 3 February 1916: Whilst part of the 12th Brigade was attached to 36th (Ulster) Division for purposes of giving instruction.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916
Battle of the Transloy Ridges: 10-18 October 1916

Stanley Frank Hart

Rank and Number: Private (Sergeant on memorial in St Mary's) 19404
Unit: 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Died: Died of Wounds: 28/11/1916, Age: 28
CWGC: VI. E. 2. Berlin South-Western Cemetery, Brandenburg, Germany
Born: Bocking
Resident: Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Son of: Charles Hart, of "Fernleigh," Rayne Road, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Assistant Groser
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Egypt 01/12/1915
 

1st Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Mauritius.December 1914: Returned to England.18 January 1915: Moved to Banbury and attached to 88th Brigade in 29th Division. 21 March 1915: Sailed from Avonmouth for Gallipoli, going via Egypt and Mudros. 25 April 1915: Landed at Cape Helles.

Battles of Gallipoli
The Landings of Cape Helles: 25 April 1915
Capture of Sedd el Bar: 26 April 1915
First Battle of Krithia: 28 April 1915
Eski Hissarlik: 1 and 2 May 1915
Second Battle of Krithia: 6-8 May 1915
Third Battle of Krithia: [VIII Corps]: 4 June 1915
Gully Ravine: 28 June – 2 July 1915
Krithia Vineyard: 6 -13 August 1915
Battle of Suvla: 21 August 1915

8 January 1916: Evacuated from Gallipoli and moved to Egypt.16 March 1916: Sailed from Alexandria for France.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916
Battle of the Transloy Ridges: 10-18 October 1916

Battalion War Diary entry:

NR CARNOY (5 miles East of ALBERT, FRANCE)

24-27 November 1916 - In huts N.E CARNOY. 02.00 p.m. Moved to bivouacs in TRONES WOOD and remained there till 30 November 1916.

Francis Hickman

Rank and Number: Rifleman (Private on memorial in St Mary's) 6727
Unit: 1/9th (County of London) Battalion, London Regiment (Queen Victoria's Rifles) (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 09/10/1916, Age: 21
CWGC: Pier and Face 9 C. Thiepval Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 911 - 2 Nellies Cottages, Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Mr Eli John and Emily Hickman, of Church Street, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Gardener
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

1/9th (County of London) Battalion,
London Regiment (Queen Victoria's Rifles)August 1914: Mobilized at 56 Davies Street as part of 3rd London Brigade, 1st London Division before moving to Bullswater.September 1914: Moved to Crowborough. 5 November 1914: left Division and landed at Le Havre, France.27 November 1914: Came under command of 13th Brigade in 5th Division.

Battles
Battle of Mons: 23 to 24 Aug 1914
Retreat from Mons: 23 – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Crépy en Valois: 1 Sept 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Passage of the Aisne: 13 Sept 1914
Actions on the Asine Heights: 20 Sept 1914
Battle of la Bassée: 10 Oct – 2 Nov 1914

Battles of Ypres
Capture of Hill 60: 17-22 April 1915
Battle of Gravenstafel Ridge: 23 April 1915
Battle of St. Julien: 24 April – 1 May 1915

10 February 1916: Transferred to 169th Brigade in 56th (London) Division.

Battles of the Somme
Gommecourt: 1 July 1916
Battle of Ginchy: 9 Sept 1916
Battle of Flers-Courcellete (First use of Tanks in battle): 15 and 16 Sept 1916
Battle of Morval: 25-27 Sept 1916
Capture of Combles: 26 Sept 1916
Battle of Transloy Ridges: 1-9 Oct 1916

Richard Digby Johnson

Rank and Number: Major
Unit: 3rd Battalion attached to 2nd Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 24/05/1915, Age: 38
CWGC: Panel 44 and 46.
Born: York, Yorkshire
Resident: 1911 - Camoys, Braintree
Son of: Younger son of the late Mr and Mrs Edward Mayson Johnson, of 28 St. Mary's, York
Husband of: Claudine Trower Johnson, of Camoys, Braintree
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Occupation: British Army Office of private means
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 07/12/1914
 

2nd Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers
August 1914: in Gravesend, under command of 10th Brigade in 4th Division before moving to Harrow. 22 August 1914: landed at Boulogne.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentieres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Meteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
Battle of Frezenberg Ridge: 8-13 May 1915
Battle of Bellewaarde Ridge: 24 and 25 May 1915

Other info:
Served in the South African Campaign. Mentioned in Dispatches. Reported wounded in Kildare Observer of 8 May 1915. Nine items of uniform and equipment items belonging to Major Richard Digby Johnson between 1900-1915 are kept at the National Army Museum, ref.1965-09-8.

Harold Frank Key

Rank and Number: Rifleman S/27456
Unit: 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own) (Kitchener New Army)
Formerly R/19526, 19th (R) Battalion K.R.R.C.
Enlisted: 11/02/1916 in Braintree, Essex, Aged 20
Died: 12/09/1918, Age: 22
CWGC: Panel 10 Vis-en-Artois Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - King's Coins, Bocking
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Clerk
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

3th (Service) Battalion, Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own)
October 1914: Formed at Winchester in as part of K3 and attached as Army Troops to 21st Division.November 1914: Moved to billets in High Wycombe. April 1915: Moved to Andover in and transferred to 111th Brigade in 37th Division. 31 July 1915: landed at Boulogne.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of the Ancre: 13-18 Nov 1916

Thomas Kellick

Believed to be:
Rank and Number: Shoeing Smith Corporal 75909 (Kellick, A. Private on memorial in St Mary's)
Unit: Ammunition Column, 8th Division, Royal Field Artillery
Enlisted: Colchester, Essex
Died: Died of Wounds: 31/07/1917, Age: 22
CWGC: I. A. 6. Brandhoek New Military Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Braintree
Resident: Location not known
Brother of: Julia Holmes of Rose Cottages, Coggeshall Road, Braintree
Marital status: Not known
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 23/08/1914

Ammunition Column, 8th Division, Royal Field Artillery

Battles
Neuve Chapelle (Moated Grange Attack): 18 Dec 1914

Battles
Battle of Neuve Chapelle: 10-13 Mar 1915
Battle of Aubers Ridge - Attack at Fromelles: 9 May 1915
Bois Grenier: 25 sept 1915

Battles of the Somme

Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916Attack on le Transloy: 23-30 Oct 1916Bouchavesnes: Mar 1916German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line: 14 Mar – 5 April 1916

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Pilkem Ridge: 31 July and 1 Aug 1916

E. Lawrence

Rank and Number: Private 19406
Unit: 11th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Colchester, Essex
Died: 04/05/1917
CWGC: XVIII J 2. Estaples Military Cemetery, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: Location not known
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Not known
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

11th (Service) Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warwick in as part of K3 and attached as Army Troops to 24th Division.April 1915: Joined 112th Brigade, 37th Division. 30 July 1915: Landed in France.  July – 22 Aug 1916: 112th Brigade attached to the 34th Division.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 10-13 July 1916
Battle of Bazentin Ridge: 14-17 July 1916
Battle of the Ancre: 13-18 Nov 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 9-11 April 1917
Capture of Monchy le Preux: 11 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23 and 24 April 1917
Battle of Arleux: 28 and 29 April 1917

George Frederick Marshall

Rank and Number: Private, 10248 (Marshal A. on memorial in St Mary's)
Unit: 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Died of Wounds 06/08/1915, Age 19
CWGC: Sp. Mem. C. 172. Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery, Gallipoli, Turkey
Born: Newton Green, Sudbury, Suffolk.
Resident: 1911 - High Garrett Road, Bocking
Son of: George and Emily Marshall, of High Garrett Road, Bocking
Brother of: Harry Marshall, 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment, died 13/07/1915 also in the Great War
Occupation: Milk and Feed Cattle
Medals: 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 22/08/1914

1st Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Mauritius.December 1914: Returned to England.18 January 1915: Moved to Banbury and attached to 88th Brigade in 29th Division. 21 March 1915: Sailed from Avonmouth for Gallipoli, going via Egypt and Mudros. 25 April 1915: Landed at Cape Helles.

Battles of Gallipoli
The Landings of Cape Helles: 25 April 1915
Capture of Sedd el Bar: 26 April 1915
First Battle of Krithia: 28 April 1915
Eski Hissarlik: 1 and 2 May 1915
Second Battle of Krithia: 6-8 May 1915
Third Battle of Krithia: [VIII Corps]: 4 June 1915
Gully Ravine: 28 June – 2 July 1915
Krithia Vineyard: 6 -13 August 1915
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

GALLIPOLI PENINSULAR

6 August 1915 – The 88th Bde. Were detailed to attack various trenches. The Battalion was ordered to assault and take H 12 a and H 12 and trenches under construction N.E. of H 12. 04.00 a.m.  The Battalion paraded and took over the trenches held by the Royal Fusiliers. 02.30 p.m. The bombardment of enemy’s trenches commenced with heavy artillery being followed later by Field Artillery with increased to intensity at 03.30 p.m. At the same moment that our artillery commenced the bombardment, the Turks commenced shelling our trenches with shrapnel causing a curtain number of casualties, they also shelled reserve trenches with high explosives and shrapnel. 03.50 p.m. The infantry advanced, the Turks as once pouring in heavy shrapnel fire as they gout out of the trenches. The Battalion advanced in two lines, W Coy on the left Z in centre Y on right X coy in reserve. Companies finding their own supports. The first trench was taken with little difficulty, when they came under heavy rifle fire and were still under heavy shrapnel fire. The companies were now so weak that, on the Turks Counter attacking with bombs and bayonets, they were too weak to hold the captured trenches and were driven back. Part of X Company were sent to reinforce, and a small portion of captured trench was held by W Company during the night under Capt. Bowen, assisted by some details of other companies. This was a very difficult position, being exposed on three sides to the enemy’s fire. At daybreak the Battalion was withdrawn from the trenches and moved to GULLY BEACH. Casualties were very heavy.

Officers: 6 Killed, 7 Missing. Other Ranks: 44 Killed, 202 Wounded, 173 Missing.

Harry Marshall

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal 12610
Unit: 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 13/07/1915, Age: 24
CWGC: II. A. 5. Calvaire (Essex) Military Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Wethersfield
Resident: 1911 - High Garrett Road, Bocking
Son of: George and Emily Marshall, of High Garrett Road, Bocking
Brother of: George Frederick Marshall, 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment, died 06/08/1915 also in the Great War
Marital status: Not known
Occupation: Work on Buildings
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 30/05/1915
 

9th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: Formed at Warley as part of K1 and attached to 35th Brigade in 12th (Eastern) Division. March 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and in went to Blenheim barracks at Aldershot. 31 May 1915: landed at Boulogne

Battles
Battle of Loos: 1-8 Oct 1915
The Quarries (Hulluch): 13-19 Oct 1915
Hohenzollern Craters: 2-18 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 2-8 July 1916
Battle of Pozieres Ridge: 28 July – 13 Aug 1916
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

PLOGESTREERT – TRENCHES, BELGIUM

12 July 1915, 01.30-04.30 p.m. - Sgt, Day and L/Cpl Man (“C” Coy) carried out a daring reconnaissance in front of our own lines, advancing, in broad daylight, to within 25 yards of the enemy’s trenches. 10.00 p.m. – 01.00 a.m. A party consisting of 2/Lieut. C. R. Broon, Sergt Coombs, L.Cpl Banks and Pte. E Holland patrolled in front of trenches 108 and 109 and reached the German entanglements, some of which were cut and brought back a specimens. The impression that the enemy’s trenches are thinly held here was confirmed.

13 July 1915 – The following casualties occurred:12610 L/Cpl. H. Marshall, “d” Coy . killed by rifle bullet, whilst repairing entanglements.3/2272 Pte. G Hance, “C” Coy. Killed by rifle bullet, whilst on sentry duty in trenches.15213 L/Cpl. G. R. Walters, “B” Coy. Bullet wound in hand (slight) whilst in trenches.

Arthur Moore

Rank and Number: Private 13091
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action: 23/10/1916, Age: 25
CWGC: Pier and Face 10 D. Thiepval Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Thomas and Emma Moore
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Gardener
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 27/07/1915
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
Battle of Frezenberg Ridge: 8-13 May 1915
Battle of Bellewarde Ridge: 24-25 May 1915

5 November 1915 to 3 February 1916: Whilst part of the 12th Brigade was attached to 36th (Ulster) Division for purposes of giving instruction.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916
Battle of the Transloy Ridges: 10-18 October 1916

Ernest Newman

Believed to be:
Rank and Number: Lance Corporal G/29708
Unit: 16th (Public Schools) Battalion, Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own) (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Warley, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 18/08/1917, Aged 35
CWGC: Panel 113 to115 Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium
Born: Sudbury, Suffolk
Resident: 1911 - Lower Bradford Street, Bocking
Son of: Son of Mrs Agnes Newman of Maryland, Wells, Norfolk
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Miller
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

16th (Public Schools) Battalion,Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own)
1 September 1914: Formed in London and moved to Kempton Park racecourse. December: Moved to Warlingham. July 1915: Moved to Clipstone Camp and attached to 100th Brigade in 33rd Division.August 1915: Moved in to Perham Down. 17 November 1915: Landed at Boulogne. 25 February 1916: Left Division and transferred to GHQ Troops. 25 April 1916: Transferred to 86th Brigade in 29th Division.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916

Battles
Saillisel: 28 Feb 1917

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 12-14 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23-24 April 1917
Third Battle of the Scarpe: 3 and 4 May 1917

Alfred Oscar Ollett

Rank and Number: Second Lieutenant (Lieutenant on memorial in St Mary's)
Unit: 13th (West Ham Pals) Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 27/04/1916, Age: 21
CWGC: B. 3. Bully-Grenay Communal Cemetery, French Extension, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - The Post Office, High Garrett, Bocking
Son of: Oscar Joseph and Laura Louisa Ollett, of High Garrett, Bocking
Marital status: Not known
Occupation: Brewery Clerk
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Western Europe 18/12/1915
 

13th (Service) Battalion (West Ham Pals), Essex Regiment
27 December 1914: Formed at West Ham on by the Mayor and Borough.May 1915: Moved to Brentwood. August 1915: moved to Clipstone Camp and attached to 100th Brigade in 33rd Division. 17 November 1915: Landed at Boulogne. 22 December 1915: Transferred to 6th Brigade in 2nd Division.
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

BRAUY – COUPIGNY, FRANCE
18 April 1916, 09.45 a.m. - Battalion marched to BRAUY Stn and entrained. (36b & 36c 1/40,000) 10.30 a.m. for HERSIN Station and from thence marched to Hute in COUPIGNY arriving about 12 noon. 5.30 p.m. Battalion relieved 12th Durham Light Infantry in Northern Sub Section at 8 p.m. Heavy Shelling at Intervals.

NORTHERN SUBSECTION
19/21 April, 1916 – Heavy Shelling at Internals. No Casualties. 
22 April 1916, 04.00 p.m. – Battalion relieved by 17th Middlesex Regt and took over billets in the Support Area CITE CALONNE vacated by the 1st Kings Regt.

SUPPORT AREA
23/26 April 1916 – Nothing to report with the exception of heavy Artillery fire at internals.
23 April 1916 – Capt. & Adjt. F.J. TRUMBLE return from leave (Adjutant).
26 April 1916, 01.15 p.m. – Battalion relived 17th Middlesex Regt in trenches in Northern Subsection.

NORTHERN SUBSECTION
27 April 1916 – Heavy Bombardment heard on our right. Casualties: 2nd Lieut. A.O. OLLETT, Killed by Sniper*. No. 17958 Pte. J COOPER, Killed by Trench Mortar. Wounded: No. 179391 L/Cpl N.W. BELLINGER and No. 17509 L/CPL A. WILKINSON (Accidently).

*2nd Lieut. Ollett was the first officer of the 13th (West Ham Pals) Battalion to be killed in the Great War.

Other info: 
There is a small memorial to him at St Mary's Church, placed by his parents.

R. T. Parker

Rank and Number: Corporal T/206608
Unit: 2/4th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed on Action: 29/07/1918
CWGC: IA. B. 8. Raperie British Cemetery, Villemontoire, France
Born: Location not known
Marital status: Not known
Son of: Mr. R. W. Parker, of 6 King's Corner, Bocking
Husband of: Not known
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Balkans 17/07/1915
 

2/4th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment)
August 1914: Formed at Croydon in as second Line unit attached to 2/Surrey Brigade, 2/Home Counties Division.24 April 1915: Moved to 160th Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, initially joining as a composite unit with 2/5th Queen's, but restored to become 2/4th again after two months.

Battles
The Landings at Suvia: 9-15 Aug 1915
Battle of Romani: 4 and 5 Aug 1916

Invasion of Palatine
First Battle of Gaza: 26 and 27 March 1917
Second Battle of Gaza: 19-19 April 1917
Third Battle of Gaza: 27 Oct – 7 Nov 1917
Capture of Beesheba: 31 Oct 1917
Capture of Tell Khuweilfe: 3-7 Nov 1917
Capture of Jerusalem: 7-9 Dec 1917
Defence of Jerusalem: 27-30 Dec 1917

31 May 1918: Battalion left Brigade15 June 1918: Embarked at Alexandria21 June 1918: Disembarked at Taranto29 June 1918: Arrived at Proven30 June 1918: joined 101st Brigade of 34th Division

Battles of the Marne
Battle of the Soissonais and of the Ourq: 22 July – 8 Aug 1918

Reginald Thomas Parmenter

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal (Sapper on memorial in St Mary's) 22818
Unit: 1st Signal Company, Signal Depot (Fenny Stratford), Royal Engineers
Marital status: Not known
Died: 27/05/1916, Age: 22
CWGC: Screen Wall. 235. 19A. City of London Cemetery and Crematorium, Manor Park
Born: Braintree
Resident: 1911 - Bridge End Place, Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Thomas and Rosamond Parmenter, of Church Street, Bocking
Husband of: Not known
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 17/8/1914

Thomas Parsley

Rank and Number: Private 12728
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 23/10/1916, Aged: 21
CWGC: VIII. F. 10. Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, France
Born: Panfield, Essex
Resident: Bridge End Place, Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Alfred and Eliza Parsley
Marital status: Not known
Occupation: Mat MakerMedals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 27/07/1915
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
Battle of Frezenberg Ridge: 8-13 May 1915
Battle of Bellewarde Ridge: 24-25 May 1915

5 November 1915 to 3 February 1916: Whilst part of the 12th Brigade was attached to 36th (Ulster) Division for purposes of giving instruction.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916
Battle of the Transloy Ridges: 10-18 October 1916

Frank Davey Perry

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal (Corporal on memorial in St Mary's) 1164 2164
Unit: 3rd Battalion, 1st Infantry Brigade, ANZAC
Enlisted: Rosehill, New South Wales, 05/10/1914
Died: Between 07/08/1915 and 12/08/1915, Age: 21
CWGC: Sp. Mem. B. 7. Lone Pine Cemetery ANZAC, Gallipoli, Turkey
Born: Braintree
Occupation before enlistment: Assistant Chemist in England and Fettler in Australia
Resident: Windsor Street, Richmond, New South Wales
Son of: James and Rosa Perry, of Highfield Stile Farm, High Garrett Road, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

Other info: 
Embarked at Melbourne, Victoria, on HMAT A32 Thermistocles, 22/12/1914.

Cecil Claude Playle

Rank and Number: Private 32496
Unit: 13th (West Ham Pals) Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action: 28/04/1917, Age: 26
CWGC: Bay 7, Arras Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Halstead, Essex
Son of: Frederick James and Sarah Playle, of 7 Alice Cottage, Church Street, Bocking
Marital status: Married
Occupation: ClerkMedals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

13th (Service) Battalion (West Ham Pals), Essex Regiment
27 December 1914: Formed at West Ham on by the Mayor and Borough. May 1915: Moved to Brentwood.August 1915: moved to Clipstone Camp and attached to 100th Brigade in 33rd Division. 17 November 1915: Landed at Boulogne. 22 December 1915: Transferred to 6th Brigade in 2nd Division.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Delville Wood: 25 July – 9 Aug 1916
Capture and Consolidation of Deliville Wood: 27 and 28 July 1916
Attack on Walterlot Farm – Guillemont: 8 and 9 Aug 1916
Battle of the Ancre: 13-16 Aug 1916
Operations on the Ancre: 11 Jan – 13 Mar 1917
Actions of Miraumont: 17 and 18 Feb 1917
Capture of the Thilloys: 25 Feb – 2 Mar 1917
Capture of Grevillers Trench (near Iries): 10 Mar 1017
German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line: 14-19 Mar 1917

Battles of Arras
Battle of Vimy Ridge: 12-14 April 1917
Battle of Arleux: 28 and 29 April 1917

Battalion War Diary Entry:

MAROEUIL TO ROCLINCOURT AND LINE(OPPY – 6 miles North East of ARRAS, FRANCE)

27 April 1917 – Battalion moved to ROCLINCOURT, leaving MAROEUIL at 11 a.m. and practicing the attack on route, arriving at ROCLINCOURT at 2 p.m. where dinners was served after which men rested until dusk. Battalion then moved up to the assembly trenches beyond BAILLEUR (OPPY SECTOR) and formed up ready for attack. All ranks appeared confident of success and cheerful. Each man carried chocolate and 2 cheese sandwiches and were given a rum issue before moving off. The following is a copy of operational orders issued by the Commanding Officer to the Company Commanders, and others concerned:

The Battalion will carry out an attack marked on sketch map on “Z” Day. “Z” Day will be notified later. The attack will be carried out by the 2nd Division – the 6th Brigade on the RIGHT and the 5th Brigade on the LEFT. The 63rd (Royal Naval Division) will be on the RIGHT and the 1st Canadian Division will be on the LEFT of the 2nd Division respectively. (Ref. Map OPPY 1/5000)

Dividing Lines. Dividing lines with the Battalion of the Division on the RIGHT, will be from enemy front line at B.24.b.3.8. to C.14.b.02 Dividing line with the 17 Middlesex on the LEFT will be from SOUTH EDGE of OPPY WOOD and VILLAGE to C.14.a.0.2. Disposition of Battalion RIGHT to LEFT: “B” “C” “D” “A”. Each Company will have a frontage of 120 yds.

Method of carrying out attack. Companies will be organised in three platoons and the Battalion will advance in three WAVES.

One platoon from each Company for the 1st WAVE.One platoon from each company for the 2nd WAVE.One platoon form each company for the 3rd WAVE.1st WAVE will take the First OBJECTIVE.2nd WAVE will take the Second OBJECTIVE.3rd WAVE will take the GREEN LINE.First wave will advance at ZERO, others at 50 yds distance.

Objective. First OBJECTIVE SOUTH of OPPY VILLAGE at at C.13.a.4.1 to C.19.a.8.9. Second OBJECTIVE From track at C.13.b.3.3. to C.13.d.4.0. BROWN LINE from C.14.a.0.2. to C.14.c.0.1. One Company of 2nd SOUTH STAFFS from 12 noon “Y/Z” Day. This Company will supply garrison for two Strong Points and “Moppers up”. Carrying parties are detailed from 1st KINGS and 2nd SOUTH STAFFS.

Moppers up. Moppers up of various waves will follow up twenty yards in rear of their respective wave. They will join their companies to which they were originally attached after mopping up.

1st WAVE. German Front Line. 1 Officer and 40 O.R. 10 men will be specially told off for communication trench running from B.18.d.4.3. to B.18.d.6.2. Six men at B.18.b.7.6. Six men at B.18.d.8.8.

2nd WAVE. Twenty men for group practice trenches running in B.13.d. Six Bombers under N.C.O. to follow communication trench running through N.E. through B.13.d.

Artillery Barrage. The artillery barrage is the guiding factor as to the pace of Infantry advancing. It must be impressed on all ranks taking part in the attack that it is absolutely essential to advance close up to the barrage, and that they must assault any portion of the enemy trench or portion opposite them, immediately the barrage lifts off it. Barrage tables will be forwarded later. The protective barrage will halt 500 yds EAST of the BROWN LINE and Companies will consolidate 100 yds in front of trench. This consolidation will take the form of strong points.

Patrols. On gaining the BROWN LINE, patrols will be sent forward to NEUVIREULL immediately the protective barrage lifts. All ground gained must be consolidated immediately, and one shovel every fourth man will be carried for this purpose in all waves.

Stokes Mortars. Two Stokes mortars will join in the artillery barrage on the front line at ZERO. Two mortars will be attached to the Battalion and will move forward with the 4th WAVE and proceed to the point where the track crosses trench at B.13.b.8.1.

Strong points. Strong points will be made as follows:- Divisional Boundary at C.13.d.5.0. and C.13.b.4.1. Garrison of each strong point will be two Vickers Guns and an officer and 16 O.R. from the 2nd S.STAFFS Regt. Parties will carry coils of wire. These garrisons will move with 4th WAVE and will proceed direct to their posts and commence consolidation.

Formation of Forward Posts. On reaching the line of the Final Objective (BROWN LINE) strong points will be established in touch with supporting each other 100 yrds in front of the enemy trench.

Communications. Relay posts will be established as follows:- (1) B.18.c.7.6. (2) B18.d.8.5. (3) C13.c.8.5. Each post will be established under Battalion arrangements and will consist of 4 Runners and 4 Signallers. Posts will be marked by a BLUE FLAG on ground. A rifle shutter will be set up for guiding purposes. Every effort is to be made to obtain visual signalling. Os.C. Companies will sending Hourly reports from ZERO onwards. All Company Commanders or platoon commanders on reaching their objective will forward Field Message Cards and sketch maps showing position and whether touch has been gained with flanks. A contact aeroplane will fly over our line at 7 a.m. Flares will be lit and mirrors flashed, This will be done when contact aeroplane sounds his KLAXON HORN or fires a VERY LIGHT. The marking of Contact Patrols machines of No. 5 Squadron R.F.C. (attached to XIII Corps) is a s follows:- Two black bands under the bottom of each plane. Fours streamers, one on each rear interplane strut, on both right and left planes.

Position of Headquarters. Brigade Headquarters B.21.a.6.8. Battalion Headquarters Road Junction B.17.d.3.4

Food and Water Supply. Reserve rations dump will be at B.26.a. Iron Rations will be issued on “Y” Day consisting of two cheese sandwiches per man. Rations will be brought up to BAILLEUL Stn. For consumption on the day after ZERO. Guides will meet ration parties at the station. Reserve water will be drawn from the front line at the rate of 50 petrol tins per battalion.

Watches. Watches will be synchronized on “Y” Day.

Carrying Parties. One N.C.O. and 16 men per company. Os.C. Companies will ensure that these men are sent back to fetch more materials.

Dress. Fighting order. One days rations and Iron Rations to be carried and water bottles filled. The following shall also be carried.

2 Bombs per man (No. 5 Mills)Rifle Bombers 10 No.23 Grenades2 Sandbags per manBombers 10 Bombs (Mills)Every man to carry flare and 120 rds S.A.A.32 Magazines per Lewis Gun will be carriedFour Lewis Guns from 2nd SOUTH STAFFS. Two will be attached to “A” Coy. And two to “B” Coy.Every man to have a round chamber when advancing.Special Parties will be told off to deal with enemy gun emplacements behind the enemy’s front line and traverses.

Wounded. All walking wounded must bring down their own equipment.

Prisoners. Prisoners to be sent to cage in ROCLINCOURT at cross roads A.28..a. All officers will be searched and all documents etc at once taken to Bn. H.Qs. An escort of one man per 10 prisoners will be allowed. He will demand a receipt on handing over to Divisional Cage.

Aid Posts. Regimental Aid Post at Bn. H.Qs. The following Posts will be established. B.16.a.3.8. (SUGAR FACTORY), B.15.c.8.7. (SUNKEN ROAD), B.21.c.7.7. (BAILLEUL STN.)

S.O.S. The S.O.S. signal for barrage fire will be one RED, one GREEN, one RED light fired in rapid succession. The signal will be repeated as short intervals until the artillery comply with the signal. A succession of white lights remains the signal for lengthen range.

Notes. The 4th WAVE will consist of TRENCH MOTARS, five VICKERS GUNS, and garrison of strong points. On arrival at objectives Os.C. Coys. Will form company dumps of bombs.

(SGd) C. Martin Lt. Col. Cmdg. 13th Bn. Essex Regt.

LINE TO ROCLINCOURT

28th April 1917, 02.00 a.m. The Battalion was formed up in their jumping off position without any hitch occurring about 2 a.m. in spite of heavy shelling. Companies were organized in three platoons, one platoon of each company representing 1st, 2nd and 3rd WAVES, each wave consisting of two lines. 1st Line Bombers and Riflemen. 2nd line Lewis Gunners and Rifle Bombers.

Moppers up for each wave were formed up in the rear of its 2nd line. Carrying parties and garrison strong points were formed up in rear of last wave. Close touch was gained with the Highland Light Infantry, the 17th Middlesex and the Royal Marine light Infantry. At 04.25 a.m. our own barrage came down and at 04.33 a.m. the first wave crossed the enemy’s front line trench, with the exception of the extreme right Battalion, which were held up by uncut wire, and lost heavily from Machine Gun fire in endeavouring to get through it. At this period, touch was entirely lost with the Royal Marine Light Infantry on our RIGHT. It was maintained between 13th Essex and 17th Middlesex, but was lost with the Highland Light Infantry who were on the LEFT of the 17th Middlesex.

The advance continued under the barrage to the line of the practice trench in C.13.d. Eastern end of OPPY WOOD and trench in C.7.e. At this period, a party of German bombers attacked our RIGHT FLANK. Heavy machine gun fire and rifle fire took place from OPPY VILLAGE and large numbers of the enemy were advancing down the SUNKEN ROAD at the CRUCIFIX.

At 05.50 a.m. I ordered one company of the Kings Royal Rifles Corps (which company had been sent by the 6th Infantry Bde as support) to advance and form a defensive flank from B.18.d.3.5. to Southern End of practice trenches. This Company was unable to proceed further than the British front line owing to hostile barrage and machine gun fire.

About this time he Battalion on our LEFT (17th Middlesex) was heavily attacked from the front and LEFT flank, and large numbers of the enemy advanced through OPPY WOOD, got in the rear of the line, and reoccupied parts of the German front line.

A senior officer was sent forward to clear up the situation about 07.30 a.m. but did not return, and no messages were received from him. The heavy fighting continued and at 09.00 a.m. the troops were ordered to fall back, hold and consolidate the German front line. Small detached parties only succeeded in doing this and were unable to cope with the enemy who were holding this trench. All the officers of this Battalion had become casualties and the majority of the non-commissioned officers, and what was left of the Battalion was quite disorganized and exhausted. Small parties held out, but eventually retired from shell hole to shell hole at dusk.

Casualties.

Killed.(2/Lieut.) T/Capt. J.J.G. CLARKE, O.C. “C” Coy.(2/Lieut.) T/Capt. C. W. RITSON, O.C. “B” Coy.3 O.R.  (Other Ranks.)

Wounded(2/Lieut.) T/Capt. F.C. LOWINGS. O.C. “D” Coy.2/Lieut. H. H. SHERMAN Lewis Gun Officer2/Lieut. A. R. SACRE2/Lieut. W. LAVINGTON79 Other Ranks.

Missing.2/Lieut. A. C. LEECH2/Lieut. W. B. PATERSON A/Adjt.2/Lieut. J. A. MASON, O.C. “A” Coy.2/Lieut. J. A. BARRETT2/Lieut. S. F. VOWLES2/Lieut. H. P. TURNER2/Lieut. W. FREEMAN2/Lieut. R. IBBOTSOE240 Other Ranks.

The remainder of the Battalion and various troops holding the British Line were relived in the night of the 28th by the 22nd Royal Fusiliers in the first line and a company of the 23rd Fusiliers in the support line, returning to dugouts near ROCLINCOURT, and arriving there about 05.00 a.m. on the 29th. The under mentioned officers joined the Battalion for duty. Draft of 159 O.R. joined.

2/Lieut. R. G. TREBILCO2/Lieut. H. V. COOK2/Lieut. R. G. BOX2/Lieut. W. S. McLAREN2/Lieut. C. C. COLE rejoined the battalion from XIII Corps, Draft Training Depot.

Frank Herbert Rankin

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal (Rankin, R. Corporal on memorial in St Mary's) 8916
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Warley, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 26/08/1914 Age: 25
CWGC: I. Esnes Communal Cemetery, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Herbert Harcort Rankin, of Bocking
Marital status: Not known
Medals: 1914 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 22/08/1914
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment

August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division. Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

26 August 1914

01.30 a.m. A, C & D Companies left BERHENCOURT route COUDRY – LIGNEY – HAWCOURT – ESNES.

03.00 a.m. C & D Companies delayed for about 1 hour, at LIGNY owing to artillery halting the town and blocking the road, so that it was only possible to advance in single file.

04.30 a.m. Arrived in ESNES – A and B Companies then on hill near L of LANGSART entrenching.

06.00 a.m. Heavy Gun and Machine gun fire opened on A and B Companies – C and D Companies ordered to take up position near Sugar Factory ¾ miles S of N in LONGSART, to cover retirement.

08.00 a.m. Retirement from LONSART commenced towards SELVIGNY – Enemy did not peruse beyond wood S of LONGSART with infantry, but with gun fire only.

01.00 p.m. Enemy having apparentlyevacuated till an advance was ordered to recovered wounded – on arrival at the top of LONGART hill many wounded and killed found. Enemy opened heavy fire a retirement was ordered. This was very steadily carried out by the Battalion under heavy shell fire, in the direction of SELVIGNY. Casualties – Capt. Vandeleur and 9 men killed, Lt. Round (since dead). Lt Smith-Masten and 40 men wounded. Lt. Northey (3rd Bn) and 98 men missing.

0.20 p.m. Retirement ordered to VEDHULLE route WALMCOURT – MALICOURT – VILLERS OUTREAUX – AUBENVHEULS _ VENDHUILE – Battalion Advance Guard Arrived 10.30 p.m. VENDHUILE and billeted.

George Ratcliff

Rank and Number: Private 13224
Unit: 11th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 13/11/1915, Age: 25
CWGC: K. 3. Potijze Burial Ground Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Panfield Lane, Bocking
Son of: Frederick and Elizabeth Ratcliff
Brother of: Sidney Ratcliff, 2nd Bn. Essex Regiment, killed in action 16/04/1915 and William Ratcliff who also died in the Great War
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Iron Fitter
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 30/08/1915
 

11th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warley in as part of K3 and attached to 71st Brigade in 24th Division.January 1915: Moved to Shoreham and then to billets in Brighton in.March 1915: Returned to ShorehamJune 1915: Moved to Blackdown.

30 August 1915: Landed at Boulogne.

Battles
Battle of Loos: 25 and 26 Sept 1915

11 October 1915: Transferred with Brigade to 6th Division.27 October 1915: Transferred to 18th Brigade in same Division.
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

POPERINGHE, BELGIUM
9 December 1915 - Baths for the men. 04.30 p.m. entrained for the siding near YPRES Asylum reaching there at 05.45 – went into Billets “B” Coy at BURGOMEISTER FARM (1/2 Co) “A” Coy at KAT FARM – the remainder and H.Q at Canal Bank.

CANAL BANK BRIDGE A.2.
10 December 1915 - Working and carrying parties. M.G. section went into reserve lines. 5 Casualties.
11 December 1915 - Working and carrying parties. Four casualties. ¾ of inch of rain fell in 24 hours.
12 and 13 December 1915 – Same as December 11.

Sidney Ratcliff

Rank and Number: Private 9055 (corrected from 10289 on Medal Card)
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action: 16/04/1915, Age: 22
CWGC: I. M. 5. Calvaire (Essex) Military Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Panfield Lane, Bocking
Son of: Frederick and Elizabeth Ratcliff
Brother of: George Ratcliff, 11th Bn. Essex Regiment, died 13/11/1915 and William Ratcliff who also died in the Great War
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Iron Labourer
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 24/02/1915
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division. Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

William Ratcliff

Rank and Number: Private 71821
Unit: 18th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps. Formally 10646, Essex Regiment
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: 08/11/1918
CWGC: I. B. 23 Busigny Communal Cemetery Extension, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Panfield Lane, Bocking
Son of: Frederick and Elizabeth Ratcliff
Brother of: Sidney Ratcliff, 2nd Bn. Essex Regiment, killed in action 16/04/1915 and George Ratcliff, 11th Bn. Essex Regiment, died 13/11/1915 also in the Great War
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Mill Labourer
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

18th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps

Formed Grantham. Moved to France and joined 18th (Eastern) Division. Served with either the 51st, 52nd or 53rd Machine Gun Companies within the Battalion. 13 February 1916: Moved to Ribemont.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1-8 July 1916
Battle of Bazentine Ridge: 14-17 July 1916
Capture of Trones Wood: 14 July 1916
Delville Wood: 19-21 July 1916
Battle of the Ancre Heights: 1-5 Oct and 17 Oct – 11 Nov 1916
Capture of the Schwaben Redoubt: 30 Sept – 5 Oct 1916
Capture of Regina Trench: 21 Oct 1916
Battle of the Ance: 13-18 Nov 1916

Battles
Operations on the Ancre: 16 Jan – 13 Mar 1917
Miraumont: 17 and 18 Feb 1917
Capture of Irles: 10 Mar 1917
German Retreat to the Hindenburg line: 14-20 Mar 1917

Battles of Arras
Third Battle of the Scarpe: 3 and 4 May 1917

Battles of Ypres
Battle of Pilkem Ridge: 31 July 1917
Inverness Copse: 10 Aug 1917
Battle of Langemark: 16 and 17 August 1917
First Battle of Passchendaele: 12 Oct 1917
Capture of Poelcappelle: 5-10 Nov 1917
Second Battle of Passchendaele: 5-10 Nov 1917

16 February 1918: Moved into No 18 Battalion, Machine Gun Corps

First Battles of the Somme
Battle of St. Quentin: 21-23 Mar 1918
Battle of the Avre: 4 April 1918
Villers Bretonneux: 24 and 25 April 1918

The Advance to Victory
Battle of Amiens: 8 and 9 Aug 1918

Second Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 21-23 Aug 1918
Capture of Usna and Tara Hills: 23 Aug 1918
Capture of Trones Wood: 27 Aug 1918
Second Battle of Bapaume: 31 Aug – 3 Sept 1918

Battles of the Hindenburg Line
Battle of Epéhy: 18 Sept 1918
Battle of St. Quenrin Canal: 29 Sept – 1 Oct 1918

The Final Advance in Picardy
Battle of Selle: 20-26 Oct 1918
Battle of the Sambre: 4 Nov 1918

Egbert Percy Rayner

Rank and Number: Gunner 347517
Unit: 210th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 24/08/1918, Age: 22
CWGC: A. 32. Warvillers Churchyard Cemetery, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Hill Villas, Church Lane, Bocking
Son of: Edward and Sarah Alice Rayner, of Hill Villas, Church Lane, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Clerk
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

210th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery
10 November 1916: Arrived in France

Siege Batteries RGA were equipped with heavy howitzers, sending large calibre high explosive shells in high trajectory, plunging fire. The usual armaments were 6 inch, 8 inch and 9.2 inch howitzers, although some had huge railway or road mounted 12 inch howitzers. As British artillery tactics developed, the Siege Batteries were most often employed in destroying or neutralising the enemy artillery, as well as putting destructive fire down on strong points, dumps, store, roads and railways behind enemy lines.

Sidney Frederick Rayner

Rank and Number: Private 26253
Unit: 1/4th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 22/09/1919, Age: 28
CWGC: B. 98. Kantara War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt
Born: Location not known
Resident: Bridge End, Bocking
Son of: Frederick and Sarah Rayner, of Bridge End, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Gardener
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

1/4th Battalion Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Brentwood.Late 1914: Moved to Norwich.April 1915: Moved to Colchester.May 1915: Became part of the 161st Brigade in 54th (East Anglian) Division.Late May 1915: Moved to St Albans.21 July 1915: Sailed from Devonport for Gallipoli, going via Lemnos.12 Aug 1915: Landed at Suvla Bay. 4 Dec 1915: Evacuated from Gallipoli and moved to Mudros. 17 Dec 1915: Arrived at Alexandria.28 Dec 1915: Moved in to the Western Desert in connection with the Senussi Rising. 2 April 1916: As part of Division, took over No. 1 (Southern) Section, Suez Canal Defenses.

Invasion of Palestine
First Battle of Gaza: 26 and 27 Mar 1917
Second Battle of Gaza: 17-19 April 1917
Third Battle of Gaza: 27 Oct – 7 Nov 1917
Capture of Gaza: 1-7 Nov 1917
Battle of Jaffa: 21-22 Dec 1917
Berukin: 9-10 April 1918
Battle of Sharon: 19-23 Sept 1918

Battalion War Diary entry:

KASR-EL-NIL, EYGPT
17 September 1919 – Twelve other ranks proceeded to KANTARA for leave in the U.K. The 2nd Battalion STAFFORDSHIRE REGT joint Battalion in a route march through CAIRO.
20 September 1919 – Five other ranks proceed to KANTARA for demobilization. Transport of the Battalion was handed over to 2nd (F. S.) Bn. NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE REGT.
22 September 1919 – Lieut. W. D. WHEELWRIGHT rejoined the Battalion from hospital.
30 Sept 1919: Disbanded in Egypt as part of the 54th Division

E. Redit

Rank and Number: Shoeing Smith (Reditt, E. Private on memorial in St Mary's) 98676
Unit: Ammunition Column, 17th Division, Royal Field Artillery
Enlisted: Woolwich
Died: 30/10/1918, Age: 30
CWGC: LXXI. E. 23. Etaples Military Cemetery, France
Born: Badwell Green
Resident: Braintree
Son of: Walter and Jane Redit, of The Forge, Great Ashfield, Suffolk
Husband of: Amelia Mary Redit, of "Langemarch," Rayne Road, Bocking, later of 49 Wheatly Avenue, Braintree
Occupation: Blacksmith
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 13/7/1915
 

Ammunition Column, 17th Division, Royal Field Artillery

Battles
The Bluff: 14 Feb – 2 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1-10 July 1916
Capture of Fricourt: 2 July 1916
Battle of Delville Wood: 1-12 Aug 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 12-14 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23-24 April 1917
Capture and Defense of Roeux: 13-16 May 1917

Battles of Ypres
First Battle of Passchendaele: 12 October 1917
Second Battle of Passchendaele: 9-10 November 1917

Battles of the Somme
Battle of St. Quentin: 21-23 March 1918
First Battle of Bapaume: 24 and 25 March 1918

The Advance to Victory – Second Battles of the Somme
Battle of Epéhy: 18 Sept 1918
Battle of Cambrai: 8 and 9 Oct 1918
Pursuit to the Selle: 8 and 9 Oct 1918

The Final Advance in Picardy
Battle of the Selle: 17-23 Oct 1918

Herbert John Savill

Rank and Number: Captain, R.N.
Ship: H.M.S. Hampshire, Royal Navy
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 05/06/1916, Age: 46
CWGC: Panel 10 Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Portsmouth
Born: 20/05/1870
Resident: Braintree
Son of: Lt.Col. S. G. Savill, of Boleyns, Bocking
Marital status: Not known
Medals: Not known
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

Other info:
Captain Savill was listed as one of the Commanding Officers recommended for commendation for service in the Battle of Jutland, fought between 31 May and 1 June 1916, whilst in command of HMS Hampshire. Four days later on the 5th of June while en route from Scapa Flow to Russia via the port of Arkhangelsk, HMS Hampshire hit a mine laid by U-Boat 475 on the night of the 28/29th May. Captain Savill and over 600 of his crew died when the ship sunk, including the Secretary of State for War, Field Marshal Lord Kitchener, and his staff who were on diplomatic mission. Only 14 members of crew made it ashore.

Walter Saward

Rank and Number: Private 12489
Unit: 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: Killed in Action: 13/10/1915, Age: 21
CWGC: Panel 85 to 87 Loos Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Henry and Emma Saward, of Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Dyer
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

9th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: Formed at Warley as part of K1 and attached to 35th Brigade in 12th (Eastern) Division. March 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and in went to Blenheim barracks at Aldershot. 31 May 1915: landed at Boulogne

Battles
Battle of Loos: 1-8 Oct 1915
The Quarries (Hulluch): 13-19 Oct 1915
Hohenzollern Craters: 2-18 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 2-8 July 1916
Battle of Pozieres Ridge: 28 July – 13 Aug 1916
Battle of Transloy Ridges: 1-18 Oct 1916
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

NOYELLE LES VERMELLES (15 miles North of ARRAS, FRANCE)
13 October 1915, 12 noon – Intense bombardment started, Germans replied heavily but without causing any casualties to the Battalion. The Battalion was ordered to move forward and replace Companies of Suffolks and Berkshires as they vacated about 01.30 p.m. the leading Companies began to move. Many of the communication trenches were impassable on account of the heavy bombardment to which they had been and still were subjected, so that movement was extremely difficult, Two companies, less parties detailed for water and bomb carrying eventually reached a trench turning out of BRESLAU AVENUE where they remained under Major COPEMAN in support to the Berkshires till ordered to relive the Suffolks in the captured hairpin of trenches at G.5.d.90. This they did about 04.00 a.m. Oct 14th. Meanwhile the remaining two companies (A and B) on the left found a portion of the old German line from G.5.c.8.8 to G.11.b.17 unoccupied except by a M.G. of the S. Staffords and were ordered by the Commanding Officer to hold this line, they were subsequently reinforced on the left and were then moved into the trench from G.5.d.13 to G.5.d.70 one company remaining to hold the redoubt at G.5.d.13 and trench to G.5.c.88.

William R. Self

Rank and Number: Private 3/2525
Unit: 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 02/05/1915
CWGC: Panel 144 to 150 or 229 to 233. Helles Memorial, Gallipoli, Turkey
Born: Gosfield, Essex
Resident: Braintree
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Not known
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

1st Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Mauritius.December 1914: Returned to England. 18 January 1915: Moved to Banbury and attached to 88th Brigade in 29th Division. 21 March 1915: Sailed from Avonmouth for Gallipoli, going via Egypt and Mudros. 25 April 1915: Landed at Cape Helles.

Battles of Gallipoli
The Landings of Cape Helles: 25 April 1915
Capture of Sedd el Bar: 26 April 1915
First Battle of Krithia: 28 April 1915
Eski Hissarlik: 1 and 2 May 1915
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

GALLIPOLI PENINSULAR
2 May 1915 – 07.30 p.m. Went up to reserve trench and took over from Hants Regiment.

Arthur Shead

Rank and Number: Private 250877
Unit: 1/5th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Territorial Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford, Essex
Died: 26/03/1917, Age: 33
CWGC: Panels 33 to 39. Jerusalem Memorial, Israel and Palestine (including Gaza)
Born: Finchingfield, Essex
Resident: Bocking
Son of: John and Julia Shead, of The Causeway, Finchingfield, Essex
Husband of: Edith Alice Shead, of 13, Nellie's Cottages, Bocking
Occupation: Silk Dyer
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Balkans (Greek Macedonia, Serbia, Bulgaria and European Turkey) 10/12/1913
 

1/5th Battalion Essex Regiment
Aug 1914: In Chelmsford.Late 1914: Moved to Norwich.April 1915: Moved to Colchester.May 1915: Became part of the 161st Brigade in 54th (East Anglian) Division. Late May 1915: Moved to St Albans.21 July 1915: Sailed from Devonport for Gallipoli, going via Lemnos.12 Aug 1915: Landed at Suvla Bay. 4 Dec 1915: Evacuated from Gallipoli and moved to Mudros. 17 Dec 1915: Arrived at Alexandria. 28 Dec 1915: Moved in to the Western Desert in connection with the Senussi Rising. 2 April 1916: As part of Division, took over No. 1 (Southern) Section, Suez Canal Defenses.

Invasion of Palestine
First Battle of Gaza: 26 and 27 Mar 1917
Second Battle of Gaza: 17-19 April 1917
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

SEIRAT, PALASTINE (ISREAL)
26 March 1917, 06:00 a.m. Battalion proceeded to SHEIK NEBHAN as part of general reserve. 09.00 a.m. Battalion moved nearer the enemy positions. 01.00 p.m. Battalion moved with the 4th Essex to attack on S part of the GAZA defences in support of 160 Bde (Between Green Hill and brown Hill). Battalion suffered heavy casualties and at midnight retired by order of Bde.

Frederick Sibley

Rank and Number: Private (Sibley, S. on memorial in St Mary's) 46615
Unit: 11th (Service) Battalion (Midland Pioneers), Leicestershire Regiment. (Kitchener New Army)
Formerly 213958, Royal Engineers
Enlisted: Braintree
Died: Killed in action: 15/10/1917, Age 25
CWGC: II. M. 26. Menin Road South Military Cemetery, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Terrace Yard, Rayne Road, Bocking
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Wash House Man
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

11th (Service) Battalion, (Midland Pioneers) Leicestershire Regiment
October 1915: Formed at Leicester by the Mayor and a local committee.March 1916: landed in France.1 April 1916: attached to 6th Division as a Pioneer Battalion.

Battles of the Somme
Battles of Flers-Courcelette: 15-18 Sept and 21- 22 Sept 1916
Battle of Morval: 35-28 Sept 1916
Capture of Lesboeufs: 25 Sept 1916
Battle of Transloy Ridges: 9-18 Oct 1916

Battles
Fighting on Hill 70 (Lens): 13-22 April 1917

Robert William Smith

Rank and Number: Private 12487
Unit: 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Chelmsford
Died: Killed in Action: 27/03/1918
CWGC: Panel 51 and 52. Pozieres Memorial, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Not known
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 30/05/1915
 

9th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: Formed at Warley as part of K1 and attached to 35th Brigade in 12th (Eastern) Division. March 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and in went to Blenheim barracks at Aldershot. 31 May 1915: landed at Boulogne

Battles
Battle of Loos: 1-8 Oct 1915
The Quarries (Hulluch): 13-19 Oct 1915
Hohenzollern Craters: 2-18 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 2-8 July 1916
Battle of Pozieres Ridge: 28 July – 13 Aug 1916
 Battle of Transloy Ridges: 1-18 Oct 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 9-12 April 1917
Battle of Arleux: 28 and 29 April 1917
Third Battle of the Scarpe: 3 and 4 May 1917
Attack on Devil’s Trench: 12 May 1917

First Battles of the Somme
First Battle of Bapaume: 25 Mar 1918
Battle of Arras: 28 Mar 1918
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

ALBERT, FRANCE
26 March 1918 – Orders received to take up a position between ALBERT and BOUZINCOURT. The Battalion dug in and spent the night there.
27March 1918 – The enemy attacked the Battalion on our left. 2 platoons of D Company were sent there as supports. We suffered 4 officers and 128 other ranks killed, wounded and missing.

Sidney Maurice Smoothy

Rank and Number: Private 10260
Unit: 2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment (Regular Army)
Enlisted: Braintree
Died: Killed in Action: 02/05/1915
CWGC: Panel 39. Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium
Born: Bocking
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Not known
Marital status: Not known
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 06/03/1915
 

2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: In Chatham as part of 12th Brigade in 4th Division.Moved to Cromer, Norwich and then to Harrow. 28 August 1914: Landed at Le Havre.

Battles
Retreat from Mons: 25 Aug – 5 Sept 1914
Battle of le Cateau: 26 Aug 1914
Battle of the Marne: 6-9 Sept 1914
Battle of the Aisne: 13-20 Sept 1914
Battle of Armentiéres: 13 Oct – 2 Nov 1914
Capture of Merteren: 13 Oct 1914

Battles of Ypres
Battle of St. Julien: 25 April – 4 May 1915
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

YPRES, BELGIUM
2 May 1915, 05.00 p.m. Enemy attack with gas – a thick wall of gas some 60 or 70 feet high of a greenish yellow colour was seen all along the front of the trenches held by the 12th Bde. The gas appeared to be thickest in front of the trenches held by the Lancs. Fus. On the right and by XXXX this Bn, on the left. Our trench was held by B and D Companies and one platoon from A Company. This garrison was driven from the trenches in spite of having respirators, with the exception of Capt. Pechell and 12 N.C.O.s and men of B Company, this party stuck it out until the trenches were reoccupied. The names of the N.C.O.s and men who stayed with Capt. Perhell are – C.S.M. Tipler (Killed) – C.Q.M.S. Turl, St. Coomers, Sgt Barker, Pte. Brown, Maynard, Howes, Read, Curts, Finch, Pte. Sonetten (A Coy), Pte. Briggs. When B and D Companies retired 2 Lt. Irwin, who was in charge of the right support consisting of 2 platoons A Company and were some 400 yds. Back. Rushed his men in the face of heavy shrapnel fire, through the gas and reoccupied the right end of the trench. C Company under Lt. Atkinson moved up from the reserve some 1500 yards back and in spite of a heavy shrapnel fire and machine gun fire reoccupied the left and centre of the front trenches. Both the French and our own artillery kept magnificent covering fire on the enemy’s trenches and absolutely prevented him from leaving them. After the trenches had been reoccupied the enemy twice left his trench opposite our right but was driven back each time. A hostile aeroplane also came over flying low and was brought down by the Battalion, but unfortunately fell just in his own lines. One company 1st 2nd Monmouthshire Regt. Was sent up to occupy right support trench as the Battalion had not enough men to do so. A large number of men were missing, these had been gassed and were admitted to hospital.

Casualties. Officers: 4 Wounded, 1 Gassed, 2 Missing, Other Ranks: 23 Killed, 67 Wounded, 175 Missing.

Raymond Charles Usher

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal 12490
Unit: 10th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action: 01/11/1916, Age: 21
CWGC: Pier and Face 10 D. Thiepval Memorial, France
Born: Church Street, Bocking
Resident: 1911 - Church Street, Bocking
Son of: Mrs. Maria Usher, of Church Street, Bocking
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Finisher
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France 30/05/1915
 

10th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warley in as part of K2 and attached to 53rd Brigade in 18th (Eastern) Division. May 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and then Colchester, going on to Codford St Mary. 26 July 1915: Landed at Boulogne.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1-8 July 1916
Battle of Bazentin Ridge: 14-17 July 1916
Capture of Delville Wood: 19-21 July 1916
Battle of Thiepval Ridge: 26-28 Sept 1916
Battle of the Ancre Heights: 1-5 Oct and 17 Oct – 11 Nov 1916
Capture of Regina Trench: 21 Oct 1916
 

Battalion War Diary entry for date of death:

Place: REGINA TR HQ About R.286 1.9. Date: 01/11/1916. Hour: 07:30amG.O.C. 53rd Infantry Brigade visits ZOLLERN TR. Morning visibility poor - artillery activity small. Day fairly quite excepting from 3.30 to 5.30 pm when enemy shelled REGINA TRENCH with shrapnel and H.E. The shooting was poor and we suffered no casualties - Rain fell during the afternoon. Patrols worked forward between 11 pm and 1 am (2nd), along TWENTY THREE ROAD and SIXTEEN RD. - the latter under 2/Lt. E. H. BROWN. Each got forward some 300 ft. but was held up by our heavy artillery fire. No hostile patrols were encountered.

Map Ref: LE SARS 1/10.000

Herbert Harry Watson

Rank and Number: Private 55796
Unit: 51st Company, Machine Gun Corps
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 14/07/1917, Age: 27
CWGC: I. B. 15. Sunken Road Cemetery, Fampoux, France
Born: Bethnal Green, London
Resident: 1911 - 25 New Street, Braintree
Son of: Samuel and Catherine Watson, of 25 New Street, Braintree
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Silk Weaver
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Balkans (Greeek Macedonia, Serbia, Bulgaria and European Turkey) 10/08/1915
 

51st Machine Gun Company
Moved to France and joined 17th (Northern) Division. 17 February 1916: Moved to Reninghelst.

Battles
The Bluff: 2 Mar 1916

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1-10 July 1916
Capture of Fricourt: 2 July 1916
Battle of Delville Wood: 1-12 Aug 1916

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 12-14 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23-24 April 1917
Capture and Defence of Roeux: 13-16 May 1917

Herbert Wilken

Rank and Number: Private (Wilkins, H. on memorial in St Mary's) 12202,
Unit: 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: Killed in Action, 19/10/1915, Age: 22
CWGC: Panel 85 to 87. Loos Memorial, France
Born: Halstead, Essex
Resident: 1911 - Maldon, Essex
Son of: James and Charlotte Wilken, of 153 Bradford Street, Bocking
Bother of: Percy Wilken, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment, Killed in Action, 07/08/1916
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Maltster
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: France, 30/05/1915
 

9th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
August 1914: Formed at Warley as part of K1 and attached to 35th Brigade in 12th (Eastern) Division.March 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and in went to Blenheim barracks at Aldershot .31 May 1915: landed at Boulogne

Battles
Battle of Loos: 1-8 Oct 1915
The Quarries (Hulluch): 13-19 Oct 1915
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

VERMELLES QUARRIES (15 miles North of ARRAS, FRANCE)
19 October 1915, 09.00 a.m. – C Coy. Relieved D Coy in the new trench – during this day and the following all the trenches near QURRIES were most accurately shelled by the enemy, and in spite of this work continued without interruption and the men stood their ground splendidly. Our own artillery communication was not at that could be desired and they dropped many shells short, most unfortunately killing Capt. H. L. Watts with one. 04.30 p.m. to 08.00 p.m. As this hour Capt.  Green C Coy was observing with a periscope near the barricade end of the new trench and saw a German Officer pointing out our trench. The Coy was “Stood to” and bombers and M.G. warned and just ready for action when 3 squads each of 6 German bombers advanced from the edge of the QUARRY. Only one or two of them succeeded in reaching throwing distance and none returned. While our men were still on the fire step awaiting a further advance heavy rifle fire was opened up from the edge of the Quarry, which was seen to be thickly manned. This was finally silenced by our rifle an M.G. fire and operations were limited to bombing at the barricade which continued for a long time in which we finally gained superiority. Great credit is due to the N.C.O.s and men of the Bombing Section who worked themselves to exhaustion and without the guidance of an officer – Lt Hickox being in command of D Coy owing to Capt. Watts being killed – until Lt. Bright of the Suffolks came up about an hour or so later. Credit should also be given to the M.G. Section for their readiness and cool action on being warned. Lieut. C. H. Bearblock worked unceasingly till wounded, and L/Cpl Butcher showed great resource and bravery in moving his forward gun to an excellent position in rear of the trench where he could sweep the front of the barricade and did so for a long time. Several further attempts to creep up within bombing distance were made by the enemy during the night but all were repulsed.

20 October 1915 – The trenches were again heavily shelled during the day. The Commanding Officer narrowly escaped, two men near him being instantly killed. During the night another attempt was made by the enemy to surprise the bombers of the Sussex Regt and Fusiliers who had relieved ours at the barricade. A curtain amount of damage was done and slight panic was threatening when a relief of Essex and Middlesex bombers arrived and order was soon restored. Mention must be given duringthis night by certain officers who knowing the strain to which we had been put come voluntarily to relieve us – Of these I would like to record our thanks especially to Lt leach – Middlesex Regt. (Bomb Officer) Capt Woodham (Sussex Regt) and Capt Brown (Middlesex Regt).

Percy John Wilken

Rank and Number: Private (Wilkins, P. on memorial in St Mary's), 20111
Unit: 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment
Enlisted: Braintree
Died: Killed in Action, 07/08/1916, Age: 20
CWGC: IV. E. 9. Brewery Orchard Cemetery, Bois-Grenier, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1911 - 153 Bradford Street, Bocking
Son of: James and Charlotte Wilken, of 153 Bradford Street, Bocking
Bother of: Herbert Wilken, 9th Bn Essex Regiment, Killed in Action 19/10/1915
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Farm Labourer
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known

Frederick Harry Wiffen

Rank and Number: Private 31812
Unit: 10th Battalion, Essex Regiment (Kitchener New Army)
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 28/02/1917, Age: 33
CWGC: VIII. B. 171. Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, France
Born: Finchingfield, Essex
Resident: Bocking
Son of: Not known
Husband of: Emily Ellen Wiffen, of The Cubin, Panfield, Essex
Occupation: Piece Silk Dyer
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

10th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warley in as part of K2 and attached to 53rd Brigade in 18th (Eastern) Division. May 1915: Moved to Shorncliffe and then Colchester, going on to Codford St Mary. 26 July 1915: Landed at Boulogne.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1-8 July 1916
Battle of Bazentin Ridge: 14-17 July 1916
Capture of Delville Wood: 19-21 July 1916
Battle of Thiepval Ridge: 26-28 Sept 1916
Battle of the Ancre Heights: 1-5 Oct and 17 Oct – 11 Nov 1916
Capture of Regina Trench: 21 Oct 1916
Battle of the Ancre: 13-18 Nov 1916
Operations on the Ancre: 16 Jan – 13 Mar 1917
Miraumont: 17 and 18 Feb 1917
 

Battalion War Diary entry for date of death:
Place: WARWICK HUTS Xid. Date: 28/02/1917Working parties as yesterday. One platoon of 'A' Company working on THIEPVAL - POZIERES RD. The II Corps and 18th Div. Commanders visited working parties on ST. PIERRE DIVION - MIRAUMONT RD. and complimented us on the good work done. A letter expressing extreme satisfaction with work done was received from O.C. 79th Fd. Coy. R.E.

Other info:
Frederick Harry Wiffen was a Colour Dyer for 17 years at Courtaulds, Bocking

William Walter Wise

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal, G/42790
Unit: 16th (Public Schools) Battalion, Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own) (Kitchener New Army)
Formally Private 21126, East Surry Regiment
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 19/08/1917, Age: 18
CWGC: Panel 113 to 115. Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium
Born: Finchingfield, Essex
Resident: Not known
Son of: Walter and Laura Wise, of Green Lane, Bocking
Marital status: Not known
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: Not known
 

16th (Public Schools) Battalion,Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own)
1 September 1914: Formed in London and moved to Kempton Park racecourse.December: Moved to Warlingham.July 1915: Moved to Clipstone Camp and attached to 100th Brigade in 33rd Division.August 1915: Moved in to Perham Down. 17 November 1915: Landed at Boulogne. 25 February 1916: Left Division and transferred to GHQ Troops.

25 April 1916: Transferred to 86th Brigade in 29th Division.

Battles of the Somme
Battle of Albert: 1 July 1916

Battles
Saillisel: 28 Feb 1917

Battles of Arras
First Battle of the Scarpe: 12-14 April 1917
Second Battle of the Scarpe: 23-24 April 1917
Third Battle of the Scarpe: 3 and 4 May 1917

Francis James Wright

Rank and Number: Lance Corporal (Wright, G. Private, on memorial in St Mary's), 252721
Unit: 11th Essex Regiment, Formally 4528, 4th Battalion, The London Regiment
Enlisted: Not known
Died: 12/10/1918, Age: 24
CWGC: IV. B. 17. Busigny Communal Cemetery Extension, France
Born: Bocking
Resident: 1 Sunny Side, Rayne Road, Bocking
Son of: Frank and Emily Wright, of 1 Sunny Side, Rayne Road, Bocking
Marital status: Unknown
Occupation: Grocers shop Assistant
Medals: 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal
Date of entry into Theatre of War: 27/10/1915
 

11th (Service) Battalion, Essex Regiment
September 1914: Formed at Warley in as part of K3 and attached to 71st Brigade in 24th Division.January 1915: Moved to Shoreham and then to billets in Brighton in.March 1915: Returned to ShorehamJune 1915: Moved to Blackdown. 30 August 1915: Landed at Boulogne.

Battles
Battle of Loos: 25 and 26 Sept 1915

11 October 1915: Transferred with Brigade to 6th Division.27 October 1915: Transferred to 18th Brigade in same Division.
 

Battalion War Diary entry:

FRANCE
12 October 1918, 10.00 a.m. – C 18th I.B. 0.0.315 received from Brigade and issued to companies. 02.00 p.m. Company Commanders Conference “B” and “D” Coys detailed as assaulting companies and “A” and “C” Coys in support and reserve respectively. The objective was the enemy trench running along the ridge. 04:30 p.m. Barrage opened “B” and “D” Coys moved forward. At 04.45 p.m. the barrage lifted from the objective and the assaulting companies were to assault the trench. “D” Coy on the left and the left platoon of the right company got to the enemy outposts which were immediately in front of the wire. The ire was quiet undamaged and the enemy M.Gs which had held their fire until the assaulting companies were clear of the wood now opened fire an extremely hot fire it being estimated that there were from 20 to 40 on the Battalion front. The only gap in the wire was one through which left platoon of “B” Coy attempted to rush suffering heavy thereby as the gap was covered by an enemy M.G. The right platoon of “B” Coy was held up badly by M.G. fire from the right flank and after a time was compelled to withdraw to the original line, with the remainder of the left platoon of this company. “D” Coy meanwhile had maintained themselves in the enemy outpost line immediately under the enemy wire and as this was low ground they were ordered to withdraw to high ground in E 7 a and E 7 d and dig in posts.

Sources

1911 Census for England
Australian Light Horse Studies Centre
Braintree District Council
British Regiments 1914-18 by Brig. E. A. James
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Essex Regiment Museum and Essex Yeomanry
Find My Past
Imperial War Museum
Military Genealogy
National Archives
Order of Battle of Divisions, Parts 1-4 by Major A. F. Becke
Part 1, 1st Battalion, The Essex Regiment by J. W. Burrows
Part 2, 2nd Battalion, The Essex Regiment by J. W. Burrows
Part 3, The Essex Yeomanry by J. W. Burrows
Part 4, The Essex Territorial Infantry Brigade (4th, 5th, 6th and 7th Battalions) by J. W. Burrows

Links

Braintree and Bocking War Memorial