ST. DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE ROLL OF HONOUR 1914-19

By D.W. CoUett BA

ST. DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE, CATFORD ROLL OF HONOUR 1914-19

ST. DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE Catford, London SE6

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ROLL OF HONOUR FOR THE FIRST WORLD WAR 1914-19

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By D.W CoUett BA (76)

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Published July 1988 by

NORMAN W COLLETT

P.O. BOX 235

LONDON SE23 INS

01-291-1435

© David W.CoUett

ISBN 1-871627-00-1

Printed by Antony Rowe Ltd., Chippenham

INTRODTJCTIOII

The purpose of this book is twofold; firstly, to bring St. Dtinstan's into line with the many other schools which have published similar works; and secondly, to mark the 1988 Centenary of the School on the Catford site.

The First World War was a conflict in which public involvement was unprecedented; every town, village, school, company or club provided men for service and all e2q)erienced heavy losses. The deaths of so many recently-left pupils had a particularly heavy impact on schools, and shortly after the War many produced Rolls of Honour and Rolls of Service in printed form. The Rolls of Honour are lists of the former pupils who were killed or who died diiring the four years of fighting, and usTially take the form of an alphabetical roll with biographical details and a photograph. The Rolls of Service were lists of all who had served, and were either sepa3?ate volumes or were included as a section of the Roll of Honoiir. The biographies which follow are arranged in much the same way as those published in the 1920s.

Although St, Ihmstan's had not been long established, it provided a large contingent of volunteers for the War. It should be remembered that the School was not a "military" school and had no tradition of producing candidates for the armed forces. OJhere were a few Old Boys serving in the Army when the War began, but compared to most other similar schools the number was small. However, there were considerable numbers of Old Boys serving in the Territorial Army, mostly with "G" Company - a unit which merits more detailed consideration below.

Up to the Armistice, St. Dtoastan's had 977 former pupils in uniform, of whom 227 were killed or died, and all those in the latter category are listed in the following pages. Similar figures for other schools in South East London are: Dulwich - 3OOO served, 495 killed; Alleyn's -I898 served, 267 killed. Bearing in mind the comgparative sizes of the schools it seems that at least as many Old Dunstonians served in proportion, and the percentage of those in uniform who were killed is somewhat larger than either Dulwich or Alleyn's.

THE ROLL

After the War, a Roll of Honour was compiled and produced in pamphlet form; this was used when the War Memorial was constmcted on the stage in the Great Hall. This early Roll is generally quite accurate but has a few inadvertant inclusions and omissions. The names included in error appear to have resulted from a confusion of two brothers; many Old Boys had brothers who were not educated at St. Bunstan's, and on some occasions when these brothers were reported as killed in local newspapers they were assumed to be an Old Ihmstonlan.

In a couple of cases it has "been impossible to trace any official records that confiim a name which appears on the War Memorial, and it is assumed that the death occured during the War hut whilst the Old Boy was in civilian life. Due to Old Boys losing touch with the School some deaths did not come to light until later years, and althou^ these names are not on the War Memorial they have been included in this Roll.

IHiree main sources have been used in compiling the Roll; firstly, the School Registers in the Archive, which give full names and date of birth as well as other details; secondly, the records of the Common--wealth War Graves Commission, which list every serviceman killed during the War; and thirdly, the War Office lists of soldiers killed which were published by the Stationery Office and are arranged by the various regiments and corps. By cross-referencing these it has been possible to produce a fairly accurate list. There are undoubtedly some omissions, especially those who lost touch with the School or who were at St. Dunstan's for a coniparatively short time.

Another difficulty has been that of name-changes. There was a large German community in the Forest Hill area in the early years of the century, mainly engaged in commerce, and many sent their sons to St. Dtinstan's. When the War began a number of Old Boys changed their names to something rather more English and it is possible that this has led to an omission or two.

Although each name listed in the following pages has been traced in the School Register, the War Graves records and the War Office lists, further research available has varied. Some former pupils wrote to the Headmaster, CM. Stuart, with news of their military service, and where possible extracts from their letters have been included. The local newspapers of the time have provided considerable information on many of the Old Boys who were killed, as has "The Roll of Honour" by the Marquis de Ruvigny, published in five volumes just after the War. Further information has been added from Regimental and Divisional histories, especially where there is a mention of an Old Boy by name. However, in most cases it has been possible to include details of the action in which death occiired and this has been included to provide some idea of background and context.

Where possible only contemporaary information has been included, and where there is a conflict of detail this has generally been resolved by reference to a third source. All the facts in the following pages have been checked and confiimed from as many sources as possible. Some of the phrases and vocabvilaiy used in the letters quoted are likely to be strange to the modem ear, but where such letters are quoted - either from or concerning an Old Boy - these have been left intact and unedited.

It has proved impossible to include photographs along the lines of the Rolls published in the 1920s; some photographs are available from various sources but these would constitute only a small percentage of the names listed, as well as being very expensive to reproduce. It is hoped that the concentration on detailed biographies will make up for this to some extent.

4

•G" COMPAM'

The origins of this unit lay in the early years of the centiiry, when the Boer War caused an oufburst of enthusiasm for military training. St, Ihmstan's was organised into the 'Battalion' and the whole School paraded regularly for drill. At first there was a lack of interest in some quarters, but the training improved and, encoiira^d by the appoi--ntment of a drill instructor, the 'Corps' became a popular part of the curriculum. By 1911 the contingent was considered proficient enough to become part of the Junior Division of the Officers' Training Corps.

The 'Corps' was originally commanded by Captain F.Co Bentley who, in addition to teaching at the School was an officer in the Territorial Force. His -unit was the 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) which was based at Holly Hedge House in Blackheath, When the unit was formed in 1908 he began to recruit Old Dunstonians to serve in "G" Company. When the War began "G" Company was nearly at fvll strength and within a few days it was oversubscribed with volunteers, some 15O Old Boys passing into it. After a period of training at Hatfield, "G" Company personnel were transferred to "B" Conrpany but were kept together in 7 and 8 Platoons.

When the unit went to Prance in March 1915 the Old Dunstonian Platoons went with it, and this is the only recorded example of a single unit of Old Boys from one school serving overseas together. The Platoons went throvigh the fighting at Pestubert and Givenchy with only light casualties, but on 25 September 1915 the vaalt attacked Loos as part of the 47th (London) Division and were almost destroyed. During the initial attack the Platoons led the charge throTi^ Loos village, and had further casualties in the following days of fitting as the Germans counterattacked. Most of the survivors were of officer standard and were commissioned into other units, and by the end of 1915 "G" Company had lost its unique Old Dunstonian character.

ACKNOWIEDGEMEINTS

In the two years the Roll has taken to compile, most of the research has been undertaken throu^ the War Graves Commission and at the Royal United Services Institute and the Imperial War Museimi; my thanks are due to the staff of these institutions. Finally, a special mention must be made of two individuals who have given great assistance and made this publication possible; Richard Clark has done a great deal to organise and index the School Archive, and has gone out of his way to make the records at the School available to me; the information gained here is the basis of the Roll, My thanks are also due to Colin Watts, Hon. Secretaiy of the Old Dunstonian Association, who has provided so much help and information and whose enthusiasm for all things Dunstonian has been both infectious and encouraging. The contents, layout, typing, grammar and production are entirely n r responsibility - as are any errors which have occured in these.

David Collett ('76)

June, 1988

NOMHIAL ROLL

PAGE

22 ADAMS, Harold Tovms 2/Lieut, General List attached Royal Plying Corps Killed in action, France, 28th March 19I8

22 AGUTTER, William Dudley 554253 Pte, 16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Died, United Kingdom, 18th February I917

22 ALDEROX)!!, Colin Frederick 2/Lieut, 12th (Service Bn) Manchester Regt Killed in action. Prance, 7th July 1916

23 ALDRIDGE, Bertrand George 2567 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 26th May I915

25 ALLEM, Percy 300734 L/Cpl, 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Died of wounds, Prance, 25th June 1917

24 ALLEN, Thomas Stephenson G/2736 Pte, 16th (Service Bn) Middlesex Regt (Public Schools) Killed in action, France, 11th August 1917

24 ALLPORT, Harrison Kingsley 2/Lieut, 4'th (Reserve Bn) Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders Killed in action. Prance, 21st August 1916

24 ANDERSON, Joseph Henry 2/Lieut, 22nd (County of London Bn) London Regt (Queen's) Killed in action, Palestine, 9th December 1917

25 ABKCOLL, Frederick Thomas 2/Lieut, 10th (Reserve Bn) Royal Sussex Regt attached 12th (Service Bn) Royal Sussex Regt (2nd South Down) Killed in action, France, 30th June 1916

25 ARKCOLL, William Herbert 190064 Pte, Machine G\m Corps (infantry) Died, United Kingdom, 25th November I9I8

26 ASHBY, Spencer William Gladstone PS/1316 Pte, 16th (Service Bn) Middlesex Regt (Public Schools) Killed in action, France, 2nd July I916

26 ASTINGTON, Thomas Jeffrey 2/Lieut, 8th (Service Bn) East Surrey Regt Killed in action. Prance, 28th February 1917

27 MLKWILL, Charles Vince 2/Lieut, l/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action. Prance, 1st July 1916

28 MLKWILL, John 2/Lieut, 6th Royal Warwickshire Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, France, 1st July I916

29 BAENES, Clements David James 8759 (or 554486) Pte, 1/^6th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Killed in action, Prance, 8th April I917

29 BARHES, Leslie Herbert G/14401 Pte, 7th (Service Bn) East Kent Regrt Killed in action. Prance, 25rd October 19I8

50 BARMETT, Percy Stanley Godwin 1552 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action. Prance, 25th September 1915

30 BARTON, Clarence Harry 2/Lieut, General List attached No. 6 Sqdn Royal Plying Corps Killed in action, Belgiirai, 26th October 1917

31 BELCHER, George 495579 Pte, 15th London Regt (Kensington) attached 8th (Service Bn) Royal Irish Rifles (East Belfast) Died of woimds, Belgivun, 5th August 1917

31 BELL, James Ernest Kirkham Lieut, 8th (Service Bn) Border Regt Died of wounds. United Kingdom, 5th August I916

32 BENNETT, Eric Fairfax (MC) Capt, 7th (Service Bn) Royal West Surrey Regt Killed in action. Prance, 18th September I9I8

33 BENNETT, Robertio Charles Rudolph Busby (MC) Lieut, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 24th August 19I8

34 BENWELL, George Alan 1531 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died of wounds. Prance, 3^d October 1915

55 BEYNON, Eimest John Wilson 2/Lieut, 4th (Hallamshire Bn) York & Lancaster Regt (Tea?ritorial Force) Killed in action, Belgium, 9th October 1917

56 BIEDSEYE, Douglas Martin 2/Lieut, 8th (Service Bn) South Staffordshire Regt Died of wounds, France, lOth February 1917

36 BLACKBURN, Arthur 3016 Pte, l/2nd London Regt (City of London) Killed in action. Prance, 1st July 1916

37 BLEEZE, Prank James 2/Lieut, Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Li^t Infantry attached l/4th Royal Sussex Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action. Prance, 29th Jiily 19I8

57 BLOXHAM, George Edward 625995 TrvT, Honourable Artillery Company (Artillery), 126th Brigade Royal Field Artilleiy Died of woimds, Prance, 10th September I9I8

57 BOOTH, Charles Leslie 2101 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 26th September 1915

59 BOUTROIEDX BE GREY, Pedro Marechal de Logis, 9'th Artilleiy Division, 5th Corps, French Army Killed in action. Prance, 8th June 1915

40 BOWN, Herbert Alan 550975 Sgt, 2/16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Killed in action, Palestine, 8th December 1917

40 BRACHER, Herbert Hector 2/liieut, No. 55 Sqdn Royal Air Force Killed in action, France, l6th August I9I8

40 BRISELDEN, Thomas Harold T/27078O Pte, 10th (East & West Kent Yeomanry Bn) East Kent Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, Palestine, 51st October 1917

41 BROOKES, Herbert Ernest Victor 590970 Pte, l/9th London Regt (Queen Victoria's Rifles) Died, Prance, 10th December 1917

42 BROOMAU, Horace Bernard 5444 Pte, l/4th Royal Berkshire Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, France, 4th August 1916

42 BROWN, Alfred Joseph 47625 Pte, 20th Royal Fusiliers (5rd Public Schools) Killed in action, France, 15th Apidl 1917

45 BROWN, Dudley Granville Air Mechanic, Royal Air Force Killed, United Kingdom, 20th December I9I8

45 BRYCE, William 880061 Pte, 54th London Regt (County of London) Died of wounds (gas), France, 27th November I9I8

44 BUCK, Harold LambeiH: (MM & bar) 86016 Sgt, 2nd Divisional Signals Company, Canadian Expeditionary Fo3?ce Died of wo\mds, France, 21st September 19I8

45 BUCKINGHAM, Frederick Patrick Forbes 260216 L/Cpl, 1st County of London Yeomanry (Middlesex Hussars) Died, Egypt, 20th July 19I8

45 BUNKER, Harold John 2/Lieut, 9th (Service Bn) Yorkshire Regt Killed in action, Belgium, 28th September 1917

45 BDEEOWS, Stanley Eric 2/Lieut, 9'th (Reserve Bn) Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Ligjit Infantry, attached 5th (Service Bn) Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry Killed in Action, Belgiim, 30th December 1915

46 BUaXJHER, Henry 39273 Sgt, 56th Field Ambulance Royal Army Medical Corps Killed in action, France, 1st October 1915

46 BUTLER, Stanley William 2121 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 28th October 1915

47 CAREY, Francis Ambrose 2/Lieut, 32nd (Service Bn) Royal Fusiliers (East Ham) Killed in action, France, 15th September I916

47 CARIEER, Stephen Charles 2/Lieut, 7th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Killed in action, France, IStb November I916

48 CLARKE, Cyril 2/Lieut, 10th (Reserve Bn) East Surrey Regt attached 8th (Service Bn) East Surrey Regt Died of wounds, Prance, l6th June I916

49 COLLINS, William Geoffrey Ideut, 7th (Service Bn) Norfolk Regt Died of wounds whilst prisoner of war, Germany, 21st January 19I8

50 COONET, Leonard William • 8/2416 Cpl, 11th Bn New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Died of wounds (gas), Belgium, 21st October 1917

50 COOPER, Frederick William Harvey (MM) 2/Lieut, 10th (East & West Kent Yeomanry Bn) East Kent Eegt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, Palestine, 9th March I9I8

51 COOPER, Harold Tracey 4479 Pte, 12th London Regt (The Rangers) Killed in action, France, 19th Jizne 1916

51 COERIGAN, Francis Stanislaus Lieut, 13th (Service Bn) Liverpool Regt Killed in action, France, 31st August I9I8

51 COVELL, Bryon 657O8 Pte, 13th (Service Bn) Royal Fusiliers Died of wounds, France, 6th August 1917

52 CRAPTER, James (MC) Lieut, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) attached No. 20 Sqdn Royal Flying Coirps Died of wounds whilst prisoner of war. Prance, 7th July 1917

54 CHAPTER, Tom 2160 Pte, 14th London Regt (London Scottish) Killed in action, Belgium, 12th November 1914

55 CEESSWELL, Haa?old Trenham Pte, West Kent Yeomajxty Died, United Kingdom, 15th October ^^^6

55 CROUCH, Norman Sydney 2693 Cpl, 2/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 50th July I916

56 CRUICKSHAM:, Kenneth George 2/Lieut, General List attached No, 32 Sqdn Royal Plying Corps Died of wounds whilst prisoner of War, Prance, 12th Jxily 1917

57 CUTHBERTSON, Prank Joseph 1122 Pte, 22nd (Service Bn) Royal Fusiliers (Kensington) Killed in action, Prance, 28th July I916

57 DA.VIES, Alan Edwards 2/Lieut, 12/13th (Service Bn) Northumberland Pusiliers Killed in action, Prance, 28th May 1918

58 DAVIES, Clifford Thomas 2/Lieut, 10th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt (Kent County) Killed in action, Belgium, 7th J\me I917

59 DEAN, Frederick Thomas 32394 Pte, l/6th London Regt (City of London Rifles) Killed in action. Prance, 30'th November 1917

59 DEBEKHAM, Frederic Ernest 1949 L/Cpl, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action. Prance, 26th September 1915

60 DOJGHTy, Chaxles Edgar 440 Pte, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died of wounds, Prance, 24th July I916

60 DRAKE, Walter (formerly Francis Hermann MAEHEINEKE) 492565 Pte, 2/13th London Regt (Kensington) Killed in action, Palestine, 27th December 1917

61 EDE, Edwin William (MC) Capt, 11th (Service Bn) Royal Pusiliers Killed in action, France, 30th Atogust 1918

62 ELLEM, Harry John (MC) 2/Lieut, 2/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 14th September 19I8

62 ELLIOTT, Cyril Chaxles 2017 Pte, 6th London Regt (City of London Rifles) Died of wounds, Prance, 28th June 1915

10

62 EVERITT, William Joseph Arthur 90522 Clerk 1st Class, 58th Training Wing Royal Air Force Died, Egypt, 17th November 19I8

65 FAIRCLOUGH, Eric Montague 2/Lieut, 10th (Service Bn) Royal West Surrey Regt (Battersea) Died of wounds, Belgium, 25th February 1917

64 FAELBI, Sidney James 1550 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 25th September 1915

64 FINCH, William Alfred Ethelbert 650127 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 1st December 1917

65 FRENCH, Sydney Arthur Capt, 7th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Killed in action, France, 20th March I9I8

(>(i FREYMJTH, John Martin 951719 Pte, 102nd Bn Canadian E3q)editionary Force (2nd Central Ontario Regt) Killed in action, France, 6th August 1917

67 GALPIN, Richard Guy Eric 556940 Pte, 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles) Drowned at sea, Mediterranean, 50th December 1917

67 GEORGE, Robert Alfred 5753 Pte, 6th Bn Australian Imperial Force Killed in action, France, 10th Aiogust 19I8

67 GIBSON, Alfred Henry S a l t e r 552565 Pte, 1/16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Killed in action, France, 14th April 1917

68 GIFPORD, Gordon Arthur Lieut, Loyal North Lancashii^ Regt attached 2nd Trench Mortar Battery Killed in action, Belgium, 10th July 1917

68 GIFPORD, Henry William Capt, 5<3. (Reserve Bn) Loyal North Lancashire Regt attached 1st Loyal North Lancashire Regt Killed in action, France, 15th Jiily I916

70 GILRUTH, Arthur Thomas 502094 Pte, 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, France, 11th April 1917

70 GIERUTH, Reginald William 155927 Pte, 45i"d Bn Canadian Expeditionary Force (Manitoba Regt) Killed in action, France, 21st September 1916

11

70 GLADWIN, Walter George 1946 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 25th September 1915

71 GLASSCOCK, Sydney Frederick Lieut, "D" Bn Tank Corps Killed in action. Prance, 20th Noveniber I917

72 GOODING, Herbert Robert Withorn 2/Lieut, 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, France, 13th May 1915

72 GOOSEY, Ge3?ald Robert 1825 L/Sgt, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 25th September 1915

73 GREEN, Charles Taylor 2/Lieut, 2nd Royal West Siirrey Regt Killed in action, Belgium, 26th October 1917

74 GRIFFIN, Leslie StTiart Herbert Lieut, 10th (Service Bn) Gloucestershire Regt Killed in action, France, 18th August 1916

75 GRIFFITHS, Walter Harold 2/Lieut, 12th (Reserve Bn) Royal West Kent Regt attached 7th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Killed in action, France, 4th October 1916

76 GROVES, Robert Harry (MC) 2/Lieut, Jixd. London Regt (City of London) Died of wounds, France, 12th Apidl 1917

77 HALPORD, Aliped John ( M ) 106556 Cpl, 1st Special Company Royal Engineers Lied of wounds, France, 22nd May 19I8

77 HARPER, Harold Raymond 2/Lieut, l/2nd Duke of Wellington»s Regt fWest Riding^ attached 2/4th Duke of Wellington's Regt (West Riding) (Territorial Force) Killed in action, France, 4th November 19I8

78 HARRISON, George Henry 531692 Pte, 1/15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles) Killed in action, France, 23rd May 1916

78 HAWKINS, Walter Elmslie Lieut, 8th (Service Bn) Gloucestershire Regt Died of woimdes, Belgium, 8th June I917

79 HAWKRIDGE, Joseph Arnold 2/Lieut, 15th (Reserve Bn) Royal Fusiliers attached 9th (Service Bn) Royal Sussex Regt Died of wounds, France, 6th November 1916

80 HEAP, John Hartland 1638 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 25th September I915

12

81 HEATH, Arthur James 2507 Pte, 18th London Regt (London Irish) Killed in action, France, 25th September 1915

81 HEDUG, Alfred Stanley M/270993 Pte, No. 1 Motor Transport Depot, Army Service Corps Died, United Kin^om, 8th March 1917

82 HELYER, Thomas Grove 630512 Pte, 2/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died whilst prisoner of war, Bulgaria, 5'fch March 19I8

82 HENDERSOIT, Victor William 7211 Pte, 2nd Bn Honourable Artillery Company (infantry) Died of wounds, Italy, 8th August 1918

82 HILLS, Lawrence Clifford 2/Lieut, 1st Lincolnshire Regt Killed in action, France, '^xd July 1916

83 HDJTON, Walter Reginald 2/Lieut, 2nd Border Regt Killed in action, 14th July 1916

84 HOOKE, Robert Gordon STK/120 L/Sgt, 10th (Service Bn) Royal Fusiliers (stockbrokers) Killed in action, France, 18th November 1916

84 HOPF, Richard Adolf 301780 Pte, 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, France, 1st Jvlj I916

85 HOWCROFT, Laurence Walter Lieut, l/2nd Hampshire Regt Killed in action, France, 20th November 1917

85 HDNTER, Cyril Joseph 9625 Gnr, "B" Battery 71st Brigade Royal Field Artillery Killed in action, France, 26th July 1915

86 HTATT, Wilfred Vernon 1774 Pte, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died of wounds, France, 1st Janiiary 1916

86 INNES, Frank George 1929 Pte, 14th London Regt (London Scottish) Killed in action, France, 13th November 1914

87 IVES, Vincent George 2555 Pte, 1/16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Killed in action France, 1st July I916

87 JACOBS, Alan Edward Affalo (MC) 2/Lt, 8th (Service Bn) East Surrey Regt Killed in action, Belgiim, 7"tb. August 1916

93 JOHNSON, Frederick Henry (VC) Major, 231st Field Conrpany Royal Engineers Died of wounds, France, 26th November 1917

13

94 KEMEDY, John Gilbert 2/Lieut, 1st Leicestershire Regt Killed in action, Prance, 14th September 1916

94 KESMMHTf Percy William 760995 L/Cpl, l/28th London Eegt (Artists' Rifles) Killed in action, Belgium, 30th October 1917

95 KESSELL, Frederick Charles 538517 Pte, 6th London Field Amboilance, Royal Aimy Medical Corps (Tearritorial Force) Died, United Kingdom, 23rd October 19I8

95 KEMBEELBT, Arthur Doia^ty 63062 Pte, 73rd Conrpany Machine Gun Corps (infantry) Killed in action, France, 11th April 1917

95 KING, Wilfred Frank 2/Lieut, Royal Flying Corps Killed, United Kingdom, 4th November 1917

96 KNIGHP, Roland Ambrose 1685 Cpl, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died of woTmds, France, 24th October 1915

96 LAME, Mau3d.ce (MC MM) Capt, 2/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Palestine, 29th December 1917

98 LEESE, Archibald Richard 28994 Pte, 16th Bn Canadian E3q)editionaiy Force (Manitoba Regt) Killed in action, France, 18th May 1915

99 LEVENS, William Harmann 240620 Sgt, 1st Royal West Kent Regt Killed in action, Belgium, 4th October 1917

99 LILLIE, William Philip (DSC) Lieut Royal Navy, H.M. Submarine "E-54" Killed in action. North Sea, 20th July 19I8

100 LITCHFIELD, Horace Courtney 13450 L/Cpl, 2nd Bedfordshiire Regt Killed in action, France, 17th May I915

100 LOKAttDER, Erik Stanley 819 Pte, 3 cL County of London Yeomanry (Sharpshooters) Killed in action, Gallipoli, 21st August 1915

101 LOVESAY, Harry Victor G/953 Pte, 6th (Service Bn) East Kent Regt Killed in action. Prance, 23rd February 1916

101 LUFF, Edgar William Guy Lieut, 63rd Company Machine G-un Corps (infantry) Killed in action, France, 25th March 19I8

14

102 LDPFINGHAM, George Frederick 115540 Pte, l/2nd Coimty of London Yeomanry (Westminster Dragoons) Killed in action, Palestine, I4/8/17

102 MAM, Cyril Frederick 696297 Pte, 50th Bn Canadian E3q)editionary Force (Alberta Regt) Killed in action, France, 5rd Jtme 191?

103 MAEGOLIODTH, Alfred Henry 2/Lieut, 5th King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (Territorial Force), attached Royal Flying Corps Killed in action, France, 2nd April 1917

104 MTTEIEWS, Noel Anwyl 2/Lieut, 11th London Regt (Finsbury Rifles) attached 8th London Regt (Post Office Rifles) Killed in action, France, 15th September 1916

104 McCAROGHER, John Qmmanney 1848 Pte, 1/14th London Regt (London Scottish) Killed in action, Belgitim, 1st November 1914

105 MEDCALP, Edvdn Francis 2/Lie-iit, 3rd (Reserve Bn) Leicestershire Regt attached 8th (Service Bn) Leicestershire Regt Died of woimds, France, 11th Jtine 1917

105 MEESON, Fitzalan Ridware Lieut, 13th Battery 17th Brigade Royal Field Artillery Died of wounds. United Kingdom, 4th November 19I8

106 MIGHELL, Philip Lieut, General List attached No. 5 Sq.dn Royal Flying Corps Died of wounds, France, 12th October 1917

106 MITCHELL, Charles Henry 2/Lieut, l/6th West Yorkshire Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, France, 3 ^ September 1916

107 MITCHISON, Malcolm Lieut, 13th London Regt (Kensington) Died, United Kingdom, 4th November 19I8

108 MORTLEMAM, Charles Ibbetson 2/Lieut, 4th London Regt (City of London) Killed in action, France, 9th September 1916

109 MOYCE, Stanley Francis 1249 Sgt, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 18th October 1915

110 MYERS, Edwin Bertram 2259 Cpl, 1/21st London Regt (First Surrey Rifles) Killed in action, France, 15th September 1916

15

110 NAifflAWAY, S tan ley C y r i l 2853 VQpl, 2nd London Regt (City of London) Killed in action, Gallipoli, 11th December 1915

111 HELSQN, Ethelbert Horatio 2/Lieut, 4th Royal West Surrey Regt (Territorial Force) attached 7th (Service Bn) Royal West Saxrrey Regt Killed in action, France, 18th November I916

112 KETTLEa?ON, Roy Lieut, 7th (Service Bn) East Kent Regt attached Trench Moorbar Battery Died of wounds, France, 9th October 19I8

112 NEWILLE, Stanley Capt, 2/8th Essex Regt (Cyclists) Territorial Force Died, United Kingdcm, 6th November 19I8

112 NOBLE, George 301985 P te , l /5 th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in act ion, France, 1st Jiily 1916

113 NOBLE, Oliver 608479 Pte, 1/18th London Regt (London Irish Rifles) Killed in action, 26th March 19I8

115 NOBLE, Walter Frederick 2/Lieut, 12th (Reserve Bn) Essex Regt attached 9th (Seirvice Bn) Essex Regt Killed in siction, France, 3^d. July 1916

116 NOERIS, Harold Aubrey Blurton 2/Lieut, General List attached No. 57 Sqdn 9th Wing Royal Flying Corps Killed in action, France, 24th July 1917

116 NORTHAM, George Patrick Nixon 291 Pte, l/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, Belgium, 3rd May 1915

117 NORTHAM, John McClure 2/Lieut, 15th London Regt (Civil Seivice Rifles) Killed in action, Belgium, 15th September 1917

11V OLIVER, Thomas Kenneth Graham 2/Lieut, General List attached Royal Flying Corps Killed in action, France, 19I8

117 ORBELL, James Alexander Walter R/12290 Pte, 13th (Service Bn) King's Royal Rifle Corps Died of wounds, France, 17th November 1916

118 PAIMER, Edward Charles Maxwell 2/Lieut, 13th (Service Bn) Royal Fusiliers attached 111th Trench Mortar Battery Killed in action, France, 23rd April 1917

118 PANTER, Hemy Charles 122874 Gnr, "C" Battery 104th Brigade Royal Field Artillery Killed in act ion, Belgium, 6th July 1917

16

119 PAEKER, Cyril William Newbery 1325 Pte, 16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Died, United Kingdom, 15th Jxily 1915

119 PARKER, James 8861 Air Mechanic 1st Class, Wireless Section Royal Air Force attached 169th Battery Royal Garrison Artillery Killed in action, Prance, 26th April I9I8

120 PASCOE, Francis Herbert Joseph William G/41595 Pte, 2nd Middlesex Regt Killed in action, Belgium, 51st Jiily 1917

120 PAa?ON, Malcolm David Rutter 2/Lieut, 22nd London Regt (Queen's) attached Royal Flying Corps Died of wounds, France, 12th June 1917

121 POWELL, Harold Edgar 440985 Pte, 5th Bn Canadian Expeditionary Force (Saskatchewan Regt) Died of wotinds, France, 5th January I916

121 PREBBLE, John William 555 Pte, l/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, Belgium, 15th May I915

122 PRICE, Graham 2/Lieut, General List attached No. 6 Sqdn Royal Plying Corps Killed in action, Belgium, 9th March 1916

127 RICHMOND, Claude !nP/l118 Pte, 1/1st Kent Cyclist Bn (Territorial Force) Died, United Kingdom, 25rd September I915

127 EICHMOHD, Cuthbert Laurence 2/Lieut, 5th Northumberland Fusiliers (Territorial Force) Killed in action, Belgiimi, 24th May 1915

127 RIMINTON, Ernest William 246 Pte, 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Died of wo\mds, France, 50th April 1915

128 ROAKE, Jack Bamber 940515 Gnr, 56th Divisional Ammunition Column Royal Field Artillery (Territorial Force), attached Y/56th Trench Mortar Battery Killed in action, Belgium, 25rd Jtily 1917

128 ROBINSON, Charles Leonard (MM) 650925 Cpl, 2/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 14th September 19I8

129 ROBINSON, Richard 74226 Pte, l/5th Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in action, France, 26th Jvlj 1918

17

129 ROBINSON, Walter Stanley 305921 Pte, 5th London Regt (London Eifle Brigade) Killed in action, Prance, l6th July I9I8

150 ROLFE, Courtenay Greenfield 2512 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackiieath & Woolvdch) Killed in action, France, 25th September I915

130 ROPER, William Horace Stabley 2/Lie-ut, 3rd Grenadier Gviards Died of wounds, Belgium, 11th October 1917

131 ROSS, Walter Urquhaart Capt, 8th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Died of wounds, France, 22nd February I916

133 ROWAN, Frederick John Major, 13th Bn Canadian Expeditionary Force (Quebec Regt) Killed in action, France, 9th October 1916

133 RUSSELL, George Launcelot Linton Gapt, !Pyne Electrical Engineers, Royal Engineers (Territorial Force) Died, United Kingdom, 1st March I919

134 SACH, Harry Lloyd Died, United Kingdom, October I9I8

134 SALBERG, John Beaumont 2/Lieut, 12th (Service Bn) Royal Sussex Regt (2nd South Down) Died whilst prisoner of war, France, 30th June 1916

135 SANDERSON, Gerald Stanley 2/Lieut, 11th London Regt (Finsbury Rifles) attached 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Killed in action, France, 22nd July 1916

135 SHERBORNE, GJhomas Kinsman 303898 Pte, 2/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Died of wounds. Finance, 28th September 1917

135 SHERTER, Harold John Lieut, 8th Hampshire Regt (isle of Wight Rifles) (Territorial Force) Died of wounds, Prance, 5'th August 1917

136 SILVESTER, Percy Wafford 3045 Pte, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 26th September 1915

137 SILVESTER, Reginald 2/Lieut, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Belgium, 7th June 1917

138 SMITH, Alexander Frederick Z/900 Able Seaman, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, "Hawke" Bn Royal Naval Division Killed in action, France, 18th February I917

18

138 SMITS, John Clarence 2/Lieut, 20th London Eegt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, Prance, 2nd December 1917

139 SMYTH, Basil Wilson Sub-Lieut Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, "Nelson" Bn Royal Naval Division Killed in action, Gallipoli, 13th Jxily 1915

140 SPARKES, William 493755 Pte, 1/13th London Regt (Kensington) Killed in action, Prance, 8th October I9I6

140 STANTON, Gareth Marsh 2/Lieut, 8th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Died of woimds, Belgium, 20th Pebruary I916

140 STARLING, Prederick Leslie 2/Lieut, 3rd London Regt (City of London) Killed in action. Prance, 13th September 1916

141 STEELE, Rollo Peter 17657 Pte, 9th (Service Bn) East Surrey Regt attached 20th (Service Bn) Manchester Regt (5th City) Killed in action. Prance, 14th July 1916

141 STEVENSON, Edward Arthur 1735 Pte, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action. Prance, 26th September 1915

142 STEWART, Alan Bathurst 302996 Bmbdr, 97th Siege Battery Canadian Expeditionary Porce Died of wounds, Prance, 29th June I916

143 STORCH, Herbert Adolf (MC) 2/Lieut, 13th (Service Bn) Yorkshire Regt attached 1st East Yorkshire Regt Died of wounds. Prance, 24th Aijgust 1918

143 STROUD, Reginald Gordon 2/Lieut, 9th (Service Bn) York & Lancaster Regt Killed in action. Prance, 1st July 1916

145 TAYLOR, Maurice William (MC) 2/Lieut, 4th (Reserve Bn) Royal Irish Fusiliers Killed in action, Belgium, 12th April 19I8

145 THOMAS, Arthur Laurie Capt, 20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Died of wounds. Prance, 30th Aiigust 19I8

149 THOMAS, Leonard Char les E rnes t 2059 Pte, 1/1st West Kent Yeomanry Died, Egypt, 10th May 1916

150 THOMPSON, William John 1629 Pte, 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) Killed in action, Belgium, 27th November 1914

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150 TICKLE, Gordon Philip 2/Lieut, 6th London Regt (City of London Rifles) Died of woTinds, France, JOth September 1918

151 TOWSE, William Norman Capt, 4th London Regt (City of London) attached 21st London Regt (First Surrey Rifles) Killed in action, France, 15th September 1916

151 TEA!I3yiMr, Leslie William Thomas Draycott Lieut, Royal Air Force Died, United Kingdom, 13th March 1919

152 TROTTER, Herbert John 457278 Pte, 12th Machine Gun Company Canadian E3cpeditionary Force Killed in action, Prance, 25rd August 1917

153 TROTTER, Stuart Fowden Lieut, Canadian Infantry attached Royal Flying Corps Died of wounds, France, 6th July 1917

155 TROMBLE, Bemaxd Frank 66489 L/Cpl, l/5th West Yorkshire Regt (Territorial Force) Killed in act ion, Belgium, 11th Atigust 19I8

156 TORlffiR, Walter Williams G/8O5I Sgt, 11th (Service Bn) Royal West Kent Regt (Levd.sham) Killed in act ion. Prance, 15th September 1916

156 WALKER, Ernest 70674 Gnr, 290th Siege Battery Royal Garrison Artilleiy Killed in action, Belgium, 20th J-uly I917

157 WALKER, Leslie Byatt 150232 Pte, 8th Bn Canadian Esqpeditionary Force (Manitoba Regt) Killed in action, BelgiTom, 14th June I916

157 WALKER, Thomas Campbell 2/Lieut, 10th (Service Bn) Lancashire Fusiliers Killed in action, Belgium, 14th February 1916

158 WALLACE, John George Lieut, 38th Bn Canadian E3q)editionary Force (Eastern Ontario Regt) Died of woTinds, France, 18th November I916

158 WALLIS, Alleyne Westaby 2/Lieut, 10th London Regt (Hackney) Killed in action, France, 7th June 1917

159 WALLIS, Noel Veder 2/liieut, 9th (Service Bn) Cheshire Regt Killed in action, Belgitmi, 10th April I917

159 WALLIS-STOLZLE, Otto Wallis 197899 2/Cpl, 5th Army Wireless Company, Royal Engineers Died, France, 25th April I917

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160 WEBB, Stanley Horace 2/Lieut, 5rd fReserve Bn^ Royal West Kent Regt attached 7th (Ser\rice Bn) Royal West Kent Regt Died of wounds whilst prisoner of war, Prance, 26th March 19I8

162 WEBB, Trevor 2/Lieut, General List attached No, 55 Sqdn Royal Plying Corps Killed in action. Prance, 10th May I917

164 WELSPOED, Arthur Hadden 974 Pte, 1st Bn Honourable Artillery Company (infantry) Killed in action, Belgium, 2nd June 1915

165 WESTCOTT, William Ernest 2/Lieut, No. 8 Training Sqdn Royal Air Porce Died, United Kingdom, 28th Apill 1918

165 WESTON, George Primrose (MC) Capt, l/20th London Regt (Blackheath & Woolwich) Killed in action, France, 1st October I916

166 WHICKER, Frederick Paid Lieut, l/22nd London Regt (Queen's) Died of wounds whilst prisoner of war. Prance, 12th April 19I8

169 WETTTALL, Noel Charles 2/Lieut, 7th (Reserve Bn) Royal Fusiliers attached No. 6 Sqdn Royal Plying Corps Killed in action, Belgium, 13th September 1917

170 WILD, Hermann Caesar 9867 Pte, 2nd Bn Honourable Artillery Company (infantry) Died of wounds. Prance, l6th May 1917

170 WILEQK, Edgao? Walter 5783 Pte, 2/5th (Reserve Bn) East Surrey Regt Died, United Kingdom, 4th April 1916

171. WILSON, David 302439 Pte, 2/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) Died of wounds, Belgium, 1st November 1917

171 WILSON, Kenneth Henry 313075 Pte, 1/7th Gordon Highlanders (Territorial Porce) Killed in action, Prance, 29th July I9I8

172 WINCH, Harry Wilson 2/Lieut, 2nd London Cyclist Company Army Cyclist Corps, attached Manchester Regt Killed in action. Prance, 2nd April 1917

172 WOOD, Donald Theodore (MC & bar) 2/Lieut, 77th Brigade Royal Field Artillery Died of wounds. Prance, 25th Atigust 19I8

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173 WOODROOPFE, John William 1289550 Pte, 1st Field Amlmlance Canadian Army Medical Corps Died, Canada, 7th Pebruaxy 1916

174 WOOLMER, Stanley Herbert Prance 2/Lieut, 17th (Service Bn) King's Royal Rifle Corps (British Empire League) Killed in action. Prance, '^xd September I916

175 WOEMJLL, Charles Frederick Lieut, General List attached Royal Plying Corps Killed, United Kingdom, 5th October 1917

175 WRIGHT, Guy Powell 2/Lieut, 9th Middlesex Regt (Territorial Porce) attached 1st Liverpool Regt Killed in action. Prance, 2nd July 19I8

176 WRIGHT, Rawleig^ William 12805 Pte, 5th Bn Canadian Expeditionary Porce (Saskatchewan Regt) Killed in action. Prance, 24th May 1915

176 WYLES, Arthur George Eddy 42767 Pte, 15th (Service Bn) Royal Irish Rifles (North Belfast) Killed in action, Prance, 27th March 19I8

177 WTLES, William Edward 555055 Pte, 1/16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles) Killed in action, Belgitmi, 14th August I917

177 yODHG, Ernest Ralph Samuel Cpl, 11th Bedford Regt (Territorial Porce) Died, United Kingdom, 14th November I9I8

*

22

AHAjyiS, Hi iXJld Tovms. Bom on 20 PelDruaiy 1899, he was the son of Robert Charles and Ada Sarah Adams <, He was educated at first at Monk Bridge, York, and later at Winchester House, Weston-super-Mareo He entered St. Ihmstan's in Septeinber 19IO, at which time his parents lived at 195 Sydenham Road, Sydenham; his father was a counting-house manager. He left St, Dunstan*s in December 1914» sxid. went to work for the North British and Mercantile Assurance Go, Threadneedle Street, London EC, Shortly after his eigjiteenth birthday he began his officer training, and on 5 Jiily 1917 he was commissioned as 2/Lieut onto the General List for service with the Royal Flying Co3?psj he completed his training as a pilot, and was confiuned in his rank and appoint--ment on 14 September 1917. He was posted to Prance and served with No, 45 Sqxiadron, but was posted missing whilst flying on 28 Marda 1918 and was later reported killed in action on this date, this information being communicated to his parents who had moved to 3 Longton Avenue, Sydenham, He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in France,

AGUTTEE, William Dudley, The son of William John and Eleanore Mary Agutter, 251 Devonshire Road, Honor Oak Park, he was bom on 17 JiJly 1898. His father was an insurance clerk. He was educated at Stillness School, Brockley Rise, Honor Oak Park; and came to St, Dunstan's in April 1910. He left in July 1914 to work as a clerk in the London, City and Midland Bank in Threadneedle Street, London EC. In I916 he enlisted at Lewisham in the l6th London Regt, but around Christmas of that year fell ill with cerebro-spinal meningitis, of which he died in hospital on 18 February 1917. He is buried in Ladywell Cemetary.

ALDERTON, Colin Frederick. He was bom on 5 November 1888, the son of Frederick Fo Alderton, an accoimtant of "Merioneth", Vancouver Road, Catford. He was educated initially in a private school run by Miss Gibbs at Forest Hill, and then entered St. Dunstan's in April 1899. Also educated at St. Dunstan's was his older brother, Harold Fisher Alderton, who became a naval officer and who lost his life before the War in saving one of his men from drowning at Sheemess.

Colin Alderton was at St. Dunstan's for a full seven years, not leaving until April I9O6; he was active in many areas of school life, and had a distinguished sporting career. He began playing Rugby in 19OO as a member of the 2A side, and progressed into the 5<3- XV (1902-O3) and then into the 2nd XV" (1904^05) which he captained in I9O5. He was also a member of the Cricket 3rd XI in 1903, but his main contribut--ion was in Lacrosse, at first in form and Lower School teams but later in the 2nd XII (1903) and the 1st XII (1904-O5). He also won a prize for Rugby Fives and represented St. Dunstan's in this sport (1904-05). In 1903 he joined the Literary and Debating Society, of which he became Secretary in 1904; was a Prefect; commanded a unit of the Cadet Corps; and served on the Athletic Committee.

25

He left in 1906 and, according to the "Chronicle", intended to go abroad; it is not recorded where he travelled to, but in I9O8 he entered Selwyn College, Cambridge. After completing his course at University he returned to London, and on the outbreak of war he enlisted in the ranks of the Honourable Artillery Company; he served in France with the HAC, and returned home in September 1915 "to train for a commission. He was gazetted 2/Lieut in the Manchester Regt and served at home with the 18th (Service) and 25th (Reserve) Battalions, retuoming to Prance in May I916 to join the 12th (Service) Battalion. Whilst serving with this unit on 7 Ji ly 1916 he was killed in action, and was bizried at Gordon Dump Cemetary, Ovillers-La Boisselle, Prance. His father had died some years before, and his mother had moved to 44 Sheepcote Road, Harrow on the Hill.

AIDRIDGE, Bertrand George. Bom 25 March I895, his parents living at 97 Engleheart Road, Catford; his father was a foreman in a decorating firm. He was educated at Plassy Road Elementary School, Catford, and arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 1906. The School Register notes that he left in March 1911 and went to work for Messrs E. and J. Pink. His family later moved to 28 Elmer Road, Catford, and he was a member of the choir at St. Lawrence's Church. When the War began he joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the l/20th London Regt and went to the front in 1915» having refused the rank of Cpl in another Company.

He was killed in action in France on 26 May 1915 whilst serving in "D" Company of the Battalion; on this date the unit was part of 142nd Brigade, which launched an attack on the German line at Givenchy, The Battalion was in the second wave of the attack, and when the first wave got into the German trenches they came up to give support; the attacking troops came under heavy artillery fire and counter-attacks, and it was in fighting off these that Aldridge was killed. Most of the gains made were held, and in the same action L/Cpl L. Keyworth of the London Regt was awaixied the Victoria Cross. Aldridge has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Le ToTiret Memorial in F3?ance.

ALLEN, Percy. The son of Hugh Percy and Maud Annie Allen, he was bom on 17 November 1895* His father was a commercial traveller and the family lived at 59 Wellmeadow Road, Lewisham. He had been educated at Torridon Road Elementary School and by Miss Bishop in Brownhill Road before joining St. Bunstan's in September 1909. He left in July 191O, having been awarded a School Prize for Work, and became a clerk in offices at 4 Lloyds Avenue, London EC, At about this time his parents moved to 229 Hither Green Lane, Levasham, and he went to live in Woolwich. In November 1914 he enlisted in the 5th London Regt, and leter served in France, where he was severely wounded in the summer of 1917* dying of his wounds on 25 June 1917. He is buried in Achiet-Le-Grand Communal Cemetary, Prance.

24

ALIEN, Thomas Stephenson. He was the only son of Thomas Isaac and and Charlotte Edith Allen, and was bom on 11 March 1897« His father was a grocer and lived at 52 Siddons Road, Forest Hill. He attended Rathfem Road Elementary School before coming to St, Dunstan's in September I9O7. He left in February 1912 to become a clerk at Messrs Henderson and Liddle, wholesale provision merchants of 55 Eastcheap, London EC, Dizring the War he enlisted in the ranks of the Middlesex Regt, and served in the l6th Battalion which was comprised of the former pupils of public schools; he joined the unit at Woldixigham, Surrey, and later proceeded to Prance where he was killed in action on 11 August 1917. o days before, the unit went into the front line west of Steenbeck with the HQ, at Fourche Farm, and on 10 A-ugust outposts were pushed forward across a stream and out to the flanks, where contact was made with French troops on the left and the Lanca--shire Fusiliers on the right. The action in which Allen lost his life began at 4»20 a,m. on 11 August, when three platoons attacked •the Germans at Passerelle Farm under cover of a small barrage. The unit had fairly light casualties and captured two machine guns and a howitzer. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres, Belgium, The records show that his next-of-kin were his parents, who were by then living at IO9 Southboume Grove, Westcliff -on-Sea, Essex.

ALLPORT, Harrison Kingsley, Bom 28 January 1892, son of Robert Leete and Jessie Allport, 47 Faversham Road, Catford; his father was a company accountant. He was educated privately at Miss Piper's School, joining St, Dunstan's in September I9OI, He was in the Under 12 Cricket XI (19O3) and the Under I5 XI (1904), and won several athletics events in the Lower School. He was awarded a School Pidze for Work and Conduct in I903, In Jxily I904 he left to complete his education at Christs' Hospital, Horsham. However, he maintained his links with St. Dunstan's by becoming a member of the Old Dimstonian Rugby Football Club some years later. During the early part of the War he enlisted in the ranks of the London Scootish, but as he had been in the OTC at Christs' Hospital he was sent for training as an officer, and was comDBissioned into the Argyll and Sutherland Hi^--landers on 5O JtJly 1915> his commission being confirmed on 25 April 1916. He served in France, and was killed in action on 21 August 1916, He is btiried at Flatiron Copse Cemetary, Mametz, France, His next of kin were his parents, who had moved by 1919 "to 30 Lissenden Mansions, Highgate, London N,

ANDERSON, Joseph Henry, One of twin brothers, he was bom on 26 December 1893* son of Joseph Banington and Amy Anderson of 38 Bromley Common, Bromley, His father was a grocer and provisions merchant in Bromley, He came to St, Dunstan's in August 1903 from Bromley College, and left in April 1909 to continue his education at Cliftonville College, His twin, Charles, was at St, Dunstan's at the same time.

25

In ATogust 1914, alon^ with his brother, he enlisted in the Dunstoniari Gonrpany of the 20th London Eegt at Blackheath; arriving in France in March 1915* he took part in the actions at Givenchy and Pestubert, and in September was at the battle of Loos where the Old Dunstoniaci Company had heavy casualties. It was in this battle that his brother Charles was awarded the Croix de Guea?re for his work in carrying messages under fire, Joseph became ill shortly after Loos, and was invalided home to wo3± on the recruiting campaign while he recovered. After a course of officer training, he was commissioned into the 22nd London Regt on 5 August 1916, and later went to Egypt with the 2nd Battalion of the unit. He took part in the advance into Palestine in 1917* and was killed in action on 9 December 1917 at the capture of Jerusalem. He was tenrporarily attached to the 24th London Regt at the time of his death. He is biiried in the Jerusalem War Cemetary, Palestine. His next of kin were his parents, living at the end of the War at 10 Shawfield Park, Bickley, Bromley.

AiOCCOLL, Frederick Thomas. He was bom on 25 May 1889, son of Herbert Arkcoll, a clerk in a leather merchants, and his wife Annie (nee Gray), His older brother, William Herbert, appears below. He was educated at first at Rathfem Road School, and came to St. Bunstan's in Janiiary 1902; at the time the family lived at 15 H-urstboume Road, Forest Hill. He played in the Cricket 5 ^ XI in 1905» and won three School Prizes - Latin (19O5) and Mathematics (1904 & 1905). He left the School in July 1905 and went into the timber business. Three weeks after the War commenced, on 27 August 1914» he enlisted in the Old Bunstonian Company of the London Regt; however, before he could go to France with the Company he was selected for officer training, and was comtnissioned into a Reserve Battalion of the Royal Sussex Regt on 24 Februaiy 1915.

Later in 1915 he was attached to the 1st Lancashire Fusiliers and sent to Egypt. Extracts from his letters were published in the "Chronicle" of June ^^^6, and contain details of his voyage to Egypt via Gibraltar and Malta in November 1915t his impressions of Valetta and Alexandria, and details of the camp and manoeuvres at Suez. The last letter is dated 4 March 1916, and shortly afterwards he was posted back to the Royal Sussex Regt, joining the 12th Batt--alion in France on 8 May 1916. He was killed in action with this unit on 30 June 1916. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in France, His parents were his next of kin and were living at 35 St, (Jermains Road, Forest Hill in 1919.

AEKCOLL, William Herbert. Bom on 23 January 1886, son of Herbert Arkcoll, a clerk in a leather merchants, and his wife Annie (nee Gray), His younger brother, Frederick Thomas, appears above. He was first educated at Rathfem Road School, later winning an Entrance Scholarship to St, Dunstan's and arriving in September 1899* He was at the School \mtil April I904 and had a distinguished career in both academic and sporting fields.

26

He won an Entrance Scholarship to St. Dunstan's, and won School Prizes for Mathematics (19OO), Scriptaire (19OI), German (19O2), Latin (1905) and Latin Essay (1903). He was a Prefect (1902-O4), Chairman of the Natural History Club (1902-04), and a member of the Literary and Debating Society. He was in the RiJgby 3rd XV in 1902, progressing to the 2nd XV in 1903; and was in the Cricket 2nd XI in 1903. On leaving St. Dunstan's in 1904 he entered the Civil Service as a 2nd Division Clerk. His parents had lived at 15 Hurstboume Road, Forest Hill, whilst he was at the School and he continued to live in the area, being a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Football Club. He married on 15 February 1915 Miss Harwood, the eldest sister of a fellow Old Dunstonian. He joined the Machine Gun Corps, and after serving with this tinit for some time he fell ill whilst in Stafford--shire, dying of pneumonia at Cannock Chase Hospital on 25 November 1918. His brother, Frederick [Thomas, had been killed two and a half years earlier, and in the interim their father had died. His mother was thus his next of kin, and as she had moved to 93 Oakleigh Park Drive, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, Arkcoll was buried in the Leigh-on-Sea Cemetary.

ASHBY, Spencer William Gladstone, Bom 21 December 1894, he was the son of Joshiia and Helena Ashby, 18 Sydenham Park, Sydenham; his father was a retail fishmonger and poulterer. After commencing his education at Stafford College, Forest Hill, he came to St. Dunstan's in May 1905. Whilst at the School he was prominent in swimming, and was a member of the team which won the Junior Race in I9O8. He left in April 1909 and joined the Pearl Life Assurance Company as a clerk. Some time later his parents moved to Streatham and he lived at Thornton Heath, In the early part of the War he enlisted in the Middlesex Regt, and after some service with the 24th (Reserve) Batt--alion he transferred to the l6th (Public Schools) Battalion. He was killed in action in France on 2 July 1916, the day after the first massive attacks in the battles on the Somme. The unit was part of the 86th Brigade and was in the second wave of the British attack from Cripp's Cut and Cardiff Street towards the German trenches at Hawthorn Redoubt and Beaumont Hamel. As the unit advanced from their trenches they were heavily shelled and raked by machine gun fire, and by 8.30 a.m. 24 officers and 5OO men had been killed and woxonded. It wo\ald appear that Ashby was one of the few survivors of the attack on 1 July, but was killed on the next day when parties were sent out to No Man's Land to bury the dead. He is buried at Auchonvillers Military Cemetary, France.

ASTINGTON, Thomas Jeffrey. The son of Thomas Herbert and Priscilla Astington, he was bom on I6 February I896. His father was a head clerk, and the family lived at first at 6I Hafton Road, Catford. He was educated at Hazelbank Road and Torridon Road Elementary Schools, and joined St. Dimstan's in September 1907, his fees being paid by the London County Co\mcil imtil he was 16 years old. He was a member of the Debating Society, and was on the committee 1912-13; was a Prefect 1912-I3, and won vSchool Prizes in 1911, 1912 and 1913, the first being for Shorthand.

27

In July 1912 he passed the Unive3?sity of London School Leaving Examination, and left St, Dunstan's in J-uly 1915 for the Strand School, where he studied for the Civil Service. During the early part of the War he enlisted in the ranks of the Artists' Rifles (28th London Regt) with the service number 754^; he was then commissioned into the 3 ^ (Reserve) Battalion of the East Surrey Regt on 19 December I916. Shortly afterwards he went to Prance and was attached to the 8th Battalion of the Regiment. The unit was in the front line near Zollem Redoubt and Miraumont. Early on the morning of 28 February, Astington was ordered to take a patrol of six men out into No Man's Land and to move northwards. The patrol was never seen again, and it was later confirmed that he had been killed. His body was never found, and he is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France, His next of kin were his parents, who by the end of the War were living at 71 Torridon Road, CatfoM.

BALKWILL, Charles Vince. He was bom on 17 April 1885, the yo\mger son of Francis Balkwill, a foreign fruit merchant of 6 Garlies Road, Forest Hill, and Mary Balkwill. His elder brother, John, appears below. He was educated privately by Mr. J.O. Boyes at 45 Houston Road, Forest Hill, and arrived at St. Dunstan*s in September 1895* He won a School Prize for Latin in 1898 and later became a Prefect. However, it was in the field of sport that he made his mark, being one of the best School athletes of his generation. In Lacrosse, he was goalkeeper and coverpoint for the 2nd XII (1897-98) and won his Colours; he went on to the 1st XII (1899-1900) and was Captain of Lacrosse I9OO-OI, He was equally distinguished in Cricket, being in the 2nd XI (1898-99) and the 1st XI (19OO), But perhaps he was most outstanding in Rugby, captaining the 2nd XV (l897)> joining the 1st M (I899) and being Captain of Rugby 1900-01, His all-round ability led to his election onto the Athletic Committee in 1899, and he became Chairman in 19OO.

He left the School in April 19OI but continued a close association via Old Dunstonian sport; he was in the Old Lunstonian Cricket XI 1905-06, and in the Forest Hill Cricket Club 2nd XI I905-O8 - a fellow player in this local team being Jim Crafter (see below). His Rtigby progressed quickly and he began playing for the Catford Bridge 1st XV in 1903, continuing for some years and becoming Vice- Captain by 1907. He was selected for the Kent County XV in I903, and played as a forward for six seasons. He was also a member of the Blackheath Harriers and took part in their Wednesday meetings to run as part of his Rugby training.

On the outbreak of War in 1914 he enlisted in the ranks of the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade). He went to France with the 1st Battalion of the omit in November 1914 and was promoted Sgt in the following month. On 26 April 1915 he fought with his unit at Wieltje and Neuve Chapelle, during the battle of Ypres, and was severely wounded. He was invalided home with a shattered right shoulder, but his fitness and his stay at the London Hospital led to a good ]?ecovery and by the end of the year he was playing Rugby for his Regiment. He underwent a course of officer training, and was commissioned into the 3rd Battalion of the 5th London Regt on 8 December 1915- A few months later he was passed fit and joined the 1st Battalion in France on 27 May 1916,

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He was killed in action with the imit on 1 July 1916, the first day of the great Somme offensive. Tlae Battalion was part of the 56th Division which took part in the attack on Gommecourt, beginning at 7.50 a.m. No Man's Land was crossed without undue loss and the Battalion got into the German trenches and took a number of prisoners. However, the German artillery had the exact range of the position and put down a heavy barrage which caused heavy casualties, A strong German counterattack followed, and by dusk only a small party was left in the Gennan trenches. The days* fighting had cost the Battalion 85% of its' officers and ^CP/o of its' men; Balkwill was one of those who were killed and he has no known grave, his name being listed on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance. Tragically, his elder brother John was killed on the same day.

BALKWILL, John. The elder son of Francis and Mary Balkwill, he was bom on 6 January 1885; his father was a foreign fruit merchant and the family lived at 6 Garlies Road, Forest Hill. He was educated privately by Mr. J.O, Boyes at 45 Houston Road, Forest Hill, and began his career at St. Ihmstan's in September 1895« Like his brother Charles (see above) he had a most distinguished time at the School in both academic work and sport. He a3?rived with an Entrance Scholar^ -ship, and was awarded a Governors' Scholarship in I896. He won a School Prize in 1894 for being First in the Lower School, and gained similar Prizes later for French (1896) and Science (I898), He was Head Prefect 1898-99» aJ d finished his time at the School with the Leaving Prize in July 1899 ^nd a First in the University of London School Leaving Examination. His athletic achievements included a place in the Rugby 1st XV 1897-99; Lacrosse 1st XII 1897-99; and the Cricket 1st XI 1896-98, He was elected onto the Athletic Committee in I896, became Honorary Secretary, and served in 1899 as Captain of Athletics.

He left St. Dunstan's in the summer of 1899 and in May of that year joined the London Office of the Northern Assircance Company. His interest in sport was continuing, and he played Rugby for the Catfo3?d Bridge "A" X7 1899-1901 and for their 1st XV in I903. He also played for the Forest Hill Cricket Club 1900-08, and served on the Committee of the Old Dunstonian Club 1902-05 and again in 19O8. His other cricketing links were with his company team, for which he played in 1906, and with the Old Dunstonian XI in 1905. In July 19O8 his links with Old Dunstonian and local spoart were broken when his company transferred him to their Birmingham Office as a Surveyor. He moved to 11 Augusta Road, Moseley, and commenced a new career playing Cricket for the Knowle Club in Bixmin^nam.

On the outbreak of War he joined the ranks of the London Regt in September 1914> was promoted to Cpl, and sent on an officer training course. He was commissioned on 8 December 1915 into the 6th Royal Warwickshire Regt. He was killed in action on the same day as his brother - 1 Jtily I916 - during the first stages of the offensive on the Somme. His vnlt was part of the 11th Brigade in the attack on Beaumont Hamel, At 7.20 a.m. a huge mine was detonated under the German trenches, causing a massive crater to be formed.

29

The 6th Warwicks moved forward in the second wave of the attack, but despite the great explosion the Geimans were well-prepared and the Battalion had heavy losses caused by machine gun fire. Although a number of men got as far as the third line of German trenches, they were forced back by counterattacks, and by the evening the unit had lost 22 officers and 436 men killed or wotinded, including Balkwill. He was later buried at Pargny British Cemetary.

BAEHES, Clements David James. Bom 22 April I894 at Kennington, he was the son of Robert George and Sophia Sarah Barnes. His father was the head locksmith at the British Museum, and lived at 7 Paversham Road, Catford. He was an only child, and was educated at first at Rathfem Road Elementary School, coming to St. Dunstan's in January I9O8. He left in July 19IO to continue his education at Clark's College. By 1914 he was living with his family at 242 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill, and joined the 2nd London Regt on 1 October 1914 by enlisting in Bloomsbiiry. After basic training he accompanied the unit overseas, leaving for Malta on 23 December 1914 and later serving in Egypt with the 2nd Battalion of his unit. The Battalion landed at Gallipoli on 13 October 1915 said, he served there until the evacTiation of January 1916.

On 22 April I916 he arrived in France and was posted to the l6th London Regt, giving up his service number of 3O8O from the 2nd London Regt and acquiring the number 8759 and later 554486 in his new unit. Whilst serving with the l6th London Regt at Vimy Ridge on 8 April 1917 (Easter Sunday) he was killed in action at Achicourt village. The unit was billeted around the village, and at 1.00 a.m. the area was shelled and a fire began; one company turned out to fight the flames and were successful, but at midday there was a further barrage. A platoon sheltering in a house was wiped out by a direct hit, and shortly afterwards a convoy of ammunition lorries on the Arras road was hit, and the Battalion was faced with 20 burning and exploding trucks. Despite brave attempts to get the fires under control, much of Achicourt was destroyed, and by the time the fires were extinguished the unit had lost 17 killed and 31 wounded. He is biiried at Agny Military Cemetary in France.

BARNES, Leslie Herbert. Bom at Lewisham on 26 Januaiy 1900, his father was S.H. Barnes, a solicitors' managing clerk of 40 Bellingham Road, Bellingham. He was educated at Elelmentary Schools at Brockley Road, Brockley, and Ljnidhurst Road, Peckham. He was at St. Dunstan's from September I9II to March I916, and left to work at Thonipson's (Tea Merchants) at 38 Mincing Lane, London EC. A year later he enlisted in Lewisham, and went to France in I9I8 with the 7th East Kent Regt. He was killed in action 23 October 19I8 when the tinit attacked Bousies during the Battle of the Selle. Despite heavy cas\ialties, the Battalion moved through four lines of the German defences, aided by tanks. After the battle Barnes was buried nearby.

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BAENETT, Percy Stanley Godwin. Bom in Lewisham on 4 Aii^st I896, he was the son of Prank Septinrus and Hannah Maria Bamett. His father was a doctor who lived and practised for many years at 12 Belmont Hill, Lewisham. He was educated in a private school at Belgia Villa, Lee, before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 19O8. He won a School Prize in 1912, and was a member of the Chess Club and the School OTC. He was in the R;3gby 5rd XV 191I and the 2nd XV 1912; 2nd XII Lacrosse 1912 and the 1st XII 1913; and the Cricket 5rd XI 1912 and the 2nd XI 1913. He also played Fives and won a number of competitions in Athletics. He left in July 1915 to begin a career with Messrs Colman & Co, and joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath. He also retained links with the School via membership of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club. He was mobilised on the outbreak of War in 1914» a id went with his tmit to Prance in March 1915»

He took part in the actions around Pestubert, and was killed in action 25 September 1915 in the battle of Loos. The l/20th London Regt was part of the 141st Brigade of the 47'th (London) Division, being on the left flank of the Divisional front. On the date of his death the unit was involved in a major attack on Loos itself, which began at 6.00 a.m. with the release of gas onto the German lines. The objective of the unit was the second line of German trenches which ran from the Lens-Bethune Road to Loos Cemetary. The Battalion advanced in the second wave of the attack behind the London Irish, and reached the "garden-city" which was the first part of its' objective. One Company pushed on to the Chalk Pit and captured two field guns there, but a further advance was held up and the unit began to dig in. The attack had been mainly successful but many Old Dunstonians in the 20th London Regt were killed and wounded here. He is buried in Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetajy, Prance.

BARTON, Clarence Harry. Bom 2 Pebruaiy 1892, he was the son of Prank Burrell and Louise Barton, of 27 Bishopsthoxpe Road, Syden--ham. His father was a merchant, and by the end of the War he had moved to 90 Lordship Park, Stoke Newington, London E. He was first educated at Colfe's Grammar School, and was then at St. Dunstan's from May 1905 to December 19O6. He then completed his education at another school, althoiigh the School Register does not indicate where he went. Diiring the early part of the War he enlisted as a Pte in the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) with the nximber 760961. After some time in the ranks, he was accepted for officer training and was commissioned onto the General List on 4 April 1917» at the same time being attached to the Royal Plying Corps. He trained as an Observer and was confirmed in this rank on I6 May 1917« He was posted to Prance, where he was attached to Wo. 6 Squadron; this was equipped vdth RES aircraft with some Meuport 17C-I machines for artillery observation. Whilst flying a sortie over Gheluvelt on 26 October 1917 he was shot down and killed. He is bTiried in Zantvoorde British Cemetary, Belgium.

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BELCHER, George. He was bom on 51 March 1894 in the parish of St. George's, Hanover Square, London W. He was the son of George Belcher, a rubber merchant, and his wife Laura Agnes. It appears that his parents died when he was young, as he came to live with his guardian, Mrs, Whitt, at 1 Como Road, Forest Hill. He was educated at Stafford College, Forest Hill, before coming to St. Dunstan's in February 1907. He won a Prize for French in 191I and a School Prize in 1912. He left in July 1912 and was employed as a clerk at the Railway Passengers Assurance Company, 64 Comhill, London EC, and continued to live at Forest Hill. On 4 October 1915 he enlisted in the ranks of the Inns of Court OTC as a Pte with the serial number 6586, and served in the 2nd and 6th Companies of the \mit. On 7 May I916 he went to the 11th Officer Cadet Battalion but failed to complete the course of officer training, and on 3 November 1916 he t3?ansfezTed to the 15th London Regt, enlisting as Pte at Lincoln's Inn with the number 495379• He went to France, was attached to the 8th Royal Irish Rifles, and died of wounds received in action in the battle of Ypres on 5 A-ugust 1917* He is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary, Belgium.

BELL, James Ernest Kirkham. He was bom on 25 January I896, and was the son of Robert Ernest Bell, a general manager of a manufacturing company who lived at 67 Stanstead Road, Catford. Bell was educated at the Holbeach Road Elementary School and arrived at St. I>unstan's in April I909. He was in the Cricket 2nd XI in 19II, and left in December I9II to begin employment as a junior clerk with Messrs. Tabernacle and Son at 15 Hart Street, London WC. He became a popular member of the Old Dunstonian Club, and played Rugby for the Club team as a three-quarter back. He had been in the School OQX! and was a member of the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt in the years before the War. After a period of officer training he was commissioned into the Border Regt on 9 December 1914 and went to France in October 1915.

At first he was attached to a trench mortar battery, and later with the 8th Border Regt in which he was promoted Lieut on 50 May 1916. He was severely wounded whilst with the unit during the early stages of the Somme fitting on 5 July 1916. On this date the unit was in the Thiepval sector, and at 6.00 a.m. launched an attack in four waves on a 400-yard front. The Battalion reached the German lines without undue loss, and occupied 180 yards of the enemy trenches, but the British bombardment that had preceded their attack had done serious damage to the German trenches and there was little cover afforded against shelling or counterattack. The unit then found that the battalions on either side had been held up, and as they were in an e2q)osed position the 8th Borders had to retire. The unit lost very heavily in the operation, having 4 officers killed, 10 officers wounded (including Bell), and 430 men killed and wounded.

Bell was evacuated from the front line and was brought back to London, where he was a patient at the Empire Hospital in Vincent Square. He died of his wounds there on 5 August I916. His body was released to his parents, by now at 139 Ctilverley Road, Catford, and he was b-uried at Laywell Cemetary, Lewisham, on 10 August I916. The funeral was with full military honours, with a gun carriage supplied by the Royal Horse Artillery at Woolwich. His name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance,

52

BEKNETT, Eric Fairfax. Bom at Lewlsham on 21 October 1897, he was the son of Ernest and Alice Bennett, His father was a merchants' manufacturer importer, and the family lived initially at Sidcup, Kent, where he attended Sidcup Hall College from 1906 to I9IO. In the latter year the family moved to "Airdale", IO6 Burnt Ash Road, Lee, and he entered St. Dunstan's in September. He won a School Prize for Science in 1911> won several events in School Athletics meetings, and played Rugby for the 2nd XY in 1912. He left in July 1914» iit "fche outbreak of War a month later stopped him embarking on a ca3?eer. His elder brother enlisted, and althou^ several months short of his seventeenth birthday Beimett enlisted at Blackheath in the Old Dtinstonian Gonipany of the 20th London Regt. He went to Prance with the unit in March 1915> and. was wounded dxiring the fitting around Pestubert on 25 May 1915« He was invalided home and when he had recovered from his wounds was given a commission in the 9th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal West Stirrey Regt.

He returned to France early in 1916 and was posted to the Jth. Royal West Surrey Regt. During the fitting on 1 Jiily 1916, the first day of the British offensive on the Somme, he led his platoon in an attack on Montauban. The Battalion advanced across No Mans' Land on a front of 4OO yards and took a section of the German trenches, holding this position for two days. However, heavy casualties were incurred in the initial advance, and it was here that Bennett was wounded for a second time. He was one of 295 members of the unit who were wo\mded, and with 181 killed and 58 missing in action, the unit siiffered a total of 552 casvialties on 1 July - the first time that it had been in action.

He was invalided home again, and whilst convalescing was promoted to Lieut on 27 July 1916. After some time recovering he returned to France and rejoined the 7'fch Royal West Surrey Regt. During the great German offensive in the spring of 1918 he played a major role in the retirement of the Battalion, and for these services he was awarded the Military Cross, details of which appeared in the London Gazette of 6 September 19I8:

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty dircing five days fitting. This officer was in command of battalion headquarters details cover--ing the retirement of the battalion, then with--drew to the new defensive position and remained in the line cheering the elements of various scattered units. He was the last to leave this position, keeping up fire until the enemy were within 200 yards. The orderly retirement was largely due to his personal example."

During this retreat he was wounded for a third time, and returned to England for some weeks to recover. He rejoined his old unit in France on 31 July 19I8 and was promoted to Captain, with command of a Company. It was whilst leading his men near Villers-Faucon that he was killed in action on 18 September 19I8. Althou^ only 20 years old he had been in many battles and had been wounded three times. He is buried in Ste. Emi lie Valley Cemetary, France.

55

BEHKETT, Robertio Charles Rudolph Bushy. Bom on 14 August 1887, he was the son of Robert Charles and Sarah Julia Bennett of 8 Glenwood Road, Catford. His father was a civil servant. Educated at first at Rathfem Road Elementary School, he came to St. Dunstan's in May 1900. His academic career was marked by success and he won six School Prizes - Work and Conduct I9OI, English 1905, Latin 1905, Scripture 1904> German 1905 and French Essay 1905- He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society from 1903» became its Secretary in 1904 and Chairman in I905. He was also on the Committee of the Natural History Society I904-O5. In addition, he was a Company Commander in the Cadet Corps in I9O5 and a Prefect I904-O5. He was prominent in several School sports; he joined the Rugby 2nd XV in 1902 and was in the 1st XV 1903-05» serving as Captain of Rtigby in 1905. He was in the 1st XII Lacrosse I904-O5 the the Cricket 1st XI in 1905' Shooting was another sport in which he excelled, being in the School team and in 1905 winning the badge and certificate of the National Rifle Association. The "Valete Notice in the "Chronicle" read:

"He was a prefect of distinction; he captained last season's Rugby team with a vigoiir which was desert -ving of better success than that which we obtained in the field; he won his First Colour for Lacrosse; is a holder of the ERA Badge, and made for us the highest score at Bisley in the competition for the Frankfort Shield. Much at home in class-room and in field, he was always happy and hard-working, an admirable exemplar - we haven't replaced him yet, still there are aspirants. May he do as well in the Civil Service as he has done here,"

Bennett entered the Admiralty Accountants' Examination in 1905; six places were available, and although he came seventh his marks were so good that he was given an appointment. He maintained liriks with the School via the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, and in 1913 became Honorary Treasurer of the Ihmstonian Orchestral Society; by this time he was living with his parents at "Branscombe", Ravensboume Park, Catford. In I9O8 he made a generous donation of books to the School Libraiy.

An early volTHiteer for the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, he went to Prance with the unit as a Pte in March 1915« He took part in the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy, and was present at the battle of Loos on 25 September 1915. The l/20th London Regt was part of the 141st Brigade and was in the second wave of the British attack, which began at 6.00 a.m. after gas was released onto the German lines. Q?he Battalion took its first objective, the "garden-city", and pushed on to the Chalk Pit; although it had taken most of the objectives assigned to it, heavy casualties had been incu2?red and Bennett was one of the many Old Dunstonians who were wounded. He was invalided home with a gunshot wound in the left shoulder after initial treatment at Rouen. On recovering he joined the Inns of CoTirt OTG as a L/Cpl on 29 November 1915 and was given the serial n\imber 7897 • After serving in the 1st and 6th Companies of the unit he transfe3?red to the 14th Officer Cadet Battalion and was finally commissioned into the 20th London Regt as 2/Lieut, dated 19 December 1916.

54

Bennett returned to France and served with the 20th for some time, being woimded for a second time and advancing to Lieut on 19 June 19I8. In addition, he was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry in the summer of I9I8, and the citation appeared in the London Gazette of 7 November 1918:

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his company under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire with marfced ability and courage, and maintained the spirit and determination of his men imder very trying circumstances by his fine example."

He took part in the British offensives of August 19I8, and was killed in action on 24 Atigust 19I8. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on Panel Ten of the Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Prance.

After the War, the School formed ei^t Houses which were named in memory of Old Ihmstonians who had died in the War and who had been distinguished in academic, sporting or military achievements. One of the eight selected was Bennett. The House colour is pink, the motto "Meliora Sequor", and the badge a quill and scroll.

BENWELL, George Alan, He was the only son of Charles Marchant Benwell, a solicitor of "Rustington", 15 Honley Road, Catford, and his wife Georgina; bom 11 December 1895. He was at Priory School, Lewisham, before beginning at St. Dunstan's in September 1905* He won School Prizes in 1910, I9II and 1915; was a Sgt in the OTC; and was on the Athletic Committee. In 1910 he was in the 5^^ Rugby XV, captained the team in 191I, and progressed to the 1st XV in 1912. In Cricket, he captained first the 5rd XI in 1912 and then the 2nd XI in the following year. He was also in the 2nd Lacrosse XII in 1912 and received First Colours for Gymnastics in 1915* The "Chronicle" records that he won a number of Athletic events during his eight years at the School.

He left St. Dunstan's in July 1915> snd on the outbreak of War in 1914 enlisted at Catford in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He accompanied the unit to Hatfield, where it under^ -went training in the early months of 1915» and took part in a number of events at regimental sports meetings. He went to France in March 1915 and served with the Battalion in the battles of Festubert and Givenchy; he later took part in the attack on Loos on 25 September 1915> a day on which many Dunstonians were killed or wounded, and survived this action only to be mortally wounded on 27 September. On this date the Battalion attacked the German positions at the Spinney, near Loos. The advance began at 4.50 p.m. with support from other units and with the help of an accurate bombardment. The position had defied capture for two days and was a threat to British gains in the vicinity, but it finally surren--dered when the 20th London Regt got close to the German line and bombed the garrison into surrender.

35

It was during this attack that Benwell saw a friend being hit; he ran to his assistance and was helping him to get to the shelter of a trench when he himself was shot in the shoulder and arm. He was evacuated to Bethune and was in hospital for a week, succumbing to his wounds on 3 October 1915« He is buried in Bethune Town Cemetary in Prance.

BEYNON, Ernest John Wilson. Bom on 7 August 1898, he was the only son of William John and Mary Beynon of 14 Hawstead Road, Catford. His father was an electrical engineer. After an early education at Catford Collegiate School from 1904 to 1911> he came to St. Dunstan's in May 1911 and had a good career; he was a Prefect, was in the 1st XV Rugby, captain of the 2nd XI Cricket, and played for the 2nd XII Lacrosse. He also won the Lower School Reading Prize in 19II and was a member of the Chess Club. He served in the OTC for several years and became Cadet Lieut. He left St. Ihinstan's in Jioly 1916, having passed the Senior School Examination and was accepted as a student at London University, where he was to be a research chemist.

Instead, however, he volunteered for military service and enlisted in the Inns of Court OTC on 6 October I916 with the rank of Pte and the serial number 9694- He served in the 2nd Company of this unit until 50 January 1917, when he transferred to the 14th Officer Cadet Battalion at Berkhamstead. After completing his training he was commissioned into the York and Lancaster Regt on 26 April 1917* He arrived in France at the beginning of September 1917 and was posted to the 4'th Battalion of the Regiment, known as the Hallamshires. Just five weeks later he was killed at Passchendaele on 9 October 1917* His Colonel wrote to his parents:

"He was killed in the early stages of our attack by rifle or machine-gun fire, while leading his platoon ELcross a marsh. During the short time that he was with us, your boy showed himself to be a most hard­working and keen officer, and his loss will be much felt by the battalion."

Another officer wrote:

"He was killed instantaneously whilst gallantly lead--ing his platoon in the attack on the morning of 9 October. He had not been very long with us, but had shown in the short time great promise, which was fulfilled in the way he overcame the very real obstacles at the start of the attack."

The "Chronicle" of March 19I8 contained a brief obituary, which concluded:

"Bill will always be remembered by those who knew him at School as a cheery companion, who always played the game. He died as he lived - a staunch and true Dunstonian, laying down his life that we might live."

He is buried at Tyne Cot Cemetary, Passchendaele, Belgium.

56

BIHDSEYE, Douglas Martin. He was the elder son of Martin Birdseye, of "Fembank", 7 Anerley Park Road, Anerley, a com merchaat; and of Rosina Caroline, daughter of Commander William Hore, Royal Navy. He was bom at Anerley on 14 May 1897. At first educated privately by Miss Canrpkin at Beckenham, he came to St. Dunstan's in September 1907j leaving in December 1912. The School Register shows that he was absent for five terms, but despite this he was included in both the 4th XI Cricket and the 2nd X? Rugby in 1912. He was one of the first members of the OTC when it was formed in 1911. On leaving St. Dunstan's he became a junior clerk with Wright, Layman and Umneys, wholesale chemists in London. He was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club.

In July 1914 he enlisted in the 20th London Regt, and voltinteered for overseas service when War was declared. He was selected for officer training, and was commissioned into the South Staffordshire Regt on 22 July 1915« On 1 September 1916 he was given the temporary rank of Lieut and served from this date as Bombing and Gas Officer of the 8th Battalion Training Reserve. On 14 December I916 he was posted as 2/Lieut to the 8th South Staffordshire Regt, and joined the unit in France on 5 January 1917» He was mortally wo\mded on 8 February 1917 while moving up to the front-line trenches, and died two days later. His senior officers wrote to his parents:

"Althou^ he was with us so shoirt a time, I, as his company commander, learnt to love and respect him,"

"Your son had become very popular dtiring the short time he had been with the regiment, and we all motun his loss,"

He is buried at the Guards' Cemetary at Combles, France.

BLACKBURN, Arthur. He was bom on I4 March 1893, and was the son of William and Helen Blackburn, GG Fordel Road, Catford. His father was employed by the British and Foreign Wharf Company. He was educated at Plassy Road Elementary School, and arrived at St. Dunstan's in September I906, leaving in July I9O8. He joined the l/2nd London Regt on the outbreak of war, enlisting at Westminster, and sailed to Malta with the Battalion in September 1914. The unit returned to France in January 1915» and in the next month became part of the 6th Division. The unit later transferred to the 169th Brigade of the 56th Division and took part in the first day of the great Somme offensive on 1 July 1916, on which date Blackburn was killed in action. The unit was part of the attack in the Gommecourt sector and had several objectives - Feud, Ems, The Maze, and Gommecourt Park. As it had been working hard before the attack digging trenches and laying cables, the Battalion was in the reserve of the first attack; however, this was held up by counterattacks and the unit was ordered forward to give support. As it crossed No Mans' Land it came under very heavy shellfire and was enfiladed by machine guns. Some reached the German lines but were too few to carry forward the attack. In the space of a few minutes the Battalion lost a total of 255 - 45 killed, I64 wounded and 44 missing. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.

57

BLEEZE, Fraxik James. Was bom on 15 October 1897» "the son of Percy William and Edith Maude Bleeze, of 60 Tweedy Road, Bromley. His father was an estate agent. At the end of the War his parents had moved to "Wellington", Swanley, Kent. He was previously educated at Bromley College, l6 Ravensboume Road, Bromley; and was at St. Dunstan's from April I9O8 to July 1914. Shortly after leaving, he enlisted in the l6th London Regt on the outbreak of War, and served in the ranks for some time. He was promoted to L/Cpl, and was commissioned from this rank on 17 March 19I8, being posted to the Oxfordshire and Buckin^iamshire Light Infantry; he was sent to France and was attached to the l/4th Royal Sussex Regt, and he met his death whilst serving with this -unit, being killed in axition on 29 July 1918. He is buried at Raperie British Cemetary, Ville-Montoire, Piunce.

BLOXHAM, George Edward. Bom on 16 February 1892, he was the son of George Edward and Mary Bloxham. His father was a hosier of 59 H i ^ Street, Deptford. He was educated at Aske's School and then at St. Bunstan's from January 1904 to July 19O6. On the outbreak of war he was living with his parents at 58 Pepys Road, New Cross, and he joined the Army at Deptford in 1917» He applied and was admitted to the Honourable Artillery Company on 4 April 1917» and after training in artillery work he went to France on 5 September 1917 with "2/B" Battery of the unit. On 9 September I9I8 the Battery was in the Arras sector and was in camp a little way behind the front line. At dinner time the camp was hit by some heavy shells, and immediately a small party went to get the Battery horses out of danger; however, in this attempt a Cpl and five Drivers were killed and several more woiinded. Bloxham was one of these latter, and he died of his wounds the next day, 10 September I9I8. He is bizried at Vis-en-Artois British Cemetary in France.

BOOTH, Charles Leslie. He was bom on 22 April 1897, the son of Charles Alfred and Ada Isabel Booth, 9 Aylward Road, Forest Hill. By 1914 the family had moved to 22 Garlies Road, Forest Hill. He began his education at Perry Rise Preparatory School, Catford, and transferred to St. Dunstan's in September 1906. He was very keen on sport and played for the 2nd XI Cricket in I9II and 1912, being selected for some 1st XI games in the latter season. He was in the 3rd XV" Rugby in 1911 and the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1912. Leaving the School in July 1912, he became a clerk with W, Weddel and Company of 17 St. Helen's Place, London EC, He was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club.

On the outbreak of War, he enlisted at Blackheath in the Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, and was posted to No. 7 Platoon of the Battalion. He accompanied the unit to France in early 1915 and took part in its first fi^ts at Festubert and Givenchy. He wrote a letter to the School describing some of his experiences, and this was reproduced in the "Chronicle" of June 1915?

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THE 20th ME BITRODUCED TO KEUPPS

(C.L. Booth writes home)

"10th April 1915* There is not much spare time at present, even to eat, as there are qiiite a nxunber of shells biirsting under, over, and all round us. We marched from ovx last stopping place to this village, imder a mile away from the firing, and as we approached the place, we were told that they were shelling the village, and that we were to get into artillery formation. Well, we got into this village, practically every house of which is in ruins, all having heen shelled and here, I think, we had one of the narrowest escapes we are ever likely to have. George Wilson was in charge of his section, in front of ours, when a shell just missed our heads by inches, and struck a house ten feet away. No one was hurt, but a piece of dirt hit Wilson in the nose. We went steadily on through these shells, and halted in the middle of the village for dinner, after which we continued on to the trenches (being shelled the whole time), and for the first time we heard rifle fireo"

"To get into the firing or support trenches, there are first of all communication trenches about half a mile long, beautifully made, and they twist and twirl about all over the place. We arrived at last in the support trenches, where there is nothing to do but to amuse yourself as best you can. This trench is thirty yards behind the reserve trench, which is fifty yards behind the firing trench."

"Wow what goes on all day is something like this; there is a continual snipers' fire kept up all day and night, and then the aTtlllexy goes on incessantly between the hours of eleven and one, and again at dusk. We got into these support trenches in the afteinoon, when it was comparatively quiet; occasionally guns woiild go off, but nothing else. At dusk we all had to stand to in case of an attack. When it is dark the artillery ceases, and rifle-fi2?e begins, as the men can put their heads up without being seen by snipers, and they then blaze away at any flashes. The machine guns begin at night, too. I was sentry ftom ten till eleven, when I got into one of the dug-outs, which are really admirably constructed underground, and I slept like a top, despite the noise, which is always louder at ni^t than by day."

"At dawn I was called up to stand to, and then we started our second day with a rather narrow escape - an aeroplane was being fired at right over our heads with shrapnel, and the bullets were dropping all round us. It was awfully lucky we were not hit, for we oiight to have been in our dug-outs. Things were fairly quiet until eleven in the morning, when they began to bombard a village a few hundred yards behind us. There was a terrible row, but it was a fine sight watching the shells knocking the houses and the chiorch tower to pieces, shell after shell. They were trying to destroy our machine guns which had been worrying them during the night."

39

"A little rest, and we were moved up into the reserve trenches for a time, and some of us were sent up into the firing line, where we had the time of ovir lives. The Germans were trying to destroy a bridge over a canal, the very bridge where O'Leary won his V.C. Our firing line runs over this bridge, and you can quite understand they cannot of course build trenches on it, but have, instead, to put up sand-bag barricades. We were pushed up here, and had the hottest time imagin--able, as they were potting away energetically at the bridge, shells were humming rovind and knocking the dirt in our faces, and sending the sand-bags flying. It was so hot that they had to take us back through a narrow tunnel which the sappers were building to mine the German trenches. Every one of the Regulars agreed when we got back that we had had a good baptism of fire. We were mixed with the 1st Royal Berkshires, who are jolly fine fellows; in fact, I've not foimd a Regular who isn't. The Irish Guards were in the next field to us, on the other side of the bridge, and the Staffords on our right - the extreme end of the British line - after which come the French. I can honestly say I have not felt the slight--est bit nervous, except that first shell, and now we think no more of shells than we used to of motor 'busses passing the Bank."

On 25 September 1915 he took part in the attack on Loos, where the unj.t was part of 141st Brigade in the Al^h (London) Division. The Battalion took most of the objectives assigned to it and reached as far as the Chalk Pit, where it dug in. Having survived this attack, in which many Old Diinstonians were killed and wounded. Booth was killed in action the next day, 26 September 19'15> during the heavy German shelling and counterattacks. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in France.

The "Lee Journal" of 12 November 1915 carried a short obittiary, which concluded:

"He was an Old Dunstonian and to the last was very keen on all the sporting events connected with his old School, and was himself a member of the Rugby team. His Sgt. speaks very hi^ily of him and tells Mr. Booth of his cheerf\ilness at all times, how well he was liked, and of his fearlessness in action. His parents must be proud to think that he died fitting for a just cause. They trust their sacrifice will be repaid by eventually seeing Prussian militar--ism finally overthrown."

BOUTROIEUX BE GREY, Pedro. He was bom on I4 Jiily 1895, and was educated at first at the Institution Modeme, Enghien les Bains, Prance. He came to England in 190? to say with his guardian, A.R, Mahatiere, a commercial clerk of 42 Hazelbank Road, Catford. He was at the School from September 1907, althou^ the School Register does not record when he left.

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Returning to Prance, he volunteered for service in the French army in 1914 snd. was posted to the 9th Artillery Division of the 5'th ACTQT Corps. He was promoted for gallantry to the rank of Marechal de Logis, and was killed in action whilst observing for his Battery during the Aisne battles on 8 June 1915« He is buried at Islettes Cemetary, France.

BOWN, Herbert Alan. Bom on 3O J une I89I at Limehouse, he was the son of Arthur Bown, a foreman, and his wife Letitia, of 14 Colfe Road, Forest Hill. After attending Rathfem Road Elementary School for some years, he came to St. Dunstan's in Januaiy 1905 snd. left in December 19O6. He continued to live in Forest Hill, and enlisted at the outbreak of war in the l6th London Regt at Westminster. He was later promoted to Sgt, and was killed in action in Palestine on 8 December 1917 during the fitting that resulted in the capture of Jerusalem. His father predeceased him, and his mother had moved to "Corona", Theobalds Road, Lei^-on-Sea, Essex. He is buried in the Jerusalem War Gemetary.

BRAGHER, Herbert Hector. The son of Thomas Victor Albert and Louisa Elizabeth Bracher, he was bom on 2 February I9OO. His father was a clerk, and the family lived for many years at 183 Algernon Road, Lewisham. He was educated at Lewisham Bridge Elementary School and at Greenwich Hi^er Grade School, then at St. Dunstan's from September 1912; his fees were paid by the School Governors. He left in July 1915 to work for the Railway Passengers Assurance Company, and when he became old enough he volunteered for military service. After training as an officer and then for flying duties, he was commissioned into the Royal Air Force, and in July 19I8 was posted to Ho. 55 Squadron in France. The Squadron was part of the 41st Wing and was equipped with D,H.9 and D,H.9a aircraft. On I6 A-ugust 1918 Bracher went out on a bombing raid over the German lines and failed to return; it later transpired that he had been shot down, and he is buried at Sarralbe Military Cemetary in the Depart--ment of the Moselle, France.

BRISELDEN, Thomas Harold. Bom on 16 March 1897, he was the son of Thomas Briselden and his wife Elizabeth Georgina, datighter of George Parham of Teynham, Kent. The family lived at 10 Mount Pleasant Road, Lewisham; the occupation of his father is not noted in the School Register, but in later years he was a Borough Councillor in Lewisham. Briselden was first educated at Plassy Road Elementary School in Catford from 1902 to I9IO, arriving at St. Dimstan's in September of that year.

41

He was in the 2nd XV Rugby, and left in July 1912 to become a clerk for the National Amalgamated Approved Society, He worked for some timebefore the War as a Steward's Cle3±: at Shoreditch Infirmary. Shortly after War was declared, he made his way to Maidstone and enlisted in the l/lst West Kent Yeomanry in November 1914 with the rank of Pte and the number 1554. He remained with the unit in the Canterbtoy area until 24 September 1915» when it sailed from Liver --pool on the S.S. "Olympic", The Regiment landed at Gallipoli on 8 October 1915 and served as infantry with the 42nd (East Lancashire) Division. Along with mai^ others, Briselden contracted enteric at Gallipoli, and was invalided to the island of Mudros on 50 December 1915« Whilst in the General Hospital there, he met an Army nurse he had known several years before when working at the Shoreditch Infirmaay,

As he was unfit for further duty he was evacuated again to Egypt, and after a time in an Alexandria hospital he was sent home to complete his recovery at Birmingham University Hospital and in Bristol. In December I916 he had recovered sufficiently to go on active service again and was posted back to the West Kent Yeomanry which was in Egypt, He travelled thro\igh Prance to Marseilles, where he joined the troopship "Ivemia" for the voyage throTigh the Mediterranean; this was a Cxinard liner of 14,000 tons and on this voyage she was carrying some 2,400 troops. On 1 Januaj:y 1917 she was torpedoed 60 miles off Cape Matapan by the 118-47» and 121 crew and troops were drowned. With the rest of his draft, Briselden spent two hours in the water before being rescued and landed on the island of Crete, He then completed his journey to Egypt on another ship, and was in Egypt about a week later.

He rejoined his old unit and shortly afterwards changed his number to 27078O when the unit was amalgamated with the East Kent Yeomanry to become the 10th (Yeomanry) Battalion of the East Kent Regt (The Buffs), In the latter months of the year the imit was part of the '^xd Dismount--ed Brigade in the advance from Egypt into Palestine, On 3I October 1917 the Battalion launched an attack at El Khasif, near Jerusalem, and it was in this action that Briselden was killed. The unit began the advance towards the Turkish lines at 4*00 a,m,, and despite coming under heavy shellfire and taking casvialties it made use of dead gro\md and was successful in capturing the G?urkish position. The Battalion lost 9 killed, 104 wounded and 4 missing.

BROOKES, Herbert Ernest Victor, The only son of Frederick James Brookes and his wife Mary, da\xghter of W.T. Revitt of St. John's Wood, London, He was bom at Catford on 50 June 1887, and his early education was at Catford Collegiate School. He arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 1898 and stayed for six years; diiring his time he was a member of the Debating Society, and was well to the fore in sport - 3rd XV Rugby I9OI, 2nd XV 1902, 1st XV 1903; and 1st XII Lacrosse 1903 and I904. He left the School in Jiily I904 and then joined the clerical staff of a shipbroking firm in London. He lived at Catford throughout and was well-known as a long-distance cyclist, being a member of the Anerley Bicycle Club for many years. On 11 November 1914 he enlisted in the l/9th London Regt, and after a period of training accompanied the Battalion to Prance in August 1915 as a member of "A" Company.

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The unit served with the 5th and later with the 56th Divisions, and took part in the battles of the Somme (Gommecourt), Les Boeufs, Neuve Chapelle, Laventie, Arras, Third Ypres, Demicoiirt and Cambrai. During the latter battle Brookes was one of those invalided throu^ illness caused by the cold and damp of the trenches, and he died of pneumonia at No. 6 General Hospital on 10 December 1917» His officers wrote:

"Rfn. Brookes was one of the most popular fellows in the company, and when he became part of Company HQ Staff he was most thoroiigh in the duties he was asked to perform out here."

"I miss him very much, as he was a really good soldier and was very popxilar with all."

His next of kin were his parents; whilst he was at St. Dunstan's they had lived at 10 Eingstead Eoad, Catford, later moving to 9 Bargery Road, Catford. He is btiried at St. Sever Cemetary Extension, Prance.

BROOMAN, Horace Bernard. Bom on 8 September 1887, he was the only child of Henry Bernard and Melicent Brooman, of 48 Glenwood Road, Catford. His father was a jeweller. He attended Rathfem Road Elem--entary School, and joined St. Dunstan's in January I9OI. He left in July 1905» and althou^ no details of his career are available, by 1914 he was living at Ascot, Berkshire. During the early part of the War he enlisted at Reading in the l/4th Eojral Berkshire Regt; he joined the unit in Prance, where it was part of the 145th Brigade of 48th Division, and served with it until 4 Atigust I916, when he was killed in action. The "Lee Journal" noted that he was the 52nd Old Dunstonian to be killed during the War. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

BROWN, Alfred Joseph. The son of Joseph R.W. Brown, he was bom at Peckham on 12 September 1895> and. his father was cashier in a shipping firm. He was educated first at Waller Road Elementary School, New Cross; and after the family had moved to 154 Verdant Lane, Catford, he changed to Brownhill Road Elementary School. He was at St. Dunstan's from September 1907 to December 1911> and the School Register notes that he went to Prance to study the language. His fees at the School were paid by the London County Council. On the outbreak of War he was living with his parents at "Pentyre", 27 Sefton Road, Addiscombe, Surrey, and he enlisted in London in the 20th London Regt. He went to France with the unit in March 1915» took part in the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy, and was then in the action at Loos in September 1915 in which the Old Dunstonian Company was heavily engaged and lost so many.

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During the Loos fighting, Brown was wounded by a shell, and was sent back to England, where he was treated in Colchester Military Hospital. The "Lee Journal" of 12 November 1915 reproduces part of a letter written by him to his mother at 23 Manor Mount, Forest Hill, in which he describes how he was wounded by a shell which landed 4 yards away from him:

"I was very lucky not to have been killed outright by the explosion alone, but as it was I got a piece of the shell throiigh my thigh as well as a small piece in the chest. But I am going on all right, and am wheeled about in an arm chair. I had to lay about six hours in a chalk pit and was being shelled all the time. They co\ild not get me away until after dark,"

The newspaper also mentions that he returned on a hospital train and stopped at New Cross for ten minutes, and that he was tempted to take a train back to Forest Hill to call in on his old friends. On recovering he was posted to the 6th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers in England, with the number 8718; and when passed fit for active service again he went to France to join the 20th Battalion of the Regiment, the "^xd. Public Schools, coniposed solely of old boys from public schools. Whilst serving with this unit he was killed in action in France on 15 April 1917» and having no known grave he is commem--orated on the Arras Memorial in France.

BROWN, Dudley Granville. Bom on 2 July 1900, he was the son of CR.W. Brown, an Admiralty employee of 159 Wellmeadow Road, Catford. He was educated at Torridon Road Elementary School 1911 to 1913> and was at St. Dunstan's from Apidl 1913 to June 1915* He left to work in the City for R.C. Cle^om at 14 St. Mary's Axe, but when old enough he enlisted in the Royal Air Force. At the end of the War he was based at Feltwell Aerodrome, and was killed in an aeroplane accident there on 20 December 1918.

BRYCE, William. He was the son of William and Isabella Bryce, and was bom at Catford on 27 June 1898. His father was a clerk and the family lived at 113 Minard Road, Hither Green. He was educated at Sandhurst Road Elementary School from I906 to 1912, and at St. Dunstan's from September 1912 to July 1913. On leaving the School he went to work for Leveten and Company, merchants, of 194 Bishopsgate, London EC, Although too young to volunteer for active service, in 1915 he joined the 1st Cadet Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt; and in February 1917 he enlisted at Lewisham in the 3/5th London Regt. In Jizly 1917 he went to France and was attached to the l/5th London Regt with the serial n-umber 304879.

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On 20 September 1917> Bryce went into action in the great battle of the Menin Road during the fighting for Passchendaele Ridge. The imit attacked near Keerselare at 5*40 a.m. and captured all objectives in four hours despite heavy casualties from shelling and machine guns. An enemy counterattack failed and the remainder of the day was quiet, the success of the operation being partly due to the fact that this was the first attack in which machine guns were taken up with the front of the advance. Ihiring this action, Bryce was severely wounded in the left leg and was invalided home. After a long convalescence he was passed as fit again and returned to Prance to join the 54'th London Regt with the nxmber 88OO6I; he landed at Boulogne with the unit on 1 August 1918 and served with it in the l6th Division during the advances in the autumn of I9I8. On 6 November I9I8 he was badly gassed, and despite treatment at the 2nd Canadian Stationary Hospital in France he died of wounds on 27 November I9I8 and is buried at Terlincthun Cemetary. The "Lee Joiimal" obituary on 11 December 19I8 concluded:

"He was a bright lad, and took a healthy interest in and participated in all kinds of athletics. He was an only son, and is deeply mourned by his family."

BUCK, Harold Lambert. He was the son of W.P. and A.B.L, Buck, and was bom on 26 May 1894» He was bom in London, where his father was a coachbuilder and shop proprietor, and the family lived at 40 Rushey Green, Catford. He was educated initially at a private school at 5 Lewisham Park, Lewisham, and came to St. Dunstan's in September 1904. He played Lacarasse for the Lower School and was in the Under 13 XI Cricket in 19O6; in I9O7 joined the 4th XI and played occasionally for the 3rd XI; and was in the 2nd XV" Rugby in 1907 and 19O8. He left the School in December 19O8, and after working locally for a few years decided to emigrate to Canada, sailing on 13 April 1912 on the S.S, "Mauretania". His address was later given in the "Chronicle" as Box D, Ti-anscona, Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Shortly after the outbreak of War he enlisted at Winnipeg on 8 December 1914 and served at first with the 90th Winnipeg Rifles in training in Canada; he was later passed as a signaller and joined the HQ Staff of the 5th Canadian Artillery Brigade. Buck proceeded to Prance via England, and served for some time in Prance, where he was brou^t to notice on several occasions for bravery in the field. He was promoted to Sgt., and was awarded the Military Medal (London Gazette 18 Jvily 1917) and later a Bar to the Militaiy Medal (London Gazette 2 November 1917); on each occasion he is shown as serving as a signaller with the Canadian Field Artillery HQ. He later transferred to the 2nd Canadian Division Signals Conrpany and whilst serving with this ttnit was wounded in the fitting at Arras, dying of his wounds on 21 September I9I8. He is buried at Duisans British Cemetary in Prance.

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BUCKINGHAM, Frederic Patrick Forbes. Bom at Lewi sham on I4 September 1897, he was the son of C.FoP. Buckin^iam of 8 Thornton Avenue, Streatham Hill, an assistant manager in the wholesale wine trade. He was previously educated at St. Cuthbert's College, 37 Sunderland Road, Forest Hill; and was at St. Dunstan's from September 1907 to July 1912. He went to work for Stapley and Smith, 128 London Wall, London EC, and continued to live with his parents at Streatham Hill. During his time at St. Dunstan's he had been in the 5rd XI Cricket in 1912. In the first few months of the War he went to Chelsea and enlisted in the Middlesex Hussars (ist County of London Teemanry), He took the niimber 260216 and served as a Pte and later as L/Cpl. He went with the unit to Gallipoli in Aiagust 1915, where it served as infantry; from January to November I916 in Egypt with the Suez Canal Defences; in Salonika from November 1916 to June 1917; and from then onwards in Egypt again. He died of disease on 20 July 1918, and is buried in the Cairo War Memorial Cemetary.

BUNKER, Harold John. The son of A. B\mker, 52 Carholme Road, Forest Hill, and his wife Hannah Amelia; he was bom on I4 March 1894 and his father was a wholesale cleric. His first education was at Beech--field House, Beechfield Road, Catford, followed by five years at St. Duns tan's from January 1904 to April 1909. He played in several Fives* tournaments whilst in the Lower School, and was in the 3 ^ XV Rugby in 19O8. He joined the staff of Messrs. Morton, Leadenhall Street, London EC as a clerk after leaving the School. His early War service is somewhat unclear, although a note in the "Chronicle" suggests that he served in the ranks of the Royal Army Medical Corps. In any event, he underwent officer training in the first months of 1917 and was commissioned into the Yorkshire Regt on 26 April 1917* He was posted to the 9"th Battalion in France, and was killed in action on 28 September 1917 during the fitting around Stirling Castle and Sanctuary Wood. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial at Passchendaele, Belgitmi.

BimROWS, Stanley Eric. Bom on 26 March I894, he was the son of Joseph G. Burrows, a commercial traveller of 34 Woolstone Road, Forest Hill. After a time at Rathfem Road Elementary School he came to St. Dunstan's in September 1905; he served as a Prefect 1909-10 and was in the 2nd XV Rugby in I909. In Jvly 191O he was successful in the London University School Leaving Examination, and when he left the School in December 19IO he went on to the Strand School to study for a career in the Civil Service. In 1912 he passed the Civil Service Junior Appointments Examination and was placed 44th nationally. He then embarked on a cotirse at London University, where he attended Birkbeck College and was a member of the University OTC.

46

Burrows enlisted on the outbreak of War in the 15th London Regt, and went to Prance with the unit as a Pte in October 1914. The Battalion served with the 8th Division diiring the fighting in the winter of 1914-15* and in Janiiary 1915 lie was wounded and invalided home. After convalescing he was selected for officer training and was commissioned into the 9'fch (Reserve) Battalion of the Oxford--shire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry on 2 September 1915 • He returned to Prance in December 1915 and was posted to the 5th Battalion, which was part of the 14th Division. He was killed in action on 30 December 1915 > and is biiried at the Duhallow Advanced Dressing Station Cemetaiy, Ypres, Belgium. His next of kin was his father, who was by then living at G libal House, Lee.

BUTCHER, Henry. Was bom at Twickenham on 5 Jixly 1890, the son of William Butcher, an architect, and his vriLfe Alice. The family moved to 44 Tweedy Road, Bromley, and he attended Bromley National School for some time before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 1902. He left in April 1905» and althou^ his career for the next few years is unknown he was a student at St. Augustine's College, Canterbury, when the War commenced in 1914* As with many theological students he volunteered for the Royal Army Medical Corps, enlisting near his college at Canterbury. In 1915 he went to Prance with the J^th Pield Ambulance, was promoted Sgt, and was killed in action on 1 October 1915* He is btiried at Vermelles British Gemetary, Prance.

BUTLER, Stanley William. The son of William Day and Anne Elizabeth Butler, he was bom on 29 January 1895; his father was an office clerk living at 302 Brownhill Road, Catford. He was educated at three schools before coming to St, Dunstan's - Norfolk House School, Brownhill Road, 1901-02; Dudley House School, Lee, I903-O7; and Brownhill Road Elementary School 19O8-IO. He was at St. Dunstan's for a year, September I9IO to July 1911> before taking a position with Messrs. Posen and Company, wholesale fancy leather goods manufact\irers. His parents later moved to "The Knoll", Eliot Hill, Blackheath, and it was here that he enlisted at the start of the War, joining the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He accompanied the unit to Prance in March 1915> taking part in the battles of Pestubert, Givenchy, and Loos. He came through the latter battle unscathed and was one of the few Old Dunstonians of the ^xnlt left in the line after the attack on 25 September 1915• He was killed in action at Loos during the latter stages of the fighting there on 28 October 1915; lie has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Prance.

47

CAEEY, Francis Ambrose. Bom on 10 Au^st 1896, the son of Francis Harwood and Edith Carey. His father was a commercial clerk and the family lived at 8 Beulah Road, Thornton Heath. Much of his education was at Whitgift Grammar School, hut he completed this with some time at St. Dunstan's - April 1910 to December 1911. When hostilities were declared, he joined the Old D-unstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath and underwent initial training with the unit. However, he was selected for officer training and was promoted 2/Lieut in the l6th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, which was stationed at Shoreham, Sussex. On 10 March 1916 he was posted to the 32nd (East Ham) Battalion of the Regiment at Aldershot. The unit arrived in France on 5 May 1916 and served in the 41 st Division in the Somme battles in the summer of 1916, Whilst taking part in these operations he was killed in action on 15 September 1916. He has no known grave, and his name appears on the Thiepval Memorial in France,

CARTEIR, Stephen Charles. The son of a bank official, he was bom on 18 February 1894. His parents were Arthur Alfred and Mary Anne Carter, of 64 Bromley Road, Catford, and later of "Eden Glen", Ember Lane, Esher, Surrey. After a time at Catford Collegiate School, he transferred to St. Dunstan's in September 1907 and was at the School until December 1909; he was in the 3rd XI Cricket in 1909, and on leaving became a member of the Old Dunstonian Riogby Club. He became a clerk with the merchants Cotesworth and Powell of 148 Leadenhall Street, London EC.

In 1914 he joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, and after initial training at Hatfield accompanied the Battalion to France in March 1915. He went thorough the engagements at Festubert, Givenchy and Loos apparently unscathed, and early in 1916 was made Sgt in the xmit and recommended for a commission. He became 2/Lieut in the 7th Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt on 27 Jtme 1916 and joined the unit in the 18th Division. The Battalion was the last of the Regiment to take part in the Somme fighting, and on the day that Carter was killed - 18 November 1916 - was in an attack at Grandcourt on the Ancre. The unit commenced the attack at 6.10 a.m. in awful conditions, as snow and ice covered the ground and the troops stood out as perfect targets. One Company lost direction and veered off to one faliik, where it was almost destroyed; however, another detachment got into the German lines successfully and, with support, gradually cleared the German trenches on either side. The position was held until the Battalion was relieved three days later. The initial attack had cost 23 killed, 79 wounded and 96 missing. Carter was the only officer to be killed. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.

48

CLAEKE, Cyril. Bom at Beckenham on 15 April 1891, the third son of Herbert Edvd.n Clarke and his vdfe Agnes Elizabeth (nee Hoflind). The family lived at 11 Queen's Road, Beckenham, for many years and when his father died around 1914 M s mother moved to 10 Pitzwilliam Avenue, New Road, Mcdmiond. He was educated at Beckenham H i ^ School and then at St. Dunstan's from September 1905» He won a School Prize for Work and Conduct in 190?» but it was in sport that he excelled, being an all-ro\mder and playing Cricket, Lacrosse, Rugby, Fives, and taking part in many Athletics competitions. In Cricket, he was in the 2nd XI 1905-O6 and the 1st XI 1906-O7, being particul--arly notable as a wicket-keeper. He was in the 1st XV" Rugby I9O6-O7, won a number of School Races at 100 yards and 220 yards. In 1907 he was a Prefect and School Secretary and served for two years as the Honorary Secretary of the Athletic Committee. He was also a keen Fives player. He began on the Literary Side, transferring half-way through the School to the Commercial Side. He was the youngest of three brothers who were all educated at St. Dunstan's.

However, it was in Lacrosse that he achieved most for the School; he began the game early and was Captain of 5 's team in the Lower School Tournament in 1905. He joined the 1st XII in 1906 and was picked in the same year to play for London in the match against the Universities at Stamford Brigde. In 19O8 he became Captain of Lacrosse and led the St. Itoistan's team in that season, in which the School won the Junior Flags Competition, the final match being played at Lords. The team is shown in a photograph in the "Chronicle" of June 19O8, accompanied by a full account of the team and its triuniphant season.

Clarke left the School in April 19O8 and went to work for the London, Scottish and Australian Bank in Lombard Street, London EC. His Lacrosse progressed, and he played for the Lee team that won the South of England Championship and for the Kent team that won the County Championship. When War commenced he underwent officer train--ing and was then commissioned into the 10th (Reserve) Battalion of the East Surrey Regt on 15 March 1915« He was due to go to Fiance in September 1915» ^"t ^xi illness kept him at home and he was sent to train troops. He finally went overseas in 1916, and joined the 8th East Siirrey Regt in France, a voalt which was in the 18th Division.

On 10 jTuie 1916 the Battalion took over trenches opposite the German position at Montaubanj on 14 June the Germans began to shell the British lines, and when the British guns replied their fire fell short and hit the trenches occupied by the East Surreys. 0?he misdirected artillery fire killed 10 and wounded 42; Clarke was mortally wounded by a shell splinter, evacuated, and died two days later on 16 June 1916 at Corbie. He was buried at Corbie Communal Cemetary Extension, France. His senior officers wrote to his parents:

"He was wounded while gallantly holding a forward sap. He walked quite easily down to HQ, and no-one thou^t he was seriously hurt. The news of his death came as a great surprise and shock to his brother officers, with whom he was a great favourite. He displayed great courage and tenacity, and he is a great loss to the battalion."

"He was a most conscientious officer, who always took a great interest in his work, to endeavour to obtain absolute efficiency in his men. He was well-liked by all who knew him, and the news of his death came as a great shock to us all."

49

COLLINS, William Geoffrey, Boxa on 7 November 1882, the son of William Heniy Collins, 6 Davenport Road, Rushey Green. He was educated first at Deal College, Kent, and came to St, Dunstan's in June 1895? "the School Register does not record when he left, but in 1897 he was in both the 1st XII Lacrosse and the 2nd XV Rugby, His parents moved later to 13 Coopers Lane, Grove Park, and Collins married Violet, daughter of Councillor W.E, Berry of Brownhill Road, Catfoi*d, He was well-known locally, playing tennis, cricket and football for local clubs and being a member of the St, Germain*s Horticultural Society at Forest Hill, After marrying he lived at Hither Green, On the outbreak of War he was appointed Ad;5'U-"''aiit of the Lewisham Battalion, Volimteer Training Corps, He joined the City of London Yeomanry in 1915» scad passed throvigh the ranks of the Artists' Rifles to a commission, becoming 2/Lieut on 24 December 1915 in the 10th (Reserve) Battalion of the Norfolk Regt.

On 1 July 1917 he was promoted Lieut, and later in the month went to France where he was posted to the 7'th Battali&n of the Regiment, The unit was part of the 12th Division, During an action on 50 November 1917> he was seriously wotinded and captured; moved to a prisoner of war camp near Hamburg, his condition worsened and his leg was amputated. He died on 21 January 19I8, leaving a widow and two children. He is biiried in Hamburg Cemetary, Ohlsdorf, Germany, He was a veiy popular officer, and his widow received many letters from colleagues in the Regiment, some of which were published by the "Lee Journal" on 6 March 19I8:

"I can assure you the sad news came as a thunderbolt to many of us who count ourselves his friend; I am grieved beyond words. It is like losing a brother, and he is always in our thou^ts."

"We were deeply grieved to hear of the death of o\ir old friend and comrade. We shall always have a happy recollection of his merry, cheerful dispos--ition, so good-natured and good-tempered. It is ine3qpressibly sad that such a young bright life should be cut short,"

"Your dear hisband, like many others, made the supreme sacrifice for his country and dear ones. He could do no more, and we thank God there are such heroes in our England."

"I was so very sorry to hear the sad news. I can only tell you that he cotild not have died for a greater cause than fighting for his country and home. When the first cruel shock is over, I am sure you will feel proud of his sacrifice, Geoff was a most popular man with his officers and men, and there are many who will remember him whenever the Great War is discussed,"

"I am writing to tell you how deeply we all feel for you just now in your great trouble. Please accept my deepest sympathy which I can assure you is not conventional at all, as I have lost a friend,"

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COONEY, Leonard William. He was bom on 15 September 1894f the son of William and Ada Cooney; his father was the manager of a boot and shoe stores and the family lived at 2 Clarendon Road, Lee. He was educated first at Ennersdale Road Elementary School in Lewisham, coming to St, Dunstan's in September 1906. He was in the Under^lJ Cricket XI in 1907> won several races at School Athletics, and was a member of the 2nd XV Rugby in I909. In I9IO his parents emigrated to New Zealand, and he accompanied them to a new home in Wellington.

At the outbreak of war in 1914 he voliznteered for service and was posted to the 11th Battalion of the New Zealand Machine Gvn Corps with the number 8/2416. He acconrpanied the New Zealand Expeditionary Force to Egypt in 1915» said served at Gallipoli where he was wounded. On recovering he was sent to France, where he was wounded again and invalided to England, convalescing in hospital at Walton-on-Thames Military Hospital in October and November 1916. He was posted back to Prance in 1917» and was wounded for a third time, on this occasion being badly gassed. He was evacuated to hospital but died of wounds on 21 October 1917. He is bioried at Nine Elms Ceme--tary, Poperinghe, Belgium.

COOPER, Frederick William Harvey. Bom on 29 August 1894; his father died while he was young and he was broTi^t up by his mother Mary, a glove cleaner of 20 Court Hill Road, Lewisham. Educated at first at Ennersdale Road Elementary School, he came to St. Dunstan's in September 1906 with a Scholarship, his fees being paid by the London Coiinty Council. He left in July 1909> and the School Register notes that he went to work as an office boy at Harvey's Zinc Works, Loampit Vale, Lewisham. Soon after the outbreak of War he volunteeiv--ed for the 11th (Lewisham) Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt. He went to France in May 1916 with the unit as a Cpl, and shortly afterwards was promoted L/Sgtj whilst serving in the ranks his number was 8072. On I4 September 1916 he took part in the attack on Flers, in which the Battalion lost 345 out of the 6IO who went into action. The Regimental History notes his great coairage and leadership in this attack, and he was later awarded the Military Medal for his bravery (London Gazette 9 December I916),

Shortly afterwards he was offered a commission, and after a period of officer training he was commissioned into a Reserve Battalion of the East Kent Regt (The Buffs). He transferred to a Service Battalion of the Regiment on 19 October 1917» and having served a further period in France, he was posted to the 10th Battalion (East and West Kent Yeomaniy) in Palestine. He was killed in action with this unit on 9 March I9I8. On this date the unit attacked forward from their forward positions towards the town of Yebrud, 15 miles north of Jerusalem. A preliminary night patrol had found that the town was held by a strong force of Turkish snipers, and the whole Battalion had to be used to clear the town. This was done by 9-00 a.m., but not before 8 men had been wounded and 2/Lieut Cooper killed by rifle fire. He is buried at Jerusalem War Cemetary in Palestine.

51

COOPER, Haxold Tracey. He was the son of James and Eliza Cooper, and was bom on 25 Iferch I896. The family lived initially at Penge, moving to 48 Westboume Road, Forest Hill, when he was a child. His father was a retired accountant. He was educated at first by Mr. Middleton at Crofton House School, and later at Honor Oak School, He came to St. Dunstan's in April I910 and left in December 1912 to work for Messrs. Bumell, Prior of Lawrence Pountney Hill, London EC. At about this time his father died and his mother moved the short distance to 54 Westbotiine Road. He enlisted in London into the 12th London Regt, and whilst serving in Prance was killed in action on 19 June 1916. He is buried at Hebuteme Military Cemetary, France.

COERIGAN, Francis Stanislaus. Bom on 16 March 1891, he was the son of Francis and Mary Corrigan. The family lived at first at 46 Ashmead Road, Deptford New Town, and by 1903 had moved to 75 Comer--ford Road, Brockley. In 1912 they moved again to 61 Dalrymple Road, Brockley, where his father died about 1920. The School Register notes that he was a Catholic, and that his father was a tailor; the Post Office Directory shows that his firm was Corrigan and French, with three addresses in the City - 19-20 Aldersgate Street, 11 Falcon Avenue, and 52 Rosebery Avenue. Corrigan was educated first at St, Mary Magdalene School, Brockley, and came to St. Dunstan's in April 1903; he left in July I9O6, His brother, William John, was also at the School, and later se37ved as an officer in the War, and survived with the award of the Military Cross.

Early in the War he underwent officer training and was commissioned into the 10th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Lancaster Regt on 27 October 1915. He transferred to the 10th (Reserve) Battalion of the Livexpool Regt on 5 November I916. He went to France in 1917» and on 1 Jiily of that year was promoted to Lieut in the 15th (Service) Battalion of the Liverpool Regt, which was part of the 5 ^ Division. He was killed in action on 5I August 19I8 when the Battalion attacked Ecoust; the unit was successful in capturing the village, but when a flanking unit pulled back it was necessary to withdraw and retake the objective later in the day. This operation cost the unit 9 officers and 200 men. He is buried at Ecoust-St. Mein British Cemetary, France.

COVELL, Bryon. His father was H,C, Covell, a farmer of White House, Southend, Catford, and he was bom at Catford on 27 Atigust 1895« He was educated privately at home before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 1905* During his time at the School he won a number of Athletic events, was in the Undea>-15 Cricket XI and played for the 2nd XI in I909. In I9O3 his father provided the newly-formed Old Dunstonian Rugby Club its first pitch, lending a field he owned in Whitefoot Lane to the Club rent-free. Covell left School in December 1910 and went into farming, and by 1914 he was working at Preston, Lanes.

52

At the outbreak of war, he came down to Faversham, Kent, and enlisted in the Royal West Surrey Regt, with the number 59721. He transferred later to the 13th (Service) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers and changed his number to 657O8. The unit served with the 37'tli Division in Prance, and it was here that he died of wounds on 6 August ^^^^. He is buried at Bailleul Comnnmal Cemetary Extension, Prance,

CRAPTER, James. Bom on 2 March 1893, he was the son of Tom Grafter, of 96 Stondon Park, Porest Hill, who worked in marine insurance at Lloyds, His brother, Tom, appears below, and he had three other brothers. His first education was at Crofton House School, and he joined St, Ihmstan's in September 1903. He was one of the best sportsmen of his generation, both in his achievements and in the wide range of sports he undertook. In Cricket, he was in the Undeiv-13 XI in 1904* and after a brief time in the Junior and 3rd XIs he reached the 2nd XI in I906, making a record ntunber of runs for the team in that season. He was in the 2nd XI again in 1907 and progre--ssed to the 1st XI in 19O8. He was Captain of the 2nd XV" Rugby in I9O8, However, his main contribution was in Lacrosse; he came to notice in 1905 while playing in the Lower School and by 1909 he was in the 2nd XII whilst playing some games for the 1st XII, In 19O8 he was a member of the School team that won the Junior Plags Competition in the final match at Lords, A photograph of the team appears in the "Chronicle" of June 19O8,

He left St. Dunstan*s in March 1909 and took employment as a junior clerk in the Clerical, Medical and General Insurance Conipany. He kept in touch with the School by being a member of the Old Dunston--ian Shooting Team, but had many other sporting links which did not allow him time for greater participation in Old Ihmstoiaian affairs. His father was a well-known local athlete and was President of the Blackheath Harriers Club, which Crafter joined in 19IO and of which he became Honorary Secretary shortly afterwards. On several occasions he represented "Insurance" in the Banks, Insurance and Stock Exchange Walking Match, and fo\md the time for active participation in cricket, swimming, lacrosse and water^polo, as well as attending the Wednes--day evening training sessions organised by the Harriers. He was in the Blackheath Lacrosse Club team that won the Intermediate Plags Competition, and by 1914 he was Secretary of this Club. He also played in many matches for the Porest Hill Cricket Club. A change of employer to the London Guarantee and Accident Insurance Company led him to take part in a number of events for their walking team. He continued his great interest in sports right up to the beginning of the War, having won competitions of all kinds since the Blackheath Harriers Boys* Races at the end of the previous century. Many of his interests were shared by his brother Tom (see below).

On the outbreak of War, Jim and Tom Crafter both enlisted in the 14th London Regt, the London Scottish, and went to Prance with the unit in September 1914» where it was designated for service as GHQ Troops and later with the Cavalry Corps. Jim took part in the actions of Messines, Ypres, Gheluvelt (where his brother was killed, see below), Givenchy and Aubers. In the "Chronicle" of June 1915> a letter from S, French (20th London Regt) mentions meeting him in the fron line on Good Friday and that he was a L/Cpl in the London Scottish at the time.

55

Grafter distinguished himself during these early actions and was promoted Sgt in the machine gun section of the London Scottish. In July 1915 he got his first leave after neaxly nine months in Prance, and underwent officer training in England, "being commiss--ioned into the 20th London Regt on 18 August 1915* After a short time as Machine Gun Officer with a unit in England, he returned to France and ooined the l/20th London Regt in the 47th (London) Division. He was promoted to Lieut on 5 February 1916 and took part in the fighting during the summer of I916, for which he was awarded the Military Cross (London Gazette 20 October 1916). The citation states:

"For conspicuous bravery and coolness during a raid. He entered four dugouts and took four prisoners. He succeeded in gaining much valiiable information."

Early in 1917 he was attached for a short time to the King's Royal Rifle Corps, and then volunteered for the Royal Flying Corps; he completed his flying training at Thetford, Norfolk, and served as a 2/Lieut and Pilot in the RFC from 29 May 1917. Posted back to France he served with No. 20 Squadron, and whilst flying over the German lines on 7 Jiily 1917 he was shot down and killed. At first it was hoped that he had been taken prisoner, but it later transpired that he had been killed, althou^ his body was never found and his name is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in Finance. A friend and fellow-pilot, 2/Lieut T. Burkett, wrote as follows to Crafter's father on 8 July 1917:

"It is my duty to vrrite to you and explain details concerning iiie unfortunate happenings to your son and my intimate chum yesterday. First, let me express great relief at the last good news, IThat is that the 'Plane was seen to land behind a small rise on the other side of German lines, more or less \ander control. Jim's safety is qviite apparent from this fact, and I firmly believe him to be quite safe as a prisoner of war."

"Now for details: About 7*40 P«iii« yesterday, 7th, we, three other machines, Jim and n rself - five altogeth--er - were carrying out an offensive patrol well over the German lines, when we were suddenly attacked by about 12 to 15 Huns. All was well, for five of our machines can handle I5 of the Huns with comfort. This is no idle boast. Perhaps Jim has told you of some of our fun in his letters. The fight continued for 10 to 15 minutes, when I noticed an anti-aircraft shell btirst directly beneath Jim's 'plane; he was a few yards in front of me, and the petrol tank of his machine caught on fire. He displayed wonderful nerve by putting her (the machine) nose down so far as to bring her into a vertical nose dive. Thus the flames were not allowed to creep forward, but were confined to the engine and pet3X>l taiiks. The nacelle or body, which contains pilot and observer, projects well out in front from these spots, consequently, when in a position such as Jim brought the machine into, both he and his observer were more or less clear. I saw them myself q-uite clear of the flames,"

54

"I kept my attention on them for as lon g as I dared; but for my ovm personal safety I had to twist out of the road of two Huns that were diving on to me, and for the next few minutes my whole attention was absorbed in the fight. Shortly after the Huns cleared off. I then endeavoured to locate where Jim landed, but owing to height, and not having the least idea where he went, as well as drifting away from the spot where he left us owing to the fight, I am sorry to say I couldn't pick out the 'plane on the ground."

"About half an hour later I was forced to return home, owing to engine trouble, and immediate enquiries wea?e made along the whole Army front, The fact of a 'plane being seen to fall was telegraphed by the balloon section, and more definite news was sent throu^ later to the effect that the flames went out very soon after they started, and the machine with its wings intact came down in a series of nose dives and spirals, evidently under control, until within about 30 to 50 feet from the ground, when it was brought out straight to a gentle gliding angle, or, as we call it, 'flattening out', prior ±o landing, and when only a few feet from the ground it disappeared behind a sli^t rise in the ground,"

"No more information is available. Let me say again, sir, that my firm belief, as well as facts that point to the same, is that Jim is qtiite safe in Germany, It will only be a matter of a week or so before news is dropped on our side of the lines. This the Huns are fairly faithful in doing, I saw to the packing of his kit this morning. This will be despatched by the squadron,"

"Sir, I would be very grateful to you if you coTild send me a photograph of Jim, We were such intimate comrades, I first met him at Thetford, went together to Norwich, and left there to come over here together, and were together in many 'scraps'. His friendship I valued very much. I am an Australian, and many of his views are so much like an Australian, that is why we 'chummed' together."

CRAPTEIR, Tom, Bom on 4 December 1891, he was the elder son of Tom Grafter, S6 Stondon Park, Forest Hill, who worked in marine insxirance at Lloyds, His younger brother, James, appears above, and they had three other brothers. Tom Grafter was educated privately by Miss Harper before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 1901. Like his brother James he was a prominent sportsman at School; he was in the 3rd XV Rugby in 19O6 and in the 2nd XF 1907 and 19O8, captaining this team in the latter season. He was also in the Gricket 2nd XI in 1907. His success in Lacrosse was similar to that of his brother; he came to notice in the Lower School and was in the 2nd XII in 1907» but the highli^t came in 19O8 when he was in the School XII which won the Junior Flags Competition at Lords; a photograph of this team appeared in the "Ghronicle" of June 19O8,

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He left School in December 1907> sxid althoii^ there is no indication of his subsequent career until 1914» he was closely associated with several sports. His father was President of the Blackheath Harriers Club and he took part in many Club events; he was a member of the Blackheath Lacrosse Club team that won the Intermediate Flags Competition, and was Vice Captain of the Club before the War.

On the outbreak of war, he enlisted with his brother in the London Scottish (14th London Regt), and went to France with the unit in September 1914> where it was designated for service as GHQ, Troops and later with the Cavalry Corps. He took part in the actions of Messines and Ypres, and was killed in action on 12 November 1914* The Battalion had been involved in very heavy fitting at the end of October, and on 11 November the remnants of the unit repulsed a strong German attack in Zillebeke. The next day it moved to support the 1st Guards Brigade at Gheluvelt Wood, and remained there for several days under constant shellfi2?e. It was during this shelling that Crafter was killed.

CEESSWELL, Harold Trenham. Bom on 23 Jtme 1894, he was the son of T. Cresswell, a company secretary of 169 Hither Green Lane, Hither Green. He was educated at Malvern House School and then at St. Dunstan's from September 1906. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society, was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse 19IO and 1911> and in the 2nd XV" Rugby 19O8, 1909, and 1910. He left in July 191I. During the first months of the War he joined the West Kent Yeomanry at Canterbury, and later died of illness in England on 15 October 1916,

CROUCH, Norman Sydney. The son of Frederick Charles and Annie Martha Crouch of 8 Boumville Road, Ravensboume Park, Catford. He was bom on 21 October I896 and his father was a furrier. He was at Catford Collegiate School tintil September 1909J when he came to St. Dunstan's. He was a member of the 5rd XI C3?icket in 1912, and left in November 1912 to become a clerk at the Calico Printing Works, Watling Street, London. He was well-known in local circles as a footballer, and was Captain of Bellingham Football Club. He enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath on 5I August 1914, aged just seventeen - the factor which kept him at home when the other members of the Company went to France in 1915« Instead he was kept in England and posted to the 2/20th London Regt and for the next year or so was based at Coggeshall, Hatfield, Saffron Walden and Hertford. He accompanied the Battalion to France on 24 June 1916 as a L/Cpl in "A" Company, being promoted Cpl shortly afterwards. However, he was at the front only five weeks when he was killed in the fighting at Arras on 30 July 1916. He is buried at Ecoivres Cemetary, France. The "Lee Journal", in a short obituary, quotes a letter written by his Captain to his parents:

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"He was one of my most trastwoarthy NCOs, and I always felt qtiite safe in leaving him in charge of a post, no matter what it was or where it was situated. We all miss him very much, and I am asked to convey to you the sincere sympathy of all his comrades - officers, NCOs and men -in the sad loss you have sustained,"

CRUICKSHAHK, Kenneth George. He was the only son of James Cruick--shank, a civil servant, and his wife Elizabeth Antonia, dau^ter of Alfred Hallamore of Bromley, Kent. He was bom in London on 2 March 1896, and the family lived initially at 65 Kilmoide Road, Forest Hill, later moving in 1902 to 47 Northwood Road, Forest Hill. He was educated at a local private school, St. Guthbert's College, before arriving at St. Duastan's in September 1905. He was a Cpl in the OTC, and was a member of the Chess Club team that won a tournament against Bromley School in 1913» winning both his games. He also played Fives and in 1912 won the Open Mile in the Athletic Sports. He was in the 2nd XV Rugby in the 1912 season - "a long forward with a hefty p\mt; talks too much". He was goalkeeper for the 1st XII Lacrosse in 1913 - "after a bad beginning, tiimed out exceedingly well; has still some difficulty with long-hops".

He was in the 3rd XI Cricket in 1912, and in 1913 played for the 2nd XI with occasional 1st XI games - "began the season well as a batsman but fell off during the last two or three matches; often made runs when they were badly wanted". During the 1913 season he batted in 19 innings and made 299 runs, his best being 53 against Aske's II on 11 June 1913« He made 33 against the same side on 10 May and 3O against Wilson's II on 7 June. He left St. Dunstan's on 24 July 1913 ^xid continued his education at Finsbury Technical Institute until inter--rupted by the outbreak of War.

On 6 August 1914 he joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, but shortly afterwards was selected for a commission and was promoted 2/Lieut on 11 December 1914« He was posted to the 13th (Reserve) Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers and served with this unit at Chesterfield and Lichfield before being posted to the 9th (Service) Battalion in Egypt on 28 November 1915* The 9th was part of the 11th Division. He voluntee3?ed for flying duties and on 1 April 1916 was transferred to the General List for service with the Royal Flying Corps. After two months of training he qualified as an Observer, and was posted to "C" Flight of No. I4 Squadron which was based at Alexandria and equipped with BE 2c aircraft.

In September 1916 he returned to England and underwent training as a Pilot, qualifying on 22 March 1917. He went to France on 6 June 1917 and was posted to No. 32 Squadron, which was equipped by De Havilland 2s and 5s. From 9 to 14 June he flew some five hours of practice on DH2s. He crashed on landing on 14 June, but was unhurt and went up again on 17 June. During this flight he crashed at Baizie\ix and was out of action for three weeks, returning to duty again on 6 July.

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Cruickshank went out on M s first offensive patrol on 6 July 1917; this lasted for 80 minutes and was uneventful. His second patrol on 11 Jxily lasted nearly two hours, and althoiJ^ uneventful he made a crash-landing at the airfield on his return; some enemy aircraft had been spotted by his foimation but the Germans made no attempt to attack. His third patrol began later in the day at 7»45 p.m« As his formation patrolled at 8.55 p.ni. in half-li^t, he left the British formation in error and joined a German patrol by mistake. The Germans reacted quickly and before his fellow pilots could intervene he had been shot down. The Squadron Diary confirms his error of identification and adds that his aircraft was seen to crash behind German lines west of Gheluvelt and to burst into flames. He was pulled from the wreckage by German troops and taken prisoner, but died of his wounds next day, 12 Jiily 1917. His mother had pre--deceased him, and his next of kin was his father, by 1918 living at "Amberley", 20 The Bridle Road, Purley, Surrey. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in France.

CUTHKERTSON, Frank Joseph. The son of John Guthbertson, he was bom at Ilford, Essex, on 26 July I891. His father was a clerk, and by 1900 was living at "Francesville", Duncombe Hill, Honor Oak Park. He was educated at St. Ihxnstan's from September 19OO to July 1903» and on leaving he moved with his parents to 50 Mayow Road, Sydenham. During the early part of the War he enlisted at Shepherd's Bush in the 22nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers (Kensington). He went to France with "D" Ccanpany of the Battalion in November 1915 and he re the xinit joined the 2nd Division. On 27 July the Battalion was in reserve during the assault on Delville Wood; the Wood was taken, but when German counterattacks threatened British gains the unit was moved into the Wood to help with the defence. In this operation it had 200 casualties, and more were caused on 28 July as the Battalion came under heavy fire from German artillery. It was during this shelling that Cuthbertson was killed. He has no known grave, and his name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.

DAVIES, Alan Edwards. The son of William Edwards and Isabel Davies, he was bom in Wales on 6 February 1886. His father was a company secretary in Anglesey and Davies received his early education at Grammar and County Schools in Beaumaris. By 1899 the family had moved to 9 Ravensboume Park, Catford, and he came to St. Dunstan's in September of that year with an Entrance Scholarship. He won School Prizes for Science in 19OI and 1903> and for English Essay in 1905' He became a Prefect, and was on the committees of the Natxiral History and Archaeology Club and of the Literary and Debat--ing Society in 1902 and I9O5.

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He was prominent in the thxee major School sports; he was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 19OI, and in the 1st XII 1902 and 1905. He played for the 3rd Rugby XV in 19OO and in 19OI went up to the 2nd X7 with occasional games for the 1st XV, In the I902 season he captained the 2nd XV. He was in the 1st Cricket XI for three seasons, 19OI to 1903, and was Captain of Cricket in the latter year. He joined the Athletic Committee in 19OI, and was elected its Secretary in 1902, Leaving in July 1903 he began to study for a legal career and returned to North Wales. In 1905 he passed the Intermediate Law Examination with a place in the First Division amongst the top ten per cent of candidates. He returned to London in 19O8 and spent a season playing for the Lee Lacrosse Club whilst he completed his legal studies, which he did in that year by achieving First Class Honours in the Final Examinations, and winning the Law Society Five Guinea Prize. In March 19O9 he was admitted as a solicitor and began practising at 30 The Sqioare, Blaenau Festiniog, Wales. He later moved to 39 Isaacs Hill, Cleethorpes, and practised in Grimsby.

At the start of the War he enlisted in the ranks of the 10th (Service) Battalion of the Lincolnshire Regt, was promoted to Sgt, and was selected for officer training. He was commissioned into the North--xmiberland Fusiliers on 28 March 1917» and on I7 October following was posted to the 12th/l3th Battalion of the Regiment. Serving in France, he was killed in action on 28 May 19I8. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Soissons Memorial in France. His next of kin were his parents, living by this time at 135 Coper's Cope Road, Beckenham.

BAVIES, Clifford Thomas. The son of David Davies, a civil engineer, and his wife Clara, he was bom on 3 January 1894« His parents lived at 332 Stanstead Road, Catford, and after an early education at Rathfem Road Elementary School in Catford, Davies arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 1904. He was a keen sportsman, and after playing Lacrosse in the Lower School he rose into the 2nd XII in 1910. In 1909 he was in both the 3rd XI Cricket and the 1st XV Rugby. His interests also included Swimming, where he was a member of several successful teams; Fives, taking part in several toumamr--ents; Gymnastics; and Shooting, where he was a member of the School VIII.

Leaving the School in Jxsly 19IO, he passed the London University School Leaving Examination; he retained his links with St. Dunstan's by being elected onto the committee of the Old Dunstonian Rtigby Club. He joined the Honourable Artillery Company on 12 JVLLJ 1915> and went to France to join the 1st Battalion (infantry) in the '^xd Division on 24 October 1915* He was later selected for officer training, and having conipleted this was commissioned into the Royal West Kent Regt. He joined the 10th (Service) Battalion of the Regiment and served with it in France until 7 June 1917» when he was killed in action. On this date the irnit was part of the 44th Division in the St. Eloi sector during the first attacks of the Messines battle.

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At 3.10 a.m., mines were eacploded \inder the Gexman lines, and the Battalion advanced quickly although the planned tank cooperation could not take place due to the boggy ground. The tmit was held up for a while at Dammstrasse, but eventually this was captured and the Battalion moved on and dug a defensive line. Davies has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Menin Gate at Ypres in Belgium. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 26 Inchmeiy Road, Catford.

BEAU, Frederick Thomas. Was bom on 27 December 1894 and was the son of George Hedley and Edith Maude Dean. His father was a clerk and the family lived at 73 Nelgarde Road, Catfo3?d. He was educated at Holbeach Road Elementary School until September 1907> when he came to St. Dunstan's; his fees were paid by the London County Council until he was sixteen. He was in the 3^ XV Rugby in 191O and the 2nd X7 I909 and 19II; the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 191O; 4th XI Cricket 19IO and "^xd XI in the 19II season with occasional games for the 2nd XI, He left in December 19II and took a job as a junior clerk with the Gr«sham Fire and Accident Insurance Society Ltd. He moved shortly afterwards to Addiseombe and lived with his parents at 11 Sissin^urst Road.

On the outbreak of War he enlisted at Croydon, joining the 2/4th Royal West Surrey Regt as a Pte with the number 3762, He later joined the l/6th London Regt and changed his number to 32394« He was killed in action in France on 3O November 1917 during the Cambrai battles whilst with the Regiment. The unit was part of the 140th Brigade in a salient at Bourlon Wood, and after a strong bombardment the Germans launched a counterattack on the position. Defence proved very difficult as the trenches were shallow or non-existant. At about 10.00 a.m. the Germans attacked in two waves east of Moeuvres, threatening the e3q)Osed flank of the Battalion. The Colonel collected a scratch force and counterattacked, filling the gap in the line. The Germans did not break through, but the Brigade had 2,600 casualties, including 382 in the 6th London Regt. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial, France.

DEBENHAM, Frederic Ernest. He was the only son of Ernest Frederic and Rhoda Emily Debenham, and was bom at Lee on I4 November 1893> his father was a solicitor. His grandfathers were Heniy James Debenham, of Patmore Hall, Albury, Herts; and Robert Cox, who was Registrar of the South-Eastem and Chatham Railway for over 40 years. He was educated at Clydesdale School, Lee Road, and after his parents moved to 82 Catford Hill he entered St. Dunstan's in January 1904* He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society and was a keen Fives player throughout his time at the School. In Cricket, he progressed from the Under-13 XI in 1906 to the 3rd XI (1909) and the 2nd XI (1910). He was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1910 and the School Shooting VIII. Most successful in Rugby, he was in the 3rd XV in 19O8 and played in the 1st XV in the I9IO season.

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After leaving St. IHmstan's in December I9IO he moved with his parents to 342 Stanstead Road, Catford, and took a great interest in the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club; he was Captain of the "B" X? in 1911 and 1912, and of the "A" XV in 1915. In 1912 he was given a Club Honour Cap. He joined the Army at Blackheath in 1914» and. volunteered for the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training at Hatfield he acconrpanied the unit to Prance in March 1915» where it fought with the 47"th (London) Division at Pestubert and Givenchy. On 25 September I915 he took part in the British offensive at Loos, in which many Old Dunstonians of the Battalion became casualties. He survived this attack, but was killed on 26 September when the -unit was holding its gains under heavy shellfire and counterattack. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in Prance.

DOUGHTY, Charles Edgar. Bom at Hackney on 22 April I891, he was the only son of Henry and Hannah Elizabeth Doughty. His father was a solicitor's clerk. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to 39 Rowanhill Road, Catford, and he attended Hazelbank Road School before arriving at St. Dunstan's in September 1904. He left in March 190? and continued to live in the Catford area. When War was declared he joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, and after training at Hatfield he accompanied the unit to Prance in March 1915. He took part in the actions at Pestubert, Givenchy and Loos and was one of the few Old Dunstonians to stirvlve these battles and remain with the unit. During the Somme battles of July 1916 he was seriously wounded and was evacuated to a Base Hospital at Boulogne, where he died of his wounds on 24 July 1916. He is buried at Boulogne Eastern Cemetary, Prance.

DRAKE, Walter. (Prancis Hermann MARHEHSEKE to I914). He was bom at Catford Hill on 28 Pebruaiy 1893, the eldest son of Herbert and Edith Marheineke of "Herman", Ravensbouime Park, Catford. His father was a glass merchant and the family were of German extract--ion. He was educated privately at Wellesley House School, Perry Vale, Catford; and was at St. Dunstan's from September 1905 to Jiily 1909. He went on to Pleury's Typewriting and Shorthand College in Westbotime Road, Porest Hill. He was one of the early members of the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath, joining in 1909» and a popular member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, serving on its committee in 1913 a-s the representative of the Company. He became a Sgt in the 20th London Regt, and a photograph of him in camp at Aldershot (1912) appears in the "History of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club". Just before the War he moved with his parents to "Plnewood", 11 Ravensboume Park, Catford.

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Shortly after War was declared in 1914> he and his family changed their names due to the strong anti-German sentiment of the time, and he became Francis Drake. Possibly for the same reason he did not remain with the 20th London Regt, but he remained in uniform by becoming Sgt of the Old Dunstonian Volunteer Corps, a formation composed of Old Boys who were unable to join the Army for various reasons. In February ^^^6 he was finally able to re-enlist, and signed on at St, Swithin's Lane, joining the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) as a Pte with the serial number 7217• Shortly afterwards he transferred to the 2/l5th London Regt and was posted to France. In June 1916 he went to Salonika, and was later sent to Egypt. He took part in the advance into Palestine in 1917» £UicL during the fighting around Jerusalem he was killed in action on 27 December 1917* He is buried in Jerusalem War Cemetary, Palestine.

EDE, Edwin William. Bom on 8 December 1897 at Brockley, he was the only son of Cecil Alfred Ede and his wife Anne Louise, youngest daughter of Charles Reeve of Maida Vale. His father was a surveyor, and the family lived at 94 Amgask Road, Catford. He was educated at Sandhurst Road Elementary School from I904 to 1911» ancL at St. Dunstan's from January 1912 to July 1914? he won a School Prize in 1914. On leaving he joined the staff of the Belgravia branch of the National Bank. He enlisted in the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) on 2 November I916 with the rank of Pte and the number 763177* He later attended an OTC at Lichfield, and was commissioned into the 5th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers on 28 March I917.

Arriving in France on 16 May 1917» he was posted to the 11th Batta^ -lion of the Regiment and served with the unit until his death fifteen months later. He was promoted Captain on 7 April 19I8, was mentioned in despatches, and awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry (London Gazette 26 July I9I8):

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty whilst commanding a company in attack. He showed great coolness and determination under very heavy fire, and got his Lewis gun into action to counter the enemy machine-guns."

On 30 August 1918 the Battalion took part in the British advance as part of the 18th Division. It captured the German position at Priez Farm, taking prisoner 3 officers and 450 men, and later in the day crossed the Ancre in the face of heavy casualties and strong opposition. For its services the \init received a letter of congratulation fi?om General Rawlinson. During the attack, Ede was leading the remnants of his company against the German position, and as he closed vdth the enemy he was killed at close range by a machine-gun bullet. His parents were expecting him home on leave when news of his death reached them. He was burled at the Guards' Cemetary, Combles, France, and his Colonel wrote:

"He was one of the most promising officers of the battalion, and extraordinarily popular with both officers and men,"

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ELLEN, Harry John. He was the only son of John Sidney Ellen and his wife Maiy Henrietta, elder daughter of Arthur and Mary Sargent. He was bom at Clapham on l6 June 1895> where his father was a bank cashier. He was educated initially at Clapham Preparatory School, and when ,his parents moved to 5 Park Road, Bromley, he moved to Bromley H i ^ School. He then attended St. Ihinstan's from January 1909 to July 1910. His first employment was in the office of the Surveyor of Taxes at Bromley, where he worked as a clerk. He then followed his father by becoming a clerk at Lloyds Bank. He enlisted in the l6th London Regt on 14 September 1915» and accompanied the Queen's Westminster's draft to Prance on 22 June 1916. Whilst serving with the unit on the Somme, he was woTUided on 10 September I916 and invalided home. After a convalescence he went to an officer cadet xmit and was then commissioned into the 20th London Regt on 27 June 1917. He joined the 2/20th Battalion in Prance on 5I Jiily 1918> and although in Prance for only six weeks, he was appointed Signalling Officer of the unit and was awarded the Military Cross. The citation appeared in the London Gazette of 11 January 1919:

"Por gallant conduct on 3O August when, as Battalion Signalling Officer, he showed great courage and initiative in establishing and maintaining for 3 days communication with front conrpanies, along a line of 2500 feet, which was persistently shelled. He laid the line without orders, and personally superintended the work under severe fire."

He was killed in action near Havrincourt on 14 September 1918, and is buried at Royaulcourt Military Cemetary in Prance.

ELLIOTT, Cyril Charles. He was bom at Orpington on 31 August I892, the son of William and Ada Elliott. His father was a clerk, and the family later moved to 48 St. Pillan's Road, Catford; he attended Plassy Road Elementary School before coming to St. Itoistan's in September 1904> where he was a member of the Debating Society 1906-O8 and won a School Prize for Mathematics in 1907« He left the School in April 1908 and moved back to Eltham with his parents, living at Glenlyon Road. When War began he enlisted in the 6th London Regt and accompanied the unit to Prance in March 1915» where it served with the 47"th (London) Division. He was wounded in action during the summer of 1915» was evacuated to Base Hospital at Boulogne, and died of wounds on 28 June 1915. He is biiried at Boulogne Eastern Cemetary, Prance.

EVERITT, William Joseph Arthur. He was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Mary Everitt, of 38 Kilmorie Road, Porest Hill, and was bom on 12 March 1895; M s father was a salesman and predeceased him, his mother moving later to 36 Kilmorie Road. He was educated at Kilmorie Elementary School before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 19O8.

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He left the School in July 1911 and became a clerk with Vyse and Sons Ltd, of Wood Street, London EC, During the War he served as a Clerk 1st Class with the Royal Air Force and by the time of the Armistice was with the 58th Training Wing in Egypt. He died of pneumonia at Cairo on 17 November 19I8, and is buried in the Cairo War Memorial Cemetary, Egypt,

FAIRCLOIIGH, Eric Montague, The eldest son of Edwin and Lilly Paircloti^ of "Harbridge", 17 Exbuiy Road, Catford, he was bom on 50 December 1897« His father was a buyer, working for Rylands Ltd. His first education was in a private school at 2 Vancouver Road, Catford, and he attended St. Dunstan's from September 1907 to Jiily 1912. He was a leading member of the School Scout Troop and won the School Prize for Best Scout in 1912. On leaving the School he went to be apprenticed to the drapeiy business at Pyne Brothers' shop at New Cross. He had been a member of the OTC at St. Dtmstan's and this, combined with his interest in Scouting, led to his being commissioned into the Cadet Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt. In 1915 he enlisted in the 11th Battalion of the Regiment, the Lewisham Battalion, and went to France where he was promoted to Cpl. He was later offered a commission while serving at the front, and was promoted 2/Lieut on 27 December 1916. He was posted to the 10th (Service) Battalion of the Royal West Surrey Regt,

On 24 February 1917 the unit was ordered to make a dayli^t raid on German trenches in the Hollandscheschuur Salient, with the aims of taking prisoners and destroying trenches and equipment. The raid took place in early afternoon, and after 50 minutes both the main Geiman positions had been taken with many prisoners; a number of trenches and dug-outs were destroyed as well as fo\ar machine-guns. Despite heavy retaliatory shelling, the raid was successful and was conrpleted within 90 minutes. However, the \mit lost 152 men in the operation - 27 killed, 95 wounded and 11 missing. Fairclou^ was severely wounded in the action, and died of woimds on the next day, 25 February 1917« The action took place at Vierstraat, and he was buried nearby in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary, Belgium. His Colonel wrote:

"Your gallant son, our dear comrade, fell gallantly leading his company in a daylight raid on the German trenches. Beloved by all, a fine young officer, and a great loss to the regiment."

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FAELEJlf, Sidney James. He was bom on 10 Jvlj 1895, the son of Alfred Farley, a private coachman of Greenwich, and his wife Milly. The family moved to 57 Farley Road, Catford, shortly afteiwards, and he attended Hither Green Elementary School before winning a London County Coimcil Scholarship to St. Itoistan's. He arrived at the School in September I9O6 and was an accomplished cricketer; he was in the Under^12 and TJnde3>-15 XIs in I907, the 5rd XI in 19O8 and the 1st XV in 1909. He left in Jime I9IO to take a job as a clerk at Stones Metal Works, Deptford. He later joined the administrative staff of the London Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service, and when War broke out he joined the Old iHmstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, enlisting at Catford,

After initial training in England, he accompanied the -unit to Prance in March 1915» where it fought with the 47th (London) Division at Pestubert and Givenchy. On 25 September 1915J the first day of the attacks at Loos, Farley was in "B" Coy of the l/20th London Eegt. The unit was on the left of the divisional front, resting against the ri^t flank of the 15th Division. The attack began at 6.00 a.m. after gas had been released onto the German lines, and the unit moved forward towards its objective, the German second line from the Lens-Bethtuae Road to Loos Cemetaiy. Despite heavy casualties from machine-gun fire and shelling the unit took the "garden-city" position, and one company pushed on to the Chalk Pit, where it captured two field-guns. Further progress was impossible, and the Battalion dug in on its objectives. The "Lee Jotimal" of 8 October records Parley as missing, but he was later confirmed as one of the many Old Dunstonian casualties on 25 September. His body was recovered and buried at Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetary in France.

PINCH, William Alfred Ethelbert. He was the second son of W.G, Finch, a civil servant, and was bom at Thornton Heath on 5 November 1893« He was first educated at Crawford Road Elementary School, Camberwell, before his parents moved to 145 Culverley Road, Catford, in 19O8. In October of that year he joined St. Dunstan's, leaving in December 1909 to work in the City. Thou^ he was not at the School for very long, he joined the Old Dunsto3aian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath some time before the War began. He continued to live at Catford and worked for Messrs. Brown Brothers, Great Eastern Street, London.

As soon as War was declared he volimteered for active service, and after training at Hatfield he accompanied the unit to Prance, where it served with the 47th (London) Division from March 1915* He came through the early battles of Pestubert and Givenchy, and survived the attack on Loos in September 1915 iii which many fellow Old Boys were killed or wounded. He remained in Prance until May 1916, when a bout of fever caused him to be invalided to England. He recovered sufficiently to return to Prance in September 1916, and served with his old unit again until he was killed in action on 1 December 1917 during the Cambrai fighting. He was no known grave and is commem--orated on the Cambrai Memorial in France.

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lEENCH, Sydney Arthur. Bom on 25 May 1891, he was the son of Mrs. A. French of 5 Brookdale Road, Catford. He was educated at Plassy Road Elementary School in Catford, and came to St. Dunstan's in September 1902, the last of several brothers to do so. He won School Prizes for English in 19O4 and Latin in I906, and was a keen Fives player in a number of tournaments. He joined the Under-12 XI Cricket in 1903, and was in the 2nd XI in 1906 and the 1st XI in 1907. He also played in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 19O6 and 1907» and was Captain of the team in the latter season. He was in the 1st XV Rugby for two seasons - I906 and 1907 - and the Chronicle reports that he "had rather too imich to say on the field". He left School in December 1907 to work in the Meteorological Office, althou^ at the time that War began in was in the Clerk's Department of the London County Council.

After leaving he joined the Old Dunstonlan Company of the 20th London Regt, and was also a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, playing in their 1st XV 1909-10. The History of the Club contains a picture of him whilst a Pte in the 20th London Regt at Aldershot in 1912 and another of him in the Club 1st XV. During the early months of the War he was promoted Sgt, and wen to Prance with the Old Dunstonian Company in March 1915» He took part in the early actions of the unit, including Festubert and Givenchy, and w3?ote to the "Chronicle" of June 1915 thus;

GETTING USED TO IT

Out There, May I915

"Thanks very much for sending the Illustrated War News, which created a veritable storm in a teacup when the two photos of the Reserve had been insp--ected by several members of the Battalion. As you know, this Battalion has always been to the fore where work is concerned, but for once we seem to have been forgotten for (perhaps) worthier men."

"Did you see General French's reference to the T.F. in his Neuve Chapelle report? Of course, he had seen the 20th. The first time I went up for instr--uction to the breastworks held by the London Scottish was on Good Friday, and ever to be rember^ -ed. Jim Crafter - now a braw lance-corporal - was there, and one or two more I knew, so I wasn't very lonely, and the Scottish were very good pals."

"It's somewhat disconcerting thou£^, when you are sitting with your back to the breastworks and you hear one or two dull thuds behind, to be told that bullets come through the very part where you are sitting qiiite easily. It is then best to beat a dignified retreat."

"The second time we went up for four days, and 'A' Company (to which I am transferred, consequently TEEE Company) furnished a woricing party to dig behind our lines fortunately, and it was strange to hear bullets, which seemed to be directed specially at you, whistle by, and then be told that it was impossible to be seen from the German lines."

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"Still, it is something to know that if you are hit, the JBosches don't know what a good man they have dropped. Some of the taller members of the Battalion, if we stay for long in the trenches, will develop the germs of a bent back; to keep one's head below the parapet is worse than bending over a desk. I suppose it is better to get a bent back than to be stretched out by a sniper throxogh careless exposure, but you wotild be surprised how easily one forgets that the enemy lines are quite close, until one hears a nasty ping, and then if you have not already done so, you drop pretty quickly."

On 25 September 1915 the unit went into action on the first day of the Loos offensive, and the Battalion had heavy casualties in the fighting to capture the "garden-city" and the Chalk Pit. French was one of the many Old Dunstonians to be wounded in the following two days, and was invalided back to England. He was selected for officer training, and was commissioned into the Royal West Kent Regt on 5 August 1916. He returned to Prance and was posted to the 7th (SeoTvice) Battalion of the Regiment, and was promoted Captain on 28 December 1917 whilst in temporary command of a company.

He was killed in action on 20 March 19I8, the first day of the great German offensive. The unit was holding the line at Moy, near St. Quentin, and was subjected to a very heavy bombardment, followed by an attack through mist which made defensive fire difficult. Instead of a frontal assault, the Germans used infiltration tactics by small groups which were most successful. The Regimental EEistory states;

"A Company, on the left, was also attacked by over^ -whelming force, but held out with magnificent devotion and tenacity, inspired by the fine examples set by Lieut. S.A, French and Sgt. Coleman, both of whom died at their post,"

In the confusion of the subsequent retreat, his body was never found, and his name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

PEEYMCTTH, John Martin. (Johannes Martin PREOTOTH to 1915). Bom at Forest Hill on 29 March I885, he was the son of Johannes Martin and Agnes Preymuth (nee Ross). His father was a merchant of German extrar--ction who lived at 6 Exbury Road, Catford. He was first educated by a governess, and was at St. Dunstan's from January 1894 to April I896; his elder brother, William Adolph had been at the School from 1888 to 1893. He later emigrated to Canada, and enlisted on 18 September 1916 at Vernon, British Columbia. After training in Canada, he came to England and then went to Prance with the 102nd Battalion of the Canad--ian Expeditionary Force (2nd Central Ontario Regt). He was killed in action at Lens on 6 August 1917» and is buried at Villers Station Cemetary in France. He left a widow, Phyllis Praser Preyrauth, who by 1920 was living at 19 Gunterstone Road, West Kensington.

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GAtPIN, Richard Guy Eric. He was bom at Kelvedon, Essex, on 1 November 1879» the son of Richard and Mary Galpin. He was educated first by Miss Wiseman at Kelvedon, and came to St. Ihznstan's in May 1889. The School Register does not mention his parents, who continued to live in Essex, but mentions his guardian as Henry Reader, a banker's clerk of 26 Brownhill Road, Catford. Reader's son joined the School at the same time as Galpin and is next to him on the School Register. Galpin won a French Certificate in 1890 and left in July 1894.

His subsequent career is not documented, but by 1914 he was living at Sutton, Siorrey. Some time after the outbreak of War he enlisted in London and was posted to the 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles). In December 1917 be was in a draft being sent to Allenby's forces in Palestine, and crossed the Mediterranean on the liner "Aragon", hired by the Royal Navy from the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company as a troopship. She weighed 9»588 tons and had a crew of 200, with 2,500 troops on board. On 5O December she dropped anchor in Alexandria harbour, but was later ordered offshore into unprote--cted waters. Shortly afterwards she was torpedoed and sank. The Captain, 19 crew and 590 troops were drowned, including Galpin. He has no known grave, and is commemo2?ated on the Chatby War Memorial in Egypt.

GEORGE, Robert Alfred. The son of Robert Knight and Louisa Mary George, he was bom at Brixton on 8 April 1897. Shortly afterwards his father, who was a clerk, moved to 212 Ardgowan Road, Catford, and was living there in 1920 after the death of his wife. George was first educated at Sandhurst Road Elementary School in Catford, and then at St. Duns tan's from September 1907 to July 1911. He was absent for two terms - Autumn 19O8 and Spring 1909. He left to study at the Borough Polytechnic, and by the outbreak of War he was a gardener living in Australia. He enlisted at Bendigo, Victoria, on 6 July 1915 and later went to Prance with the 6th Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force. He was killed in action on 10 August I9I8 and, having no known grave, is commemorated on the Villers-Bretonnetix Memorial, France.

GIBSON, Alfred Henry Salter. The son of Joseph and Adelaide Gibson, he was bom on 22 December 1895« His father was an insurance agent and the family lived at 22 Hardy Road, Blackheath. He was educated at Belle Vue House School, and later at St. Dunstan's from September 1905 to April 1911. He left to work as a clerk at Chandler, Hargre--aves and Company, insurance brokers at Lloyds. During the early part of the War he joined the Army at Westminster, enlisting in the 1/16th London Regt. He served in France, and was killed in action there on 14 April 1917.

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On this date the Battalion took part in an attack on the German lines in the Cherisy sector. The unit was in poor shape, having had almost no sleep for three days, and the ground it was to advance over had not been reconnoitred. At 5«30 a.m. the Battalion moved off in two waves and advanced over Tower Ridge, but when it reached a valley on the other side it was fired on by machine-guns situated to the front and on both flanks. At this point all the officers were killed or wounded, and NCOs led the remnants of the Battalion into the German trenches; the second wave came up just in time to beat off a German counterattack, and after a protracted struggle reinforcements arrived and the ground was held. Of the 497 men who went into action, 268 became casualties. Gibson was buried at Bootham Cemetary, Heninel, France. His next of kin were his parents, living by the end of the War at 97 Coleraine Road, Blackheath.

GrPPORD, Gordon Arthur. Bom on 8 April 1890, he was the younger son of Henry Henderson Gifford, an accountant, of "The Chestnuts", Brockley Hill Park, Brockley. His younger brother Henry appears below, and the two brothers had marked similarities in their lives both before and during the War. His education was firstly at Stafford College in Forest Hill, and he was later at St. Dunstan's from September 1900 to July I905. He joined the Old Bunstonian Rugby Club; and was a member of the Blackheath Harriers, attending their Wednesday training sessions. In the summer of 1914 he was on holiday with his brother, and when news of the War reached them they returned to London and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. Training at Hatfield followed, and he then accompanied the unit to France in March 1915«

Shortly afterwa3?ds he was recommended for a commission, and on 8 June 1915 was promoted 2/Lieut in the 5^^ (Reserve) Battalion of the Loyal North Lancashire Regt; his brother received an identical commission on the same day, and they were both confirmed in their ranks on 25 Januaiy I916. Gifford was later attached to the 1st Battalion of the Regiment, and was promoted to Lieut on 15 July 1916. He later served with the 2nd Trench Mortar Battery and was killed in action at the Battle of the Dunes on 10 July 1917• He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Nieuport Memorial in Belgium. At the time of his death his parents were living at 51 St. Margaret's Road, Brockley.

GIFFORB, Henry William. He was bom on 19 November 1888, and was the elder son of Henry Henderson Gifford, an accountant, of "The Chestnuts", Brockley Hill Park, Brockley. His brother Gordon appears above, and the two brothers had marked similarities in their lives both before and during the War. First educated at Stafford College, Forest Hill, he came to St. Dunstan's in September 19OO and left in April 1905.

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He had been in the 1st XV Rugby in 1904> and joined and played for the Old Ihmstonian Rugby Club, As part of his training for matches he joined the Blackheath Harriers on 9 October 1912, and took part in their Wednesday evening training sessions with his brother. On the outbreak of War in 1914 the brothers were on holiday together and returned to enlist in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath. After training with the unit at Hatfield he went to France in Msirch 1915 a^d joined the 47th (London) Division. He was selected for officer training and was commissioned on 8 June 1915 into the 5 ^ (Reserve) Battalion of the Loyal North Lancashire Regt. This was a most unusual example of two brothers being commissioned together on the same day into the same unit.

Along with his brother he served with the 1st Battalion of the Regi--ment in Prance and was confirmed in his rank on 25 January 1916. The unit took part in the heavy fighting on the Somme in July 1916, and on 15 July he was promoted in the field to Captain with tenrp--orary command of a company; later on the same day he was killed in action. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance. At the time of his death his parents were living at 51 St. Margaret's Road, Brockley. Por his gallantry at the time of his death he was posthumously mention in despatches (London Gazette 4 January 191?)» and his Colonel and Captain wrote:

"Allow me to express for myself and the officers of the Battalion our very deep sympathy with you and yoTors on the death of your son, who was killed at the head of his men, leading a bombing attack against the Germans. His death is a very great loss to the Battalion, as ever since he joined he had shown great devotion to his duty and piraved himself more than once a ba?ave and capable leader."

"We had two bombing attacks on consecutive days. On the first day it was almost entirely due to your son's magnificent courage and exanrple that the two companies engaged earned the Brigadier's congratu--lations. He was slightly wounded in the arm, but did not go down. The next morning we continued OTOT work, and your son was apparently cut off by some Germans and killed by the explosion of a bomb. The Battalion has lost probably its most fearless leader, and besides that a man who led a clean and good life. I never knew anyone who had not a good word for him. I only wish I had the same pluck, spirit, and optimism he had."

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GIIiRUTH, Arthtu? Thomas. He was bom on I3 December 1888, son of Arthur and Jane Gilruth. He was one of three brothers educated at St. Dunstan's, the others being Reginald (see below) and Harold. The latter was at School I9O2 to 1907 and served in the War with the Canadian Ejqjeditionaiy Force. Their father was a secretary to a public company and lived at "Chiysholme", Rosenthal Road, Catford; he was also a qualified solicitor. Arthur was educated first at Plassy Road Elementary School in Catford, and was at St. Dunstan's from September 1902 to December 19O4. He won a School Prize for English in 1904. On the outbreak of War he was living at New Kent Road, London, and joined the Sth London Regt (London Rifle Brigade). After training with the '^xd Battalion of the Regiment in England he was posted to Prance with the 1st Battalion. He was killed in action on 11 April 1917 when the unit attacked the Hindenburg Line at Wancoiirt, during the fighting a± Arras. The attack was made in appalling terrain and in the midst of a snowstorm, and several men died of exposure. The Battalion reinforced the 8th Middlesex Regt who had got into the German line at Nepaul Trench, and consolidated their gains by bombing the flanks clear and extending the line. During this operation the Battalion had heavy casualties. He is buried in Neuville-Vitasse Road Cemetary, Arras. His next of kin was his wife, Winifred Evelyn, of 51 Balderton Plats, Hart Street, Grosvenor Square, London.

GILRUTH, Reginald William. He was bom on 25 October 1895 at Orpington, Kent, the son of Arthur and Jane Elizabeth Gilruth. His father was a solicitor and secretary to a public coinpany, and the family later moved to "Chrysholme", Rosenthal Road, Catford. He was educated at Malvern House School in Lewisham Park before coming to St. Dunstan's in Septem--ber 1907* He left in March 19IO, and shortly afterwards, with his older brother Harold (St. Dunstan's 1902 to 1907)» he emigrated to Canada. He enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force at Winnipeg, Manitoba, on 9 October 1915> and after training in Canada and England he was posted to Prance with the 43^^ Battalion (Manitoba Regt), He was killed in action on 21 September 1916 during the assault on Vimy Ridge. He has no known grave, but is commemorated on the Vin r Memorial in France. By 1920 his parents were living at "Brodick", Orpington, Kent.

GLADWIN, Walter George. The son of Walter Gladwin, a commission agent of 62 Bromley Road, Catford, he was bom on 14 May 1894. He was educated initially at Catford Collegiate School, and transferred to St. Dunstan's in September I906, remaining until December 19IO. He continued to live in Catford, and when War commenced he enlisted at Blackheath in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He underwent training in England before going to Prance with the unit in March 1915« He was present with the Battalion in the 47'th (London) Division during the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy.

71

On 25 September 1915> Gladwin went into action at Loos with the l/20th London Regt. The unit was in 141st Brigade which was on the left of the divisional front, resting against the right flank of the 15th Division. The advance began at 6.00 a.m. after gas had been released onto the German lines and dummies used to draw enemy fire. The units' objective was the German second line from the Lens-Bethune Road to Loos Cemetary. The 20th advanced in the second wave behind the London Irish and took its initial objective, the "garden-city". One company got further forward and took the Chalk Pit, capturing two enemy field guns. The attack was successful, but the Battalion had heavy casualties including many Old ]>unstonians. He has no known grave and is commemr--orated on the Loos Memorial in France.

GLASSCOCK, Sydney Frederick. He was the son of S.E.G. Glasscock, a company secretary, and was bom on I6 October I896. His family lived at first at Maidstone, Kent, and his first education was at the Brunswick House School there. Later moving to 24 Bovill Road, Forest Hill, he attended Stafford College and arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 1909. His main interest was in the OTC, where he served as a Sgt before leaving the School in December ^^^3• He was employed in the family firm - Monkhouse & Glasscock, of Snowfields, Bermondsey. When War was declared he went to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training at Hatfield he accompanied the Battalion to France in March 1915» ^xii took part in the early actions at Festubert and Givenchy as a Pte in the Machine Gun Section of the unit. However, his previous service with the OTC was noted, and after a course of officer training he was commissioned into the East Surrey Regt on 29 November 1915* He spent a year or so with the 14th (Reserve) Battalion of the Regiment and was engaged in training reinforcements, but on 4 October 1916 joined a Service Battalion of his unit for active service, despite a letter from his Brigadier requesting that he stay in England.

On 23 January 1917 he volimteered for service in the Heavy Branch of the Machine Gun Coxps, and the tank arm was known then, and went to Prance in May 1917» being promoted to Lieut on 1 June 1917* He served with "D" Battalion of the Tank Corps, and took part in the famoiis tank action at Cambrai on 20 November 1917* This was the first major British assault using tanks in force, and was directed at the German Hindenburg Line at Plesquieres. The German defenders saw the path of advance and put down a heavy fire on the slow-moving tanks as they climbed the ridge towards the village. Further losses occured when the tanks crossed the skyline and were silhouetted; a single German officer working a field gun put sixteen British tanks out of action here. For his bravery Captain R.W. Wain of the Tank Corps won the Victoria Cross in this action. Althotigh their losses had been heavy, the tanks had proved their worth. In 22 hours they broke through and pushed the Germans back for 9 miles; a similar advance at Ypres had taken weeks and cost the British 250,000 casualties. Glasscock was killed instant--aneously when his tank received a direct hit near Flesquieres; his body was buried near the village by his men, but was not found later by the War Graves Commission and he is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial in France. The "Lee Journal" mentions that his parents received a number of letters from his brother-officers mentioning his bravery.

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GOODING, Herbert Robert Withorn. Bom on 27 JviLy 1895, he was the son of H.H. Gooding, a poor rate collector, of 17 Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill. His preliminary education was at Devonshire Road School in Forest Hill, and he transferred to St. Dunstan's in September 1905. He was in the 1st XV Ru^by in the 1908 season. He left School in January I9O9 and became a junior clerk in the Pilot Insurance Conrpany. He was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, and he enlisted in 1909 - at the early age of I6 - in the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade), He was mobilised at the beginning of War, and having volun--teered for overseas service he went with the unit to France on 5 November I914. The unit served in the 11th Division, He was promoted to L/Cpl, and was then commissioned into the Regiment in the field on 19 April 1915* He was appointed Machine Gun Officer to the Battalion on 12 May 1915» and was killed in action the next day. The unit was taking part in the fighting around Ypres, and at 4.00 a.m. on 13 May it took up position for an attack on the village of Wieltje. After a preliminary bombardment, the unit advanced and captured the village. Their casualties were much lifter than those of nei^bouring units as they advanced in small groups and presented less of a target. One other factor was the good covering fire provided by the machine-guns under Gooding, althoxigh he and most of his crews were killed during the battle. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial in France.

GOOSEY, Gerald Robert. He was bom in the parish of St. Mary's in Lewi sham on 11 May I89O. He was the son of John George and Margaret Elizabeth Goosey, and his father was a consulting engineer of 73 Perry Hill, Catford. He was tau^t privately by Miss Davies of Lewisham Park, and then came to St. Dunstan's in September I9OO. He had a varied and successful career at the School; he won School Prizes for Work and Conduct in 1903 and 1906, and was a member of the Literary and Debating Society in I906 and I907. In his last year at the School he was a Prefect and a Subaltern in the OTG. He played Fives throughout his time there and was one of the leading players at the School; in addition, he played in the 2nd XII Lacrosse and was Captain of the 3rd XI Cricket in 1907.

After leaving St. Dunstan's in December 1907 he became active in Old Dunstonian affairs; he was Honorary Assistant Secretary of the Club from 1909* having been elected onto the Committee in I9O8; he became Honorary Secretary of the Club in 1913» was Secretary of the Old Ihmstonian Association I9IO-I4, and was in the Old Boys Rifle Team. Although moving to Horley in Su3: ey, he joined the Old Dunstonian Compare of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath; and the "History of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club" contains a photograph of him in camp at Aldershot in 1912. Shortly before the War his parents moved to 4 Kedale Road, Seaford, Sussex. He was mobilised in August 1914» and after a period of training at Hatfield he went to France in March 1915 as a L/Sgt in the 20th London Regt. He took part in the actions of Pestubert and Givenchy with the 47th (London) Division, and was in the attack on Loos on 25 September 1915 when, along with many other Old Boys, he was killed in action.

73

The unit was in the 141st Brigade, its front bordering the right flank of the neighbouring 15th Division. At 6.00 a.m. gas was released onto the German lines and dummies were used to attract Geiman fire, after which the Battalion advanced in the second wave behind the London Irish; its objective was the German second line which ran from the Lens-Bethune Road to Loos Cemetary. The first objective, the "garden-city", was taken and one company of the 20th pushed on to take the Chalk Pit and two enemy field guns situated there. Goosey was killed during this advance and, having no known grave, is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in France.

After the War, eight Old Dunstonians who had been killed were selected to have Houses named after them; Goosey was chosen because of his record at the School and for his services both in the Club and the Old Dunstonian Company. The house colour is blue, the badge a crown, and the House motto "Pidem Serva".

GREEN, Charles Taylor. Bom on 22 August 1898, he was the son of Jeremiah Taylor Green and Hannah Green (nee Mousley). His parents were apparently missionaries who worked abroad and were later in Hankow, China. His guardian was his maternal grandfather, Charles Mousley, a bootmaker of 37 Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill. He was educated firstly at Dalmain Road Elementary School in Forest Hill, and then won a Scholarship to St. Dunstan's, his fees being paid by the London County Council. He was at the School from September 19IO to July 1916, and had a good academic career; he won a School Prize as 1st in 3° in 1911* and another in 1913» In 1915 he passed the London University Senior School Examination, and studied first at University College and later at Guy's Hospital.

He volunteered for service in London University OTC, and in early 1917 was sent for officer training, being commissioned into the Royal West Surrey Regt on 1 August 1917. He was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Regiment, and went to France in September, being killed in action a few weeks later on 26 October 1917» On this date the unit took part in a major attack at Gheluvelt during the fitting at Passchendaele. The attack began in heavy rain at 6.00 a.m. and the Battalion advanced towards the German lines at Lewis House. The attack became disorganised and was held up by machine-gun fire and, with further progress iinposs--ible, the unit dug in short of the objective and was relieved on the following night. It suffered 286 casualties - 24 killed, 198 wounded and 64 missing. At first Green was posted as missing, but was later confirmed as killed althoiogh his body was never found. He is commem--orated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Passchendaele, Belgium. His parents had predeceased him.

74

GRIITIN, Leslie Stuart Herbert. He was bom on 3 September 1895 and was the only son of Herbert E. Griffin and grandson of Rev. John A, Griffin. His father was a clerk, and the family lived at Canonbie Road, Honor Oak Park, moving later to 5 Honor Oak Road. He was taught at Forest Hill House School before arriving at St. Dunstan's in September 1908. Leaving the School in December 1911» he went to work for M. Mateon and Sons Ltd of High Holborn, London. On the outbreak of War in 1914 he was one of the first to volunteer, and on 8 Atigust joined the Honourable Artillery Company in the City of London. After a short training period he went to France with the 1st Battalion (infantry) on 18 September 1914> and served with the unit there as a signaller imtil 25 March 1915» when he was invalided home.

Whilst convalescing in England he was offered a commission, and on 10 May 1915 he was promoted 2/Lieut in the Gloucestershire Regt. He returned to France in October 1915 snd joined the 10th (Service) Battalion of the Regiment there on 14 January 1916. He was promoted Lieut in the Tonit on 4 June following, and his good services were recognised by the promise of a Captaincy when a vacancy next occured. He was killed in action at Bazentin during the Somme fighting, early on the morning of 18 Aaigust 1916, and is buried at Bazentin-Le-Petit Communal Cemetaxy in France. For his bravery before he was killed he was posthixmously mentioned in despatches (London Gazette 4 January 1917)* His father was living at Ashstead in Sxirrey, and the "Lee Journal" quoted a letter written to him by Lt-Col. H, Sutherland, commanding the 10th Gloucesters;

"It is with very deepest regret that I have to tell you that your son was killed on the early morning of 18th Aiigust. I cannot tell you what a loss he is to the Battalion. He was a brave, gallant officer and had always done splendid work. He was also so cheery under the most trying circumstances and was an example to eveiyone. He was very popular with all his brother officers and men. I had the very hi^est opinion of his capabilities. Your son was buried in the cemetary quite near where he fell. I have had a wooden cross put up. The grave is registered with the Graves Registration Commission. I offer you my sincere sympathy."

The "Lee Jo-umal" also quotes from a letter from Mr. Arthur Brookes, formerly of Aske's Grammar School, who had known him from childhood;

"What a good and noble fellow Leslie had grown into last time he was over. I have very frequently thou^t what a sweet and noble smile he had latterly - in fact I believe I see him now, smiling,"

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GRIEPITHS, Walter Harold. The son of Walter Gould and Olive Hicks Griffiths, he was bom on 8 August 1896. Initially educated at Norfolk House School, he came to St, Dunstan's in May 1907. The School Register shows that his parents were living away from London and that Griffiths was living with his uncle and guaj dian - S. Carter, a schoolmaster of 109 Inchmery Road, Catford. He won School Prizes for Work in 1910, 1912, 1913 and 1914; and in 1911 for Latin. He was Joint Editor of the "Chronicle" in 1911 and a Prefect 1911-14. He won many races at 100 and 220 yards in School Atjiletics "between 1907 and 1911, and was elected to the Athletic Committee in 1913* He was in the •Under-13 Cricket XI in 1907» "the 1st XII Lacrosse team, and played in the 2nd XV Rugby in 191O and the 1st X7 1911-12; a photo--graph of him as a member of this side appears in the "Chronicle" of March 1912. He left St. Dunstan's in JTily I914, having been Head Prefect 1913-14 and Captain of Rugby in 1913.

He won a Classical Scholarship at Co2?pus Christi College, Oxford, in 1914 but did not take up his place, instead volunteering for active service on the outbreak of War. He enlisted in the ranks of the Royal Army Medical Corps and went to Prance in 1915 with the 4'th Field Ambulance of the 1st Guaj?ds Brigade. After serving with this unit for some time he was accepted for officer training and was commissioned into the 12th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt on 7 July 1916. Shortly afterwards he returned to the front and was posted to the Jth (Service) Battalion of the Regiment, taking part in the heavy fighting on the Somme. The unit was in the front line opposite the German stron^old at Schwaben Redout, and on 30 September 1916 it was very heavily attacked by a strong sortie from the Redout. "D" Company was ordea?ed to counterattack at Point 19 in conjunction with another unit, and two platoons were sent forward, one of which was commanded by Griffiths. The other unit lost its way, and althoxi^ his platoon made a gallant attempt to rush Point 19 the lack of support and the curtailment of the friendly barrage meant that he and his men were caught in the open and forced to withdraw, losing heavily to the fire of enemy artillery and machine-guns.

Griffiths survived this action, but was killed soon afterwards in the same area on 4 October 1916 when the Germans launched another strong attack on the British lines. This was the last action in four days of continuous fi^tong at the Redout in which the Battalion had over 3OO casualties. Only one original officer was left, and he had been wounded three times. Griffiths was buried at Mill Road Cemetary, Thiepval, Finance. His next of kin were his parents, living around 1920 at Berkeley House, Burton Road, Hornsea, Yorkshire, his father being a teacher at Heymer's College in Hull.

After the War, it was decided to reorganise the School into ei^t Houses, to be named after distinguished Old I>unstonians who had been killed; Griffiths was selected for his outstanding academic and sporting record. The House colour is green, the badge a bishop's mitre, and the motto "Semper Audete".

76

GROVES, Robert Harry. Bom at Greeiwich on 1 June 1895» he was the eldest son of Harry and Ellen Groves. The family lived at 48 Grooms Hill, Greenwich, and his father was a builder and contractor. He was educated from 1902 to 1909 at Roan Boys School, and later at West Cliff College, Ramsgate, Kent, from 1909-10. He completed his education at St. Dunstan's from September 1910 to December 19II after which he joined the family business. On the outbreak of War in 1914J he enlisted at Blackheath in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt in September of that year; after training at Hatfield, he went to Prance with the unit in March 1915> and was one of the few members of the Company to come unscathed through the early actions at Pestubert, Givenchy and Loos.

He became a L/Cpl in the 20th and was selected for officer training, entering the Cadet School at St. Omer on 2 August I916 and being commissioned into the ^xd London Regt on 20 September I916. He was posted to his new unit a few days later and served with them in Prance for seven months until his death. For his services eairly in 1917 he was awarded the Military Cross (London Gazette 18 June 1917)^

"Por conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When digging in, his conipany came under heavy machine-gun fire. He assumed command of his company, and by his gallantry and example, constantly exposing himself, succeeded in getting the men dug in."

The "Roll of HonotD?" by the Marquis de Ruvigny gives the fuller original version of the citation:

"For gallantry and devotion to duty on the ni^t of 5^^ April 1917« This officer brought his company up under heavy machine-gun fire, and set a high example to all ranks. He succeeded, though constantly exposed himself, in getting his men into position with sli^t casualties. He also brought in the body of an officer under heavy machine-gun fire."

On 10 April 1917 he was severely woxmded in the Arras fighting, and died of his wounds on 12 April at a nearby Casualty Clearing Station. He had been with "C" Company of the Battalion at the time. He is buried at Warlincourt Halte British Cemetary, Prance. At the time of his death his parents were living at 1 Vanbrugh Terrace, Blackheath, and his Colonel wrote to them;

"When your son was hit he was leading his company. A few rdghts before he had distinguished himself during a most trying operation. He had by his coolness and devotion saved many casualties in his company, and I had sent his name in to the General. When the Battalion was to attack I selected your boy to command his company in the attack on the front-line German trench, and he led his men splendidly and showed the splendid coTuage I expected. The next day we again went forward, and once more he led his men and so was hit. Prom all that I have said you will, I trust, realize how much we all admired your son and what a splendid officer he proved. The men, who are so quick to 3?ecognize a leader, followed him anywhere "

77

HA.LPOED, Alfired John. He was the son of Eichard John and Mary-Half ord, and was bom at Southwark on 17 Jamiary 1897. His father was an Inspector in the City of London Police. Before coming to St. Dunstan's he had been educated at Elementary Schools at Fair Street (London Bridge) and at Paunce Street (Kennington), and also at Westminster City School. In 1910 the family moved to 97 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill, and he joined the School in September 1910 with a London Coxmty Covincil Scholarship. He won School Prizes for Work and Conduct in 19II and 1915? was a Prefect in 1913? and passed the London University School Leaving Examination in the same year. He left in December 1915 ^nd went to the Strand School, which prepared candidates for the Civil Service. Some time after the War commenced he went to Chatham and enlisted in the Royal Engineers. He was later posted as a Cpl to the 1st Special Company of the Corps, which was a Gas Company. Serving in Prance with the unit, he was awaixied the Milita3:y Medal for bravery in the field, was wounded, and died of his wounds on 22 May 19I8, He is buried at Valenciennes Communal Cemetary in Prance. His next of his were his parents, by then living at 60 Minories, London.

HARPER, Haiwld Raymond. He was bom at Bradford, Yorkshire, on 10 October 1895» the son of Albert Henry and Emily Harper, His father was a shipping agent of 49 Wellmeadow Road, Hither Gi^en. After an initial education at Claremont HoTise School he transferred to St. Dunstan's in May 1905; he was a keen cricketer and after playing in the Under^lJ team in 1907 he graduated to the 5rd XI in 19O8 and to the 2nd XI later in the same year. He left in December 19O8 and the School Register notes that no forwarding address was left. The "Chronicles" continue to mention him, however, and in 1909 he was living at "Trevena", Davenport Avenue, Hessle, Hull; it is noted that his family were planning to go to Australia, but postponed these plans in I9IO, and in 19II they were at a farm at Bankfoot, 12 miles from Perth. Later that year they returned to Hull, and in 1912 he sailed to Australia.

During the early part of the War the family returned to England and lived at "Pemleigh", Beech Grove, Hull; Harper Joined the Army and after a period of officer training he was commissioned into the Duke of Wellington's (West Riding) Regt on 29 May I9I8. He was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Regiment in Prance, was attached to the 2/4th Battalion, and whilst serving with this vm.t was killed at Ifeubeuge on 4 November I9I8, just a week before the Armistice. He is btiried in Ruesnes Communal Cemetaxy in Prance.

78

HAEEIISON, George Heirry. The son of George Henry and Loiiisa Jane Harrison, he was bom in Catford on 1 March 1895; his father was a lithographic artist and the family lived at "Mereworth", 58 Catford Hill, Catford. Previous to coining to St. Dunstan's he was at Rathfem Road and Brownhill Road Elementary Schools, arriving at the School in September I907. His fees were paid by the Governors of St. Ihmstan's. He won a School Prize for Work in 19IO and was in the 2nd XV Rugby during the 1909 season. Leaving in November I9IO, he was accepted as a boy clerk in the Civil Service and continued to live with his parents, who moved later to 214 Ardgowan Road, Catford. He enlisted in London during the first part of the War and joined the raiiks of the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade). He served with the unit in Prance, where it was part of the 56th Division, and was killed in action on 25 May 1916 diiring the fighting around Arras. He was first reported missing, but was later confirmed as killed although his body was never located. He is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in Prance.

HAWKINS, Walter Elmslie. Bom on 10 Apill 1891, he was the son of Rev. Walter and Anne Elizabeth Hawkins. He was educated at Latymer Upper School in Hammersmith until I906, when the family moved to 117 Croydon Road, Anerley, and he joined St. Dunstan's in September of that year. He won School Prizes for Science in I907 and 19O8, and for Scripture in I9O8. Joining the Literary and Debating Society in I906, he was elected to the Committee in I9O8; was a Prefect 1907-08; and captained the 4th Cricket XI in the 19O8 season. He was a distingui--shed science student, and in 19O8 passed the London University School Leaving Examination and won the Draper's Exhibition Scholarship to East London College (now Queen Mary College, University of London). The "Chronicle" notes that he was the best science pupil of his year, and that he only narrowly missed the much-coveted Andrews Scholaa>--ship.

He left St. Dunstan's in July 19O8, and became a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club. After completeing his BSc at East London College, he decided to follow his father into the Weslayan Church and on the outbreak of War in 1914 he was studying theology at the Weslayan College at Richmond, Surrey. In common id.th many other theology students, he volimteered early in the war to serve with the Royal Army Medical Corps, and enlisted in the 74th Field Ambulance, where he became L/Cpl. However, the need for officers and the fact that he had been in the University of London OTC led to his being offered a commission, and he was promoted 2/Lieut in the Gloucester Regt on 17 Jime 1915* On 21 August 1916 he was posted to the 8th Battalion of the Regiment, which was with the 19th Division in Prance. He was promoted to Lieut on 14 February 1917» snd was seriously wounded during the fighting on Wytschaete Ridge in June 1917* He died of his woTinds on 8 June and was btiried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetaiy in Belgium. His next of kin were his father and mother, by then living at 40 Lee Terrace, Blackheath.

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HAWKRIDGE, Joseph Arnold. Bom at Sydenham on 1 March 1895, he was the younger son of Joseph Hawkridge, 59 Venner Road, Sydenham, and his wife Mary, daii^ter of William Rogers of Stamford, Lincolnshire. His father was managing director of the United Asbestos Company. He was at Sydenham High Preparatory School before coming to St. Dimstan's in May 1905. He took part in many activities, becoming a Cpl in the OTC and a Prefect in 1912. He played Fives, and won the Open Doubles with (Thomas in 1911; and in 1912 was a member of the School Swimming and Water Polo teams. In the same year he was Captain of the 2nd XII Lac2X)sse, and played for the 1st XV Rtigby in the 1911 and 1912 seasons; a photograph of this side appears in the "Chronicle" of March 1912. He later joined the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club.

He left St. Dunstan's in December 1912 and became a clerk with Messrs. Colman of Cannon Street, London EC; however, he later set out on a medical career and was accepted as a student at St. Mary's Hospital. After his death the Secretary of the Medical School wrote to his parents:

"He was a student whose keenness for work was a good example to his companions, and although he had only been with us for eleven months, at the time he took his commission he had, as you know, completed his first medical examination, and had begun to work for the second. We shall miss him very much, as it is these steady workers who form the backbone of an educational institution, and their places will be hard to fill."

When War began in Atigust 1914 he volunteered at once, but was rejected due to myopia; however, he was persistent in his efforts to join the Army, and was finally accepted for officer training in the summer of 1915« He was commissioned into the 15th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers on l6 November 1915» having completed his initial training at the officer school at Pembroke College, Cambridge. He was posted to Ireland for completion of his training and whilst at Fermoy he was called up for active duty diiring the Easter Rising of April 1916. In June of that year he went to France and served there from 4 September 1916 with the 9th (Service) Battalion of the Royal Sussex Regt.

On 6 November 1916, during the fighting at VinQr Ridge, he went out in front of the British lines with a detachment under a Captain to lay barbed wire; the operation began at 4«00 a.m. to avoid detection by the Germans, but a stray biillet struck Hawkridge in the fo2?ehead and he was carried back to the Barlin Casualty Clearing Station, where he died at 2,00 p.m. on the same day without recovering consciousness. He is bioried at Barlin Cemetary in France. His Captain wrote:

"X am sure that the Conrpany and the Regiment have both lost a very good officer, as he was always very keen on his work."

His obituary in the "Lee Journal" concluded:

"Many tributes of affectionate esteem testifying to his genial and high character have been received from his friends by his family."

80

HEAP, John Hartlaad. Was bom at Beckenham on 9 September 1895> the only son of John Henry Heap and his wife Annie, daughter of Henry Hartland. His parents lived at Clyde Lodge, South Road, Forest Hill, and his father was a director of a mining company. He was educated at Mallam's School in Lawrie Park Road, Sydenham, before coming to St. Dunstan's in May 1905. He was in the 5 d XV Rtigby in 1911 and joined the OTC. He left in December 191I and went to the Addington estate of Mr. Charles Goschen (brother of Sir Edward and Lord Goschen) to learn farming. At the time he lived with his parents at Croham Mount, CroydoEj-.

He had kept in touch with St. Dunstan's via membership of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, and when War began he went to Blackheath and joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After a period of training at Hatfield, he went to France with the l/20th London Regt in March 1915 smd was on duty with the transport section of the Battalion in the early actions at Festubert and Givenchy. However, he wanted to rejoin the Old Dunstonian Company, and did so just three days before the Loos attack in which he was killed along with many other Old Boys.

The unit took part in the attack on 25 September 1915 as part of the 141st Brigade on the left flank of the 47'th (London) Division with the 15th Division to its immediate left. After a gas attack on the German lines beginning at 6.00 a.m., the Battalion advanced behind the London Irish with the task of capturing the German second line which ran from Loos Cemetary to the Lens-Bethune Road. The German position at the "garden-city" was captured, and one company was successftil in taking the Chalk Pit and the two German field guns sited there. The vailt dug in, having taken many casiialties, not least amongst the Old Dimston--ian contingent. He was killed in the attack whilst with "B" Company, and was later buried at Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetary.

His parents, by now living at 54 Norton Road, Hove, Sussex, received a letter from Sgt. Maurice Lane (see below) which gave some details of his death:

"As you know, we made the attack on Saturday 25th September, and as far as I know it was on the 22nd that John came along to me and said that he had come back to the platoon for good, having applied for peimission to do so. He knew quite well that we were to make an attack in a few days; he knew quite well that by staying in the Transport for another week he would be out of danger, as the Transport men do not come in the attack; and so it was plain to me that he wanted to be with his old friends and share the dangers of the battle with them. It was the gallant action of a very brave man and true comrade, and we felt very proud of him."

"We were in the fight for foiir days, and when we came out for a rest I received the sad news that John had been killed between otir line and the first German line we captured. Many of our boys fell here, as the fire from their machine-guns was veiy heavy. He was killed instantaneously and suffered no pain."

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"I can testify personally to the h i ^ spirit and fearless manner in which he went out to meet his death. He lived and died a splendid man, and a brave and good soldier. He was popular among us all, and we all miss him sadly."

HEAIEH, Arthur James. The son of Arthur James and Margaret Elizabeth Heath, he was bom at Brockley on 5 November 1891. His father was a bioilder and lived at 2 Woollaston Villas, Birackley Grove, Brockley. He had a yovmger brother, Herbert (bom 13 December 1892) and together they were educated at Brockley Road Elementary School. They both transferred to St. Donstan's in January 1907 and left in the following December. Arthur later worked for a tea broker in Mincing Lane, London EC, and continued to live at Brockley. On the outbreak of War both brothers went to Chelsea in September 1914 and enlisted in the 18th London Regt (London Irish); after a period of training in England, the brothers accompanied the Battalion to Prance where it joined the 47'th (London) Division. On 25 September 1915 the unit took part in the attack on Loos as part of the 141st Brigade, and was in the first wave of the assault in front of the 20th London Regt, which contained many Old Dunstonians. The London Irish moved off at 6.50 a.m., kicking a football, and crossed No Man's Land to the Geiman lines where they captured their objectives. However, the unit had heavy casualties from artillery and machine-gun fire; Arthur Heath, serving in "D" Company, was killed and has no known grave, being commemorated on the Loos Memorial. Herbert Heath was seriously woiinded, his jaw being shattered by a bullet, and was invalided back to England. Their next of kin was their father, their mother having predeceased them.

HEINIG, Alfred Stanley. Bom on 23 April 1898 at Lewisham, he was the son of Alfred Henry and Emily Heinig. His father was the resident clerk at the Honor Oak Park branch of the London and Provincial Bank, and the family lived on the premises at 78 Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill. He was educated at Sunny Mount School at Forest Hill from I9O8 to I9IO and was then at St. Dunstan's from Januaiy 19II to December 1912. He left to go to a school for shorthand and business training, having won a School Prize for Work and Conduct in 19II. He continued to live in Forest Hill, and diaring the War enlisted at Lewisham in the Army Service Corps. He was posted to No. 1 Motor Transport Depot at Grove Park, and whilst serving there contracted pneumonia, dying on 8 March 1917* He is buried at Ladywell Cemetary, Lewisham.

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HELTEIR, Thomas Grove. He was the son of Thomas James and Loiiisa Minnie Helyer, and was bom at Ilford on 9 October I896. When he was young his parents emigrated to Palmerston North in New Zealand, and he was broioght up by a guardian, Edward Grove of "Sedgley", Ravensboume Park, Catford. His second Christian name was taken from his guardian. Educated first at Rathfern Road Elementary School f3X)m 19O8 to 1910, he came to St. Dunstan's in January 19II; he was on the committee of the Camera Club in 1915» and left the School in April of that year. He joined the 20th London Regt at Blackheath in the early days of the War, and after training with the Old Ihmstonian Company at Hatfield he went with it to Prance and took part in the battles of Pestubert, Givenchy aad Loos as part of the 47th (London) Division. He was one of the few Old Boys to come through 1915 without being killed or wounded, and was later posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Regiment, joining "A" Company of the 2/20th in Salonika. During the fitting there he was captured by the Bulgars and was sent to a prisoner of war camp at Plovdiv. Whilst in captivity he contracted pneumonia, and died on 5 March 19I8. He is biiried at Philippopolis Cemetaiy, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

HENDERSON, Victor William. Bom at Stoke Newington on 1J December I896, he was the son of William James Hendersom, a schoolmaster, and his wife Gertrude Alice. Some time after his birth the family moved to 1 Chalsey Road, Brockley, and he attended Brockley Road Elementaiy School; from there he came to St. Dunstan's in September 1909 where his fees wer paid by the Governors. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society, and won the Fives Totunament in 1915; he also played in the 4th XI and the 2nd XI during the Cricket season of 1915* He left the School in July 1913 and went to work for the Prudential Assurance Company. On 15 March 1916 he joined the Honoiirable Artillery Company in London, and was posted to the 2nd Battalion (infantry); he accompanied the tinit to Prance on 1 October 1916, whe3?e it became a part of the 7th Division. On 20 November 1917 the Division was sent to Italy to reinforce the Italian armies and it remained in that country until the Armistice there on 4 November 19I8. In August I9I8 it took over part of the line opposite the Austrian positions on the Asiago Plateau. The position was constantly shelled by the enemy, and Henderson was mortally wounded in one of these barrages, dying on 8 A-ugust 1918. He is buried at Cavalletto Cemetary in Italy,

HILLS, Lawrence Clifford. Bom on 8 January 1895» he was the son of Robert Clifford and Blanche Hills, of 55 Adelaide Road, Brockley; his father was a house furnisher. His first education was at the West Kent Grammar School (later Brockley County School), and he then came to St. Dunstan's in January 1905. He was at School for nearly four years, leaving in December 19O8 to become a clerk in the Capital and Counties Bank, and he continued to live locally.

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Hills joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt in the first weeks of the Waa?, and after training at Hatfield he went to France with the unit in March 1915• He took part in the battles at Festubert and Givenchy, and in September 1915 took part in the attack on Loos. During this latter action he was one of the many Old Boys wounded, and he was invalided home to recover. While recuperating he was sent for officer training, and was commissioned on 24 December 1915 into the 9'fch (Reserve) Battalion of the Lincoln Regt. In February 1916 he married Katherine Bouney of Mount Pleasant Road, Lewisham, and they then lived at 6 Inchmery Road, Catford. At about the same time his parents moved to Lei^-on-Sea, Essex,

He returned to France in June I916 and was posted to the 1st Lincoln Regt, The unit took part in the great British offensive on the Somme, which began on 1 July 1916, and he was killed two days later on 3 July. The unit was ordered to attack Birch Tree Wood and Shelter Wood on this date, the objectives being a mile north of Fricourt. After an artillery barrage on the German lines, the Battalion moved off at 9«00 a.m. on a two-company front. After heavy losses the unit managed to take the Woods, and despite heavy coimterattacks the gains were held and consolidated with the arrival of reinforcements. Hills led two platoons in the attack, and was shot throu^ the heart charging the German t3?enches. The unit had 243 casualties in the attack; 37 killed, 197 wounded and 9 missing. He has no known grave, and he is commemor--ated on the Thiepval Memorial in France. The War Graves Register shows that he was serving with "A" Company of the Battalion when he was killed.

HMTON, Walter Reginald. He was the third son of Henry Oastler and Eliza Rowlatt Hinton, and was bom on 4 April I89I. His father was a leather factor who later became Master of the Leather Sellers' Company in the City of London. The family lived at 3O Lewisham Park, Lewisham, and his first education was in the same street by Miss Davies at Malvern House. He arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 19OI and was prominent in sport; he won Prizes for Lower School Cricket in 1902 and for Athletic in I904, and was in the 1st teams for Rvgby, Cricket and Lacrosse in 1905 and 1906. He left in July I9O6, but continued his interest in sport; he played Cricket for the Forest Hill Club, being in their 2nd XI 19O8 and 1909 and in the 1st XI for some games in the latter season. He joined the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club and was Captain of the 1st XV in 19O8 and of the "A" XV" in 1909. He later played many games for the Old Boys 1st XV and by 1913 was the Vice-Captain. A photograph of him appears in the "History of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club" as a member of the 1st XV in the 1911-12 season.

In September 1914 he enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, and after training at Hatfield accompanied the unit to France in March 1915* He took part in the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy, but was invalided home with trench fever before the Loos battle on 25 September in which many Old Dunstonians became casualties. He applied for a commission on his recovering, and after some weeks training he was promoted 2/Lieut in the 10th (Reserve) Battalion of the Border Regt.

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He was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Regiment in Prance, and whilst serving with this unit he was killed on 14 July 1916. On this date the unit was taking part in the second phase of the Somme offen--sive and was attacking from Caterpillar Wood towards the German trenches south of Bazentin-le-Grand Wood. The Battalion marched up to the front line through heavy shelling, and moved off into No Man's Land at 2.20 a.m. Covered by a barrage, they crawled up to within 30 yards of the German lines, and when the shelling stopped at 3»25 a.m. they rushed the German trenches and captured all objectives, which were held tintil the Battalion was relieved on the next day.

In the course of this advance the unit had 25 killed, 137 wounded and 58 missing, among the killed being Hinton. He is buried in Flatiron Copse Cemetary at Mametz, Prance. His next of kin were his parents, living by then at 79 Arran Road, Catford. The obituary in the "Lee Journal" stresses his interest in sport - he played Rugby several times for the Kent side, as well as for Catfo3?d Bridge and the Old Dunstonians.

HOOKE, Robert Gordon. Bom on 28 November 1893 at Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, he was the son of Walter Edmund and Helena Kate Hooke. His father was a broker, with an office at the Stock Exchange. Some time later he was sent to Cliftonvllle College at Margate, Kent, but when the family moved to "Holmwood", High Road, Lee, he was transferred to St. Bunstan's, He was at School from September 19O5 to March 1909> in which time he played in a number of Fives Tournaments. He left to work in his fathers' Stock Exchange business, and early in the War he enlisted at Kensington in the 10th Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers. The unit was part of Kitchener's newly-raised Army, and was known as the "Stockbrokers" as it was recruited from amongst the staffs of City offices. The unit went to Prance in July 1915 as part of the 37th Division and took part in the Somme fighting in the summer and autumn of ^^^6, He was killed in action on 18 November 1916, has no known grave, and his name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

HOPF, Richard Adolf. The son of Paul and Emily Hopf, he was bom on 13 February 1888. His family lived at Lynton Villa, Westdown Road, Catford, and his first education was privately at Mis Walsh's School. He came to St. Dunstan's in September 1898, and left in July 19O3 having won a School Prize for German in 1902. He continued to live in Catford, and in the early part of the War enlisted in London into the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade). He served in France with the unit in the 56th Division, and was killed in action on 1 July 1916, the first day of the great British offensive on the Somme. He had been at the fixjnt just three months. At first he was reported as missing, but after ten months his parents, at 9 Davenport Road, Catford, were informed that he was confirmed as killed. He is btiried at Gommecourt British Cemetary, Hebuteme, Prance.

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The action in which Hopf was killed took place when the 56th Divis--ion attacked Gommecoiirt on 1 July 1916; this was a feint attack to distract attention from the main attacks elsewhere. After a heavy British barrage the unit advanced behind a smokescreen and captured the German first line, taking many prisoners. However, the Battalion was cotmterattacked and shelled, and was slowly forced back. Behind it. No Man's Land was being shelled too heavily for reinforcements and supplies to be brought up, and the unit was eventiially forced to retire. By dusk only a handful of survivors remained in the German trenches. Out of 825 men going into action, over 5OO were killed or wounded.

HOWCROFT, Laurence Walter. The son of Frederick and Mary Howcroft, he was bom on 25 February 1892; his father was a seed merchant of 56 Clarendon Road, Lewisham. After some time at Lewisham Park School he came to St. Dtinstan's in September I9O8 and was prominent in sport; in I9O8 he joined the 5jcd XV Rugby, and in the next season he played for the 1st XV". He also played in the 5 d XI Cricket in 1909 and 1910, with occasional games in the 2nd XI, After leaving the School in July 19IO he became a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, and was awarded an Honour Cap by the Club in 1912.

He had been in the OTC at St. Dimstan's, and this experience helped him to an early commission. He was promoted 2/Lieut in the 15th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Hampshire Regt on 13 July 1915» smd served as Lieut in the 54'th Battalion of the Training Reserve on 1 September 1916. On 31 July 1917 he was posted to the 2nd Hampshire Regt in France, where it was serving with the 29th Division. On 20 November the Battalion was in action at Masnieres during the Cambrai battles. It was ordered to cross the Scheldte via a bridge, but when it arrived it found the bridge destroyed, and the unit moved along the river to a lock which was still intact. The whole Battalion then crossed, in single file, xmder constant fire from machine-guns and artillery. Once across, one company was sent to capture Masnieres and two companies attacked and captured Mon Plaisir Farm. At this stage the Battalion had taken its objectives, and it dug in for the night. Total losses were 28 killed and missing, and 58 wounded. Howcroft was first reported missing, but his body was later found and buried at Flesquieres Hill British Cemetary in France.

HDNTEE, Cyril Joseph. Bom on 26 Januaiy 1892, he was the son of Joseph and Minnie Elizabeth Himter. His father was a clerk in the Liverpool and London Globe Instirance Company, and the family lived at 43 Venner Road, Sydenham. He was educated initially by Miss Wri^t at 14 Venner Road, and was at St. Dunstan's from January 1902 to July 19O8. He won a School Prize for Drawing in 19O8. His parents later moved to 36 Mooimead Road, St. Margaret's, Twickenham. Early in the war he joined the Royal Field Artillery at Woolwich and was posted to "B" Battery of the 71st Brigade. He served in France and was killed in action on 26 July 1915- He is buried at Vermelles British Cemetary.

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HYATT, Wilfred Yemon. He was bom at Walthamstow on 17 J^me 1891, and his father was Frederick William Hyatt, a clerk. In his early-years the family moved to ^6 Thomford Road, Lewisham Park, and he was educated at Lewisham Park School before coming to St, Dunstan's in January I9O6, He left in July I907, three months after his younger brother Frederick, who had Joined at the same time. Frederick Ifyatt was bom on 26 June 1892 and served with his brother in the 20th London Regt during the War, being wounded.

Wilfred joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Eegt in its early days, and the "History of the Old Dunstonian Club" has a photograph of him in camp with the unit at Aldershot in 1912. He volunteered for overseas service at the commencement of the War and after a period of training at Hatfield, he went to France in March 1915• He served with the unit throii^ the battles of Festubert and Givenchy, and in September 1915 was present in the attack on Loos in which many Old Boys were killed. He survived this, but died in Prance on 1 January I916 from wounds or illness. He is buried at Les Gonards Cemetary at Versailles.

mMES, Francis George. Bom on 29 Januaiy I896 at Lambeth, he was the son of George and Ellen Innes. His father was a commercial travell--er of Scottish extraction. The family moved to 27 Carholme Road, Forest Hill, and he was educated at Kilmorie Road Elementary School before coming to St, Dunstan's in September 1906. He left in December 1911 but kept in touch with the School by membership of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club. He went to work for Messrs, J. and J, Colman at 108 Cannon Street, London EC, and at about the same time moved with his parents to 117 East Dialwich Grove, Diilwich. He enlisted in the 14th London Regt (London Scottish) before the War and volunteered for service on the outbreak of hostilities.

The London Scottish landed at Le Havre on I6 September 1914 and from 31 of that month served as GHQ Troops. During the early part of November the unit fought at Messines and Ypres under the orders of the Cavalry Corps, and fixjm 7 November it was with the 1st Division. On 11 November it was engaged at Zillebeke Woods in holding up a strong German attack; this was repulsed, and bad weather closed in making attacks more difficult. The Battalion then moved to support the 1st Gooards Brigade near Gheluvelt and whilst dug in here it was subjected to heavy shelling. During one of these barrages on 13 November, Innes was killed. He was buried shortly afterwards in Givenchy Churchyard but was later moved to Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetary in France,

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IVES, Vincent George. The son of Vincent and Emily Ives, he was bom on 26 September I89O. His father was a printer's mana^r and the family lived at 10 Eordel Gardens, Ardgowan Road, Cat ford. He was educated at Hither Green Elementary School, and afterwards at St. Dunstan's from January 1905 "to April 1906. His subsequent career is not known, but on the outbreak of War in 1914 he was living at Catford, althou^ his parents had moved to 201 Abingdon Avenue, Northampton, He enlisted at Westminster and joined the l6th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles), being one of the first to volunteer for the imit. He later served in Prance with the unit in the 6th and later the 56th Divisions.

On 1 July 1916 the unit was in the attack at Gommecourt on the first day of the British offensive on the Somme. The attack in this sector was a feint to distract attention from the major thrusts elsewhere. The Battalion's initial attack was successful if costly, but the casualties suffered in crossing No Man's Land weakened the unit and it was ttnable to hold back the German counterattacks. The ^xn±t went into action with 750 men, and by dusk only 15O were still in action, Ives was one of those killed, althou^ at first reported as missing. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance,

JACOBS, Alan Edward Affalo, Bom on 2 February 1895, he was the son of Harold Affalo and Elizabeth Amy Jacobs. His father was a shipbxxjker and the family lived initially at Welney Lodge, Ravensbotime Park, Catford. After attending Priory School he came to St. Bunstan's in September 1904> and in nearly ei^t years at the School he had a successful and active time. He won a School Prize for Work and Conduct in 1910 and again in 19II; and was a member of the Literary Society from I9O8, being elected to its committee in I9IO. He was a Prefect in 1911 and 1912 and was a Sgt in the OTC, in this latter capacity writing an article for the "Chronicle" in 1912 describing the Corps camp on Salisbury Plain, Also active in the School Scout Troop, he won the Prize as Best Scout in 1912.

He was one of the most notable athletes of his generation and was active in a number of sports. Joining the 4th XI Cricket in 191O, he went on to the "^xd XI and the 2nd XI in 19II, and was Captain of the latter side during the 1912 season. He was in the 2nd XV Rugby in 1910 and went on to the 1st XV in 1911, a side pictured in the "Chronicle" of March I912. He was also in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1911 and the 1st XII in 1912. He was also a regular Fives player, had School Colours for Gymnastics, and was elected to the Athletics Committee in 19II. Jacobs was perhaps most outstanding in Swimming, for which he had School Colours; winning several School races in 191O, he won the London County Co Incil Cup at the swimming contest in 1911 and the Athletic Cup at the contest in I912. He was in the School team for the sport, won the Swimming Prize in 1912, and in the same year set a School record of 42 seconds for 2 lengths. He left in 1912, having passed the University of London School Leaving Examin--ation in Jtily 1911, and went into the Civil Service after studying at the Strand School in London.

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At the beginning of the War, Jacobs enlisted in the ranks of the 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles), but he was soon selected for a commission and after a period of training he was promoted 2/Lieut in the 11th (Service) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, In the summer of 1915 he was posted to the 8th (Service) Battalion of the East Stirrey Regt; the unit went to France with the 18th Division on 28 Jiily 1915* and he remained with it until his death a year later. In December 1915 "tlie Battalion was in a quiet sector of the line near Albert and it -undertook many patrols in No Man's Land. On one of these patrols, Jacobs took his men right up to the German trenches but the party was spotted by a German sentry, who shot Sgt. Riiffles; the Sgt managed to crawl to cover, and was rescued some time later by Jacobs, who had searched the srea for him.

On 21 March 1916 the unit was at Knowles Point and Khowles Wood when it was attacked by a strong force of Germans trying to break throu^ to destroy the Vaux Causeway. The Battalion was under continual shelling but held its groimd with comparatively li^t casualties, and it won four awards for its defence, including a Military Cross for Jacobs, The citation in the London Gazette (16 May 1916) states:

"For conspicuous gallantry on several occasions, notably when, after having been for the moment forced back by a very superior number of the enemy, he rallied his platoon, and led it in a counter-attack, by which the enemy were driven back again."

GIhe "Chronicle" of June 1916 gives another version of the citation, presumably taken from the original longer recommendation;

"On the morning of 21st March I916, 2.50 a.m. to 5.50 a.m., with one platoon, he drove back 15O Germans, killing one officer and capturing another, as well as several rifles, land mines, etc."

A lengthy extract from a letter he wrote home is published by the "Chronicle" of March 1917> and gives details of his ejqperiences in the months before his death:

"I took a small party to recapture Khowles Wood (on the right), while Captain Paull went strai^t across. I fotind a dying Hun, made one or two synipathetic remarks in bad German, and got out of him that most of the others had gone home; then he na -poohed. We advanced over the marsh, in places waist deep in mtud, and as we entered Khowles Wood the Huns cleared out on the other side. During this advance we were badly shelled, and a 6-inch Jack Johnson landed within six yards of me, blowing a huge hole in the marsh just by, and making me foolishly bite my cheek painfully. During this my platoon Sgt, a splendid fellow, got a shrapnel in the back, and a few others were hit, but we went throtigh, and thou^ the Huns had not resisted hand to hand, we were proud to send an orderly - 'We have retaken Khowles Wood.'"

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"My paxty then scoured the place for our missing, and found a cap with the badge torn out but no name of the man, so we skiorted round the outside of the Wood and joined the centre party. The shelling now ceased, and we went back to the marshes to hunt for stage property. As I was searching the dead for ducuments, I heard weird noises on my ri^t, shouting and whistling and high jinks, as thou^ a hare was running throu^ camp. The words 'Camarade be damnedj • from one of our sergeants was heard, and I found a wretched Hun wildly dodging about a dozen bayonets and yelling all kinds of rot."

"Dead men tell no tales, so I thought he'd better be alive. An officer did it. When I went up with my revolver his face was khaki and his hands trembled violently as he held them up. And then there occurred a little comedy. Striving to remem--ber 'der, die, das', I advised him to behave quietly (most unnecessary), and then took his arm and began to stroll back, while I held my revolver at his chest with the other. I never knew the funny pictures were so true before. He was tall and thin and squinted wickedly, and with his two hands up, if only I were an artist I cotild make you lau^ for a month. As the poor wretch was so frightened I put my revolver back and tried to talk to him, but he was too frightened to say anything coherent. He managed, however, to stutter out "Kong" when I asked him if he sprach Franzosisch. I soon handed him over to someone else, and searched the wood again for wounded, prisoners, and material."

"We found eight Mauser rifles, three excellent wire cutters, two dead Huns, three large land mines, and about thirty bombs, besides other trifles. The prisoner has since told us that there were 100 of his crowd and two sections of ordinary infantry. He was one of the Bavarian Pioneers, the 5th Ersatz Corps I believe. Pioneers wear white bands on their arms, and are a sort of R.E., only more like ordin--ary infantry than ours, for they do bombing attacks or tunnel the mines and similar jobs. This party had come to blow up our causeway with these mines, an ambitiovis scheme that fell through rather badly, as they couldn't cross the brook let alone even capture Duck's Post. I have no doubt they'll try again, and probably in even larger numbers. Our losses were 17> only one of which was killed outright; if only those mouldy gunners had helped me the Huns would have had a very thin time. They made a great mistake in bring--ing no machine guns over. The remains of us are now relieved; another platoon is holding the causeway."

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"Accoiding to one of cnxr wounded I overheard, old Jacobs seemed to think it was a field day and not a battle, and at the time I didn't even feel excited, but next evening I began to feel the effects and to feel most disinclined for another scrap the next night, while every noise made me anxious and nervous. However, I got to sleep in a cellar at 9»30 p.m. and stayed there till 9 a.m., of course the first rest I've had up here. Yester--day afternoon was spent in no trousers and an overcoat qiiite sodden, but now I've had a wash and a dry we're ready for their next visit, when with our own fine gunners behind us we ought to give them a filthy time. One lance-corporal was taken prisoner as far as the Hun's wood, whei e he struggled free, shot one of his escort, and hid up to his next in a stream for two hours, after which he managed to crawl back to us. It was a positively sporting thing to do when he might q ite safely have gone quietly, and I hope he gets a D.C.M."

>'My own souvenirs, entre nous, include a brand new Mauser, which I will try to get home somehow, two buttons, an NCO lanyard, and two identity discs, which the Brigade has collared. The first time the Colonel met me he ticked me off for collaring souvenirs, the second time I got it for keeping my wet bags on, but I hear he is quite bucked, and the General told me he was yesterday morning. Being under shrapnel fire in the open is very strange; one's chief worry is the absurd size of one's legs, and I'll swear that I subconsciously tried to tuck mine iHider my steel helmet, needless to say without success.... They've just rung me up to tell me I've got the Military Cross, and so am rather bucked with life, and I'm sure you will be too."

"I am feeling unusually bucked with things in general, for have I not just had a wash - a thing I have not had for years and years and years? One grumbles at the petrol scarcity in England; here we drink it and wash in it, and even eat it in large quantities with our marmalade, for the petrol can (never quite empty) is the universal vessel on this game, and thou^ I have a shining morning face, I daxe not smoke lest I be consumed incontinent with fire -well, I might be more savoTiry..."

"As we filed our platoons up the long communication trench we observed an occasional crump at a certain right-angled turn; we arrived just there when one was due. I was in front. Holms (my supemumery) just behind me, and then two NCOs. We heard the well-known scream coming straight at us, and glaac--ing up actually saw a heavy howitzer shell falling. Next moment there was a stupendous crash, and I found myself the centre figure of a black Jack John--son inferno, with debris and fragments eveiywhere."

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"Another fraction of a degree's elevation, and na -pooh to two officers and two NCOs. I haven't even got shell shock, thoxa^ it seems a miracle. There was a gap in front of me, and a little fellow came running back shouting out that he was hit. He obviously wasn't, so I told him a few plain facts and sent him on. I learnt yesterday that the poor little devil was just fifteen - one can almost feel sorry for the fellow getting the wind up a bit. With a fatuous jest about sending a fatigue party back for the nose cap as a souvenir I managed to raise a laugh, and I suppose that steadied me a bit; still, being blown up is no joke "

"Our first day was ominous. A jet black storm gathered over us and solemnly glided over the Hun lines until it seemed literally to crush Montauban beneath its leaden loass, while at the same time a bri^t stin suddenly burst forth in a shower of golden rays upon our positions and the pathetic ruins once the village of Camoy. Prosit omen. As everyone knows, we have massed tiers of huge guns behind the Peronne Road, so clearly marked by a strai^t row of trees on the sky-line behind us, and next morning early the storm broke. From that day onwards there has not been a second without a shell in the air in ottr sector; certainly not a minute without ten bursting. While the 12-inch howitzers blow Montauban into clouds of tile dust and black smoke 100 feet hi^, and have already poimded the backyard off the face of Prance, while the black smoke rises in three wreaths like the wings and body of a black avenging axigel that glides solemnly along the breeze, and seems to smile quietly on the damage it has wroxight and on the retribution that has now biirst in all its fury on the Prussians opposite to us. In the meantime thousands of field guns barrage every approach to the front system and cut all the barbed wire, aided in this by \mlim--ited 801b sausages that shake the earth with every burst and cut the wire and grass away until the ground opposite is shaved as clear as a well-kept path, as soon as the reddish cloud of smoke has drifted; aeroplanes swarm overhead and spot for the heavy counter batteries that solemnly and sys--tematically knock out the enemy guns and their crews, while the feeble enemy retaliation testifies only too plainly of their success."

"Three Hun aeroplanes have actually been seen in the air while we have been up; two will never fly again. No effort is spared to kill the nerves and bodies of the swine opposite. They can get no supplies up; their rest billets rise in clouds of flame day and night, their j\mctions are bombed; 16-inch guns call on their headqxiarter towns several miles back; and every night there have been at least two 'winkles' (i.e., cutting-out raids) done on Pritz.."

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"There is daily an avalanche 'bombardment with a smoke attack on him as though we were coming over. Those that remain line their parapet and open rapid fire as soon as the fire lifts; back it comes with renewed fury and sweep off any heads still showing. Back they go to their diig-outs, and the heavy minenwerfer with its delayed action drops several feet in and then bursts, showering up beams and earth and often bodies with its white smoke. There are still new tortures not begun yet, but this is one of many places on both fronts where the Huns are being blown off the earth."

"I sit in myobservation post and laugh at every good burst; I haven't forgotten last autumn when the position was inclined the other way round. The small batches of Huns that come over and say they can't stand the shelling are wise; I have a kind of idea that our toll of prisoners will not be q lite so big as the Austrian haxil. Last night we stopped shelling the front line here while I went on patrol to insp--ect the wire and see how the cutting was etting on. With blackened faces my two men and I solemnly emptied our pockets and took off our badges and identity discs and set off for the Hun front line. After a wet, muddy crawl we arrived piretty close, but Fritz, who knew something was up, was on the qui vive because the shelling was lifted and seemed strangely displeased to see us; in fact he threw a bomb or two and squirted rifles at ais. We, however, played tiger rugs on shell holes and raised our black faces and looked about. We then moved along to the ri^t; they fired a bit as if they were suspicious, but cotildn't see us, and I went right up to the inner wire and put out some white papers to mark the spots we reached and made a detailed reconnaissance. We retmned safely with our tails well up but our undemeaths thoroughly soaked and muddied."

On 7 August 1916 the Battalion was holding the front line near Armentieres and came tmder heavy artillery fire. "B" Company siiffered heavy losses, with 15 killed, 59 wounded and 2 missing. Jacobs was one of those killed. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial in Belgium. He also appears in the British Jewry Book of Honour for the Great War. His next of kin were his parents, living by 192O at 5 Exbury Road, Catford.

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JOHNSON, Frederick Henry. Bom on 15 August I89O, he was the son of Samuel R. Johnson, a confectioner. He was educated first at Whitgift Middle School in Croydon until his father opened a shop at 5 5 H i ^ Street, Lewisham; he then transferred to St. I>unstan's in September 1902, He left in March 1907, having won a School Prize for Work and Conduct in that year. He attended Batter sea Polytechnic, graduating with a BSc, and enrolled as a member of the University of London ore. At the same time his family moved to Brixton.

On the outbreak of War he volunteered for service and his previous service led to an early commission in the Royal Engineers on 24 October 1914. He went to Prance in July 1915 with the 73rd Field Company, and commanded a section of the unit in the fighting at Hill 70 dizring the battle of Loos. For his bravery in this action he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the citation for which appeared in the London Gazette of 18 November 1915J

"For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in the attack on Hill 70 on 25 September 1915. 2/Lt Johnson was with a section of his company of Royal Engineers. Although wounded in the leg, he stuck to his duty throu^out the attack, led several charges on the German redout, and at a very critical time, Txnder very heavy fire, repeatedly rallied the men who were near him. By his splendid example and cool courage he was mainly instrumental in saving the situation and establishing firmly his part of the position which had been taken. He remained at his post until relieved in the evening."

Johnson was invalided home to England with his injiiries, and was convalescent until Janusry I916, when he rettimed to France. He was promoted to Lieut on 8 December 19'15> Acting Captain on 15 January 1916, and Temporary Major on 30 November 1916; he became Temporary Captain on 18 September 1917. He served in France continuously from January 1916 to November 1917*

On 26 November 1917 he was in command of 231st Field Company during the Cambrai fighting; in company with two other officers he entered Bo lrlon Wood for a reconnaissance, and on being shot at by the Germans they took cover. It was then discovered that one of his companions was missing, and he went forward immediately to search for him. Before he could locate him, however, he was shot and mortally wounded, dying later in the day at the Graincourt Dressing Station. He was buried near Bourlon Wood but his grave was unmarked and he is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial in France. His next of kin was his mother, his father having predeceased him.

Johnson was the only Old Dunstonian to win the Victoria Cross in either World War, and as such his name was commemorated by being made one of the eight School Houses set up after the War. The House colour is mauve, the badge a processional cope and cross, and the motto "Non Sibi, Sed Alius". A photograph of him appears in the "Illustrated London News" of 29 December 1917j and in the "London University OTC Roll 1914-19". He was one of five ex-^embers of the OTC who won the Victoria Cross diiring the War.

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KEINIIEDY, John Gilbert. Bom on 25 December 1886, he was the son of Alfred George Oliver Kennedy. His father died when he was young, and his mother was remarried to Alexander Christie, a bank official. The family lived firstly in Somerset and he was educated there by Miss Willis at Eastington, Cleveland. In 19OO they moved to 22 Queen's Gardens, Brownhill Road, Catford, and he entered St. Dunstan's in May of that year. He was in the 2nd XV" Rugby in 1902, and left in December 1902. His brother, George Stewart, was at the School from May 1900 to July I904, and served in the War as a Second Officer in the Merchant Navy. The family later moved to 55^ Brownhill Road in Catford.

On the outbreak of War he enlisted in the ranks of the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) as a Pte with the n-umber 2509. The unit was an officer training unit, and after a few months he was commissioned as 2/Lieut in the 1st Battalion of the Leicestershire Regt on 28 November 1915* After a time at the Cadet School at St. Omer he was sent to join the unit at the front, where it formed part of the 6th Division in the Ypres sector. He served with "C" Company of the Battalion until he was killed in the fighting at Ginchy on I4 September 1916. In the first half of that month the unit had 45^ men killed and wounded. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

EENNETT, Percy William. He was the son of William Richard Kennett and his wife Florence Emily, daughter of Eugene Charles Mascot. Bom at Hornsey in north London, he moved south with his family to live at 126 Wellmeadow Road, Catford. He had been bom on 1 February 1897 and his father was an accoimtant. He attended two schools - Claremont House at Hither Green and Southend House at Southend - before coming to St. Dunstan's in October I9O9. He was first in 2 Beta in 1911, for which he won a prize, and left in December 1912, taking employment as a clerk at Pierce Leslie and Company, East India Merchants. After a short time there he joined the staff of the Standard Bank of South Africa. He continued to live with his parents at Catford.

In November 1915 he enlisted in the ranks of the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles), and after basic training was promoted L/Cpl and posted to the 1st Battalion of the Regiment, joining it in France on 2 March I916. The unit was one of the few infantry battalions in the 65rd Royal Naval Division. On 30 October 1917 "the Battalion took part in a major assault on the German line during the operations at Passchendaele. The attack went forward over atrocious terrain, the ground being very waterlogged, and progress was slow. Of the 5OO men that left the start-line, some 350 were killed and wounded, many of the latter drovming in the mud. At first reported missing, his body was discovered five months later and he was reburied on 18 March 19I8. However, the grave later disappeared and his name is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial in Belgium.

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KESSELL, Frederick Charles. The elder son of Frederick and Alice Kessell, he was bom on 7 March 1888. His father was a merchant and the family lived at 3 Vancouver Road, Catford. He was educated at Ahbeville School in Clapham Park before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 1901. He won a School Prize for Shorthand in 1904> was a member of the Literary and Debating Society, and was on the committee of the Natural History Society. He played Cricket for the 5^^ XI in 1903 and for the 2nd XI in 1904; and in the latter year was a member of the 2nd XII Lacrosse. He was also a noted gymnast throughout his time at the School. Leaving in July I904, he continued to live locally and in 19O8 was in the 4th XI of the Forest Hill Cricket Club. His younger brother Leonard, who was bom in 1889, was at St. Dunstan's concurrently, and later served during the War in the Army Ordnance Corps.

Before the War, his pao ents moving to "Kingsley Dene", Green Lane, Dulwich, Kessell moved to Westminster. During the early part of the War he went to Chelsea and enlisted in the ranks of the Royal AmQr Medical Corps (Territorial Force), He was posted to the 6th London Field Ambulance and served in France; in the early part of 1918 he was wounded and gassed, being subsequently invalided home. He contr--acted pneumonia and died on 23 October I9I8, being buried at Ladywell Cemetary in Lewisham,

KEMBEEILEY, Arthur Dou^ty. He was bom at Dalston on 2 October I889, the son of Robert Kimberley. During his early years the family moved to 49 Hurstboume Road, Forest Hill, and he attended Rathfem Road Elementary School. From there he came to St. Dunstan's in January I9OI and remained until December 1905* After he left the School he lived in Forest Hill and was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club. In June 1916 he joined the London Regt as a Pte with the number 6452, and later transferred to the Machine Gun Corps (infantiy). He served in France with the 73^d Company of the \init and was killed in action on 11 April 1917. Buried at Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetary Extension in France.

KING, Wilfred Frank. The son of John and Alice King, he was bom on 26 March 1899. His father was a tax collector of 77 Hatherley Road, Sidcup, and he was educated at Sidcup House School before coming to St. Dunstan's in January I912. He left in July 1914 and became a clerk at Martin's Bank in Dartford. He was too yo\mg to take part in the early stages of the War, but in 1917 underwent officer training and was commissioned onto the General List for service with the Royal Flying Corps on I9 July 1917. He then commenced training as a pilot, and it was during this that he was killed in a flying accident in England on 4 November 1917» His parents were by then living at 18 Aldermary Road, Bromley, and he was buried at London Road Cemetary in Bromley.

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KNIGHT, Roland Ambrose. Bom at Rotherhlthe, Deptford, on 2 November 1891, he was the elder son of James and Julia Kni^t. His father, a stonemason, died when he was jaang, and he was b3X)iight up by his mother at 2 Stillness Road, Forest Hill. He was educated at Brockley Road Elementaiy School before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 1904. His fees were paid by the London County Council to the age of 16, and the Governing Body awarded him an Exhibition of £30 for three years. He was in the 4th XI Cricket in 1907> with some games for the 5rd XI, and was a regular member of the latter side dTiring the 19O8 season. In 19O8 he played in the 2nd XY Rugby with some 1st XV" games; and he was a regular member of the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1909 with some appearances for the 1st XII. He was a Prefect 19O8-O9, and in December 19O8 passed the University of London School Leaving Examination with First Class Honours. He also came fifth in the competition for the Clothworkers Scholarship.

Leaving St. Dunstan's in July 1909» he went to the Central Technical College from I909 to 1912; in became a BSc (Engineering) and an Associate of the City and Guilds Institute, fulfilling his earlier academic promise. He took a leading role in Old Dunstonian affairs, and in 1913 was elected Honorary Assistant Secretary of the Old Dunstonian Club. He continued to live with his mother in Catford, moving to 75 Bellin^iam Road, and on the outbreak of War he made his way to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He underwent training at Hatfield, where he took part in a number of events at the Regimental Sports, and accompanied the 1st Battalion of the Regiment to France in March 1915» He was promoted Cpl and served in the actions at Festubert and Givenchy; he went through the attack on Loos, 25 September 1915» and was one of the Old Dunstonians to survive the fighting there. However, when the unit was in the trenches in the Hulloch sector on 20 October following, he was seriously wounded, and died of his wounds four days later. He is buried at Lapugnoy Cemetary in France.

LAHE, Maurice. He was bom at Dulwich on 15 April I89O, the third and youngest son of Charles Lane and his wife Jessie, daughter of Henry Thomas Hall. His father was a City agent and chairman of Charles Lane and Sons, Idol Lane, London EC. The family lived at Marmora Road, East Dulwich, and he attended a local preparatory school before arriving at St. Dimstan's in September I9OO. He won a number of School Prizes - 1st in 2B (19OI), Lower School Reading (1903), Upper School Reading (19O6), and Spanish (1907); he was the first student of the latter subject at St. Dunstan's, and the only one in the School at the time. He became a Prefect, and was a member of the Literary and Debating Society from 1903; towards the end of his time at the School he was a Subaltern in the Cadet Corps. He was notable in a niimber of School sports, and was a regular winner of events at Sports Days; he was also in the Shooting Till in 1906 and was elected to the committee of the Athletic Club in the same year. He played Rugby for the 3^^ X? in 1904 after a season with the Junior XV in 1903; he went on to the 2nd XV in I9O5 and played for the 1st XV" in 1906. He also played for the 1st XII Lacrosse in I905 and I9O6.

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Lane left the School in Jvlj 1907 £tnd joined his father's firm, becoming a partner before 1914^ He maintained his links with St. Dunstan's by joining the Old Dunstonian Eugby Club, and he played for the 1st XY from 1909 onwards, becomixig Captain of the side in 1915* He served on the Club committee from I909 and was awarded an Honour Cap in 1912. He was also selected to play Riigby at county level and was in the Kent side in 1915-14« IT e "Histoiy of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club" contains photographs of him in the 1st XV in 1909 and 1911. The same history has a photograph of him in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt in camp at Aldershot in 1912. He was one of the first to volunteer for the Company and joined it on 1 October 1909» taking the serial number 450.

On the outbreak of War in August 1914 he was a Sgt in the 20th London Regt, and volunteered for overseas service at once. IThe unit moved to Hatfield soon afterwards, and the "Chronicle" of March 1915 contains a four-page article written by him describing the daily routine and training of the Battalion in October 1914* He took part in several events in the Regimental Sports, and was a prominent member of the \m±± Rugby team. He went to Prance with the unit in March 1915 ^nd was Sgt of a platoon of Old Dunstonians. After taking part in the early actions at Pestubert and Givenchy, on 25 September 1915 ^^ played a notable part in the attack on Loos dxiring the advance of the 47'th (London) Division. The Battalion had as its objective the German second line which ran from Loos Cemetary to the Lens-Bethune Road. The assaiilt began at 6.3O a.m. after a gas attack on the German lines, and despite heavy losses - including many Old Dunstonians - the -unit got to its objectives and captured the Chalk Pit position and the two German field guns there. Lane was at the head of his platoon in the charge through the village of Loos, and was recommended in very strong terms by his company commander. Por his bravery on this occasion he was commissioned in the field (London Gazette 12 November 1915) snd was posted back to his old unit as an officer. He was also recommended for a gallantxy award and eventually received the Military Medal (London Gazette 14 September 1916); shortly afterwards he was also mentioned in despatches.

After the Loos attack he was accidentally inJTired on duty, but contin--ued to serve with his unit at the front. Later posted to the 2nd Battalion of the 20th London Regt, he accompanied it to Salonika in Hovember I916. He served in this theatre for seven months and led many difficult and dangerous patrols against the Btilgarian lines. The Battalion was later transferred to Egypt, arriving at Alexandria on 19 June 1917* Lane was promoted to Lieut on 1 J\ily folloxd.ng, and took part in the advance into Palestine in the latter part of the year. He was promoted to Captain on 22 November 1917 and given command of a company, which he led in the operations which resulted in the fall of Jerusalem. During this fighting he was killed in action at El Bixeh on 29 December 1917, and is buried in Jerusalem War Cemetary on a hill overlooking the battlefield. His parents, now living at "Tugela", Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, were told by the GOC 60th (London) Division:

"He was killed on 29 December 1917, after having led his company with unflinching gallantry and devotion."

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For his bravery he was awarded the Military Cross posthtunously (London Gazette 26 March I9I8, citation 24 August I9I8):

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. n>uring the assault he led his company on the right flank with great courage and ability. By his fine determination and skilful leadership his men were enabled to repulse a strong counterattack launched against his exposed flank,"

After the War, it was decided to divide the School into eight Houses, each named after an Old Dunstonian who had lost his life during the conflict. Lane was selected for his sporting achievements - both at School and for the Old Boys - and for his outstanding braveiy during the War. The House colour is black (white stripe on tie), the badge a bishop's crozier, and the motto "Virtutem Quaere,"

LEESE, Archibald Richard. He was bom in London on 27 October 1885, the son of Richard and Ellen Annie Leese. The family lived at first in north London, where he was educated at the Stationer's Company School in Hoxnsey, and later moved to 11 Brownhill Gardens, Catford. At this stage he came to St. Dunstan's, beginning in September 1898. He won a School Prize for English in I9OI and was elected Secretary of the Literary and Debating Club; he also took part in Union Society concerts, and in 1902 wrote the words for the School Song, which was set to music by Mr. T.A, Smith. His strongest sport was Rugby, and he was in the 1st XV" side in 1902.

Leaving St. Dunstan's in December 1903» he remained in the area and i?ook a leading role in Old Dunstonian affairs; he was a regular singer at Old Dunstonian Club concerts, was elected onto the committee of the Rugby Club in 1903 and was capped in I907. In I906 he was elected as Editor of the Old Boys Colunm in the "Chronicle", and in 19O8 onto the committee of the Old Boys Club, but resigned both posts late in I9O8. At about this time his father died and his mother moved to 49 Westminster Mansions, Little Smith Street, Westminster. Leese moved to 115 Wellmeadow Road at Catford, but decided to emigrate to Canada -a course followed by a number of Old Dunstonians at this time. He sailed from England on 2 April 1909 and made his way to British Colimibia, where he found work on a farm on Nicomen Island. He later moved several times within the province - to Dudeney (l909)» Hagensborg (1910) and Bella Coda (19II).

When the War began in August 1914 he went to Quebec, and enlisted there on 25 September 1914. He served at first with the 72nd Seaforth High--landers of Canada, and after basic training in Canada and England he went to Prance, where he was posted to "E" Conrpany of the l6th Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regt), He went into action at Langemarck on 18 May 1915 and was posted missing after the battle; his body was never found and he was assumed killed in action, his name being commemorated on the Vimy Memorial in France.

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IJEVENS, William Henry. Bom William Harmann Levens at Beckenham on 1 July 1898, he was the son of Herbert Levens, an auctioneer and estate agent; his company still has offices in the Bromley area. His parents lived at "The Pines", Elmfield Road, Bromley. He was educated firstly at City of London School and came to St. Ihmstan's in January I9II, leaving in April 1912. In August 1914 he volunteered for service at Bromley, and enlisted in the Royal West Kent Regt, althoiogh he was too young to serve overseas. He remained in England until September 1916, when he was posted to the 1st Battalion of the Regiment in Prance, where it formed part of the 5'tli Division. He served thus for a year and was promoted Sgt. On 4 October 1917 the •unit was in action near Veldhoek during the Thi3?d Battle of Ypres, and was preparing for a dawn attack on the German lines; as the unit moved up to its start-line at 2.00 a.m. it was heavily shelled and it was at this point that Levens was killed. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial at Passchendaele, Belgium.

LILLIE, William Philip. Bom at Rotherhithe on 24 July I896, he was the younger son of Albert Frederick Lillie and his wife Hannah, daughter of James Meadows. His father was a timber merchant and the family lived at 5 Kenipslade Street, Deptford. He was educated at Beptford Park Elementary School, and later at Aske's, before coming to St. Dunstan's in January 1910. He was determined on a naval career, and left in March 19II for HMS "Worcester", the Thames Nautical College; he achieved high marks in his examinations and was appointed probationary Midshipman in the Royal Naval Reserve on 15 September 1913« On the same date he was appointed to HIVE "Princess Royal", a battle cruiser. He was serving aboard her when the War began a year later.

Whilst on the "Princess Royal" he fou^t in the North Sea engagements at Heligoland in 1914 and Dogger Bank in 1915» be transfe2?red into the Royal Navy as a Midshipman on 25 March 1915» and was promoted to Acting Sub-Lieut on 15 March 1916. One month later, on 20 Ap3?il 1916, he left the "Princess Royal" and joined HMS "Phaeton", a cruiser. Whilst aboard her he took part in the Grand Fleet action at Jutland on 31 May and 1 June 1916. On 15 November 1916 he was confirmed in the rank of Sub-Lieut, and was serving on "Phaeton" when she brought down an enemy airship off the German coast.

Some months later Lillie volTonteered for the submarine service, and on 9 July 1917 he went to HMS "Dolphin" at Fort Blockhouse, Gosport, for training in this branch of the Royal Navy. Having successfully completed his course he went to HMS "Maidstone", a depot ship on whose books submarine officers were bome, on 24 September 1917« He took part in a number of patrols and was promoted Acting Lieut on 15 January I9I8. Shortly afterwards he was appointed second-in-command of the submarine E-34, where his Commander reported that he "served with zeal, ability, constant attention to duty, and was a valuable, reliable officer, and a good navigating and gunnery officer."

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On 10 May 1918 the E-54 sighted the German IIB-16 off Orfordness and sank her, an omustial instance of one submarine sinking another. For his services on this occasion, Lillie was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (London Gazette 7 August 1918). However, before he read of his award he was killed when the E-54 struck a mine in the Heligoland Bight. His body was recovered from the sea by the Germans and he was buried at Hamburg Cemetaiy, Ohlsdorf. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 59 Stondon Park, Forest Hill. After his death they moved to "St. Claire", 6l Victoria Road South, Southsea, Hampshire. Lillie was the only Old Dunstonian killed whilst serving at sea with the Royal Navy, and as far as can be traced the only Old Boy to receive the Distinguished Service Cross.

LITCHFIELD, Horace Cotirtney. He was the son of William and Elizabeth Louisa Litchfield, and was bom at Lewisham on 12 May I89I; his parents lived at 19 Wellmeadow Road, Hither Gi^en. He was educated privately by Miss Davies at Malvern House, Lewisham Park, and then won an Entrance Scholarship to St. Dunstan's, arriving in September 1901. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society, and was in the 2nd XV Rugby in I9O6, leaving School in J\ily 1907. His parents later moved to 64 Mount Pleasant Road, Lewisham, and he went to live in Walthamstow. When the War began he volimteered for service, and enlisted at Westminster in the 2nd Battalion of the Bedfordshire Regt; he was later posted to France, whe3?e the unit was in the 21st Brigade of the 7th Division, and was promoted to L/Cpl. On 17 May 1915 the Battalion took part in the battle of Festubeirt, being ordered to attack the German trenches at La Quinque Rue in conjunction with a battalion of the Cameron Highlanders. The units went forward at 7«30 p.m. over unknown ground which proved to be intersected by deep wet ditches; this, coupled with inadequate artillery support, ensured that the attack failed. The Battalion lost half its strength - 49 killed, 276 wounded and 68 missing. Litchfield was one of the latter, but when no further news of him came throii^, he was assumed killed in action on this date. His name is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial in France.

LOKAHDER, Erik Stanley. He was bom in the parish of St. Mary's, Lewisham, on 22 February 1895» an<3- was of Swedish extraction. His father, B.D. Lokander, was a timber agent and the family lived at "Skandia", 70 Berlin Road, Catford (renamed Canadian Avenue in 1914) • He was educated privately at Malvern House School in Lewisham Park and then came to St. Dunstan's in September 1904. He became a Prefect in 1909J and was a leading Fives player during his time at the School; he was in the 3'^ XI Cricket in 1907> ^nd the 1st XI for three seasons (19O8-IO); he was in the 2nd XV Rugby in I9O8, and played for the 1st XV in the 1909 season; in the latter year he was a member of the 1st Lacrosse XII. He left in July 1910, having in the same month passed the University of London School Leaving Examination.

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It wotild appear that Lokander followed his father into his business of importing Scandinavian timber, as the School Register shows that he went to Sweden in the simmer of 1910 to study the language and the wood industry. He returned in I9II and continued to live with his parents, being elected Honorary Secretary of the Lee Lacrosse Club in 1915. When War commenced in 1914> he enlisted in London and joined the ranks of the Sharpshooters ( 3 ^ County of London Yeomanry). The unit was employed at first on the Norfolk coast at Cromer, where it was feared that the Germans mi^t attempt an invasion; it later went to the Middle East and served at Gallipoli, Whilst in the fi^t--ing there with "B" Squadron of the Regiment, Lokander was killed at Suvla Bay on 21 August 1915> a^d is buried at Green Hill Cemetary, Gallipoli.

LOYESAY, Henry (Harry) Victor. The son of Philip and Alice Lovesay, he was bom at Brockley on 25 Jiane 1892; his father, a clerk on the Colonial Market, lived at 17 Whithread Road, Brockley. He was educated at Brockley Road Elementary School, and then at St. Dimstan's from September 1905 "to March 1907. His subsequent career is unknown, but when he enlisted in London early in the War he was still living at Brockley; after his death his parents moved to 8 Allenby Road, Forest Hill. He was posted to the 6th Battalion of the East Kent Regt and went to Prance with the unit. On 23 February 1916 he was killed in action during the fighting at Hohenzollem Redout. Although there is no major action recorded for the taiit on this date, the Battalion was holding a section of the line in appalling weather conditions and under continuous fire from artillery and snipers. He was buried at Vermelles British Cemetary in France.

LUFF, Edgar William Gxiy. He was bom on 5 September 1892, the son of William H. and M.A. Luff. His father was a civil servant and the family lived at "Boumside", Meadow Road, Shortlands. He was educated at the Wesleyan Higher School in Peckham before attending St. Dunstan's from September 1902 to July 19O8. His parents lived later at Hither Green, but after his father died his mother moved to 57 Dunvegan Road, Eltham. Loiff married before the War and lived with his wife, Louisa Mary, at 56 Manor Park, Lee; after he was killed in 1918 she moved to 3I Braeside Road, Streatham.

On the outbreak of War, he joined the Army in September 1914 by enlisting in the ranks of the l/5th Battalion of the Seaforth High--landers (Territorial Force), He went to France early in 1915> and after some months at the front he was selected for a commission; after xindergoing officer training he was posted to the 13th (Reserve) Battalion of the Hampshire Regt as a 2/Lieut on 4 November 1915« He then trained in machine guns and transferred to the Machine Gun Corps (infantry) on I6 March I916. He returned to France, was promoted to Lieut on 1 June 1917» and served with "A" Company of the 63rd Batta--lion Machine Gun Corps.

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On 25 March I9I8, during the great German offensive, his position was overrun by enemy troops. At first he was reported missing, and his Captain wrote to Mrs Luff:

"I am deeply grieved to have to tell you of such sad news of your husband. He was hit, but not badly, and I'm afraid he was taken prisoner on 26th March. You will no doubt be hearing from him shortly, because I thiiik he is quite safe,"

However, more news was received later from one of Luff's men, a prisoner of war in Germany. He stated that he and Luff were trying to get away from the advancing wave of German troops when Luff was killed and the writer was captured. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in France.

LUEPIHGHAM, George Frederick. The son of Frederick William and Elizabeth Farmer Luffingham, he was bom on 5 August I89O. His father was a draper and the family lived over the business at 22 Wastdale Eoad, Forest Hill. He was educated at Rathfem Road Elementary School and then at St. Dunstan's from April 19OI to December 1906. He was one of the best marksmen in the School and was in a number of Shooting competitions. After leaving School he continued to live in Forest Hill, and the "Chronicle" of 1915 noted that he was about to leave for Australia. Shortly after he arrived there War was declared, and he returned to London, where in March 1915 he enlisted at Elverton Street, Westminster, in the Westminster Dragoons (2nd County of London Yeo--maniy). After training in England he acconrpanied the unit to the Middle East, where he took part in the Gallipoli campaign and was wounded. Invalided back to England, he was later posted to a Reserve Regiment in Ireland, After passing as fit for active service again, he rejoined "A" Squadron of the Westminster Dragoons in Egypt, He took part in the early advance from Sinai into Palestine, and he was captured in the fitting at Gaza on 14 August 1917« Nothing further was heard, and he was later listed as killed on this date. His mother having died, his next of kin was his father, by then living at 215 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill. He has no known grave, and is commem--orated on the Jerusalem War Memorial.

MAM, Cyril Frederick. He was bom on 11 December I89O at Hands--worth, Birmingham, the elder son of William and Elizabeth Mann; his father was a civil servant. He was educated firstly at King Edward's School in Birmingham tintil his family moved in 1906 to 37 Sttt Mildred's Road, Lee. He then attended St. Dunstan's from May 1906 to July 1907; his younger brother Laurence was at the School at the same time. Shortly after leaving, his family emig--rated to Canada in April 1909; his parents lived at Bridgeford, Saskatchewan, and Mann worked on a farm owned by his older brother at Tugaske, Saskatchewan,

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In a letter prublished in the "Chronicle" of 1909, Mann mentions that he has been helping with the wheat harvest and learning about fanning; on his second ni^t at the farm he had been called out to fight a prairie fire which came close to destroying the property. Later in 1909 he obtained a job with the Canadian Bank of Commerce, and in the following year wrote again to the "Chronicle", enthusing about his job, salary and life in Canada, He worked for the Bank of Commerce in branches at Canora and Watson; by 1916 he was at Medicine Hat, Alberta, and on I6 February of that year enlisted for service with the Canadian Expeditionary Force, After training in Canada and England, he went to Prance with the 50th Infantry (Alberta Regt), and whilst taking part in the battles on Vimy Ridge he was killed in action on 3 Jtine 1917. He is buried at La Chaudiere Military Cemetary at Viiiy, France,

MAEGOLIOimi, Alfred Henry, Bom on 21 September I893, he was the son of G, Margoliouth, an oriental lixiguist at the British Museum, of 3 Lansdowne Road, Lee, He was educated privately at Belgrave Villa School before coming to St, Ihinstan's in September 1905. He left in July 1910, having been in the 3 : X? Riigby in 19O8, and entered the Strand School to study for the Civil Service, However, it seems that he decided to try a more adventurous life, and like many of his School contemporaries he went to Canada, The "Chronicle" of 1913 repoarted that he had taken on a farm at Strathclair, Manitoba, with another Old Ihmstonian, P.W. Elliott,

When the War began he made his way back to England and enlisted in the ranks of the Artists' Rifles (28th London Regt) with the serial n-umber 3514« After initial training he went to France with the unit in 1915 3x16. seirved there until invalided home with appendicitis. On recovering he became an Officer Cadet and was commissioned on 11 July 1916, being posted to the 5th Battalion of the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (Territorial Force). He subsequently volunteei^d for the Royal Flying Corps, and transferred as an Observer on 2 December 1916, He was killed on 2 April 1917 whilst on patrol over Cambrai, being the first of many RFC officers to be killed in what was known as "Bloody April", He and his pilot, Lieut Sworder, were victims of a member of Jasta II, Richtofen's ovm squadron. Their FE2D was shot down by Vizefeldwebel Sebastian Festner, whose final score was 12 before he himself was killed a few months later. The log of Richt--ofen's sq-uadron confirms Festner's "kill"o Margoliouth is buried at Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetary in France,

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MATTHEWS, Noel Anwyl. Bom on 12 December 1892, he was the only son of Edward and Blanche Matthews, and his father was a bank clerk at the National Bank of Scotland. He was educated firstly at Croydon High School, but came to St. Dunstan's in January 1904 when his parents moved to 8 Vancouver Road, Catford. Some years later the faooily moved a short distance to 4 Vancouver Road, He was a Prefect in 1910 and 1911, and in the same years was on the committee of the Literaiy and Debating Society. He took part in the Fives Tournament in 19II, and was runner-up in the Open Doubles with Mr. Brown. However, his main sport was Lacrosse; he was in the 2nd XII in 1909, and captained the side in I9II. In I9IO he was in the 1st XII which won the Junior Flags Competition in the final at Lords. A photograph of him in this side appears in the "Chronicle" of June I9IO.

Leaving St. Dunstan's in July 191I, he emtered Selwyn College Cambridge and studied there tmtil gradtiating in Jxme 1914* He had been a regular churchgoer for many years, and was closely associated with St. George's, Perry Hill, where he was a seiver. After leaving Cambridge he was accepted at Wells Theological College to study for Holy Orders, but the War began before he cotild begin the course there and he joined the Army, enlisting in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training at Hatfield he accompanied the Battalion to Prance in March 1915» and took part in the actions at Pestubert and Givenchy. In Sept--ember 1915 he was in the attack at Loos and was one of those Old Boys who suirvived the fighting there. Promoted to L/Sgt, he t2:ansferred to a Provisional Battalion and was then commissioned into the 11th London Regt (Pinsbury Rifles) on 10 Januaiy 1916.

He returned to the front and was attached to the 8th London Regt (Post Office Rifles); he took part in the fitting on the Somme, and was killed in action at High Wood on 15 September 1916, The battlefield here was a wilderness of tree stumps and shell holes, and constituted the German third defence line. The Battalion, which was in the 140th Brigade, was to link up with the New Zealanders on the flank and to capture the Starfish Line. The attack began at 6.20 a.m. and progress was very slow, with heavy casiialties from machine-gun fire. The STorvlvors of the attack reached the Starfish Line but could not take all their objectives. Matthews was buried in Bulls Road Cemetary at Piers, Prance; his next of kin were his parents, by then living at No2rth Lodge, North Gate, Chichester, Sussex.

McCAROGHER, John Ommanney. The only son of Ernest Joseph Chilton and Lillie Mary Katherine McCarogher, he was bom at Inverkeillor, Scotland, on 19 May 1895« His father was later a bank manager in Croydon, and the family lived locally at 4I Morland Avenue. He was educated at Lansdowne School in Croydon, and then came to St. Dunstan's in May 1907. He was a Pte in the OG?C and was in the 1st XII Lacrosse in 1915> having played the game for only one term previously; he was also successful in Rugby, playing for the 5rd XV in 19IO, the 2nd XV in 191I, and the 1st XV in 1913. In Cricket, he played for the 2nd XI during the 1912 season. On leaving the School in March 1913 he went to work for the Borneo Company, and became a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club.

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McCarogher was a pre-War member of the 14th London Regt (London Scottish) and was mobilised in August 1914» immediately volunteer--Img for active service. He went to France with the Battalion on 16 September 1914 and was killed in action on 1 November 1914* On this date the unit was in action against a large German force between Messines and Wytschaete; it was thrown into the line withoid; preparar--tion or machine-guns; and with rifles that could only be used as single-shooters due to a mismatch with available ammunition. However, the Germans advanced in massed formation in bright moonli^t, thus presenting good targets. The London Scottish beat off the attacks but lost 394 killed, wounded and missing. McCaro^er was buried on the battlefield, but the grave later disappeared and his name is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres, Belgium.

MEIDGALP, Edwin Francis (Prank). He was bom at Forest Hill on 1 April 1893, the son of Edwin and Florence Amelia Medcalf. His father was a bank clerk, and the family lived at 69 Kilmorie Road, Forest Hill. He was educated at Frankfort House School, Forest Hill, and was at St. Dunstan's from September 1903 to April I9O8, winning a School Prize for Work and Conduct in 1904. He later moved with his parents to "Aberdare", 125 Croydon Road, Anerley, and much of his spare time was spent as Scoutmaster of the 1st Forest Hill Taraop. He joined the 20th London Regt early in the War, was promoted to L/Cpl and sent for officer training, being commissioned into the 3 ^ Battalion of the Leicestershire Regt on 28 December 1915* He was stationed at Pirbright Fort, Portsmouth, at the end of 1915* On 1 September 1916 he was appointed temporary Lieut and Signalling Officer, and was later attached to the Training Reserve from 14 December 1916. On 1 April 1917 he was posted to the 8th (Service) Battalion of the Leicestershire Regt, and whilst serving with that unit he died of wounds on 11 June 1917» He is buried at Achiet-Le-Grand Communal Cemetary Extension in France. His father had died before him and his next of kin was his mother.

MEESON, Fitzalan Ridware. Bom in London on 9 December 1891, he was the son of Albert Wreford and Mary Meeson. His father was an engraver and the family lived at 11 Silveimere Road, Catford. Educated initia^ -lly at Plassy Road Elementary School, he was later at St. Dunstan's from September 1904 to July 1907. No information is available on his subsequent career, but it seems certain that he went to Malaya, as he was a member of the Malay States Volunteer Rifles during the early part of the War. The "Chronicle" of March 1916 contains a foui>-page letter from him dated 20 August 1915 describing his recent experiences. At this time he was living at 1 Bukit Nanas, Kuala Lumpur, Malaya.

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Meeson's letter describes how, at a parade of the Voltinteers on 24 March 1915> 50 volunteers were called for to escort German prisoners. Meeson voltinteered, and a few days later went to Singapore, where he was one of the gxiards for the 412 German civilians, soldiers and sailors who were confined to the S.S, Montoro in the docks. Some of the captives were sailors from the "Emden". Shortly afterwards the ship sailed via Thtirsday Island and the Torres Straits to Brisbane, where the prisoners were handed over to the Australian authorities. The escort then returned to Singapore, but Meeson took five weeks leave in Australia; four weeks of this was spent on a sheep station owned by a fellow Old Dunstonian, H.So Thirkell.

Meeson returned to Malaya, but later made his way to England and, having passed throii^ an Officer Cadet Unit, he was commissioned on 4 March I917 into the Royal Field Artillery (Special Reserve). He went to France, and on 4 May 1917 was posted to 15th Batteiy 17th Brigade, part of the artillery of the 29th Division. He served with this unit for over a year, being promoted to Lieut on 4 September 1918. On 14 October following, dixring the final stages of the British advance on the Western Front, he was wounded and invalided back to England. Whilst recovering from his wotmds he contracted pneumonia, and died on 4 November 19I8. He is buried at Hither Green Gemetary in Lewisham.

MIGHELL, Philip. Bom on 17 August 1895, he was the son of Philip and Martha Mighell. Most of his early life was spent at Eastboiame, where he was educated by Miss Ackermann at "Hillside", St. Anne's Road. In 19O7 his parents purchased Manor Farm at Beddington, Su2?rey, and he attended St. Dunstan's for the Michel mas Term of that year, from September to December. He volunteered on the outbreak of War, and was commissioned into the East Surrey Regt on 13 November 1914; on 11 November 1915 he was posted to the General List for service with the Royal Engineers Signals Service, and on 19 March 1917 was promoted to Lieut and attached to the Royal Flying Corps. He served in France with No. 5 Squadron and diiring aerial combat was shot down and wounded, dying of his wo\mds on 12 October 1917. He is buried in Duisans British Cemetary in Prance.

MITCHELL, Charles Henry. The only son of Charles Mitchell, he was bom at Newry, Co. Down, on 8 March I891. His father was a surveyor of taxes, and when Mitchell was young the family moved to 46 Davenport Road, Catford. His first education was with Miss Davies at Malvern House in Lewisham Park, before arriving at St. Dunstan's in September 1903. He left School in December 1904 when his parents moved to I48 Chapeltown Road, Leeds, and completed his education there. He later studied at Leeds University and was in the OTC there. When the War began this OGX) service led to his being commissioned early, and he was promoted 2/Lieut on 11 March 1915 sxid. posted to the 6th Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regt (Territorial Force).

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Mitchell went to Prance with "A" Compaxiy of the l/6th West Yorkshire Regt, and took part in the heavy fighting on the Somme in the summer of 1916. By 3 September the imit numbered jiist 550 men when it went into action at Thiepval in the attack in which Mitchell was killedj in this fitting the -unit had further severe losses and by 4 Sept--ember it ntimbered approximately 120 men. The 3 September attack was •undertaken by the 140th Brigade, of which the Battalion was a part, and began at 5*10 a.m. with an artillery barrage just 40 yards ahead of the t2?oops as they formed up. However, the Germans had had ample warning of the attack, and the advance was met by heavy and accurate fire. lEhe first wave got into the German trenches but the second wave was wiped out by shellfire as it crossed No Man's Land, and thus the front elements were left stranded without support. The Regimental History describes what happened next:

"Lieut Charles H. Mitchell, with about 20 of his men, reached the enemy line and seems to have stayed there longer than anywhere else. By about 6.30 p.m. most of his platoon had become casualties, and the enemy were stirrounding him on all sides. He told his men one by one to try and get back to our line, but most of them in doing so were killed by enemy rifle fire. In fact only two of his party survived, and reported they were the last to leave him. He had evidently refused to go till all his men had left the trench, and he must have been killed in the final rush of the enemy. He was called 'The Professor' from an air of studiousness about him, but he died the death of a soldier."

His body was later recovered, and was buried in Mill Road Gemetaiy at Thiepval, Prance.

MITCHTSON, Malcolm. He was bom on 20 January I894, the son of Gordon Cameron and Isabelle Adelaide Mitchison. His father was a conrpany secretary and the family lived at 10 Vicar's Hill, Ladywell. He was educated at Lewisham Park School until September 1903» when he came to St. Dunstan's. He was elected to the committee of the Natural History Society in 1906, and was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse; he also played in the 3rd XT Rugby in 1907 and 1908, and for the 2nd XV" side in the 1909 season. He left the School in May 19IO and went to work as a clerk for Coyle and Wyllie, who were stodcbrokers in the City. On the outbreak of War in 1914 be went to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Ihanstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training at Hatfield he accompanied the unit to Prance in March 1915 and took part in the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy. On 25 September 1915 he went into action at Loos, and during the fighting in and around the village he was wounded. Invalided back to England, he spent several months convalescing and on recovery went throu^ a course of training in an Officer Cadet Unit.

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MitcMson was connnissioned from Cadet into the 13th London Eegt (Kensingtons) on 25 October 1916 and was posted to the unit in Prance. He took part in the fitting at Arras in April 1917 and was again wounded. He was promoted to Lieut on 25 April 19I8, and later in the year contracted pneumonia which, together with his wounds, caused his death at his parents' home on 4 November 19I8. He is buried at Ladywell Oemetary in Levrisham. Shortly after his death his parents moved to Glebe Cottage, Churchstow, Kingsbridge, Devon,

MORaiEiEiyLMI, Charles Ibbetson. Bom on 28 June 1889, he was the son of Charles Mortleman, a commercial traveller of "Raven Villa", 27 Blyth Hill, Catford. He was educated at first by Miss Piper at Woodfield House in Catford, and entered the 1st Form at St. Dunstan's in May 1900. In 1904 he was in the 2nd X7 Eiiigby, and in the following year was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse and the 2nd XI Cricket; in 1905 he was in the School Shooting Till and was awarded a National Rifle Association certificate. He left in December 1905» and his Valete notice read;

"Leaves us after working his way up into a very useful prominence dtiring the last twelve months or so of his school life. He helped very materially in the winning of the Frankfort Shield at Bisleyj he has the N.RoA. Certificate, and won his First Colours for Football and Second for Cricket."

After leaving St. Dunstan's he retained his links with the School by membership of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club; in I9II he captained the Old Dunstonian 3^^ XII Lacrosse, and was a regular performer at the smoking concerts and musical evenings organised by the Old Boys Club; in 1912 he took a leading role in the musical production of "HMS Arethusa" at the School. He lived locally f5?om 1913 onwards - at 6 Marler Road, Forest Hill.

He had been a member of the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt in the early years of its formation (circa 19O8-IO) but had since left; he rejoined immediately when War began, and went with the Comp--any to Hatfield, where it trained for some time. He went to France with the Battalion as a L/Cpl in March 1915> and took part in the battles of Festubert, Givenchy and Loos, coming xinscathed throu^ the latter battle in September 1915 ^ which many Old Boys were killed or wounded. He led his section well in this action, and was afterwards promoted to Sgt and Acting Company Sgt-Major. The Colonel offered to send him home to train for a commission but he refused, saying that "the only place for an Englishmen is France." He remained with the unit for some time into 1916, and wrote a letter to the School which was published in the "Chronicle" of June 1916. Describing the part played by Old Dunstonlans in the Battalion he wrote:

"Unfortunately there are only 19 of us left in the battalion, 4 on Brigade Staff and 1 on Divisional Staff, thus bringing the total to 24. There is just one more thing I must say before the close, and that is what top-hole officers the School has turned out; the ones we have axe the best anyone could wish to serve under,"

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Moirfcleman was again offered a commission in the sxmnner of 1916, and on the rinderstanding that he woTild be able to return to the 20th London Regt he accepted, being promoted to 2/Lieut on 9 August 1916. However, he was disappointed in being posted to the l/4th London Regt, and tried to transfer back to the 20th, writing to a friend;

"I believe they axe applying for my return to the 20th. It will be the happiest day of the war for me when I put the dear old badge back in my cap."

Before his transfer came throu^, he took part in the battle of Ginchy, and was killed there on 9 September I916 during the attack on the Quadrilateral at Leuze Wood. After a hurricane barrage on the German lines at 4*15 p.m., the Battalion assaulted in six waves half an hovir later. Both the first and second objectives were captured, and the -unit pushed out advanced posts overlooking the Morval-Les Boeufs Road. Hie position was consolidated at 7*00 p.m. and held throu^ the ni^t, althou^ many casualties were caused by enemy snipers and machine-guns as well as from inaccurate British artillery fire, Mortleman was killed during this battle and, his body being undiscovered, is commemoiated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance. A fellow Old Boy who had served with him wrote to his parents:

"I cannot tell you what his death means to me. There is no-one I know who has served his country so honourably."

MOYCE, Stanley Francis. He was bom in the parish of St. Giles, Peckham, on 50 August 1894» "the son of Edward Charles and Mary Moyce. His father was a printer's overseer with Odham's Ltd. When he was young his family moved to 11 Pattenden Road, Catford; and he subsequently attended the Elementaiy Schools at Rathfem Roa^ and then at Brownhill Road. He came to St. Dunstan's in September 1907 and left in July 1910, his fees being paid by the School Governors throu^out this time. He won a School Prize for Work in 19IO. After leaving, he took a job as a clerk with Messrs. Meekin and Company, tea growers and importers, of 10-11 Lime Street, London ECo He continued to live at Catford until the War, when he enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath. After training at Hatfield he was promoted to Sgt and went to France with the Battalion in March 1915« He fought in the early actions at Festubert and Givenchy, and later commanded a platoon during the fighting around Loos in September 1915» He survived the fitting of 25 September, in which many Old Boys were killed and wo\mded, but was killed about a month later. On 18 October the unit was in the trenches in the Loos Salient under occasional shellfire, and it was in one of these barrages that a fragment of shell struck Moyce on the head and he was killed instantly. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in Prance.

His father having already died, his mother was his next of kin, and a fellow-sergeant wrote to her:

"He was very popiolar with his platoon and the whole company, and his loss is deeply regretted."

•no

MYERS, Edwin Bertram, Bom on 5 Jiily 1888, he was the son of Edwin A, Myers, of 12 St. George's Road, Westcombe Park, Sydenham, He was educated at Lombard Wall School, and came to St, IDunstan's in January 1901; he won a Prize in 1901 as 1st in 5B, and in 1905 was playing occasional matches for the 2nd XII Lacrosse, He left in Jiily 1905, and thou^ details of his subsequent career are not available, at the outbreak of War he was living at Kennington, He enlisted in the ranks of the l/21st London Regt (1st Surrey Rifles) at Oamberwell He accompanied the Battalion to France, where it formed part of the 142nd Brigade of the 47th (London) Division, Ihiring the first year the unit was in France it took part in the actions at Aubers and Festubert and in the battle of Loos in September 1915. Early in 1916 Ityers was promoted to Cpl,

The Battalion was later involved in the fitting during the British offensive on the Somme, and on 15 September 1916 he was killed in the fighting at High Wood, After an advance early in the morning, two Brigades had got into the German support trenches by midday, but there was a gap of 3OO "to 4OO yards between them that was still held by the enemy. The 21st Londons were ordered to clear this salient of Germans so that a continuous line coTild be foimed. The Battalion advanced at first in dead ground, but at 4.OO p,m, in broke into open ground in full view of the Gexmaxi artillery and lost heavily. The survivors got into part of the German trenches, but a further advance was impossible and they held a small portion of trench until the next day, when they were withdrawn. Of 19 officers and 550 men going into action, only 2 officers and 60 men returned the next day, the rest having been killed and wotmded, Ifyers was one of those killed, and is buried in Adanac Military Cemetery in France,

MARRAWAY, Stanley Cyril, Bom on 3 November 1894, he was the son of SoW, Narraway, a clerk of 265 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill, He was educated privately by Miss Duffus at 62 St. Germain's Road, Forest Hill, before coming to St. Dunstan's in January 1905. The School Register omits to record when he left, and althou^ no details are available regarding his subsequent career, by 1914 lie was living at Sutton, Surrey. It is possible that he was working in the Civil Service, as on the outbreak of War he enlisted in the ranks of the 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles) in London. He was later promoted to L/Cpl and transferred to the 2nd Battalion of the 2nd London Regt (City of London, Royal Fusiliers). He accompanied the unit to the Mediterranean, where it landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli, on 13 October 1915» It formed part of the 2nd Brigade of the 63rd (Royal Naval) Division. He was killed in action on 11 December 1915» the day when the Battalion returned to the front line after a rest period, and as no major action took place at this time it seems that he was killed by a sniper or by shellfire. He is buried in Redout Cemetary, Helles, Gallipoli,

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HELSON, Etheltert Horatio. He was bom on 28 October 1885 at The Priory, Lewlsham, the youngest son of Edward and Fanny Nelson, The family later lived at 50 Moimt Pleasant Road in Lewisham, and he was educated locally by Miss Davies at Malvern House School in Lewisham Park. He arrived at St. Dunstan's in September 1898, and althou^ there is no record of his date of leaving the "Chronicle" shows that he was in the 2nd XI Cricket side for the 19OI season. After leaving St. Xhmstan's he was a clerk with the Central Mining and Investment Corporation Ltd; he was also a member of the Old Dunstonian Riigby Club. Along with many other Old Boys, he went to Blackheath in August 1914 and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After a period of training at Hatfield, he accompanied the unit to France on 9 March 1915» and took part in the battles at Festubert, Givenchy and Loos. He was a L/Cpl in the latter action, and was one of the few Old Boys who survived the fighting in and around Loos village.

After Loos he returned to England and underwent a coarse of officer training, and was commissioned on 6 January 1916, being promoted 2/Lieut in the 4th Battalion of the Royal West Surrey Regt (Territ--orial Force). He remained in England for some time, but on 4 October 1916 he returned to France and was posted to the 7th (Service) Battalion of the West Surreys. He was killed in action just six weeks later, on 18 November 1916, during the Battle of the Ancre. On this date the unit took part in an attack from its position at Regina and Hessian Trenches towards the enemy lines at Desire Trench. The assault was made by two companies of the unit in poor conditions; the ground was very wet and slippery and heavy snow made visibility bad. The German t3?enches were well-prepared, and the early-morning attack was met by heavy fire. Despite heavy losses the companies got close to their objective, but then one company veered off to the left, lost direction, and was wiped out by fire from both flanks. None of the troops got into the German lines. There were few survivors, and the imit reported 256 casualties - 10 confirmed killed, 73 wounded, and 173 - including Nelson - missing.

Some three months later, when a British advance captured this sector, the bodies of most of those reported missing were discovered, well-preserved by the intense cold. They were removed to the Stump Road Cemetary at Grandcourt and btirled there. Nelson's father had died before him, and his next of kin was his mother, living at 97 Culveiv -ley Road, Catford. His Colonel wrote to her:

"I always regarded him as one of the most promising of the young officers I knew. He was a good soldier, a favourite alike with officers and men, cheery and reliable. He took hold of his work in a wonderful way from the first moment he joined us, and I looked for him to make his mark in the war if he had been spared,"

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KETTLETON, Roy. Bom on 4 November 1891, he was the son of George John and Edith Mary Nettleton, His parents lived at 57 Perry Hill, Catford, and the School Register shows that he had not previously attanded a school when he arrived at St, Dunstan's in September 1902. He won School Prizes for Drawing (1903) and Mathematics (1906), and whilst in the Lower School played Lacrosse and won a number of events at the Athletic Sports. In 1906 he was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse, and left in December of that year. During the early part of the War, he enlisted in the ranks of the 3 <i (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Sussex Regt, and seived for some time with this unit in the garrison at Newhaven. He was later recommended for a commission, and after a time as a Cadet he was promoted 2/Lieut in the East Kent Regt on 1 March 191?. He served in Prance with the 7th (Service) Battalion of the Regiment, was promoted to Lieut on 1 September 19I8, and at about the same time was attached to a Trench Mortar Battery. Whilst with the latter formation he was wounded, and died of his wounds on 9 October 19I8. He is booried in St. Sever Cemetary Extension in Prance.

MEVILLE, Stanley, The son of John and Emily Neville, he was bom on 30 September 1891. His father was a bank cashier, and the family lived at "Leaside", 47 Kent House Road, Beckenham. He was educated at Beckenham Technical Institute, and then at St. Dunstan's from May 1906 to December 19O8. He left to work as a clerk in the Manchester and Liverpool District Bank at 75 Comhill, London EC, He volunteered early in the War, and was commissioned on 19 May 1915» being promoted to 2/Lieut in the 8th (Cyclist) Battalion of the Essex Regt (Te3?ritorial Porce)o He was promoted Lieut in the unit on 1 July 1917» and on 19 March 19I8 became Captain and Adjut--ant of the 2/8th Battalion. The Battalion did not served overseas, but was used as a garrison unit in England and Ireland and supplied drafts to other units at the front. Whilst serving at Colchester in the latter part of 1918, Neville contracted influenza, and died there on 6 November 19I8. He is buried in Colchester Cemetaiy. His next of kin were his parents, living by then at Dudley House, Marine Parade, Worthing, Sussex.

NOBLE, George. Bom on 12 May 1894» he was the son of George and Isabel Emma Noble and elder brother of Oliver Noble (see below). He was bom at Deptford and was educated at first at Linden House School at St, John's. In 1906 his father, a chartered accountant, moved to 10 Lewisham High Road, New Cross, and he came to St. Dunstan's in January 1907. He won School Prizes in 19II for French, German, Science, and Mathematics; and in the same year won the Scripture Prize which was given by the Rector of St, Duns tan's-in-the-East. He was a Prefect in 191I; was in the 1st X7 Rugby in 191O, the 2nd XII Lacrosse 19II, and the 1st XI Cricket 19II with occasional games for the 2nd XI side. He passed the University of London School Leaving Examination, and left the School in July 19II to work as a clerk at Messrs. J. and J. Col man of Cannon Street, London EC.

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Noble was an early member of the Old Dunstonian Conrpany of the 20th London Regt, and the "History of the Old iKmstonian Rugby Club" has a photograph of him in camp with the imit at Aldershot in 1912. He later transferred to the l/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade), and served with the unit in Prance during the War. He was killed in action on 1 July 1916 whilst with "A" Company of the Battalion. On this date the unit took part in the attack on Gommecourt during the first day of the great Somme offensive. It formed part of the 169th Brigade of the 56th Division, and the Gommecourt attack undertaken by this formation was a feint to attract attention to the main assaults elsewhere. The attack began at 7«30 a.m. accompanied by a heavy barrage; No Man's Land was crossed without heavy loss and the Battalion got into the first German line and took many prisoners. However, the attack by the neighbouring Division did not materialize, and the entire German counterthrust was directed at the 56th Division. The Battalion ran short of the bombs it needed for defence, and with No Man's Land now heavily shelled these could not be brou^ forward from the British lines. Late in the afternoon the unit was forced to withdraw, having lost 588 men killed and wounded and with just 2 officers and 87 men remaining in action. Noble was buried at Gomme--court British Gemetary, Hebuteme, Prance. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 23 Ermine Road, Lewisham.

NOBLE, Oliver. Bom on 2 Atigast 1898, he was the son of George and Isabel Emma Noble. The family had previously lived in Deptfo3?d and at Mount Pleasant Road in Lewisham, but during his early years moved to 23 Ermine Road, Lewisham, where they remained for many years. His father was a chartered accountant and his brother, George, appears above. He was first educated by Miss Bailly at Linden House, Break--spear Road, Brockley, and then came to St. Dunstan's in September I9IO; his fees were paid by the School Governors throti^out his stay. He won School Prizes in 1912 and 1913* ^nd was active in the three main School sports; in Lacrosse, he was in the 1st XII from 1913 an^ was Captain of Lacrosse in 1915 and 19I6; he was in the 2nd XV Rugby in 1912 and was Captain of Pootball in 1914 and 1915. He progressed in Cricket from the 3rd XI (1911) to the 2nd XI (1912) and the 1st XI (1913)* was was Captain of Cricket in 1914, 1915 and 1916. He was also a keen Pives player. In 1915 he passed the London University School Leaving Examination, and went to work in the City in July 1916, following his b3?other as a clerk at Messrs. J. and J, Colman of Cannon Street, London EC,

Shortly afterwards he joined the Army, enlisting as a Pte in the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) with the number 305470. He was sent to Prance in October 1917> and three months later wrote to the Headmaster, CoMo Stuart, a letter which was published in the School "Chronicle" of June 19I8:

"Saturday, 26 January 19I8. Dear Mr Stuart, We have had practically no mail in for about a week now, so, having no letters to answer, and being in a mood for writing, I am taking this opportunity to acquaint you with my whereabouts. I know that you are always pleased to hear from O.D.s, and it occurred to me that as one of your more recent boys I have rather neglected you in this respect,"

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"Well, here goes for an accoixnt of my doings, perhaps you are rather surprised to hear that I am overseas, knowing as you do the difficulty I had in getting into a fighting unit."

"I came overseas in the middle of last October, and was very lucky in getting to my own regiment, being drafted to our 2nd Battalion. The Battalion was up in Flanders when I joined it, and I had a pretty rough time darring my sojourn in the land of mud. The cars up there are truly awful, and my first journey up to the line was a nerve-racking escper--ience, which I hope never to have again. I was in the Lewis Gun section, and consequently had to carry panniers of ammunition; we started off for the relief from otir bivouacs with a journey of three of four miles before us."

"This journey was along duck-boards, at present the only means of crossing the mud-seas and shell-holes that seem to compose the whole of the land over which we have advanced, until we reached a point about half a mile from the line; the remainder of the journey was over a stratch of pure mud, thick and greasy. Every time I put my foot to the grovind, I sank up to my ankle and stuck; often, too, I went deeper, -with the restilt that after a few hundred yaxds I was very nearly done."

"However, it was too unpleasant a place to stay still in for long, so after a horrible struggle I managed to tumble into a shell-hole, which proved to be the post for our gun. Of course you will understand that in this sector there are no trenches; each section takes up its position in shell-holes, and remains there until it is relieved; you can imagine, perhaps, what one has to endure if the weather is bad, and also what an advance is like under such conditions. I have known men to be stuck in the mud up to their waists, and it has then taken others as long as four hours to dig and pull them out, whilst others have suffered a worse fate."

"I had three months up in Belgium, Christmas included; our Christmas was not very merry, thou^ we managed to get a certain amount of fun. The weather then was very bad; snow fell almost incessantly, and the temperature was well below freezing point, making roads and duck-boards like glass,"

"It was mtuch to our relief when we heard that we were leaving that co^mtTy of battered villages, mud, ice and cold, peopled chiefly by miserable refugees who, inhab--iting wooden shanties put up for their use, are rapidly making their fortunes out of Tomoay. We have come ri^t down south to a fair^sized town, where everything seems different, and we are having the time of ovx lives. The weather has been splendid, generally warm and sunny, whilst the country is glorious, not barren and flat like Belgiumo"

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Shortly after writing this letter, Noble was transferred to "D" Company of the l/l8th London Eegt (London Irish Rifles) and was serving with this Battalion when the Germans latmched their great offensive in March 19I8. The unit fell hack from the Camhrai battlefield, and on 25 to 26 March fell back over the River Ancre after three days of non-stop fitting; it was at the end of this operation, on 26 March 19I8, that Noble was killed. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in France,

NOBLE, Walter Frederick, Bom at 49 Lampmead Road, Lee, on 15 February 1895» he was the son of Walter and Ellen Eliza Noble, His father was an employee of the London County Council and had foTir sons, all boiii at the above address, althou^ only Walter went to St, Dunstan's. He arrived in September 19O5 with a London County Coimcil Scholarship, having previooisly attended Hedgeley Street Elementary School. He left in April 19IO and became a Boy Clerk in the Civil Service, later working in the West End for Messrs, Dedman and Company, drapers and warehousemen. At the outbreak of War in 1914 he was already a member of the Old ])unstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He volunteered for overseas service, and after training at Hatfield for some time he accompanied the unit to France in March 1915* His father joined the Coldstream Guards and did garrison police duty, and his two older and one younger brothers also joined the Army.

Noble was wounded in May 1915 in one of the first engagements of the 20th London Regt, being hit in the thigh, and was invalided back to England. He thus missed servxng with the 20th later in 1915 when many Old Boys were killed at Loos, After seven weeks in hospital at Reading he was recommended for a commission and sent to a training canrp for officers. Having passed the course successfully, he was promoted 2/Lieut in the 12th (Reserve) Battalion of the Essex Regt on 1 October 1915« -"t the end of May 1916 he was passed fit and was posted to the 9th (Service) Battalion of the Essex Regt in France,

He was killed in action some weeks later, on 5 Jiily 1916, dviring the attack on Ovillers in the Somme offensive. The assault had been planned at short notice and there was insufficient time for a reconnaissance. The unit moved up to the start-line and after some delay the advance began at 5*20 a,m. Heavy casualties were sizffered from Geiman machine-guns in Ovillers village and on the flanks, but the unit managed to get to the village. Here it was held up by a German strongpoint at Circular Trench and the attack groimd to a halt; however, "C" Company lost touch with the rest of the Battalion and moved off at a tangent, cutting throu^ the German lines and accomplishing the totally unplanned capture of La Boisselle in a bold assault. This operation cost a total of 398 killed and wounded. His parents were told at first that he had been posted missing, but a telegram later in the day confirmed that he had been killed. He is buried at Ovillers Military Cemetary in France. The family was well-known locally, and Walter was known to his friends as "Jack",

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NOEEIS, Harold Aubrey Bl-urton. Bom on l6 April I896, he was the only-son of Harold Bliirton and Florine Henrietta Norrisj his mother was the daii^ter of Herbert Pord ERIBA, of Blackheath, His father was a silk agent, and the family lived in his early years at 60 Coleraine Road, Blacldieath; his first education was at Stratheden House School in Blackheath, from where he came to St, Dunstan's in September 1907* He played in a number of Fives tournaments and won the \3nder-14 long jump in 1909; and in 1910 was Captain of the 5rd XV Rugby with some appearances for the Under 15 side. He left in 19II to work as a clerk for Brown and Poison, 6 Bouverie Street, London EC, He was later Assistant Scoutmaster of the 4th (Christ Chujxsh) East Greenwich Troop. At some time around 1914 his parents moved to "Windy Dene", Dartford Heath, Kent.

Shortly after the outbreak of War, on 7 August 1914» lie enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt at Blackheath, and after a period of training at Hatfield he accompanied the unit to France in March 1915» He took part in the early actions at Festubert and Givenchy, but became ill and vras invalided home in June 1915» thus missing the Loos fitting two months later in which the Old Boys Company had heavy casualties. After convalescing he was sent for officer training and was commissioned on 22 July 1916. He was posted on the same date to the General List for service with the Royal Flying Corps, and after further training gained his "wings" and was confiamed as a Pilot on 6 December 1916. He was posted to France, and joined No. 57 Squadron of the 9th Wing on 10 May 1917. After a few sorties he was shot down and killed on 24 July 1917» and is buried in Longuenesse Souvenir Cemetaiy in France.

NORTHAM, George Patrick Nixon. Bom at Brockley on 28 December 1893, he was the son of George and Elizabeth Jane Northam. His father was a woollen merchant and tailor, and the family lived at 27 Vicars Hill, Ladywell. His younger brother, John McClure, appears below. He was educated at King's College School in the Strand and then at St. Dunstan's from January 1905 to December 1907« After leaving he worked for several years in the office of Messrs. Neville, Horley and Company, stockbrokers, of 4 Tokenhouse Buildings, London EC. He then joined his father's business in the West End, continuing to live with his parents at Ladywell.

When the War began he enlisted in London, joining the ranks of the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) at the same time as his brother. He was posted to No. 1 Company of the l/5th London Regt, and was sent to France with the unit in the 4'th Division. At the beginning of May 1915 the Battalion took part in the Second Battle of Ypres and held part of the British line near St. Jean; the length of trench it was holding was too great for its strength, and the men had had no sleep for seven days. On 2 May it was heavily shelled and suffered a gas attack which caused a nimiber of casualties; and on 5 May the Germans moved their front line forward imtil it was only 150 yards from the British trenches. This, with continoial heavy shell--ing, caused a British retirement that night. Northam was killed on 5 May and in the confusion his body was not recovered; his name is on the Menin Gate at Ypres, next to that of his brother who was killed two years later. Their mother having died, their next of kin was their father.

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NORTHAM, John McCltire. The yoimger brother of the above, he was the son of George and Elizabeth Jane Hortham and was bom on 8 September 1895. His parents lived at 27 Vicar's Hill Ladywell, and his father was a woollen merchant and tailor with a business in the West End. Unlike his brother, John Northam was sent away for his early educat--ion, and attended Deal College in Kent. He later returned to live at home and went to the West Kent Grammar School (later Brockley County School). He arrived at St. IKmstan's in Janiiary 1904 and left in March 1910 to work as a clerk in a City stockbrokers office. On the outbreak of War In 1914 he enlisted with his brother George, and they joined the 5"th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade).

After initial training they went to France with the 1st Battalion in the 4th Division. George was killed at Ypres in May 1915» T 't John survived the fighting there and at St. Jullen and Prezenberg. In 1916 he returned to England and underwent a course of training as an officer, being commissioned into the 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles) from Cadet on 26 September 1916. He joined his new unit in Prance, and served with it for some months in the Ypres Salient, where he was killed on 15 September 1917 in the last operation of the units' tour of duty in the front line. The Battalion was in support of the 7th London Regt which had attacked and captured a Geiman position at night, and "C" Company of the 15th London Regt was sent to reinforce them. As the Company moved up from the reserve trenches to the front line via Kanwan Track it was heavily shelled and lost a number of men, including Northam, He has no known grave, and his name is on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres next to that of his brother, who was killed more than two years earlier. Their mother having died, their next of kin was their father.

OLIVER, Thomas Kenneth Graham. He was bom on 18 Januaiy 1899 and was educated at Elmhurst School, South Croydon, and then at St. Cuthbert's College before coming to St. Dunstan's in September 19O8. The School Register makes no mention of parents, but lists his guardian as Mrs. A.H.C. Sharp of 30 Kemble Road, Forest Hill, He left in July 1911 to continue his education at Christ's Hospital, Horsham, Soon after completing his education he went for officer torainirg and was commissioned on 8 November 1917» being posted to the General List for service with the Royal Flying Corps. He was later sent to Prance, and was killed there in 19I8.

OEBELL, James Alexander Walter. Bom at Chislehurst on 19 September I898, he was the son of James and Ellen Orbell. His father had a tobacconists shop at 77 H i ^ Road, Lee, and the family lived over the shop. He was educated at Elementary Schools at Northbrook and at Boone Street before arriving at St, Dunstan's, and his fees were paid by the London County Council until he left in Jiily 1915. At this point his family moved to 5*- Oriental Street, Poplar, and he moved with them to East London.

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His working life began as a clerk with George Cohen Sons and atompany, iron and steel merchants of 600 Commercial Road, London E, 'j.tring the War he went to Canning Town and joined the Army, being^josted to the 15th (Service) Battalion of the King's Royal Rifle Corj<> . After initial training he went to France in 1916, and was severe'y.'- woimded dtiring the Battle of the Ancre on 13 to I4 November of tha^^year. The Battalion was involved on these days in the capture of o;he village of Beaucourt, and in the action received many casut«fties, some caused by the British baixrage. Orbell was evacuated t| a base hospital at Boulogne, but died there on 17 November 1916 a| 1 is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetary.

PALMER, Edward Charles Maxwell. He was bom on 31 May 1893, the son of a bank clerk, and was educated in a private school at 11 Glenton Road, Lee, before coming to St. Bunstan's in September 1905* He left in July 1909 and became a clerk in the Capital and Counties Bank. At the same time he became an early member of the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt and of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club; he was also a keen member of the Blackheath Harriers, where he was a noted cross-country runner. On the outbreak of Wax he volunteered for active service and after training with the unit at Hatfield he went to Prance in March 1915» Bespite two spells in hospital - with measles and influenza - he took part in the battles at Festubeart and Givenchy, and was present in the attack on Loos on 25 September 1915* He was one of the Old Boys who survived this latter battle, and shortly afterwards returned home for a course of officer training. He was commissioned on 8 Janiiary 1916 and was posted to the 13th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers. He was posted to a Battalion of the Regiment in Prance on 20 October 1916, and was confirmed in his rank on 23 January following. He was later attached to the 111th Trench Mortar Battery and whilst serving with this imit was killed in action on 23 April 1917. He has no known grave, and his name is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in Prance.

PANTER, Henry Charles, Bom at Charlton on 14 February I896, he was the only son of H,To Panter, a dairyman of 1 Church Lane, Charlton, He was educated at Possdene Road Elementaiy School and was then at St. Bunstan's from April I9IO to April 1912, winning a School Prize in the latter year. He left to work as a clerk at the London and South-Western Bank, and was a member of the Old Bunstonian RT:igby Club, During the War he enlisted at Greenwich and was posted to the Royal Field Artillery, He served in France with "C" Batteiy 104th Brigade, and was killed in action on 6 J\ily 1917« He is buried at Oxford Road Cemetary at Ypres, Belgium,

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PARKER, Cyril William Newbeiy. Bom at Hi^igate on 28 September 1891, he was the only son of William James and Lizzie Ploi?ence Parker; the family lived at 119 Ciolverley Road, Catford, and his father was a clerk in the Civil Service, He was first taught at West Kent Grammar School, and he was later at St. Dunstan's from September 1904 to July I9O8, During his time at the School he won a Prize for Science, When he left he joined the City and Midland Bank, and worked at the Catford and later the Holbom branches. Whilst working in the latter office in 1911 he joined the Territorial Force, enlisting in the l6th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles), and was a keen participant in weekend and annual camps. When the War began he was a member of "B" Company of the Battalion, and volunteered for active service. His obituary in the "Lee Journal" of 23 J\aly 1915 takes up the story:

"He went to the Front in November 1914> ati<3- after going unscathed throu^ the worst five months -at least in regard to weather - of trench warfare, he was taken ill with cerebro-spinal meningitis during the third week in March, He first received treatment at the Canadian Hospital, Le Touquet, Ihrcing his ten weeks there he was visited by his father."

"He was removed then to St. Mary's Hospital, Paddings -ton, where his death occurred on Thursday 15 July, Many of his old regimental colleagues and numerous local friends have eacpressed their profoimd grief at his death and sjmrpathy with his 3?elatlves."

"The funeral took place from Lewisham Military Hospital, where in the chapel Rev. P.Co Bainbridge-Bell, vicar of St. Lawrence's Catford, conducted the first portion of the service. The coffin was conveyed to Lewisham Cemetary, Ladywell Road, on an Army Service Corps gun-carriage. A detachment of the Queen's Westminster's foimed the firing-party. The internment took place in the family grave,"

PARKER, James, He was bom at Sydenham on 15 August 1897> the only son of James and Jane Parker. His father was the Station Master at Sydenham, then part of the London Brighton and South Coast Railway, and the family lived at the station. He was educated at St. Bart--holemew's School and later at Stafford College in Forest Hill, arriving at St, Bunstan's in January 19IO, He left in April 1912 to follow his father into the Railway and became a clerk in the office of the Goods Manager at London Bridge, Buring the early part of the War he joined the Royal Flying Corps, and in 1916 was posted to France in the 1st Aircraft Depot Wireless Section, He was later with 169th Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery as a signaller, and was killed in action at Amiens on 26 April 1918 during the German spring offensive.

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Parker was "buried at Boves West Comrauinal Cemetary Extension in Prance, He and his family were well-known locally, and the "Lee Jotimal" reported that his parents had received many messages of sympathy. His commanding officers wrote:

"It is my very painful duty to inform you that your son was killed in action yesterday, 26th April. In sending you the sympathy of all ranks of the battery, I wish to add that he was a fine yoimg fellow, devoted to duty and greatly esteemed, and his loss is deeply felt. His death was instantaneous, being killed by a fragment of bursting shell.

A.P. Jones, Major."

PASCOE, Francis Herbert Joseph William. He was bom at Honor Oak Park on 22 September 1894» the son of Francis Heniy and Theodosia Annie Pascoe. His parents lived at 31 Bartram Road, Crofton Park, and his father was the manager of a retail clothiers. He was tau^t privately at Crofton House School in Hazeldon Road before attending St. Dunstan's from April I9O7 to April 191I. He went on to Clark's College to continue his education and remained living with his parents. Early in the War he enlisted at St. Paul's, Middlesex, joining the Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regt) with the n-umber B/20055* He transferred later to the 2nd Battalion of the Middlesex Regt and was serving with this unit when he was killed at Zillebeke on 3I Jiily 1917.

On this date the Battalion was involved in the fitting during the Battle of Ypres, and at 4*20 a.m. launched an attack on the German positions at the Black Line under the cover of a barrage. The first and second enemy lines were overrun without serious opposition, but as the unit consolidated its gains it came tmder heavy machine-gun and sniper fire from San Souci. Several heavy counterattacks followed and althou^ these were beaten off the unit had lost heavily and was withdrawn from the line during the next day. Pascoe has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 8 Riseldine Road, Honor Oak Park.

PAOXM, Malcolm David Rutter. The son of David Millar and Millicent Paton, he was bom on 6 February 1893« His father was the manager of J. Sloane and Company of Deptford, who made copper nails. The family lived at 9 Medusa Road, Catford, and he was educated close by at Plassy Road Elementary School before attending St. Dunstan's from January I9O6 to March 19IO. He was in the 3rd XI Cricket during the 1909 season. The School Register notes that he left School to work as a clerk in a solicitor's office.

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Paton volunteered at the "beginning of the War, and joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, He accompanied the \mit to Hatfield, where it trained for some time, and thence to France in March 1915* He served as a Pte throu^out the battles at Pestubert, Givenchy and Loos, and was one of the Old Boys who survived the latter fighting. Shortly after Loos he was selected for training as an officer, and was commissioned into the 22n.d London Regt (Queen's) on 21 December 1915* He later trained for flying duties, and on 26 January 1917 transferred to the Royal Flying Corps as an Observer. Whilst flying over Messines in France in early June 1917 he was wounded, and died of wounds on 12 Jxme; he was buried in Bailleul Comracmal Cemetary Extension, and his next of kin were his parents, by then living at 28 Bellingham Road, Catford,

POWELL, Harold Edgar. He was bom in Lewisham on 6 February 1898, his father being superintendent of an insurance company. When he was young his family moved to "Oakdene", Keston, Kent, and from there he attended Bromley High School and later Bromley School in Raglan Road. He was at St. Dunstan's from September I9O8 to April 1915» ^xii. after leaving he followed in the footsteps of a n-umber of other Old Boys by going to Canada. On 26 April 1915 he presented himself at Sewell Camp, Manitoba, and enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. He lied about his age, as at I7 he was too young for service, and his Caxiadian records show that he gave his correct date of birth but added two years to his age, claiming to have been bom in I896. After training in Canada and England he went to France with the 5'th Canad--ian Infantry (Saskatchewan Regt), and was severely wounded on I5 December 1915« He died of wounds on 5 January 1916 aged 17, and is buried in Bailleul Communal Cemetary in France.

PREEBLE, John William. Bom on 14 November 1892, he was the son of Michael Prebble, manager of a grocer's shop at 59 High Street, Bromley; the family apparently lived at this address. His elder brother, Reginald, was at St. Dunstan's from 1904 to 1907« John was educated at Aylesbttry Road School in Bromley and followed his brother into St. Dunstan's in September I9O5. He left in July I9O8, having won a School Prize for Mathematics earlier that year as well as playing for the 5rd XI Cricket. He continued to live in Bromley, and v?as one of the first to volunteer for the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) at the beginning of the War. He went to France with the Txnit, and was killed in action on I3 May 1915*

On 12 May, during the Battle of Ypres, the Battalion had taken over a section of the line at Wieltje after some severe fighting in which its numbers had been reduced to 29O all ranks. Despite this it took part in an attack on the Greranan lines in the early hours of 13 May. The trenches were taken withour serious opposition, despite the fact that the night was clear and the troops had to cross the slsyline silhouetted by the burning town of Ypres behind them. However, once the Battalion was in the Geiman line it was heavily shelled and it became impossible to send reinforcements forward as No Man's Land was swept by shellfire.

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At the same time the Geimans laimched a series of covmterattacks, hut these were held back and the unit held most of its gains in spite of heavy losses. Ihrring the action L/Sgt. Belcher of the 5'th London Regt won the Victoria Cross for defending a vital post - the first V.C. award to a Territorial other rank. After the battle Prebble was buxied at Poelcapelle British Cemetary in Belgi\xm.

PRICE, Graham. The son of James and Martha Price, he was bom on 25 December 1887. The family lived at l62 Beckenham Road, Penge, and his first education was at Eton House School in Anerley. He came to St. Ihuistan's in April 1898 and left in April 1899 to go to Albemarle College; and returned to the School for a second time in May 19OO, finally leaving in Jiily 1902, At the time of his second stay at the School his father is shown as living at "The Briars", Croydon Road, Anerley. He apparently completed his education at Emfield School in Yorkshire, After this he returned to live with his parents, who had in the meantime moved again, this time to 9 Earlsthorpe Road, Sydenham.

Before the War his hobby was motor^cycling, and took paxt in various competitions around the country, winning some 14 gold and silver medals and first-class parchments; as a result, he had offers from several motor-cycle mantifactu3?ers to represent them abroad. At the start of the War he volunteered for active service, and his hobby led to his appointment as a despatch rider in the Royal Engineers. He went to Prance in 1914» arriving as the Battle of Mens was in progress, and later saw service in the fighting on the Mame. He was also present at Hill 60, where he was gassed on the first occasions that the Germans used this weapon. Out of the 17 motor-cycle despatch riders in his Division, he was the only one left, the others having all "been killed or wounded. He was recommended for a commission, and was promoted to 2/Lieut on 25 October 1915; he was posted to the General List for service with the Royal Plying Corps, and on 17 Pebruaiy 1916 he was confirmed as an Observer.

Upon being commissioned he was posted to No. 6 Squadron at the front, and passed throu^ his training quickly, progressing from probationer to qualified and then flying officer. He created a record for air fights in his Squadron, and was killed in his fifteenth. The "Chronicle" of June 1916 has extracts from his letters which describe his recent experiences:

"We have had quite a lot of flying this last two days, mostly composed of bomb dropping, while yesterday, early in the morning, the Huns came over in force and dropped 20 bombs all round the aerodrome, woimding one man seriously and killing four cows, but luckily doing no other damage. Two of our fastest machines immediately set off in pursuit, but as it takes them about half an havoc to get up to the hei^t the Germans were, e.g. 10,000 feet, they did not have much chance of catching them, and returned later with no result,"

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"Later foirr of ovoc machines went over to "bomb an important point, but only two came back owing to very thick clouds coming over, but we had wires thro\i^ later to say they were safe and had landed in our own lines about 20 miles away; they arrived back alright this morning."

"Of the observer and pilot, the observer has far the most difficult job and is in charge of the machine, the pilot having to do exactly what the observer tells him, and as the observer's duties consist of finding the way, fighting the enemy machines, reporting by wireless the fire of various batteries called 'ranging for artillery', you can see he has his hands full. There are three kinds of work for observers, and they consist of reconnaissance, patrol, and ranging for artillery."

"This morning all our pilots have set off on a bombing raid, about 20 machines in all taking part, and it was a pretty sigjit to see them all in the air circling round waiting for their escort, which consisted of two fighting biplanes; it ou^t to wake the Germans up from their midday snore to get a couple of tons of high explosives suddenly pouring down upon them from the blue."

"I have had a fairly exciting time lately with an unusual amount of bad luck or, perhaps, one should rather say, good luck, as I have come out of all my experiences 'scot free' and it almost seems as thou^ I am destined to go throu^ without having any serious mishaps. The weather has been extremely bad, and there has been flying on only three days this week. On [Tuesday I was given a reconnaissance to do, and we started off about 9.00 a.m. We had risen to about 2,000 feet when our engine gave out, and we had to make a forced landing in the first available spot; the only siiitable place within reach was a plou^ed field surrounded by trees and hop poles. We just managed to skim the trees, when we saw in front of us a telegraph pole and wire. There was no avoiding it, and we hit it with tremendous force, breaking it half-way up, while the wire just caught our top plane and snapped. The ground was very soft, and saved us f3?om running into a hedge and ditch the other end of the field, as the wheels sunk in up to the axles and pulled us up very quickly."

"We got out to see the damage, and at once sunk in over our ankles and had to be lifted out by the peasants who came up. We eventually got a message throu^ to the Squadron, and they sent out a repair lorry and car for us, but there vras no possible way of getting the machine out of the field as the men could hardly stand up; horses and long ropes were procured to drag the machine out, but in the effort it broke its back, so the machine became a total wreck,"

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"lUhe next day I went up in another machine and was able to do reconnaissance, which extended about a dozen miles into German territory. Apart from being shelled with the usual amount of energy nothing untoward happened and we got back O.K."

"To-day I had my most exciting flight since joining, and was extremely lucky to come out of it success--fully, I was given a long reconnaissance to do, which extended about 20 miles into German territory, making a half-circle and coming out farther down the line. In getting away the ground was so heavy that it was a considerable distance before we rose off the grotmd, and we hit a bunip with such force that it cmnrpled one of our wheels just as we left the ground; we therefore had the pleasant consolation during the whole fli^t of knowing that as soon as we landed there wotild be a nasty crash (crash is the R.F.C. term for a smash up). However, there woTold have been no object in landing until we had finished our reconnaissance, so we proceeded to get our height before crossing the line,"

"As soon as we had crossed we were greeted with the usual volleys of shrapnel (called in E.PoCo parlance •Archies'), one of which went clean through our tail plane, causing us some moments of uneasiness. A Hun then hove in si^t, and I proceeded to receive him with the usual machine-gun greeting. Luckily, however, one of oiir fighting planes hove in si^t and came all out to our aid, at which the enemy sheered off, with our filter in full chase,"

"We had a very successful trip, and were regaining our line under heavy shell fire (one shell burst just in front, piercing the engine bonnet in several places), when a thick bank of clouds rolled up and blotted out everything. We were rather glad at the time as it screened us from the enemy, and we quick--ly got above the clouds, where it was beautifully clear. We proceeded on our course for a good half hour, which should have taken us well over into o ur own lines, while below us all we could see were vast masses of rolling clouds, not a break anywhere where we could find out where we were.

"As we had then been in the air about 2^ hours, and our petrol supply does not carry much over three hovirs, we had a consultation, and decided to go down and find out where we were. This we proceeded to do, and presently were in the midst of the clouds. I cannot attempt to describe the feeling, but you have probably heard that airmen lose all sense of direction; it was more like a thick London fog than anything else, except that you have not the ground to stand on, but only a tremendous rushing in the ears and you don't know whether you are upside down or note"

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"However, we came out eventually, dxopping like a stone, and after straightening out found we were 1,200 feet up, or roughly, 400 yards above the ground; this would have Ijeen alri^t "but for the fact that we suddenly found ourselves over the trenches, and were greeted by a stem of rifle and machine-gun fire. We had apparently turned ri^t rotind in the clouds and were going over to the German side again without knowing it, and it was only when a furious biirst of shelling started we realised our mistake. We were then not more than 1,000 feet up, and we had to turn roxind and return over the trenches again amidst a veritable storm of b\illets; we could see the Germans quite distinctly firing at us, and our machines were riddled with bullets - they were ripping by in all directions."

"We both thought our last hour had come, and it was with quite a start of sxu?prise we realised we were out of danger again, and we naturally heaved a s i ^ of relief. However, our troubles were not finished yet, as we still had no idea where we were, and we knew that if we once landed we could not get up again. Eventually, after half an hotir's wandering, I thought I spotted a town I knew, and we circled round it. I then recognised one or two landmarks, and looking the route up on the map we struck for home."

"As it happened our mishap with the wheel had been noticed, and everyone was out waiting for us to come in, had been waiting a couple of hoiirs in fact, and had almost given us up. They signalled furiously with red flags and search li^ts when we came over the aerodrome, in an endeavour to wain us of our wheel, which of course we already knew, but I think these proceedings rather fltirried ray pilot, as instead of coming dovm as slowly and gently as possible, we landed at about 70 miles an hour, and the next thing I knew was that we were tearing across the aerodrome at terrific speed and making for a deep ditch and the main road. We hit the ditch, bounced into the air, hit the middle of the road, jumped the other ditch, and ran across a plou^ed field, eventually landing plonk into another ditch. The machine stood up upon its nose for about three seconds, and then, luckily for us, fell back agaijio"

"It transpired later that the throttle wire had been shot throu^ by a bullet, and the engine would not switch off as it was so hot, having run for 5|- hours all out - an abnormal period for an air-cooled engine of this type. Neither of us were hurt in any way, and we got out of the debris in time to receive the congratulations of those who rushed up."

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"The other ni^t oiix "bomb shed cau^t fire, and we all had to turn out to get the iDombs out before they exploded. It was quite a scramble, and as each wei^s 100 lbs it was no joke carrying them out of danger, especially as a few cases of rifle cartridges had ca-ught and were going off all over the place. However, eveiything went off all ri^t (althou^ the shed vras burnt out) with only one casualty. Yesterday being a fine day there were a number of combats in the air, in one of which I was engaged, I was carry--ing out a big artillery shoot on some German trenches at the time, and was thorou^ily enjoying myself. We were quite low, sitting right over the trenches and could see everything. Our shells did terrific damage, and I was too Isusy sending down results,etc, to notice any hostile machines, but my pilot spotted one high up, well behind our lines. We started to cut it off from getting back, at the same time climbing up to it as fast as possible."

"It opened fire on us at 3OO yards range, and we could hear the bullets whistling all round, which certainly gives an uncanny feeling, esi>ecially as you know that you are fully exposed and cannot dive for cover as you can on ground. We climbed to within 200 yards and then opened fire. Meanwhile the Hun was 3?apidly nearing his own lines; he eventually passed over us, firing down at us. We pursued him for about ten minutes, during which time I fired well over 200 rounds. After this we gave up the chase and resumed our artillery work, which ended very successfully, silencing two German batteries,

"On retuoming to our aerodrome we found great excite-Haent, nearly everyone having had a scrap of some sort, while unfortunately, one of o-ur pilots when 10 miles over the German lines was wounded in the thigh, lost consciousness, but came to just in time over the trenches, where he fainted again. He was found to have a conipound fracture of the thigh, and will probably lose his life. He must have flown his machine automatically while vmconcious for nearly 10 miles. Although the Germans shelled the machine, we got it in successfully with very little damage,"

Sho2rtly after writing the above, he was shot down and killed on 9 March 1916, and is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary in Belgium, His parents, now living at 22 Bishopsthorpe Road, Sydenham, were told by his squadron commander:

"This letter is in confirmation of the telegram of yesterday's date notifying you of your son's death. It happened in a flight in which he was observing for one of our batteries over the enemy lines. His machine was attacked by a German aeroplane, and after fitting for 15 minutes at a height of 8,000 feet your son received a direct hit in the heart, and was killed immediately,"

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"It was a wonderfully plucky fi^t against heavy odds, and althoti^ the restilt was fatal for him, I know that this was the end that he would have chosen for himself, to die fighting in a great fi^t in the greatest of all causes. He was a very fearless and gallant officer, so dead keen on his worn aad so thorou^ily efficient, I feel that his loss is irreplaceahle."

EICHMOKD, Claude. Bom at Erdington, Birmingham, on 26 March 1895, he was the son of Christopher and Mary Richmond. His father was a draughtsman, and when the family moved to Yorkshire he was educated at Yarm Grammar School, In 1906 the family moved to London and lived at 11 Hilly Fields Crescent, Brockley, and Richmond came to St. Dunstan's in April of that year. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society from 19O6 and in 1907 won the Under I4 Fives Tournament. He left in April 1909 and went to work for the South Metropolitan Gas Company. During the early part of the War he enlisted at Canterbury in the Kent Cyclist Battalion (Territorial Force), and while based in England he died of peritonitis on 23 September 1915^ He was buried near his home at Deptford Cemetary, Brockley,

RICHMOND, Cuthbeii; Laurence. Bom on 28 September 1889, he was the son of Richard Frederick and Fanny Richmond, of "Lustleigh", Montagu Avenue, Brockley. After being taught at Brockley H i ^ School, he came to St. Dunstan's in January I9OO; he was in the 3rd XV Rugby in 1902, and left in December 19O5. He had been in the OTC at School, and when War began this led to an early commission; he was piramoted 2/Lieut in the 5'th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers (Terr^ -itorial Force) on 14 December 1914. In early 1915 he accompanied the unit to France, and was killed in the Ypres fighting on 24 May 1915. He has no known grave, and his name is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres. His next of kin were his parents, by 1920 at "The Laurels", Belau^, Wroxham, Norfolk.

RIMINTON, Ernest William. The son of William and Jessie Riminton, he was bom at Catford on 20 November I891. His father was a commer--cial clerk and the family lived at 18 Rosenthal Road, He was educated privately by Miss Tilley at Priory School, Catford, before attending St. Dunstan's from September 19OI to December 1906. He won a Cricket Prize while in the Lower School in 1902, and later joined the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club. No information is available on his subsequent career, but his parents later moved to 83 Woodside Green, South Norwood, and he continued to live with them until War began.

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Riminton enlisted in 1914» joining the 5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade), and went to Prance; he was with the unit in the front line at Portuin in April 1915 > ^nO. on 28 April was seriously woomded. He died of his wounds on 30 April, and was buried in Bailleiil Comraunal Cemetary Extension in France.

ROAKE, Jack Bamber. Bom at Catford on 15 January 1895> be was the eldest son of Harry and Margaret Roake, of "Avondale", 71 Bradgate Road. His father was a commercial traveller. He was educated locally at Plassy Road Elementary School tintil May 19O8, when he came to St. Dunstan's. In May 19IO he left to work as a clerk for RoW, Denyer and Company, auctioneers and surveyors. At about this time he moved with his parents to 76 Bargery Road, Catford. He was a well-known figure locally, and was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club as well as Assistant Secretary of the Catford Cricket Club. Some time before the War he left Benyers and went to work for a bank in the City.

During the first weeks of the War he enlisted at Lewisham in the local Artillery Territorials, the 4th (London) Howitzer Brigade, and after training and a spell on garrison duty in Edinbur^ he went to Prance. He was seriously wounded in October 1915 and invalided back to England to convalesce; passed fit again, he returned to the front in June 1916 and was posted to the Ammunition Colunm of the 56th Division. A year later he was attached to "Y" Trench Mortar Battery in the Division and was killed by a shall during the Ypres fighting on 23 July 1917* He is buried at Duhallow Advanced Dressing Station Cemetary near Ypres. A few days after receiving news of his death, his father had a telegram informing him that his yo^mger son Harry, also an Old Dunstonian, had been dangerously wounded whilst se27ving with the London Rifle Brigade.

ROBINSON, Charles Leonard. The younger son of Mr. and Mrs. P.M. Robinson, he was bom on 1 December I896; his elder brother Walter appears below. His father was a commission agent, and the family lived at 11 Waldenshaw Road, Porest Hill, having previously resided at Sale in Cheshire. He was first educated at two private schools -Lamboume House and Siirrey Mount - before attending St. Dunstan's from September 1909 to December 19II. He won a School Prize for French in 1911, and the School Register notes that when he left he went to Geimany to study the language. Before the War he moved with his parents to "Surrey Mount", Manor Road, Porest Hill, and later to "Windybraes", The Chase, Coulsdon, Sixrrey. In September 1914 be went to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training at Hatfield he accompanied the unit to Prance in March 1915 > and fought at Vimy Ridge later in that year. He then went to Salonika with the 2/20th London Regt, and after a time at the front there he proceeded to Egypt.

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In 1917» Robinson took paart in the advance into Palestine, and was wounded in the fitting that led to the capture of Jerusalem in December. He vras invalided home and convalesced for several months, rejoining his tinit in France in July 19I8. He had leave for a fort--night and then took part in the British offensive of August 19I8. Promoted to Cpl, he led his section in the action at Veaux on 5O August 1918 and was noted for his bravery and coolness in the attack; this resulted in a posthumous award of the Military Medal (London Gazette 11 February 1919)* Shortly afterwards, on 14 September 19I8, he was killed in action at Havrincourt and was buried there in Grand Ravine British Cemetary, His only brother, Walter, had been killed some three months earlier and appears below.

ROBINSON, Richard. He was bom at Liscard, Cheshire, on 22 August 1898, and was the twin-son of Richard and Georgina Robinsono His father was a clerk in H.Mo Customs, and when his sons we3?e young he moved to London and lived at 11 Lowther Hill in Forest Hill. After attending a local Elementary School, Robinson came to St. Dunstan's in September 1909; the School Governors paid half his fees. Leaving in July 1913» he planned to follow his father into the Civil Service, and went to study for the entrance examination at Clark's College. Ihiring the War he enlisted at Lewisham, and was posted to the North Staffordshire Regt with the number 368O6; he subsequently t3?ansferred to the l/5th Battalion of the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regt (Territorial Force), served with the unit in France, and was killed in action on 26 July 19I8. The Regimental History shows that no major action took place on that date, but the B ttalion was in the front line in the Gorre-Essars sector and was under continual bombardment from shells and gas. He is buried at Fouquieres Churchyard Extension in France.

ROBINSON, Walter Stanley. Bom at Sale, Cheshire, on 14 April I894, he was the elder son of Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Robinson. His younger brother, Charles, appears above. His father was a commission agent, and shortly after his biDrth the family moved to London and lived at 11 Waldenshaw Road in Forest Hill. He was educated privately at Lamboume House School, Forest Hill, and was then at St, Dunstan's from September 1905 to Jxily 19O8, missing two terms from his studies after contracting an infectious illness. After he left he moved with his family to "Stirrey Mount", Manor Road, Forest Hill, and then to "Windybraes", The Chase, Coulsdon, Surrey; he was living at the latter address when he enlisted in London in the early part of the War. He was posted to the 5'th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) and went to France, where he was killed in action on 16 July 1918. His only brother, Charles, was killed some three months later and appears above.

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ROLIE, Couirbenay Greenfield, He was bom on 22 May 1895, the son of W.T. Holfe, a surveyor, of 119 The Eye, Peckham, His first education was at Forest Hill House School, and afterwards he was at St. I>unstan»s from September 19O5 to April 1909. His main sport was Cricket, and he was in the 4'th XI in 1907 with occasional games for the 3^ XI side, progressing to the 2nd XI in 19O8. After his time at the School he became a junior clerk in the Caledonian Insure -ance Company, King William Street, London EC,

When the War began he was living with his parents at Peckham, and went to Blackheath where he joined the ranks of the Old Dunstonian Company, 20th London Regt. After a period of training at Hatfield the \mit went to Prance in March 1915> and he took part in the battles of Pestubert, Givenchy and Loos. Inuring the latter action, on 25 September 1915» he was killed. On this date the l/20th London Regt was in the 141st Brigade of the 47*11 (London) Division and was on the left of the Divisional front alongside the ri^t flank of the 15th (Scottish) Division, At 6,00 a,m. gas was released onto the German lines and diversions started to attract Geiman fire. The objective of the Battalion was the German second line which ran from Loos Cemetary to the Lens-Bethune Road. It advanced in the second wave behind the London Irish and took the "garden-city" feature; it charged throTi^ the village, and one company got as far as the Chalk Pit position where it captured two German field guns. The Battalion then dug in, having achieved its main objectives but at a heavy cost. Many Old Dunstonians had been killed, and Rolfe was among these. He has no knovm grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Prance.

ROPER, William Horace Stanley. He was bom on 5 November 1887, the younger son of William Shepherd Roper and his wife Ellen, daughter of William Boon of South Devon. He was bom in London, where his father was a clothier and outfitter, and he was educated firstly at Maiden College, New Maiden, Surrey. When the family moved to "Coombe Royale", Davenport Road, Catford, he attended St. Dunstan's, and completed his education at King's College, London. He went to work for the Bank of England in 1907. In April 1916 he joined the Artists' Rifles OTC as a Pte with the number 7778, and after completing his training he was commissioned into the Grenadier Giiards on 7 September 1916; the commission was probationary, and was later confirmed on 14 September 1917*

After a further period of training in England he was sent to Prance, and joined the 5^^ Battalion of the Grenadiers there on 18 July 1917. He was posted to No. 2 Company of the unit. On 9 October 1917 the Battalion attacked the German lines near Houlthurst Porest and made good progress, capturing 4 guns, 2 machine-guns and 95 prisoners. However, the unit lost 15 killed and 64 wounded. One of the latter was Roper; he was evacuated to No. 47 Casualty Clearing Station, but died there two days later on 11 October 1917. The attack in which he was mortally wounded resulted in the award of the Victoria Cross to Sgt Rhodes of the Battalion. He is buried at Dozin^em Military Cemetary, north-west of Ypres, Belgivim. His father died shortly afterwards, and his mother moved to 85 Bromley Road, Catford,

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Roper was a popular member of his Battalion, and the commanding officer and company commander wrote:

"Your son will be a very great loss to the "battalion. He was so very keen at his work, and was very quick at picking it up. He showed tremendous interest in his platoon, and he was always getting up games of foot--ball and rounders for them. He was very good at helpii]g at the battalion concerts, and was invariably a most popular item. I know how very sorry the whole battalion are,"

"He is, as you know, a great loss to the batt--alion. He had such wonderful spirits, and iras a first-rate officer in every way, I noticed him as we were going up on the evening of the 8th in the pouring rain, and how wonderfully he kept up the spirits of the men,"

ROSS, Walter Urq'uhart, The only son of Walter Ross, a merchant bankers' clerk, he was bom at Catford on 24 September 182B^ The family lived at Blythe Hill, and his first education was at Forest Hill Middle School, He came to St, Dunstan's in Jan\xary 1895 and left in December 1902, In the intervening years he made a great contribution to School life, especially in the sporting sphere. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society, serving on the committee and being elected Chairman for 19OI and 1902; he was also on the committee of the Natural History and Archaeology Club, and took part in a number of Union Society concerts. The "Chronicle" first mentions him as playing Lacrosse in 19OO, and he was in the 2nd XII sides for the 19OI and 1902 seasons. In 1902 he was a member of the 2nd XI Cricket and of the Rifle Club, First noted as a Rugby player in the 1899 season, he served in the 1st X7 side in 19OI and 1902; and in the latter season he was Captain of Football, Several contemporary accounts mention him as a good forward. He was a regular entrant of events in the Athletics Competition and was particularly successful in 19OO, and in 19OI when he won both the 100 yards and the 200 yards races. In 19OI he was elected onto the committee of the Athletic Club, He was also a keen swimmer, and took a major role in establishing the sport for the Summer Term; he was Captain of Swimmr--ing in 1902,

After leaving the School in 1902 he continued to live locally for some time, and his moves were charted by the "Chronicle"; at first he lived with his parents at 12 Blythe Hill, but later moved to 3 Brookdale Road, Catfo2?d (19O3), 33 Ballina Street, Forest Hill (1907), and 11 Levendale Road, Forest Hill (1911). Just before the War he married, and moved with his wife Cecilia to "Overstrand", 27 Quemmore Road, Bromley, Most of his spaxe time was given to the Old Dunstonians sport, both in playing and organising.

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It was largely throu^ the effoarts of Ross that the Old Boys Rugby Club was formed; he organised the first side to play against the School in 1903> and from that year he was continuously Secretary of the Old Dmistonian Rugby Club until he volunteered in 1914* He was a member of several Old Boy teams, being Captain of the "B" X7 in 1913» •A-'t their Annual Dinner in 19O8 the Club presented him with an Honour Cap in recognition of his services, which also included the running of the Old Dunstonian Athletic Club from 19O6 onwards. The "History of the Old Ihmstonian Rugby Club" contains a photograph of him, as Secretary, with the 1st XV in the 1911-12 season. He served on the Old Bunstonian Committee from 1909 until the War, and main--tained an interest in the School Debating Club, returning in 1909 to speak against Tariff Refoim. His great interest in sport extended beyond the School and the Old Boys, and in 1913 he was elected a member of the Kent County Rugby Club Selection Committee.

When the War began, his Scottish ancestry led him to enlist as a Pte in a Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Hi^ilanders (Territorial Force) in November 1914* He went to France and served at the front for some time in 1915» being promoted to L/Cpl, He was later commiss--ioned, being promoted directly to 2/Lieut on 3 October 1915» and he was posted to the 8th (Service) Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt. Within a month he had been rapidly promoted within the unit, missing a step in rank and being appointed Temporally Captain in command of "B" Company. This promotion was posthumously confirmed in the London Gazette of 10 March 1916, with the date of seniority given as 27 September 1915*

Ross was mortally wounded at the front on 19 February 1916 in an incident described in the Regimental History:

"On the afternoon of 19th February, a disaster occurred which shook the battalion veiy consid--erably, and carried off some of its best officers. The battalion was due to move up into the Sanctuary Wood trenches at about 5'00 p.m., and all orders had been issued to that effect. At about 3«00p«ni» a- long-range naval shell fell in the nei^botirhood of 'B' Company H.Q, dugout, followed by another at a short interval which obtained a direct hit on the diigout. Captain Ross and Lieut Atkinson, who were in the dugout, were badly wounded. Captain Ross subsequently died, and Lieut Atkinson lost a leg."

He was taken to hospital, but died of his wounds on 22 February 1916, He was buried in Plot 2, Row A, Lijssenthoek Militaiy Cemetajy, Belgium, An obitoajy appeared in "The Times" of 24 February, and a photograph of him in uniform on page 159 of "The Sphere" of 13 May.

After the War, eight distinguished Old Boys who had been killed were selected to have School Houses named after them, and Ross was an obvious choice for his work both at School and on behalf of the Old Dunstonians. The House colour is yellow, the motto "progredere" (go forward!), and the crest a bishop's gold ring.

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ROWAH, Frederick John, Bom at Glasgow on 18 December 1890, he was the son of John and Sarah Jane Rowan. His father, a merchant, later moved south and Rowan was educated at Highfield School in Chertsey; in 1902 the family moved to 82 Tressillian Road, St, John's, and he came to St, Ihmstan's in Janioary I9O3. He won a School Prize for Carpentry in 1906, and was a keen Lacrosse player, "being in the 2nd XII in 1906 and the 1st XII in 1907, He left the School in July 1907, and althou^ no information is available on his subsequent career, it is known that his parents moved to 31 Bridgeland Street, Bideford, Devon, and that at about the same time he emigrated to Canada - a popular move amongst Old Boys at this time. When the War began, he enlisted in the ranks of the Canadian Escpeditionary Force at Vaicartier, Quebec, on 25 September 1914« After some months of training in Canada and England, he was selected for a commission, and was promoted Lieut in the 13th Infantry (Quebec Regt). He went to France with the unit, and his services were recognised by rapid promotion - to Captain on 4 July 1916, just fourteen months after his first commission, and to Acting Major on 1 August 1916, He was killed in action at Courcelette on 9 October 1916, and is biiried in Adanac Militaiy Cemetary at Miraumont, France, He was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches for bravery by Field Marshal Haig (London Gazette 1 Jvne 1917).

RUSSELL, George Launcelot Lighten. Bom on 10 May 1882, he was the son of Rev, S.Fo Russell, He arrived at St. Dunstan's in February I898, and although no previous schooling is shown in the School Register, his father is shown as living at Isfield Rectory, Uckfield, Sussex, He was at School until July 1899> and in the short time he was there he took part in a number of activities; he was a Prefect, and won a Leaving Prize in July 1899. He was a notable athlete and was particularly outstanding at the long jump; and was in the 1st XI Cricket in the 1898 and 1899 seasons, as well as in the 1st XII Lacrosse in 1899* When he left he decided on a technical career and went to the Cent3?al Technical College, where he studied electrical engineering from 1899-1901, passing the City and Guilds course. He later qualified as an Associate Member of the Institute of Elect--rical Engineers, Some time after his studies he worked in the North-East, and became a keen Te2?ritorial officer, being commissioned into the Tyne Electrical Engineers, Royal Engineers (Territorial Force) on 4 March 1912. He remained in the imit and was promoted to Lieut on 6 October 1914 and Captain on 1 June 1916. He does not appear to have sezved overseas during the War but instead remained in England; from 6 July 1917 he was a Staff Captain in the War Office, being in the Department of the Master General of Ordnance, Early in 1919 he became ill with pleurisy, and died on 1 March 1919. He was taken to his parents' home and then buried in St, Margaret's Churchyard, Isfield, Sussex,

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SACH, Harry Lloyd. Bom on I7 August I879, M s father died when he was young and he was hroii^t up by his mother Mary, who lived at "Coldea Villa", Honley Road, Catford. He was educated firstly by Miss Davies at Malvern House School in Levdsham Park before coming to St, Dunstan's in September I89I. He left in March 1895» and was an early member of the Old Ihmstonian Club. He joined the Catford Lacrosse Club, and by 1899 was playing for their 2nd XII, In the 1905-04 season he was in the 1st XIIj the side had a veiy successful run, and were Champions of the South of England League, The "Chronicle" of May 1904 has a photograph of him and the other members of the team, which was coinposed entirely of Old Dunstonians, He later played Lacn?osse at a higher level, and was a member of the Kent County Team in the 1907 season. On the outbreak of War he enlisted in the 21st London Regt (1st Surrey Rifles) and served throu^out hostilities, dying of pneumonia in October 19I8 just a few weeks before the Armistice, He was one of the oldest Old Boys to die during the War,

SALBERG, John Beaumont (jack). Bom on 27 December 1895, he was the son of Salis Ernest and Fanny Salberg. The family lived at first in Sydenham, but when his father died his mother moved to 15 Northbrook Road, Lee, He was the youngest of five brothers, all of whom attended St, I>unstan's and took part in the War, At first he was taught at Ihidley House, a private school in Burnt Ash Road, Lee, coming to St, Dunstan's in September 1906. He was a member of the 5 : XV Rugby in the 19II season, and left in July 1912 to continue his studies at the Central Technical College, He studied Civil Engineering for the City and Guilds qualification, and when War broke out he was at the Imperial College of Science in Kensington,

Ihiring the first few months of the War he enlisted in the 20th (Public Schools) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, a unit in the Public Schools Brigade; however, he was medically rejected on account of short sight, and was sent to an engineering works in Sheffield on War work. He persisted in his attempts to join the Army, and in the middle of 1915 was successful in rejoining the Royal Fusiliers, In October of that year he went to France with a Service Battalion of the Regiment, and after six months at the front as a Pte he was recommended for a commission and came home on ten days leave. He was promoted 2/Lieut on 7 May 1916 and was posted back to France to serve with the 12th Royal Sussex Regt (2nd South Down Battalion)o On 5O Jime I916 he led his platoon of "D" Company in an attack which successfully penetrated as far as the thi3?d German defence line. He and a few others went on ahead, but he was not seen again and was later posted as missing. It was leter found that he had been mortally wounded and had died in German hands later in the day. His body was later recovered and buried at Cabaret-RoTige British Cemetary in France, Writing to his mother, his Captain wrote:

"Those few of us who remain can but hope and strive to follow the glorious example of our fallen brother-officers, of whom he was one of the bravest and best."

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SAIOERSON, Gerald Stanley. Bom on ^ November 1898, he was the son of Wo Sanderson, a head clerk of 84 Catford Hill, Catford. He was educated privately by Miss Watmough at Vancouver Road before coming to St, Dunstan's in January 1907. Early in his time at the School he won several races on Athletics Day. He left in July 1914» and a few weeks later he enlisted at Blackheath in the Old Ihxnstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After serving with the unit for some months he transferred to the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) with the number 4821, and after going through an officer training course there he was commissioned. He was promoted to 2/Lieut on 8 January 1916 and was posted to the 11th London Regt (Pinsbury Rifles). He was sent to Fi-ance, and on 18 July 1916 he was attached to the l/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade); this Battalion had been involved in the Somme fighting for three weeks and had lost many officers, and Sanderson was one of those drafted in as replacements. The -unit was in the front line in the Hannescaraps-High Wood sector, and four days after he joined, on 22 July 1916, Sanderson took out a patrol into No Man's Land; a German detachment was encountered, and in the ensuing fi^t he was killed. His body was brough back to the front line trenches, and he was later buried at Hannescamps New Military Cemetary, Prance.

SHERBORNE, Thomas Kinsman. He was bom at Brockley on 14 April 1898, the only son of T.T.K. and Marion Sherborne. The family lived at 46 Beecroft Road, Brockley, and his father was a surgical appliance manufacturer. He was educated at Brockley Road Elementary School, and then at St. Dunstan's from April 19IO to April 1914« He was too young to voltinteer during the early part of the War, and until 1916 he lived with his parents and worked in his father's business. In April 1916, when he was 18, he enlisted in the Army in London; he was posted to the 2/5th London Regt (London Rifle Brigade) and served with the Battalion in Prance. On 20 to 21 September 1917 the unit took part in an attack on the German lines in the Menin Road-St. Julien sector; this was successful, partly due to the new tactic of moving machine-guns forward with the advancing troops. The unit lost 6I killed, I66 wounded and 25 missing in the assault. Sherborne was one of the wounded, and subsequently died of his injuries on 28 September 1917« He is buried at Etaples Cemetary in Prance.

SHERYER, Harold John. Bom on 15 Au^st 1888, he was the son of John and Annie Elizabeth Sheryer. His father was a clerk, and altho\igh no address is shown in the School Register, the family lived for some years at 54 Albacore Crescent, Lewisham. He was educated privately by Alfred Lawler, then attended Blackheath Commercial College, and finally came to St. Dunstan's from January 1901 to July 1903, where he won a Prize in 19OI for being 1st in 2A, His subsequent caxeer is unknown, but by 1915 he was married and living with his wife Eliza Annie at "Geme Abbas", St. John's Road, Sandown, Isle of Wi^t.

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Sheryer was accepted for officer training early in the War, and on 30 March 1915 he joined the Inns of Court OTC; he served as a L/Cpl in No. 4 Company with the number 3145« Having conrpleted his training successfully, he was commissioned on 13 November 1915 and went to the 4'th (Reserve) Battalion of the Hampshire Regt, On 1 September 1916 he was promoted Temporary Lieut in the 8th Battalion of the Hampshires, the Isle of Wi^t Rifles (Territorial Force), and relinquished this temporary rank on 5 June 1917* He went to France, and whilst attached to the 15'th (Service) Battalion Hampshire Regt (2nd Portsmouth) took part at the Ypres fighting in the summer of 1917« On 5 August the unit were in the front line trenches at Hollebeke. During the previous night their position had been heavily shelled, and during the day the Germans attacked throvigh the mist. Forret Farm outpost was overrun and Hollebeke itself was threatened, but the Battalion co-unterattacked and recaptured all the lost ground with a bayonet charge. The unit lost 20 killed and 12 wounded, among the latter being Sheryer, who died later that day from his wounds. He is b-uried in Godewaers-Velde British Cemetary in France.

SILVESTER, Percy Wafford. He was bom at Brockley on 16 October 1887, the second son of George Silvester and his wife Sarah, datighter of William George Taplin. He had two brothers; Edgar, who served with the 20th London Regt during the War, and Reginald, who appears below. His father was a STirveyor, and the family lived at "Woodbum "Villa", Upper Harefield Road, Brockley. The later moved to 71 Tressillian Road, St. John's, and then to 4 Berlin Road, Catford (renamed Canadian Avenue in 1914). He was first educated at Linden House School, Breakspear Road, Brockley, before coming to St. Dunstan's in January 1899» He was Secretary of the Camera Club in I9OI, and a member of the Rifle Club in 19O2, winning a National Rifle Assoc--iation certificate. He won a nijmber of events in the School Athletics of 1901 and 1902, including the 100 yards, 220 yards and the tug-of-war. He was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 19OI, progressed to the 1st XII in 1902, and was in the 1st XV Rugby in the 1902 season. During his last year at the School he was elected onto the Athletic Committee.

After leaving St. Dunstan's in December 1902, he studied for some time and became a chartered accountant, and by 1914 was living at St. John's. He continued his interest in sport and was a prominent member of the Catford Lacrosse Club, playing in a number of import--ant matches. He served from I9O6 to 19O8 as a member of the 1st London Volunteer Rifle Corps, leaving when it became part of the Territorial Force in the latter year. In October 1914 he went to Blackheath and enlisted into the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. After a period of training at Hatfield he went to France with the Battalion in March 1915> and. took part in the early battles at Festubert and Givenchy with "D" Company. On 25 September 1915 he went into action during the attack on Loos, and survived the fighting in and aro\md the village. At the end of the day most objectives had been taken, but the Brigade in which the unit was serving had an exposed flank, and on 26 September it was subjected to heavy shelling and strong coiinterattacks. It was during this that he was killed.

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News of Silvester's death came in a telegram to his parents, and shortly afterwards a wounded comrade wrote that he had been killed "by a sniper. The letter continued:

"He and I were in the dugout together previous to the charge. He was a good and brave soldier and never backward in volunteering for any risky job, and I think I can safely say he was loved by every--body who knew him. G?he last I saw of him was when I got wounded at the German front trench when he and the rest of the Company went on."

His company commander wrote:

"I knew your boy well; he was always keen for a job and did it well and cheerfully."

Soon after the battle he was buried near where he had been killed, but the grave later disappeared and his name is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in Prance. He was one of three Old Dunstonlan brothers to serve with the 20th London Regt, and the first of two who were killed.

SIL'VESTER, Reginald. Bom at Brockley on 20 May 1892, he was the third son of George Silvester and his wife Saraii, daughter of William George Taplin, His brothers were Edgar, who served in the War with the 20th London Regt, and Percy, who appears above. His father was a surveyor, and the family lived first at "Woodbum Villa", Upper Harefield Road, Brockley; they later moved to 71 Tressillian Road at St. John's, and thence to 4 Berlin Road, Catford (renamed Canadian Avenue in 1914)» He was educated at Linden House School, Breakspear Road, Brockley, before following his brothers to St. Dunstan's in May 19O6. He was a member of the 1st XII Lacrosse in the 1909 season, and left in Jvilj 1909 to work for the Port of London Authority. Unable at first to volunteer for the War because of his work there, he was finally successful in joining the 20th London Regt just two months after his brother had been killed while serving with the unit in Prance.

By the end of 1915 the need for officers was great, and instead of being sent to the front he was posted to the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) for training prior to being commissioned. He was passed throu^ the unit, in which he had the number 5665, in the next few months and was promoted 2/Lieut on 11 Jtily 1916, being posted back to the 20th London Regt in his new rank. He went to Prance on 20 September 1916 and served continuously until 7 June 1917» when he was killed at Messines Ridge during the Ypres fight--ing. On this date the 47th (London) Division, of which the Batta--lion was a part, was in a major assault on the Ridge after a massive mine had been exploded under the German lines. The Division took most of its objectives, but at the cost of 2,100 killed and wounded.

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His body remaining •undiscovered after the advance, Silvester's name is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium. He was one of three Old Dunstonian brothers to serve with the 20th London Regt, and the second to lose his life. His parents later received a letter from Major-General Gorringe, commanding the 47th Division, in which he wrote that Silvester was an excellent officer who led his men forward with great gallantry until he was shot down by machine-gun fire. A brother-officer wrote that he was a great loss to the •unit, as he was exceptionally brave and cool under fire, and was greatly admired by his men.

SMITH, Alexander Frederick. Bom at Catford on 4 October 1884, he was the fourth son of John Archer Smith and his wife Enmia, dau^ter of Edward Jones. His father was a timber merchant and the family lived at "Fairfield", 6? Catford Hill. He was educated initially at Egerton Park College, Bexhill, Sussex, and then at St. Ihmstan's from September 1895 to July 1902. He later qualified as a siirveyor. In November 1914 he enlisted in the ranks of the Public Schools Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, and was posted to the "Hawke" Battalion. After a period of training in England he went to the Mediterranean with the Royal Naval Division, and served in the fighting at Gallipoli from April 1915 to January 1916. In the latter month he joined an anti-aircraft detachment and served with this unit on the Greek island of Imbros, returning to England in July 1916. In December of that year he rejoined the "Hawke" Batt--alion, by then in Prance, and was killed in action on 18 February 1917* On this date the Royal Naval Division was heavily shelled and counterattacked at Miraumont, He has no known grave, and his name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.

SMITH, John Clarence (or Clarence John), He was bom at Brixton on 16 J"aly 1894» the son of William James Smith and his wife Saa?ah Cecilia, daughter of William Mundy. When he was young the family moved to 14 Bargery Road, Catford, where his father was a commercial traveller. He was educated privately at Catford Collegiate School, and was then at St. Dunstan's from January 19O7 to December 1909. The School Register notes that he left to become an apprentice in the outfitting trade. By 1914 he was working in a large commercial business in the City, and in August of that year he enlisted in the ranks of the 15th London Regt (Civil Service Rifles) with the number 2925. He trained with the unit at Watford and Hemel Hempstead, and accompanied it to France, landing at Havre on 18 March 1915» He served with the Battalion in the early battles of the 47th (London) Division, being in the fighting at Festubert, Loos, Vimy Ridge, and on the Somme. He became an expert bomber, and was awarded a certificate for this as well as promotion to L/Cpl. Having remained unscathed for an unusually long time at the front, he contracted dysentery and was invalided to England in 1916.

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After convalescing for several months, Smith was passed fit again and selected for a commission. He went thro\i^ the Cadet School at Membland Hall, Plymouth, and was then promoted to 2/Lieut on 27 June 1917. He was successful in being posted to the 20th London Regt, a unit closely associated with the School, and joined it at the front on 20 Atigust 1917. Later in the year he took part in the fighting at Camhrai, and was killed in action on 1 December 1917 during the fitting at Bourlon Wood, He was buried where he fell, but the grave later disappeared and he is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial. On the day he was killed the \mit reinforced the London Irish in the front line, and then went forward into No Man's Land to dig a new line to build up a more favourable fire position; it withdrew to the reserve lines at midnight. JDiiring the day the Battalion had lost some 50 killed and wounded, many to gas shells. Smith was killed instant--aneously by a machine-gun bullet while leading his men forward. His company wrote to his parents, by then living at 5I Leybome Park, Kew Gardens, Surrey:

"During the short time your son was with the London Regt he became popiilar with all ranks, and had the thorough confidence of his brother^officers and the men under his command, and we all deplore the death of a very gallant comrade."

The "Lee Jo^xmal" obituary concludes:

"His quiet and modest disposition endeared him to all who knew him, and he was greatly esteemed by many friends at the Weslayan Church, Rushey Green, of which he was a member."

SMYTH, Basil Wilson. He was bom on 22 June 1892, the son of T.W, Smyth, a shipbroker. In his early years the family lived in County Durham, where he attended Davis H i ^ School in West Hartlepool; but in 1904 the family moved to London and lived at 23 Lewi sham Park, Lewisham. He attended St. Dunstan's from January 1905 "to April 1909» and left to work as a clerk for Messrs. Lambert Brothers, 85 Grace--church Street, London EC. At the beginning of the War he enlisted in the ranks of the Public Schools Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, and was later commissioned as a Sub-Lieut. In 1915 he went to the Mediterranean and landed at Gallipoli with the Royal Naval Division, being an officer in the "Nelson" Battalion. On 15 July 1915 he took part in the attack on the Turkish positions around Achibaba; the Turks put up a stubborn resistance, and although the objective was taken the Royal Naval Division had h^mdreds of men killed and wounded. Smyth was first repoirted as missing, and later confirmed as killed althoti^ his body was never discovered. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial at Gallipoli.

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SPABKES, William. He was bom on 12 August I896, the son of Charles William and Mary Jane Sparkes, His father was a telegraphist and the family lived at 146 Ardgowan Road, Catford. He was educated at Sandhurst Road WLementajcy School, and was then at St, Dunstan's from September 19O8 to Pebruaiy 1915t where his fees were paid by the London County Council until he was I6, After leaving the School he was employed as a junior clerk at Messrs. Lelachexir and Stock of 58 Lombard Street, London ECo During the War he joined the Army at St. Swithin's Lane in London, and was posted to the 1st London Regt (City of London, Royal Fusiliers) with the n-umber 6280. After training in England he was transferred to the l/l3th London Regt (Kensingtons) and joined the Battalion in Prance, where he was killed in action on 8 October 1916. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

STAUITON, Gareth Marsh. He was bom on 17 October I89O, the eldest son of Charles E. Stanton, of 29 Clarendon Road, Lewisham, who was the ovmer of some silk mills. He was the grandson of William Ao Hatton, who worked for the Admiralty, and of Capt Arthior Hatton of the Indian Staff Corps. He was educated privately by Miss Lewis at 11 Glenton Road, Lee, befo2?e coming to St. Dunstan's as an Entrance Scholar in September 1902. He won several School Prizes - for Latin (1905), Work and Conduct (19O6 and 1907), and Latin and Scripture (both 19O8), He was a member of the debating Society firom 1906 and was its Secretary in 1907-08; he was a Prefect in his last two years at the School, and at the same time Editor of the "Chronicle", in which a poem of his appears in March 19O8, He left in July I9O8 and went to work for a bank, remaining there until he volunteered for the Army, In 1909 he returned to the School to take part in a Debating Society meeting in which he spoke for Taidff Reform,

During the early part of the War he was selected for officer train--ing, and after passing throu^ a course was commissioned in July 1915; jiist before this he had matriculated at London University, He was posted to the 8th (Service) Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt, joined it in Prance, and was seriously wounded on 19 Pebruary 1916 at the same time as Walter Ross (see above); it is probable that they we2?e fatally injured in the same bombardment, Stanton died on 20 Pebruary 1916, and he is buried near Ross in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary in Belgium,

STARLING-, Prederlck Leslie, He was the son of William and Louisa Prances Starling, and was bom on 19 Jiily 1897* His father was a stockbroker and the family lived at 46 Lewisham Park, Lewisham, He was educated close to his home at Malvern House School, and then attended St, Dunstan's from January I907 to July 19IO, After leaving the School he continued his education at Christ's Hospital, Horsham, Sussex,

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When the War began, Starling was accepted for officer training, and on 5 December 1914» at the age of just 17» he joined the Inns of Court OTC; he was given the mjmber 22^6, and served in "E" and "K" Companies of the unit. After passing throu^ the course successfully he was commissioned on 20 April 1915 and was posted to the 5 ^ London Regt (City of London, Royal Fusiliers), He joined the l/3rd London Regt in Prance, took part in the Somme fighting in the summer of 1916, and was killed in action on 15 September 1916. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance,

STEELE, Rollo Peter. He was bom at Leytonstone on 22 April 1895, the son of Philip Richard and Ethel Gertrude Steele; his father was an insurance agent. When he was young the family moved south and lived at "Ravensboume", Porest Hill; and his first education was locally at St. Cuthbert's College, Simderland Road. He was at St. Dunstan's from January 19O8 until April 1912, and left to woife as a clerk in the Exchange Assurance Corporation. Before the War his mother died, and he lived with his father at 58 Croham Road, South Croydon. Ihiring the early part of the War he enlisted in Whitehall, and was posted to the 9th (Service) Battalion of the East Surrey Regt. He served in Prance with the unit, which formed part of the 24th Division, and took part in the Somme fighting in the sunmier of 1916. In July 1916 he was attached to the 20th Battalion of the Manchester Regt (5th City), and whilst with them he was killed in action on I4 July I916; he has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance.

STEVENSON, Edward Arthur. Bom in Lewisham on 23 J^me 1894, he was the son of Arthur Stevenson and his wife Sarah, daughter of James Earl. His father was a dining car conductor with the Midland Railway Company, and lived at 8 Ryecroft Road, Lewisham. After an early education at Hither G3?een Elementary School, he came to St. Dunstan's in September 1906, and his fees were paid by the School Governors. He left in July 1909 and became a temporary boy clerk in the Civil Service, also studying at St. George's College in Kingsway, London WC. He continued to live with his parents, who moved to 105 Radford Road, Hither Green, and by 1914 he was a 2nd Division Clerk in the Comptroller and Accountant-General's Department at Somerset House.

On 7 Atigust 1914 he went to Blackheath and joined the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt. He xmderwent training with the unit at Hatfield and then accompanied it to Prance in March 1915 • He took part in the battles of Pestubert and Givenchy as a member of the Battalion, and went into action at Loos on 25 September 1915* He was in the fitting in and around the villas, at the "garden-city" and Chalk Pit features, and althou^ he survived the initial days' fighting he was killed in action on 26 September. On this day the Brigade was heavily shelled and counterattacked, especially on the exposed flank.

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In a letter dated 1 October 1915» a NCO who had been with Stevenson vn?ote:

"He died a very noble death. In assistaing a wounded man back into the trench he was shot and died instantaneously. Had he lived he would surely have won recognition for his good work right throu^ in attending to the woimded under most trying circiunstances,"

Capt Wo Escombe wrote:

"Your boy was always keen, and did his duty thoroughly under the most trying conditions. He died nobly for his coimtiy and helping to win for his battalion an undying name,"

Lieut D. Shennan wrote:

"Yoiir son had been acting as stretcher-bearer all the day before and that day and doing splendid work. As his sergeant said, 'beyond all praise'. About twelve o'clock on the second day he saw a wounded man lying out in the open, and although it was extremely dangerous, he climbed out of the trench and went to help him. He was hit twice and killed almost instantly. It was a deed which would have gained him very great praise, if not a decoration, and you will feel proud that yoiir son died a hero in the attempt to save another's life no man could have desiired a finer death than his, and it is he and men like him who make the British infantry the finest in the world,"

He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in Prance,

SQEWART, Alan Bathurst, Bom in Shropshire on 16 Jvne 1885, his family moved to London when he was young. He was educated firstly at Lewisham Park School, and then came to St, Bunstan's in Januaiy 1894, The School Register does not mention his father, but shows his mother as Mrs, Osmond Stewart of "Welbeck House" in Lewisham Paj?k, He left in July 1900, and althou^ no details are available regarding his subsequent career, in 1910-11 he was living at 27 Vancouver Road in Catford, He later went to Canada, a popular move for Old Boys of this era, and lived in Montreal, He enlisted there on 13 October 1915, and after training in Canada came to England in the Canadian Esqpeditionary Porce. He went to Prance in 1916 as a Bombardier in the 97th Canadian Siege Battery, was wounded, and died of his injuries on 29 June 1916, He is buried in Meaulte Military Cemetary, Prance,

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STORCH, Herbert Adolf. He was Itoxa on 30 May 1887, the son of Max and Sophie Storch. His father was a merchant of German extraction and the family lived at 2 Essex Villas, Ravenshoume Park, Catford, He was educated at Lewisham Park School and then at St, IXmstan's from April 1899 to April 1902. His elder brother, Walter Reinhold, was at the School from April 1899 "to December 1900. In the early months of the War he joined the ranks of the ^th (Reserve) Battalion of the Rifle Bidgade, and served with the imit for some time in the Thames and Sheppey Garrison. He was later selected for a commission, and after training was commissioned from Officer Cadet; he was promoted 2/Lieut on 29 August 1917 and was posted to the Yorkshire Regt fGreen Howards), On 5 December following he was posted to the 13th (service) Battalion of the Regiment in France, and distinguished himself in the spring of 19I8 in an action which led to the award of the Military Cross (London Gazette 16 September 19I8):

"For conspicuous gallantly and devotion to duty when commanding a platoon. Although attacked by a force of the enemy at least four times superior in n-umbers to his own, he drove them off and maintained his position against a further attack on the follow--ing day. By his personal example of determination to give no ground he enabled his platoon to resist the repeated attacks on their position,"

In June 19I8 his vcalt returned to England, but he remained in Prance and was attached to the 1st Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regt. in the 64th Brigade, On 25-24 August 19I8 he was with the unit when it attacked the German line south of Beaucourt during the fitting on the Ancre. The Battalion advanced behind a creeping artillery bairrage and they captured Battery Valley, G2:andcourt and Boom Ravines and Hill 13. After this successful operation on 23 August, the Germans counterattacked next day but were beaten off with heavy losses. The operation had cost the unit 68 killed and wounded, amongst the latter being Storch. He died of his wounds on 24 August and is biiried at Serre Road Cemetary in Prance. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 21 Carholme Road, Forest Hill.

STROUD, Reginald Gordon. He was bom on 3 October 1895, the son of George Gordon and Hannah Stroud. The family lived initially at 33 Perry Hill, Catford, and M s father was a civil servant. He was educated at Miss Watmou^'s School in Catford and came to St. Dunstan's in May 1906. He won a number of races at Sports Days in 1906 and 1907 - hurdles and 220 yards - and had 2nd Colours for Gymnastics in 1913. He was in the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1912 and went on to the 1st XII in the 1913 season. In Rugby, he was in the 1st XV for two seasons - 1911 and 1912 - and a photograph of him in this side appears in the "Chronicle" of March 1912. He won School Prizes in 1912 and 1913, was a Sgt in the OTC, and a Prefect 1912-13; in 1913 he was elected onto the Athletic Committee. He left in July 1913 and became a clerk in the Alliance Assurance Company.

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As soon as War was declared, Stroud went to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Dunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, but was not with the unit for long, as he was selected for a commission. After a period of training he was promoted 2/Lieut in the 9th (Service) Battalion of the York and Lancaster Regt on 25 January 1915. He was appointed to "C" Company of the unit and accompanied it to Prance in August 1915> where it joined the 8th Division. The "Chronicle" of November 1915 contains six pages of extracts from his letters, which describe his experiences in Prance during the first four weeks he was there.

On 1 July 1916 he took part in the attacks which marked the first day of the great British offensive on the Somme. The unit advanced on the German lines at 7.30 a.m. following an hours' bombaiximent, and in support of the first wave of the attack. The unit got into the German front line but had suffered heavy casualties in crossing No Man's Land under heavy shell and machine-gun fire. The Battalion held its' gains until relieved that ni^t, but the fighting had reduced its' strength from 76I to I85, During this advance Stroud was killed, and was later buried in Blighty Valley Cemetary in Authulle Wood, Prance. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at "Jarrowville", Lowther Hill, Porest Hill. He was a popxilar and well-known figure in the School, and the "Chronicle" of November 1916 carried the following obituary:

"After nearly three months of fearful waiting we know now that he has gone on a little while before us. He bade fair to become a famous man, had he lived the full span of human years, for he was gifted with a brilliant brain, a wonderful imag--ination, and a rare literary talent, I, whom he called friend - nay, we were as brothers - shared his ambitions, his hopes, his dreams to be ful--filled when war was at an end. It had not been permitted that he should realize those cherished ambitions, and we are the poorer by the loss of the beauty of his life. We can but strive to be worthy to become the richer by the beauty of his death. It is the last and the most fitting honour we can pay to his memory. He was a pure, true knight of chivalry - faithful \mto deatho"

"Perchance some Dunstonian of a later day, idly glancing through the pages of this their Chronicle, will pause to read these lines. Ere he turn the leaf, may he think a moment on him and on those others who have accompanied him, and be proud that he may call himself, like them, a Dunstonian."

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TlAHiOR, Maurice William. He was born on 26 February 1898, the son of James Richard and Alice Taylor of 35 Elsinore Road, Forest Hill. His father was the general manager of the Ardath Tobacco Company. Educated at first at Kilmorie Road Elementary School, he was later at Wellesley House School, Perry Vale, Catford, before coming to St. Dunstan's in January 1910. He left in July 1915» having won a School Prize in 1915» and although he was only 17 we was accepted for officer training. He joined the Inns of Court OTC on 2 September 1915 and served as a L/Cpl vrith the number 6OO3 in No. 5 and No. 6 Companies. He was commissioned on 25 August 1916 and was posted to the 4th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Shortly afterwards he went to France with a Battalion of the Regiment, and was wounded at the front during 1917* However, by the end of the year he had rejoined his unit and took part in the fighting at Cambrai, and although a junior 2/Lieut found himself in command of a Company. On 27 November 1917 he led an attack in which he distingi--tiished himself and which led to the award of the Military Cross (London Gazette 18 February 1918, citation 18 July 19I8):

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his company in an attack with great gallantry and skill. He captured an enemy post which was obstructing the advance, and after gaining his objective rapidly reorganised his company and repelled four counterattacks by the enemy. His fine example was the greatest encouragement to his men."

Taylor continued to serve in France, and was killed in action on 12 April 1918. His parents, now at 2 Kingsdown Avenue, South Croydon, received a letter from a fellow officer describing his death:

"With two sections of his platoon he most gallantly charged a small German field gun which was giving a good deal of trouble, but •unfortunately he was shot by a machine gun throu^ the head, and passed away at once. The two sections were also wiped out at the same time. His body was no doubt buried where it lay. This happened quite close to Wytschaete."

He has no recorded grave, and he is commemorated at the Tyne Cot Memorial at Passchendaele, Belgium,

THOMAS, Arthur Lavirie. Bom on 19 March 1895, he was the second son of David Edwyn and Latira Jane Thomas. His father was a journalist and the editor of the magazine "Farm and Home". The family lived at 40 Clarendon Road, Lewisham, and his first education was locally by Miss Driver at 6 Lewisham Park. He arrived at St. Dunstan's in Sept--ember 19O5 and remained at the School for eight years, having perhaps the most distinguished all-rotind career of the pre-War era. He won School Prizes for Work in 191O, 1912 and 1913; and for Latin in 1911.

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In Fives, Thomas was the vrirmer of the Under 12 Tournament in 1907 and was in the School team from 1909; he took part in the Totim--aments of 1910, 1911, 1912 and 1913, and won the Open Doubles with Hawkridge (q..v,) in 1911; he won the Fives Prize at the Athletic Sports in the same year, and was Captain of Fives in the 1912 and 1915 seasons. He was in the School Swimming and WateivPolo teams in 1912, and the Chess team in the following year.

He was a leading figure in the three major School sports; he joined the 2nd XII Lacrosse in 1909 and progressed to the 1st XII in 191O, remaining in this team imtil he left the School in 1915* He was Captain of Lacrosse in 1912 and 1915» aJ ^ was a member of the School XII which won the Junior Flags Competition at Lords in 19IO; a photograph of him in this team appears in the "Chronicle" of June 1910. He joined the 2nd XV Rugby in 19O8 aged only 13, and in that season played occasionally for the 1st XV; he was in the 1st XV continuously for four seasons - 1909-13 - and was Captain of Football for 1911 and 1912,

His career in Cricket was equally distinguished; his first mention in this connection is in 1907, when he was in the Under 13 XI; he went on to the 2nd XI in 1909» and was in the 1st XI for four seasons, 19IO to 1913* He was a fine batsman, and made a record 295 not out against Camberwell Grammar School in 19IO; for this he was presented with a special cup, and in 1912 and 1913 won the Sir Owen Roberts Cup for batting. He was Secretary of the Athletic Committee in 19IO.

Thomas was appointed a Prefect in 19IO, and was Head Boy from 19II to 1915* He was a member of the Debating Society for some years, and was its Chairman in 1912 and 1913« He was an enthusiastic member of the OTC and was a Cadet Officer in the School contingent from 1911 to 1915» In this latter year he spent the Easter holiday in Jersey, and his account of this appears in the "Chronicle", His Valete notice notes his all-round achievements and states that he was the best all-roimd cricketer of the pre-War period. He left St, Dunstan's in JvHj 1913 and went to Oxford, having won an Open Scholarship in Classics at Brasenose College. Whilst there in 1914 he gained a Half Blue for Lacrosse and was in the college Riigby and Cricket teams, but was prevented from fulfilling his expectat--ions by severe rheumatism,

V/hen War began in 1914, he volunteered for service on 5 August, having completed only his first year at Oxford, His successful career in the OTC ensured that he wotild be commissioned, and he was promoted to 2/Lieut on 3I August 1914» He was successful in being posted to the 20th London Regt, which had close links with St, Dunstan's, and joined the Old Dunstonian Company as a junior officer. He continued to play Ru^by and represented the unit at a match at Blackheath on 24 October 1914. Shortly afterwards he went with the Battalion to Hatfield, and thence to Welwyn, where he served with the machine-gun section of the 5th London Infantry Brigade, In March 1915 he accompanied this unit to France, and later met his brother F,E, in the trenches. The "Chronicle" of June 1915 contains ext2?acts from his letters written in France at about this time;

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"14 11 Maxch, We left St. Albans on Tuesday morning (9th March), and marching to Harpenden entrained there for Southampton, G?hence on the S.S, 'Rossetti', accompanied by cruisers, destroyers, etc, to Havre. G?hen, once on shore, a ni^t in a rest camp, and after that a long wearisome train journey of about twelve hotirs till we arrived at the rail head. A four mile march brou^t us here at 4«00 a.m. This is q\iite a small village (Hardifort), but boasts about six cafes, which all make most excellent coffee. We are having quite a decent rest here "

"21st March, I met my brother the other day and had a short talk with him, he is going to try to come over to see me shortly. We had some excite--ment today, as we saw a German aeroplane chased by a French one. It dropped some bombs and killed seven or ei^t women and children, and injured some A.S.Co men. It was brou^t dovni quite near our Divisional Headqiiarters, We have had most ripping weather ever since we've been out here."

"6th April. Well, I've been up to the trenches for twenty-four hours, and spent Easter Sunday there. We went up on a bus in which I fell asleep; we nearly had our heads knocked off by low telegraph wires across the roads, but arrived at our destin--ation and were attached to the London Scottish. Nothing really exciting happened and it was quite nice, thou^ if the enemy's artillery had got going I can imagine it would have been quite different."

"12th April, We have come back from our first real dose of the trenches. Our Company was the first to go in, a great honour for us and the school, as No. 2 Company is of course half G.D.s We made a good reputation for ourselves and the battalion. The officers of the regular battalion to which we were attached said 'we were the best Territorials by far they had yet met, and equal to any regulars'. That's not bad for a start, is it? The morning we left the trenches we had a most awful bombardment, about sixty 'Black Marias' falling within about 200 yards. However, I believe the 20th is going to be a lucky battalion, as we had only one casualty, a man slightly wounded in the thigh; he was in my platoon."

"25rd April, We are back now a little further from the firing line, supposed to be having a rest. To show you what our rest is like, I'll quote the daily routine, 5»30» Reveille; 5•50 "to 6,30, Wash--ing and cleaning billets; 6.5O to 7.15» Running and Physical Drill; 7,30, Breakfast; 8,30 to I0OO, Parade; 1,15» Dinner; 2,50 and 4«30» Parades, That's what I call a good rest. We are off now for another spell in the trenches, and e3q)ect to take part in an attack that is imminent "

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"26th April. We axe up in the trenches again; when I say we I mean the battalion, for I am about 500 yards behind in a strong post with a couple of machine-guns."

"30th April, Am writing this from the trenches. We have been shelled a bit this afternoon, but no damage done. There is supposed to be a sniper in a graveyard about 200 yards up the road, ri^t behind us, and so a fiaring party has gone to investigate. It turned out to be a washout."

"2nd May. Have just returned after 48 hours up with a working party, and had just got to sleep when we had to stand to arms of a bombardment, which was so heavy that the air never ceased quivering."

"7th May. I am not at present with the battalion, but in the trenches with the machine-guns. My home is a fine 'dugt-out*, composed chiefly of sandbags."

"15th May. I am back again tenrporarily with the battalion. Last Friday I left the machine-guns and rejoined the 20th. On Saturday, at midnight, we moved up about seven miles, and stayed under cover of a farmyard all day. At 9*00 p.m. on Sunday we moved another mile up and then bivou--acked. On Monday we again moved up, this time about half a mile, and bivoxiacked for two days in an orchard, ready to move at any moment. Yesterday we moved back to Bethune where we are now. Ihiring all this time we were in reserve to an attack, but never actually came into it, althou^ several times we were on the verge "

In the sranmer of 1915 "the rheumatism that had plagued him at Oxford became worse and was exacerbated by life in the trenches; he was invalided back to England and was under treatment for five months, but was then passed fit for home service only. He was promoted to Tenrporary Captain and company commander on 14 July 1916 and held this rank \xntil 12 October following, having been promoted to Lieut on 8 August 1916. He became Temporary Captain again on 5 December 1916, and substantive Captain on 18 April 1917* After many unsuccessful attempts to get back to France he was finally passed fit again in the summer of 1918 and left for the front on 5I Jiily. He was seriously wounded a month later during the fitting at Maurepas near Peronne, and died of his injuries on 30 August 19I8, He is boiried at Peronne Road Cemetary, Maricotirt, Prance, and his next of kin were his parents, by then living at 9 Hart Grove, Ealing Common, London W,

After the War, St. Dunstan's was divided into eight Houses, each named after a distinguished Old Boy who had been killed. Thomas's outstanding all-round academic and sporting achievements led to his inclusion in the list of names chosen. The House colour is red, the motto "surgite", and the crest a ciborium. In the "Chronicle" of November 19I8 appears an obituary written by the Headcaaster, CoMo Stuart:

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"Captain Arthur Laurie Thomas, the younger of the two distinguished "brothers who occupied the position of head of the school, was killed in action near Peronne on 30th August 1918. He was an officer in the 20th London from the beginning of the war, and was indef--atigable in his care for his men."

"His school record was an exceptionally brilliant one, he early showed a taste for classics, and gained a classical scholarship at Brasenose College, Oxford, where he had only spent one year. He was in the first school team in all the games and at cricket was one of the best cricketers we ever had. His score of 299 not out against Camberwell still holds the record. In that year (l915) his batting average was 72, including three other centuries. As head of the school, all his efforts were directed towards making others comfortable and happy, and no one ever asked for his advice in vain. 'A fellow can be a decent fellow without going in for games' I Heard some one say the other day; so he can, but when, like Thomas, he combines 'going in for games' brilliantly with brilliant scholarship, and with unfail--ing cheerfulness and self-denial, I think that he has got more from the school and given more to the school than merely being 'a decent fellow'. Thomas was a noble character. May we keep his memory ever green."

THOMS, Leonard Charles Ernest. He was bom at Rotherhithe on 14 September 1893> "the son of George Evan and Edith Belissa Thomas, The family lived at 108 Ladywell Road, Lewisham, and his father worked for a com factor. He was educated at Gordonbrock Elementary School, Brockley Grove, Brockley, and then won a London County Council Scholarship to St. Ihmstan's, attending the School from September 1905 to July 19O8. He followed his father onto the Com Exchange and worked there until the War; and shortly after leaving School he joined the ranks of the 22nd London Regt (1st Surrey Rifles, Territorial Force) which had its headquarters at Bermondsey. Some time before the War he transferred to the West Kent Yeomanry, enlisting at Maidstone. When the War began he was mobilised and volunteered for overseas service, and after some months stationed in the Canterbury area he sailed with his unit firom Liverpool on the S.So "Olympic" on 24 September 1915.

He arrived at Gallipoli on 8 October 1915 in "C" Squadron of the 1/1 st West Kent Yeomanry, and served with it in the 42nd Division until January 1916, when the British withdrew from the peninsula. He served later on the island of Lemnos and then went to Egypt with the Regiment, being based at Alexandria. He died of pneumonia at Suez on 10 May 1916 after only two days in hospital; the "Lee Journal" of 2 June 1916 reports that he had caught a chill whilst participating in some sports, and that his brother George, also in the unit, was with him when he died. He is buried in Suez War Memorial Cemetary, Egypt. The "Journal" also notes that his home was at 7 Prancemary Street, Ladywell Road, Lewisham. His Captain wrote to his parents:

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"He will be very much missed in the Sqiiadron, where he was very popular; we have lost a first-rate soldier. It is very hard that he should have been taken now after escaping all the dangers of the Peninstila. You have my deepest sympathy,"

THOMPSON, William John, He was bom at Brockley on 25 June 1894, the son of R. Thompson, a company secretary of 118 Tressillian Road, He was educated at St, Margaret's College, Brockley, and then at St, Dunstan's from September 1904 to July 19O9, He left to study at Clark's College for entiy into the Civil Service. On the outbreak of War he enlisted in the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) in London, and after training near St, Alban's he accompanied the unit to Prance, where it landed on 28 October 1914« He was killed in action a month later, on 27 November 1914» at Lindenhoek, Belgium, He was the first man of the Regiment to be killed in the War, the first of thousands of members and ex-members of the •unit. As the unit was not in action on this date, it would appear that he was attached to another unit as a temporary officer. The Battalion was marching through France in October 1914 when a staff officer stopped it and selected some 50 Public School and University men from the ranks; they were given immediate commissions in the field and were sent to other units to make up for the heavy casualties in junior officers. Due to the temporary nature of this measxire, they wore their Artists' omiforms with the addition of a pip, Thompson had been a member of "H" Company, and is buried in Neuve-Eglise Churchyard in Belgium.

TICKLE, Gordon Philip, Bom at Catford on 30 October 1898, he was the son of Alexander Eliza Tickle. Educated firstly at Brockley High School, he came to St. Dunstan's in September 19O8. The School Register does not mention his father, but shows his mother as living at 98 Adelaide Road, Brockley. He won several events in the Athletic Sports in 19IO and 1911, and played in several Fives Tournaments, In July 1914 he left the School and became a junior clerk at the Mile End Distilleiy Company, London EC, Some time after the War began he enlisted in the ranks of the Royal Army Medical Corps; his service with this Corps is not known, but at the end of 1917 he was chosen for a commission, and after passing through an Officer Cadet Unit he was promoted 2/Lieut in the 6th London Regt (City of London) on 1 May 19I8, On 27 August I9I8 he went into action with this unit near Rouen, in an attack which began at 5*00 a,m. This was accompanied by a well-planned and accurate barrage, and with the help of dead ground the Battalion got to the German lines. After heavy fighting the village of Maricourt was taken, but the strong German resistance here left the unit with 5OO killed and wounded and it consolidated and dug in. Tickle was one of those wounded, and he died four weeks later, on 30 September 19I8, He is biiried at St, Sever Cemetary Extension in France, His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 8 Hosford House, Devonshire Road, Forest Hill,

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TOWSE, William Norman. He was "bom on 16 January 1889, the son of I. Wrench and Alice Maud Mary Towse, of "Hillside", Ravensboume Park, Catford, He arrived at St. Ihmstan's in May 19OO, hut the School Register omits the details of his previous education and the date he left the School. However, it is known that his parents later moved to "Sunnydene", Bickley, Bromley. As soon as the War started he enlisted in the ranks of the 28th London Regt (Artists' Rifles) with the number I56O5 he passed through this officer-producing unit and was commissioned into the 4'th London Regt (City of London, Royal Fusiliers) on 8 October 1914. He was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Regiment and served with it at Maidstone before accompanying it to Malta, where it arrived on 31 December 1914. On 2 December he had been promoted Tenrporary Lieut, and on 15 April 1915 he was promoted Temporary Captain and given command of a company. In Aoigust 1915 the Battalion left Malta for Alexandria, and from there sailed for Gallipoli, landing at Helles on 15 October 1915 where it served with the 1st Brigade of the Royal Naval Division. He remained in this theatre \mtil 7 January 1916, when his half of the Battalion was evacuated from Helles and returned to Egypt.

After three months with the garrison in Egypt, dTzring which time he served on several coiirts martial, he went to Prance with the ixnit, arriving at Marseilles on 24 April 1916. The Battalion went to Rouen, where Towse had a weeks' leave, but three weeks after he rejoined it news arrived that it was to be disbanded. He was posted to the 21st London Regt (1st Surrey Rifles) on 22 June 1916, and served vrith his new Battalion in the fitting on the Somme. On 15 September 19I6 he led his company forward in an attack at High Wood, but was shot in the head and killed instantly. He was buried at Warlincourt British Cemetary, Prance. The Regimental History of the 2/4th London Regt has a photograph of him, with other officers of the unit, taken at Ploriana in Malta on 2 May 1915.

TRATMAM, Leslie William Thomas Draycott. Bom at Forest Hill on 1 November 1898, he was the only son of William Stephen Tratman and his wife Georgine, daughter of Thomas Draycott. The family lived at 6 Cranston Road, Forest Hill, and his father was an examiner of surveys at the Land Registry in Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, He was educated locally at Frankfort House H i ^ School in Forest Hill, and then at St. Dunstan's from April 1909 to July 1915. At about the time he left his parents moved to "Weymouth", Buncombe Hill, Forest Hill. Tratman was a regular member of the congregation at St. George's, Perry Hill, and was a server there for some years; he was also very interested in music and was a gifted pianist.

Soon after his ei^teenth birthday, on 2 February 1917» he enlisted in the ranks of the Artists' Rifles OTC with the niimber 765254, and on 21 February following he joined the unit at Gidea Park, Essex, for training. On I5 June 1917 he was commissioned onto the General List for service with the Royal Flying Corps, and after further training he gained his Wings and Pilot's Certificate on 29 September 1917* He was promoted to Lieut in the Royal Air Force on 1 April 19I8 and went to France in the following month, being attached to a Ni^t Bombing Squadron,

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Tratman gained experience on several missions over the German lines, and was appointed second-in-command of his flight. On the ni^t of 18 July 1918 he went on a raid with his Squadron and his was the only aircraft which failed to return to base. He was reported missing, and on 21 Jvly his Captain wrote to his parents:

"As far as our work goes out here, he had done splendidly in every way. It is a great loss to me, not only as an officer, but as a friend; nobody could be more popular,"

No further news was received until early September, when the "Lee Journal reported that Tratman's parents had received a letter from their son's observer. In this he said that their aircraft had been brou^t down behind enemy lines; Tratman had managed to land safely and they were both unhurt, but as they made for the British lines they were surrounded and taken prisoner. He was in a POW camp in Germany until the Armistice, when he was freed, and he arrived back in England on 24 December 19I8.

After some leave he was posted to a Ni^t Plying Squadron as an Instructor in March 1919; whilst taking up his new appointment at Harpswell Aerodrome he became ill with broncho-pneumonia, and after being transferred to No. 4 General Hospital at Lincoln he died on 15 March 1919* His parents received a nvunber of letters from brother officers; one wrote that he was a very sure and courageous pilot, and the observer who was with him when he was captured said that he owed his life to Tratman. The "Lee Journal" of 21 March 1919 contained a brief account of his "burial:

"The funeral took place on Wednesday 19th March, the inteiamient being in the family grave at Lewisham Cemetary. His remains wei?e accorded military honours, and prior to the burial a service was held at St. George's Church, Perry Hill, The body was conveyed there in an open motor carriage provided by the EAP, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack, and it was preceded by a firing party, A large EAP motor-wagon followed at the rear of the funeral cortege, whilst the floral tributes were conv--eyed in an open hearse,"

TROTTER, Herbert John, Bom at Forest Hill on 5O July 1881, he was the eldest son of John Glass and Julia Elizabeth Trotter, His brother Stuart appears below. His father was Assistant Clerk to the Lord Mayor of London and Clerk to the City Magistrates, The family lived at first at 17 Granton Road, Forest Hill, and later at 218 Stanstead Road; his father died shortly after him, in about 19I8, and his widowed mother then moved to 6 Montem Road, Forest Hill, He was educated privately by Miss Cope at St, Colomb, Park Road, Forest Hill, before attending St, Dunstan's from September 1892 until December I896.

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On leaving St. Dunstan's, Trotter worked for Scott and Son in their warehoTise in Cannon Street, London EC; he later followed his father into the employment of the City of London Coirporation, becoming a clerk in their Records Department. He continued to live at home, and was a playing member of the Forest Hill Cricket Club at the turn of the century. In 1903 he decided to emigrate to Canada, a course followed by a ntunber of Old Boys at this time, and he started there as a farmer. At the outbreak of War he had been successful and after twelve years he had a mixed farm of l60 acres. Deciding to join the Army, he rented out his farm and went to Edmonton, where he enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. As he was comparatively old to enlist he was offered a number of non-combatant posts but refused these and after training in Canada he came to England. He went to France in 1916 with the Canadian Machine Gun Corps, served with the 4th and 12th Conrpanies of the Corps, and was killed in the fierce fighting for Vimy Ridge on 23 August 1917. His officer wrote to his parents:

"They were in a tight comer when Pte. Trotter was killed by a shell. It has been a hard blow for all of us, as Pte. Trotter was very poptilar, and one of the best and the most dependable man in my sectiono"

He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial in France.

TROTTER, Stuart Fowden. He was bom on 25 November 1885 in Forest Hill, the second son of John Glass and Jvtlla Elizabeth Trotter. His eldest brother Herbert appears above. His father was Assistant Clerk to the Lord Mayor of London and Clerk to the City Magistrates. The family lived at first at 17 Granton Road, Foirest Hill, and later at 218 Stanstead Road; his father died shortly after him, in about 1918, and his widowed mother then moved to 6 Montem Road, Forest Hill. He was educated at Rathfem Road Elementary School before arriving at St. Dunstan's in January 1897> a- month after his brother Herbert had left. He won a School Prize for French in 19OO, and was a 2?egular participant in School Concerts. He was in the 1st XI Cricket in the 1900 and 1901 seasons; and in 19OO he joined the 2nd X? Rugby, at the same time playing occasional games for the 1st XV", which side he joined permanently in I9OI. He was a keen swimmer, and in 19OO and 1901 he won a number of events at the School; he represented St. Dunstan's in the London Public Schools Swimming Competition in 19OI.

Leaving in December 19OI, he went to work for the fiam owned by one of the School Governors - W.H. Thompson and Company, tea brokers of Mincing Lane, London EC, He maintained his interest in sport, and was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, In 19O5 he was in the Old Boys Cricket Team and was at the same time a member of the Forest Hill Club 3rd XI. During the period 1905 to I907 he was in the South African Banks 1st XI, and in 1907 was elected Captain of the Old Boys Swimming Club,

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Trotter left England in 1907 snA emigrated to Canada, a not uncommon choice for Old Dunstonians at the time, and no doubt encoiiraged hy the success of his "brother Herbert (q.v.) who had emigrated in 1903 and was building up a successful farm in Alberta. He worked first in the head office of the Bank of Montreal and later in a branch in Winnipeg. His later career in Canada, and his epic journey to enlist, was told in his obituary in the "Lee Journal":

"He ultimately joined the Northern Trading Company of Edmonton, to trade with the Dogrub Indians for furs on the Great Slave Lake. In these inhospitable regions he remained until after the outbreak of war, when he obtained permission from the Company to break his contract with them to join the Army, On 4 January 1915> he started with his sledge and team of dogs to do the 9OO miles from Port Rae, on the Great Slave Lake, to Edmonton. It took him six weeks to do the journey. He encountered a terrible blizzard en route, the temperature at the time registering 62 below zero, or 94 degrees of frost, and dxiring the whole journey it never rose to more than 50 below. His face was frostbitten, and, having to walk in snowshoes in fa?ont of his dogs for 6OO miles to break the trail, his feet became severely bliste3?ed. Except--ing these disabilities, such was his sound health and constitution, that he arrived in Edmonton fit and well,"

Trotter enlisted in the Port Gariy Horse, but was soon accepted for a commission and was promoted Temporary Lieut in the Canadian Exped--itionary Force on 5I October 1916, He served in Canada with the 51st Battalion and later the 209th Battalion, came to England, and volunteered for service with the Royal Plying Corps. After a short period of training he was seconded to the Corps as an observer on 4 July 1917* Just a few days later, on 6 Jizly 1917» he died of wounds received during an aerial combat. His parents received a letter from his pilot, Lieut Durrant, who had been flying with Trotter for four weeks, with details of his death;

"We were out doing offensive patrol, when six of us ran into a bunch of Hun machines, and it was reported later there were forty. We had just ba^ed one and making for a second, when one of them got behind us. Some of his shots went into the engine, which stopped, and then I noticed Stuart, who had been standing up firing his gun, sink down into the machine. He stretched out his hand to me, and said goodbye, as he was wounded. So I immediately got round, and headed for our own side of the lines, and landed at an aerodrome, which was ri^t beside a hospital, but it vras too late as he had passed away before we reached the ground, and apparently with very little pain. He vras buried at the Military Cemetajy, I must say that I miss him very much, for a better comrade and observer I co\ild not wish to have, and you can believe me it has quite taken the heart out of me to go on. But that won't do these days, we must keep at it until the Hun is absolutely conqueredo"

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Trotter was 'buriecL in Bailleul Communal Cemetary in France, leaving a widow as his next of kin. He had married Dorothy Beryl Richardson of Winnipeg in 1916, just before he left Canada. The "Chronicle" of November 191? carried an obituary notice detailing his life and military service, and which concluded:

"He was a splendid fellow, such as the College could ill afford to lose. A thorou^ sportsman, and a fine exanrple of British manhood, both morally and physically, he was a credit not only to his Alma Mater, but also to his race. Albam Exomavit."

TRIMBLE, Bernard Frank. Bom at Clapham on 51 December 1898, he was the second son of Thomas and Catherine Trumble. His father was a manager in a stockjobbers' office, and when Trumble was young the family moved to 85 Stillness Road at Honor Oak Park. He was educated first at St. Mary Magdalene's School in Brockley from I906 to I91O, and was at Sto Dunstan's from January 19II to April 1914* He was in the 3 d X7 Rugby in 19II and was a member of the OTCo As soon as the War began he tried to enlist, but was rejected as he was only just 16 years old. He worked for Palmer B2X)thers of Throgmorton Street, London EC, for some time and continued to apply for the Army. He was finally accepted in 1916, before he was 18, and vas posted to the Ainy Service Corps. Althou^ still too young for service at the front he volunteered for service on horse transports taking reinforcements across the Channel, and on one of these voyages was picked up from the sea after his vessel was torpedoed.

He later joined the 1st Battalion of the 5th West Yorkshire Regt (Territorial Force), enlisting in London, and went to the front with the unit at the beginning of May 19I8. In August 19I8 the Battalion was part of the 49th Division in the Ypres Salient, and on 11 August he was a member of a patrol which went out into No Man's Land in daylight. During this patrol he was shot in the head and died instant--ly. He is bizried at Hagle Dump Cemetary, Elverdin^e, Belgium. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 19 Gabriel Street, Forest Hill, but his father died soon afterwards and by about 192O his mother was living at 56 Claverton Street, Pimlico. His Colonel wrote:

"It may be consolation to you to know how splendidly your boy has done since he came to cur battalion. He was so keen and reliable, and if spared would have made a splendid officer."

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TDEHER, Walter Williams. He was the son of Charles and Eliza Qhiiner, and was bom at New Cross on 23 August 1899» He was the youngest son of the family, and his father was a railway signalman. The family moved to 5 Blashford Street, Hither Green, when he was yoimg, and he attended Beacon Road Elementary School from 1907 to 1911. He won a London County Council Scholarship to St. IKmstan's, and arrived in September 1911; the "Chronicle" notes that he won a ntimber of races in the Athletic Sports in 1912, including the 100 yards and 220 yards for the Under IJs. He left early in March 1915 as he had passed into the Civil Service as a junior clerk at the Home Office, but instead of taMng this position he enlisted in Lewisham into the 11th (Lewisham) Battalion of the West Kent Regt. After a few weeks he was promoted to Cpl, and in September to Sgt, his promotion aided by previous service in the School OTC,

In the spring of 1916 he went to France with the unit, which landed there on 5 May 1916 as part of the 41st Division, On 15 September 1916 he went into action with the Battalion when it attacked German lines at Delville Wood and Flers, near Longueval. The unit spent many hoTors moving up the communication trenches to the start line, as these were very crowded. The Battalion was to be in the second wave of the attack, which was preceded by an all-night bombardment. This alerted the enemy opposite - the 4th Bavarian Division - that an attack was planned, and German artillery shelled the Battalion all night until it moved off into the attack at 6.20 a.m. Progress was slow, but by the afternoon all the main objectives had been taken, including Switch Trench, Flers Trench and Flers Village. The progress on the flanks had, however, been small and the unit was in danger of being cut off; it was therefore withdrawn at dusk. Of the 610 going into action only 265 were left in the line by the end of the day.

At first Turner was reported as missing, but his parents were later informed of his death in a letter from Pte Dowdell, a member of the Battalion who lived in the same street as the Turner family. He wrote that Turner was wounded in the shoulder dizring the advance, and just afterwards was hit in the head and killed. Dowdell went to help him butfovmd that he was too late; he himslef was wounded in both legs a couple of days later. He was buried at Bulls Road Cemetary, Flers, France, and his next of kin were his parents, who by this time were living at 23 Blashford Street, Hither Green,

WALKER, Ernest, An American Dunstonian, he was bom on 28 June I883 in New York, the son of John R, Walker, When he was young the family came to London and lived at "Oakdene", Lingard Road, Lewi--sham. He was educated privately by Miss Lemon in College Park, and was then at St, Dunstan's from September I894 to April 1900, After leaving the School he continued to live locally - in Brockley - and was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, During the War he enlisted in the Royal Garrison Artilleiy at Deptford, and went to France later with the 290th Siege Battery. He was killed in action at Boesinghe on 20 Jiily 1917 and is biiried at Canada Farm Cemetary in Belgium,

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WALKER, Leslie Byatt, He was bom on 12 May I896 at Norwood, and was the son of E.B. Walker, a hotel manager. He was educated first at Kent House College, and when his family moved to 5 G-arlies Road, Forest Hill, in 19O8, he came to St, Dunstan's, He was in the 4th XI Cricket in 19IO, progressed to the 2nd XI in 191I, and was in the 5rd XV Rugby side in the I9IO season. He left in July 1911 and went to Canada almost immediately. In 1912 he was working as a clerk on the Grand Tinnk Pacific Railway at Rivers, Manitoba, and his address was PO Box 50 in the town.

On 24 July 1915 he enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force at Brandon, Manitoba, adding two years to his age to ensiire that he was accepted, and was posted to the '^/^^t'h. Reserve Battalion, After some time training in Canada and England, he went to France in 1916 with the 8th Battalion (Manitoba Regt) and whilst serving with this imit he was killed in action on 14 J^me 1916, He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres, Belgium,

WALKER, Thomas Campbell, Bom on 4 September 1893» he was the son of T.C, Walker, a cashier of 144 Greenvale Road, Eltham, He was first educated at Ihilwich Hamlet Elementary School and then won a Scholar--ship from the London County Council to St. Dunstan's from September 1905 to April 1909, He left to become a junior clerk with Whitehead and Chown, stock and share b3?okers of Bucklersbxiry, London EC, He later emigrated to Canada, following many other Old Xhmstonians of his generation; he enlisted at the beginning of the War in the Canadian Expeditionary Force and was posted to the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, After training he came to England and thence to France, He distinguished himself in the fighting there, and was promoted directly to a commission on 19 October 1915» being appointed 2/Lieut in the 10th (Service) Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers,

He joined his new unit, which was in the 52nd Brigade of the 7th Division, in the front line at Yp3?es shortly afterwards. The unit held a position known as "The Bluff" - an important piece of high ground which offered good observation over the Ypres Salient, The Bltiff was, on I4 February 1916, garrisoned by a platoon of "C" Company under the command of Walker around New Year Trench, The Germans moved forward to attack and there was a heavy accompanying barrage; Walker led his men to a tunnel and kept them there to avoid the shelling, whilst he and a few sentries remained in the open watching for the German advance. At this point the Germans exploded a mine under the position, and Walker and the sentries were killed instantly, the men in the tunnel were trapped, and the Germans took the position. Walker's detachment had been isolated from the rest of the Company and it was some time before the supporting troops were aware of what had happened. He has no known grave, and is commemor^ -ated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Yp3?es, Belgium,

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WALLACE, John George, He was bom on 14 November 1884 in Glasgow, the son of John and Mary Wallace. He was at first educated at the Hutcheson School in Glasgow, but in I896 his father, a commercial traveller, moved to "Devon Villa", Honley Road, Catford, and he came to St, Dunstan's in September of that year. He won a School Prize for English in 19OO, and was a member of the 2nd XV Rugby in the three seasons from 1898 to I9OO, He was a keen swimmer, and was in the School team at the London Public Schools Swimming Competitions in both 1899 and 19OO, After leaving he was a member of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club, and was Captain of the Old Boy "A" XV in 1905 and 1904; this was the first Old Dunstonian Rugby team to be formed. He was also Captain of the Old Dunstonian Swimming Club for some years.

In 1907 he followed the example of many Old Boys and emigrated to Canada, where he worked for some years in the offices of Andrew Clement and Sons at 30 William Street, Montreal, Quebec. At some stage just before the War he married Annie M. Mahoney, and probably worked for a firm in New York, as his widow was later noted as living at 511 West 169th Street in that city. He enlisted in the Army in Bermuda on 5I Jiily 1915» proceeded to Canada to join the Expeditionary Force, and was comrnissioned almost immediately as Lieut in the 58th Battalion on 8 August 1915* After training in Canada and England, he went to Prance in I916 with the 38th Battal--ion (Eastern Ontario Regt), was wounded, and died of wounds on 18 November 1916. He is buried at Regina Trench Cemetary, Grandcourt, Prance.

WALLIS, Alleyne Westaby. He was bom on 25 April I896, the son of Richard and Constance Wallis, His father was a police inspector at the Police Station, 157 Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent, and the family lived at 72 Algernon Road, Lewisham, He was educated firstly at Blackheath Road Elementary School, then won a London County Council Scholarship and was at St, Dunstan's from September 1907 "to July 1909, His parents are later noted as living at "Chessington", Havelock Road, Bognor, Sussex,

When the War began he volunteered for service, and on 20 January 1915 he enlisted in the Honourable Artillery Company in London, He served as a Dvr in "2/B" Battery of the unit for a year in England, and was then given a direct commission on 18 Janiiary 1916, After further training he was appointed to the 10th London Regt (Hackney) and went to Prance on 9 October 1916. He was later with the 21st London Regt (1st Surrey Rifles) and whilst with this unit was killed in Prance on 7 Jim-e 1917* On this date the Battalion was in the 142nd Brigade of the 47th (London) Division dtiring the attack at Messines. The unit was in the support wave of the Brigade, which was charged with capturing Spoil Banks and the Canal Bank, After a heavy bombardment and the explosion of large mines under the Geiman positions the Brigade advanced, but met very strong opposition and could not take its main objectives. The Brigade lost 178 killed and 900 wounded and missing in this advance, Wallis has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial at Ypres, Belgium,

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WALLIS, Noel Veder, He was bom on 26 December 1881 and was the son of William Emerson and Alice Sarah Seabrooke Wallis. He was educated at a proprietary school in Gravesend tintil his parents moved to 43 Sunderland Road, Forest Hill, and he was at St. Dunstan's from May 1892 to Jiily 1895* His subsequent career is •unknown, but in I9OO he went to study at University College, Oxford, for three years. At the beginning of the War he joined the Army, and the "Chronicles" of 1915 show him in the Royal Horse Guards (The Blues). On 1 March 1915 he was commissioned and was posted as 2/Lieut to the Cheshire Regt, He served at first with the 12th Battalion and later with the 9th Battalion of the Regiment. After service in Egypt and Salonika, he went to France with the 9th Cheshires.

On 10 April 1917 the Germans launched a massive attack around Ploegsteert Wood with a superiority of 5 to 1, and the Battalion was moved up in the 25th Division to reinforce the line north­east of Nieppe. The enemy bypassed the unit and entered the Wood, and the Battalion had to counterattack to avoid being encircled. During this fighting Wallis was killed, and he was buried at Klein-Vierstraat British Cemetaiy at Kemmel, Belgium. His mother having died before him, his father was his next of kin.

WALLIS-STOLZIiE, Otto. Bom on 19 February I894, he was the eldest son of Gustav Wallis-Stolzle and his wife Elizabeth, daii^ter of Henry Wallis. The family name was Stolzle for some years, but they added Wallis at the outbreak of the War in 1914. He was bom in London, and the family lived at "Lyndhurst", Chudleigh Road, Crofton Park. He was educated at Mandle Road Higher Grade School, and then at St. Ihmstan's from September I906 to July 19O8; he was a member of the Debating Society from I9O6, and won a School Prize for Drawing in 19O8. After leaving St. Dunstan's he continued to live with his father, a shipping clerk, and took a job with Messrs. C.T. Bowring and Company, insurance brokers. He was also Scout Master of the St. Hilda's, 1st Crofton Park Troop of Baden-Powell Scouts.

In August 1914 iie went to Blackheath and enlisted in the Old Dunston--ian Company of the 20th London Regt. After training in England he accompanied the unit to France in March 1915> and served in the early battles of Festubert and Givenchy. He was p2?esent at the attack on Loos on 25 September 1915> and came iininjiored throu^ the battles of the next few days in which many Old Boys were killed and wounded. He continued to seiTve in France, and was later attached to the Intelligence Department in 1916. In November of that year he left the 20th London Regt, in which he had become a Sgt, and transferred to the Royal Engineers as a 2nd Cpl, He was attached to the 5th Army Wireless Company, and whilst serving in this unit he was killed in a road accident at Varennes on 25 April 1917* He is buried at Varennes Cemetary in France, and his next of kin was his father, living by then at 15 Benson Road, Forest Hill. He is listed on the War Memorial of St. Hilda's Church, Crofton Park, and a photograph of him appears in "Lloyd's War Memorial 1914^19" in which he is in the uniform of a Sgt in the 20th London Regt and is listed as an employee of Bowring's.

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Wallis-Stolzle's commanding officer wrote to his father:

"His death has given all his company a great blow. He was a good soldier, and is a loss to us all. Only yesterday I received a most flattering report about him from the officer under whom he was working. He has been prom--oted 2nd Cpl for good work, and was on the high road to further promotion, which he richly merited. Your dear son had endeared himself to us all during the weeks he had been with us, by his cheerfulness, his devotion to duty and his outstanding unselfishness."

WEBB, Stanley Horace. He was bom at Peckham on 10 September 1892, the eldest son of Horace Walter Webb and his wife Rose Annie, daughter of Christopher Stray of Greenwich. His younger brother Trevor appears below, and his father was the advertising manager of a newspaper. When Webb was yotmg the family moved to 25 Ring--stead Road, Catford, and he attended Plassy Road Elementary School. He came to St. I>unstan*s in September 1902, and left in 1909 to attend King's College in London. He continued to live with his parents, subsequently moving with them to "Woodville", I6 Honley Road, Catford; and he followed his father into the newspaper business and became an assistant cashier with the Amalgamated Press Ltd of Fleetway House, Parringdon Street, London EC, He was a well-known cricketer and footballer in South London, being Captain of the Woodville Cricket and Football Club, and a champion in the Camberwell and District League of 1911 as a member of the Amalgamated Press Athletic Club team.

When the War began he joined the Old Lunstonian Company of the 20th London Regt, and went to Hatfield with the unit for training. Ihiring this training he accidentally inj-ured his leg, and was unable to accompany the Battalion to Prance in March 1915* The "Lee Journal" of 25 June 1915 reported that he had been in hospital at St. Alban's for five weeks suffering fj?om water on the knee and septic poisoning. His recovery was slow, and when he was finally passed for duty he was not fit enou^ to rejoin the infantry, being transferred to the Royal Army Medical Coips in January 1916. In the following year he was recommended for a commission by Lord Rothermere and was posted to the 6th Officer Cadet Battalion at Worcester College, Oxford; during his time there he was in the unit Cricket XI. He was commiss--ioned into the Royal West Kent Regt on 1 Aizgust 1917*

Webb went to Prance on 1 October 1917 and was attached to the 3/4th Battalion (Territorial Porce) of the Royal West Kent Regt, which was part of the 52nd Brigade of the 17th Division. He served with this unit in the battles of Ypres and Cambrai, and was wounded in the hand when he fell on some barbed wire, which resulted in treatment for septic poisoning. He was sent home on two weeks leave from 3 March 1918, and when he returned to Prance on 17 March he found that his Battalion had been disbanded as part of the Army reorganisation of 20 February 19I8.

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Webb was then attached to the 7th (Service) Battalion of the Royal West Kent Regt. This unit was in the line near St. Quentin, and just a few days after he joined it, it was surrounded and destroyed in the great German offensive on 21 March 1918. The 18th Division, of which the Battalion was part, bore the brunt of the Gexman attack, which began with a veiy heavy bombardment. The enemy advanced imder cover of a very thick mist, and charged the British trenches from a distance of only 50 yards. The two companies in the front line were overrun, and by midday the remnants of the unit had been surrounded. At about this time Webb, who was Battalion signalling officer, was wounded whilst defending the unit HQ at Ihirham Post. After a siege of some hours the garrison ran short of ammunition and was forced to surrender; however, it had held up the German advance and by evening the Divisional front was more intact than neighbotiring units. Webb was captured and died of his wounds as a prisoner of war on 26 March 1918; he is buried at Ribemont Communal Cemetary Extension in France.

Two accounts remain of the battle and the part played in it by Webb; the first appears in "The Roll of Honour" by Ruvigny:

"On 21 March he was officer in charge of a platoon in an advanced post. When the big attack commen--ced his platoon was surroimded by the enemy; an order from Company HQ, was received to get back to the front line; then they were completely stirrv -ounded and the whole battalion was captured, including 28 officers, the Chaplain and Doctors. Dr. Moore RAMC, attached to the battalion, stated that he attended Lieut Webb when he was wounded in the shotilder, arm, thigh and back; he did all he could to save him, but his case was hopeless from the first. The Doctor stated that he was very b3?ave, and the men were very proud of their officer who, althou^ wounded, would not surrender, but led them until he was mortally wounded."

His parents also received a letter from Capt Eric Watts of the unit, who wrote:

"He was a great friend of mine; he was in my company the whole time he was with the 4'th and 7th Battalions of the Royal West Kent Regt. I was with him when he was wounded in the village of Moy, near St. Quentin. He was on outpost duty; about 10.00 a.m. he came back to Company HQ, having been driven in. We held for a time at my HQ, which was front­line company, and then retired to Battalion HQ, at 11.00 a.m. On arriving there I found the CO vras wounded, and then I was in charge of the remains of the battalion. We held on until 2.50 p.m. when we were captured. When Lieut Webb was wounded I did not see him again. He was a charming fellow, and I am more sorry than I can say to hear of his death."

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WEBB, Trevor. He was "bo-m at Catford on 28 February I896, the second son of Horace Walter Webb and his wife Rose Annie, daiighter of Chris--topher Stray of Greenwich. His elder brother Stanley appears below, and his father was the advertising manager of a newspaper, The family had lived in Peckham and later moved to Catford, firstly to 23 Ring^ -stead Road and later to "Woodville", I6 Honley Road. He was, like his brother, educated locally at Plassy Road Elementary School, and was then sent to St. Dimstan's in January 19O8. He was in the 4th XI in the 19O8 season, and left in July 19II to go to Pettit's College of Shorthand and Typing. He continued to live with his parents in Catford, and followed his father into the newspaper industry by joining the business staff of the "Daily Mail".

Soon after the War began, on 5 September 1914» he went to Blackheath and enlisted in the ranks of the Old Dunstonian Company, 20th London Regt. After training with the unit at Hatfield he went with it to Prance on 9 March 1915» and took part in the early battles of Pest--ubert and Givenchy; on 3I May, during the latter battle, he was blown into the La Bassee Canal by the e2q)losion of a shell, was wounded in four places and invalided home. The "Lee Journal" of 25 June 1915 gives an account of the incident:

"Pte Trevor Webb, 20th London Regt, had a miracul--ous escape at the Front. After five days in the trenches he, with other members of his company, was about to enter his billet when a shell exploded about 10 yards away from him. He was thrown into a canal, and on being rescued it was found that he had been wounded in four places. He is now under treatment at Olive Hill Hospital, Downend, Bristol. At the time he received his wounds we was already suffering from an injury to his knee. This he sustained through the floor of a house, which was •under fii e, giving way. His knee, apart from his injuries, still needs attention."

He was in the Bristol hospital for about three months and when released, still being unfit for service at the Front, he was attached to the HQ Staff of the 20th London Regt at Holly Hedge House, Black--heath. After a few months he was recommended for a commission by his employer. Lord Northcliff, and received a letter of congratulation from him when he was promoted. After a coiirse of training he was commissioned from Pte onto the General List, for service with the Royal Flying Corps, on 22 J-uly I916. He subsequently obtained his pilot's licence and certificate, wings, and first-class honours in aerial gunnery. He served as a flying instructor in England for several months, and in March 1917 went to France and joined No. 55 Squadron at the front, having been confirmed as a Flying Officer in the Royal Flying Corps on 14 February 1917^ He took part in many aerial raids and was reported missing three times, each time retum--ing safely to his Sq-uadron. The "Chronicle" of July 1917 carries his last letter home from France:

"55th Squadron RFC, France, Wednesday 25th April 1917. I have been unable to write to you for a few days as I have been having an exciting time and am very lucky to be on this side of the lineso"

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"On Monday six of us went on a bomb raid, and on the way back we got attacked by a dozen Hun machines from the rear. One of o\ir machines went down with a spin, the Pilot shot through the head. Four Huns got right on my tail and riddled my machine with bullets. One just missed my head and exploded by the windscreen, blowing all the glass into my face, but I was saved by the goggles. Another shot Just missed my foot, and carried away part of my control. One shot came through the petrol tank and two more through my engine, and about ten in my left plane, carrying away some of the bracing wires and damaging the stirats. The main spars were also shot throu^ but in spite of this we were not touched,"

"When the Hun started firing, my observer took careful aim and at the second burst brought him down. The Pilot was shot, as the machine went down in a spinning nose dive and never came out of it. ]%• engine was practically done in and I thought I was done for, but it gave me sufficient power to make ovx lines, thou^ I crossed at only 4»000 feet, (On the way out crossed at 13,000 feet), I went on until the whole engine seized up solid and then of coiirse I had to land where I could, I landed safely without damaging anything, just by a Casualty Clearing Stationo"

"I then rang up the CO, here as I knew I should be reported as missing. He was very suzrprised and pleased to know I was safe, as the four that returned reported I had gone down in the Hun lines. He was delisted when he heard we had got a Hun machine, as it was the first in the Squad--ron. I spent the night in the hospital, and returned last night by motor here. They are giving me a rest for a day or so, but I am q-uite alright."

Webb was killed in aerial action between Valenciennes and Arras on 10 May 1917; at first he was reported as having gone missing, but later a letter from his Major confirmed that he had been killed in gallantly going to the rescue of a less experienced pilot;

"I am afraid that it is certain that he is killed. He had gone out with five other machines on a long­distance reconnaissance and they had foioght the whole way out and the whole way back. As your son had on previous occasions shown such great ability, he was deputy-leader, and was in charge of the last three machines of the formation, G?hese were both piloted by less expe3?ienced pilots, and they had already once been brought out of a dangerous situa --tion by youjr son's pluck and leadership. It was as he dived to the rescue of another machine that he met his death,"

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"He drove off the foux hostile machines, and was escorting the one of his that had been in trouble towards our own lines, which were only five miles distant. Unfortunately a hostile anti-aircraft gun got a direct hit on his machine and blew it to pieces. Both he and his observer fell out, as there was nothing left of the machine. I think that both were undoubtedly killed before, as the shell btirst right in the machine. I e3q)ect your son has already told you of his other exploits out here. He had done magnificently, and I know of no other case in which a pilot has risen so quickly to a position of deputy-leader, which is a position of responsibility. I lose not only an exceptionally fine officer, but one who was also a friend. Every--body liked him, everybody who flew with him trusted him and had complete confidence in him."

A fellow pilot, 2/Lieut C.A, Stevens, wrote that the Squadron had lost a fine pilot and a brave comrade; and Majo2>-General W.E. Peyton, Military Secretary to Haig, wrote:

"All those with whom your son came in contact speak in the hi^est terms of him, and his loss is keenly felt by them,"

He is buried in St. Souplet British Cemetaiy, Prance.

WELSFOED, Arthur Hadden. Bom at Blackheath on 30 October 1891, he was the third and youngest son of Richard Sherring Welsford and his wife Jane Elizabeth, daughter of the late James Alexander Hadden of Bittacy House, Mill Hill, London. His father had been a coffee planter at Mahaswah, Ceylon, but had returned to England to become a company secretary. The family lived at 6 The Orchard, Blackheath, and he was educated at Blackheath School before coming to St. Dunstan's in Sept--ember 1904. He was a keen Fives player, taking part in the 1906 School Tournament; and was in the 2nd teams for Cricket (190? and 19O8), Rugby (19O8) and Lacrosse (19O8), He left School in Jiay 19O8.

He took a job as a clerk with Messrs. G.W. Dawes and Company, stock--brokers. of 5 Lothbury, London EC. He was an enthusiastic tennis and hockey player, and was a member of the Catford Lacrosse Club. His father died before the War and his mother then moved to "The Cottage", Semaphore Road, Guildford, Surrey; Welsford moved to 7 Chaucer Mansions, Queen's Club Gardens, West Kensington. On the day War was declared, 5 August 1914> he went to Armo\iry House in the City and enlisted in the ranks of the Honourable Artillery Company. After training in London and Essex, he left for France on 18 September 1914 as a member of the 1st (infantry) Battalion of the Regiment. The unit landed at St. Nazaire and became part of the '^rd. Division.

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Welsford continued to serve with the unit in the trenches for some months; in June 1915 "the Battalion was in the line in the Dickebusch-St. Eloi sector, and on 2 June he volunteered to repair some barbed wire on the parapet, a dangerous and exposed position. It was while doing this that he was killed. He was buried nearby in the grounds of Elsenwalle Chateau, and was later reburied at Voormezeele Ceme--tary in Belgiimi.

WESTCOTT, William Ernest. Bom on 10 February 1899, he was the son of Francis Henry and Elizabeth Westcott. His father was a caterer and the family lived at 11 Bammead Road, Beckenham. He was educated first at St. John's Elementary School in Penge from 1906 to 1915, and was then at St. Itoistan's from April 1913 to April 1917* Soon after leaving School he was accepted for officer training, and after being commissioned went to the Royal Flying Corps for training as a flier. He transferred to the Royal Air Force on 1 April I9I8, and whilst serving with No. 8 Training Squadron later that month he was taken ill with meningitis; he died in hospital on 28 April 19I8, and is biiried in Crystal Palace Cemetary, Elmers End Road, Beckenham.

WESTON, George Primrose. Bom on 19 April I896, he was the only son of John Francis and Ellen Weston. His father was an assistant schoolmaster, and the family lived at 52 Halesworth Road, Lewi sham. He was educated first at Blackheath Road Elementary School, and later privately at 19 Tresillian Road, Brockley. He came to St. Dunstan's in January 1907> and in 191O was in the 3 cL XV Rugby and the 2nd XI Cricket; in the following year he was in the 5 d XI, with some games for the 2nd XI side, and in the 2nd XII Lacrosse. He left in December 19II and became a clerk in the Prudential Assurance Conipany. He retained his links with the School by being a member of the Old Dunstonian Riigby Club.

He joined the Old Dunstonian Com any of the 20th London Regt in September 1914 aged just 18, and was in the unit Rugby team along with many other Old Boys. After training at Hatfield he accompanied the Battalion to France in March 1915 > and soon afterwards was selected for a commission. He was promoted from Pte directly to 2/Lieut in the 20th London Regt on 24 May 1915. He took part in the battles of Festubert and Givenchy, and was present at the attack on Loos on 25 September 1915> being one of the Old Boys not killed or woTinded dtiring this fighting. He remained with the l/20th London Regt into 1916, and during the year distinguished himself in a number of actions. He was promoted to Capt on 24 May I916, missing service as a Lieut, and was awarded the Military Cross (London Gazette 24 June I916, details 2? July I916):

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"For conspicuous gallantry as bombing officer. He kept up the supply of bombs xmder heavy artilleay fire. Later he made a very successful reconnaiss--ance of the enemy trenches, and finally led an attack which drove them out."

On 1 October 1916 the unit took part in an attack on Eaucourt I'Abbaye; three battalions were involved, with the 20th Londons in the centre of the advance. The attack was successful at first, but was then held up by machine-gun fire from the grounds of the abbey. n?wo tanks came up and silenced the opposition, and the unit then fought its way through the village and established a new line to the north of it. Ihiring this fighting Weston was killed; he has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Pi-ance. By 1920 his parents were living at 6 Windermere Road, Boume--mouth.

WKECEEE, Frederick 'Pavl. He was bom in Sydenham on 2 May 1897, the eldest son of Josiah and Emma Whicker. His father was manager of the South Norwood branch of the National Provincial and Union Bank of England, and the family lived for many years at "Florence Villa", Sydenham Hill Road, Sydenham. He was first educated at Sydenham H i ^ School in West Hill before coming to St. Dunstan's in Sept--ember 1907. He won School Prizes in 1912 and 1914» was a Prefect, a Cpl in the OTC, and a keen member of the Scout Troop at the School. He was a member of the 1st XI Cricket, the Jrd and later the 2nd XV Rugby sides, and had 1st Colours as a member of the Water Polo team. He also won a number of races at 100 yards and 200 yards on Sports Days in 19O8 and 1909.

He left School in July 1914 sxid. followed his father into banking by becoming a clerk in the head office of the Union of London and Smith's Bank Ltd, 2 Princes Street, London EC. He continued his interest in sport and especially in swimming, being a member of the Woodside Swimming Club in South Norwood. On 20 September 1915 he left the bank to join the Army; he was accepted for training as an officer and joined the Inns of Coiirt OTC on 25 Pebinary I916. His number was 6375 and he served in the 1st and 6th Companies of the unit, later serving with the 1st Officer Cadet Battalion at Lenham, Herts. He was commissioned on 9 Jiily 1916 into the 22nd London Regt (Queen's), and being a good shot he was appointed Musketry Instructor with the 3rd Battalion of the Regiment, then stationed at Winchester. He remained in this post from 19 July 1916 to 24 November 1917» when he went to France to serve with the 1st Battalion of the Regiment in the 47th (London) Division. His early experiences in France are described in a letter which appeared in the "Chronicle" of March 19I8:

"Thinking that you might be interested to hear from me, am writing you a few lines which I hope you will be able to read, but the light of a splutter^ -ing candle in a cramped dug-out does not help matters much."

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"After a fortnight's trekking by motor^lorry and train right through the war zone, eating and sleeping whenever possible, and very lucky to do both, had at last reached my battalion in the line, and have been with them about a week. On the way, however, we stopped at all sorts of queer places, gradually getting nearer and nearer the line, so I was 'let down' lightly. In the first place, I stopped about five days at the base at Havre, and had quite a good time there, though of co\irse I had been there several times before during my draft-conduct--ing trips."

"Prom there, received orders to go up to the line. The next stop was at a famous city, where I spent the day. Here I visited the very fine cathedral, and climbed to the top of the spire, obtaining a wonderful view for my labours. I also got my first taste of a French theatre. I prefer the Lewisham Hippodrome even to that. There is a very good Officers' club there. These clubs are distributed all over the war zone, at places where officers are liable to stop, and are absolute Godsends,"

"From there, we had a very uncomfortable train jotimey right through the battlefields of the Somme district with its scenes of utter desol--ation. From Albert, with the figure of the Virgin toppling over the church, it was one expanse of wrecked villages and towns, torn stumps of trees representing one-time woods, discarded trench-systems, battered about, twisted wire-entanglements, inntimeranle shell-holes, wooden crosses dotted about, etc, etc, giving one a small idea of the terrible fight--ing that occiirred there."

"Spent half a day in one of the wrecked towns there, but was glad to get out. A lot of casualties came in £rom the line there. A weary tramp brought us to a shelled village some distance behind the line, which was once occupied by the Huns. The inhabitants, however, are gradually retiiming, and are bvdlding and repairing their wrecked homes in a wonderful manner. Our quarters there were in a billiard room of an estaminet where the men folk came in to play their rotten idea of billiards, as thou^ there was no war for miles."

"New orders came throu^ for reinforcements, so that a long and very liver^shaking motor lorry trip by night brou^t -us to a tent encampment just behind the lines,"

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"Or rather they broTight us to about fifteen miles of it, kindly and with great forethou^t giving us a little excursion by midni^t with full equipment. Tents in this weather are not very enjoyable; in addition the Hun airmen are persistently bombing it, on which occasions we have to dowse the li^ts and trust to luck,"

"After a few days we had orders to join the battalion in the line. A terrible tramp through raud every bit as bad as I had imagines, and I got my first taste of being under shell fire. I must admit that I dodged like a scared rabbit every time, but am getting quite used to it."

"Have just returned from my first stunt. Consider I am lucky to get out as it was a kind of 'last hope' stunt. Am surprised to find that it is mostly open warfare-fighting, in fact."

"I was on a separate command for two days, day and night, in the middle of histile country, and was nearly wiped out by our own artillery fire barrage. Yexy nervy work and tiying; the men suffered a lot from e3q)osure. I was relieved just before the Huns were preparing a night attack with posts. Am back again in a part of the line which is fairly quiet - occasional shelling and stray bullets flrom snipers and machine-guns only. So far I am q-uite O.K."

He was promoted to Lieut on 9 Januaiy 1918, and was due for some leave at Easter; however, this was cancelled due to the great German spring offensive, and it was during this fitting that he was killed. At first it was reported that he had been killed on 5 April 1918 whilst leading his men at Avel\;iy Wood, noarbh of Albert; it was later found that he had been severely wounded in the head on this date and had been taken prisoner. He died of wounds in a German field hospital at Beaulencourt on 12 April 1918. He was buried at first at Thilloy Road British Cemetary, Beaulencourt, near Bapaume, and was later rebtiried at Pavreioil British Cemetaiy in Prance.

Ruvigny's "Roll of Honour" contains a lengthy biography of him, with a photograph, and mentions that he was a devout Roman Catholic and a regular attender at mass; even in Prance, he walked several miles in the winter to attend church services. His parents received a nxomber of letters, including one fi om Major-General Gorringe, GOC 47th Division, in which he wrote:

"Lieut Whicker was a very capable officer, popular with all ranks, and he vdll be greatly missed."

Other officers of his Battalion wrote:

"Your son was a very keen and energetic officer, and I deplore his loss, not only on personal grounds, but also because of the loss to his battalion."

"A more cooirageous boy I have not seen during over three years out here, and he woTild have gone very far in the Army had he been spared,"

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WHITTALL, Noel Charles. He was bom in London on 23 January ^8^6, the eldest son of Frederick James Whittall and his wife Catherine Mary, daii^ter of John Henry Dines. His father was a commercial traveller, and the family lived at "Cario", 11 Torridon Road, Hither Green; his father died about 1919 and his widowed mother continued to live at this address. He was educated firstly at Claremont House School, at Brownhill Road Elementary School from 19O8 to 1911> and in May of the latter year he came to St. Ihinstan's. Leaving in Jvily 1912, he went to work for Messrs. Elliott Brothers, electrical engineers of Lewishan.

In the early part of the War he volunteered for service, was accepted for training as an officer, and was commissioned on 8 June 1915 into the 7th (Reserve) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers. Four days later he was posted to the School of Instruction at Biny St. Edmiznds in Suffolk, and was confirmed in his rank on 17 April 1916. He served in England until 23 July 1916, when he went to France and served as signalling officer to a unit there. After a year in this post he volunteered for service with the Royal Flying Corps, and after a short time with a Sq\aadron in France he returned to England in July 1917 to complete his flying training.

Whittall returned to France on 14 August following, and was attached to No. 6 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps. Early in September 1917 he was on patrol when he encountered four enemy aircraft; in the ensuing dogfight he fired 200 rounds into one of them, causing it to crash, and chased off the others. On I3 September he went out on observation duties and was shot down and killed. He is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary, Poperinghe, Belgium. His parents received a number of letters from fellow officers, and the "Roll of Honour" reproduces extracts from three, written by Colonel Hesketh, Major James and Lieut Glaisher respectively:

"Your gallant son was not only a veiy chaiming boy, but a most keen and capable officer, and a great loss to the battalion when he went to the RFC; I am sure no one could say more in his praise than he deserved."

"He was one of the greatest losses my Squadron could have sustained. Although he had been with us for such a short time, I realised what an excellent fellow he was. His zeal reflected in his work, and he was getting on exceptionally well."

"I assure you that no words of praise can be too generous in describing Noel's work and our app--reciation of him. He was much liked by all of us, even in the comparatively short time he was here. He died as a man would wish, doing his duty and facing big odds. You know, perhaps, that I was piloting his machine when he brought down one of the four enemy machines that attacked us, some distance over their lines, where we had gone to get some photographs. This is quite a feat which makes all of us here very proud of him, particularly myself, quite apart from his other fine work."

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WILD, Hermaxua Caesar, He was iDom at Sydenham in 1885, on either 27 Janiiary or 27 Februaj:y (sources vary), the youngest son of Gustav Wild and his wife Ida Mathilde, daiighter of Christian Caesar. He was educated privately by Miss Sommers, and then came to St. Dunstan's in April 19O8. IThe School Register omits the address and occupation of his father. He left in July 19OI and completed his education abroad. His career was with Messrs. M, Samuel and Company of Bishopsgate, London EC, where he worked as an accountant, and he continued to live in Sydenham.

On 6 January 1917 he joined the Honoiirable Artillery Company at Armoury House in London, and. was admitted to the unit on 10 January. After training in England he went to Prance on 27 March 1917, and was posted to "A" Company of the 2nd (infantry) Battalion of the Honourable Artillery Company; this unit was part of the 22nd Brigade, 7th Division. On 3 May 1917 he went into action with the unit in an attack on the Hindenburg Line in the Bulleco-urt-Ecoust St. Main sector; the 62nd Division had captured BullecoTirt but had been forced to withdraw, and his unit was one of four Battalions sent forward to recapture the village. The advance began at 10,30 a.m. and was met with heavy machine-gun fire, but the Battalion got through the German wire, captured Tower Trench, and took 50 prison--ers. The enemy counterattacked in force, and the units on either side were destroyed by shelling, thus forcing the Battalion to pull back. The unit had lost 5OO killed and woimded, and Wild was one of the latter. He was evacuated to Rouen, but died of his wounds a fortni^t later, on 16 May 1917, at No. 8 General Hospital. He is buried at Bois-Guillaume Communal Cemetary Extension, Rouen, Prance.

WILKHTS, Edgar Walter. He was bom on 13 February 1895, son of Edward Charles and Elizabeth Ann Wilkins. Althou^ bom at Rainham in Kent, when he was young his parents moved to 23 Sandhurst Road, Catford, and his father worked locally as a foreman. He was taught at Plassy Road Elementary School in Catford, and was then awarded a London Coxinty Coixncil Scholarship to St. Dunstan's, where he was educated from September 1906 until May 19II. He left in the latter month and became a junior clerk at the Salvation Army Headqiiarters, 101 Queen Victoria Street, London EC.

Although he continued to live at Catford, records show that he joined the Army at Reigate, Surrey, in the early part of the War. He was posted to the 2/5th Battalion of the East Surrey Regt at Reigate, and whilst there he contracted pneumonia and died on 4 April 1916. His body was brought back to Lewisham and he was buried in Ladywell Cemetary.

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WILSON, David. He was bom at Waterloo, Lancashire, on 4 March 1894» the son of David and Isabella Wilson. His father was a company secretary, and when he was young the family moved down to London and lived at 6 Hurstboiime Road, Forest Hill. He was at Rathfern Road Elementary School, and came to St. Dunstan's from there in September ^^06. He was a fine all-round athlete, and a good sprinter and ninner; he won a number of events at Sports Days and seems to have favoured the 100 yards distance. He was in the 3rd XI Cricket in I9O8 and went on to the 2nd XI in the 1909 and 1910 seasons. In Lacrosse, he was in the 1st XII in 1909 and 1910, and in the latter year was in the School team that won the Junior Flags Competition in the final at Lordsj a photograph of him in this team appears in the "Chronicle" of June 19IO. His contribution to Rugby was also great; he was in the 2nd X7 in 1907 and the 1st XV in the three seasons from 19O8 to 19IO, and was Captain of Football in the 191O season.

Leaving in December 1910, he became a junior clerk in a merchant's office, and continued to live in Forest Hill, where his parents subsequently moved to 28 Garlies Road. He was a keen member of the Old Dunstonian Riigby Club and was in the 1st XT for several years; a photograph of him in the 1911-12 team appears in the "History of the Old Dunstonian Rugby Club". During the War he enlisted at Lewisham, joining the ranks of the 2/5th Battalion of the London Regt (London Rifle Brigade). He went to France with the tinit, and was mortally wounded on 29 October 1917* On this date the unit was serving with the 58th Division dtiring the fitting at Passchendaele, and was in the line just west of Poelcapelle. The Battalion was designated as a counter-attack battalion, and was put into shell-holes in the open under very heavy artilleiy fire. The weather was veiy bad, and the mud was the worst the unit had experienced; it took four men six hoTirs to move a stretcher fifty yards. During this, Wilson was wounded, and died of his wounds on 1 November 1917« He had been serving with "A" Company of the Battalion, and is buried at Dozin^iam Military Cemetary in Belgium.

After the War, eight Old Dunstonians who had been killed were chosen to have Houses named after them; Wilson was chosen for his record in various sports, and especially for his work in Rugby both in his years at the School and later with the Old Boys. The House colour is pale blue, the motto "concordia valemus", and the badge a bishop's pectoral cross.

WILSON, Kenneth Henry. The son of Frederick and Muriel Wilson and their oldest child, he was bom on 50 April 1899 at Ilford, Essex. His father was a colour manufacturer. After some years in Ilfoa?d, where he was educated by Miss Patmore, he went with his family to live for a while in the Medway towns and he was taught at Gravesend Grammar School. In 19IO the family moved to "Newlands", Amblecote Road, Grove Park, and he came to St. Dunstan's in April of that year. He left in December 1915 to go to Clark's College, to study for the Civil Service, but instead decided to join the Army, althou^ only 17 years old.

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Wilson enlisted at Lewisham and was posted first to the London Regt; some time afterwards he transferred to the l/7th Battalion of the Gordon Highlanders (Deeside) (Territorial Force), The tinit was with the 155^ Brigade of the 51st (Hi^iland) Division on the Western Front. On 29 July 1918 the unit was in action in the Chambrecy sector in fighting that cost it 29 killed and 243 wounded and miss--ing. During the advance Wilson's officer was wounded, and he went forward to help him, being killed at this point. He is buried close to the battlefield.

WINCH, Harry Wilson. He was bom on 25 May 1887, the son of Herbert Morris and Emmeline Winch, He was brought up in Kent, attending Horsmonden School, and in 1897 his parents moved to London and lived at 64 Comerford Road, Brockley; his father was an assurance clerk. He was at St, Dunstan's from May 1897 to December 1902, Details of his subsequent career are unavailable, but it is known that his parents moved to Heme Bay, Kent, about the time that the War began, and Winch was married and lived with his wife, Nora Alberta, at 64 Tweedy Road, Bromley,

During the early part of the War he was selected for officer train--ing, and on 8 November 1915 he joined the Inns of Court OTC. He served as a L/Cpl with the number 7319 in No, 2 and No, 6 Companies, and was commissioned on 5 August I916, He was posted to the 2nd London Cyclist Company of the Army Cyclist Corps, and went to France where he was attached to a Battalion of the Manchester Regt, Whilst with this unit he was killed in action on 2 April 1917» ^xid. he is buried in Savy British Cemetary in France.

WOOD, Donald Theodore. Bom on 18 September I89O, he was the eldest son of Ebeneezer and Sarah Lydia Wood, His father was an assiirance clerk, and the family, including two other brothers who attended St, Dunstan's, lived at "Stanwood", Catford Hill. By 19I8 his parents were at 18 Woolstone Road, Catford. He was educated privately by Miss Davies at Malvern House in Lewisham Park and was then at St. Dunstan's from September 1899 to December 1905« After leaving the School he became a Territorial and was a keen member of the 2nd County of London Yeomanry (Westminster Dragoons). When the War began he was attending anntial camp with the unit, and he later accompanied it to Egypt in September 1914» where it formed part of the Yeomanry Mounted Brigade,

The unit was based in the Canal Zone as part of the defences and was present during the Turkish raid on the Canal in 1915» In August 1915 the Regiment went to Gallipoli and served there as infantry; Wood was one of the many who became ill during this campaign, and in Jaraxary 1916 he was invalided to England with para-typhoid.

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After a convalescent period, Wood was posted to the 9'th Reserve Regiment of Cavalry at The Ctirra^ in Ireland in July I916; after several months there he was selected for a commission, and after training in an Officer Cadet Unit he was commissioned into the Royal Field Artillery. He went to Prance and served with "A" Battery of 77th Brigade, and in a short space of time his bravery led to the award of the Military Cross and bar. The first award appeared in the London Gazette of 19 November 1917» sxid the citation on 22 March I9I8:

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. The battery was very heavily shelled and a gun-pit set on fire. He immediately organised a party and, with complete disregard of danger, extinguished the fire. His prompt and gallant action undoubtedly prevented the fire from spreading to the whole battery,"

On the day after the above appeared, the London Gazette listed the second award of the Military Cross (23 March 19I8):

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. With another officer, he acted as advanced inte--lligence officer for the brigade; he established communications and was successful in keeping in touch with the batteries during the operations. He also sent back valixable information. GJhrough his gallantry and determination under heavy shell fire and trying conditions, communications were kept up,"

In August 1918, during the great British advance throu^ the Hinden--burg line, he volunteered to go forward to find out the progress of the advance, and while at the front line he was hit by machine-gun fire and seiiously wounded. He died of his injuries on 25 August 19I8, and is buried at Dive Copse British Cemetary, Sailly-Le-Sec, France.

WOODROOFFE, John William. He was bom on 27 Jtme 1889, the son of John and Lilian Woodrooffe. The family lived at 129 Browrihill Road, Catford, and his father was a shipping a^nt. He was first educated at West Kent Grammar School (later Brockley County School) and was then at St. I>unstan's from Janiiary 1902 to April 1904; he was in the Under 12 Cricket XI in the 1903 season. His subsequent career is unclear, but before the War he emigrated to Canada, a popular trend amonst Old Boys of the time, and on 18 August 1915 he enlisted in the Canadian E3cpeditionary Force at Sewell, Manitoba. He kept his real birthday but subtracted two years from his age to ensvire that he would be accepted. The attestation shows that he was bom in Deptford. He was posted to the 1st Field Ambulance at Winnipeg, but then contracted pneumonia and died on 7 or 8 Februaiy 1916. He is buried in Brookside Cemetary in Winnipeg.

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WOOLMER, Stanley Herbert France. Bom on 50 November 1897> he was the son of Joseph Prance and Annie Maude Woolmer. The family lived at 156 Broadfield Road, Hither Green, and his father was a bank clerk. He was the eldest son, having two sisters and four brothers; all the latter attended St. Dunstan's. He was the Tincle of Bob Woolmer, the Kent and England cricketer. Educated first at Sand--hurst Road Elementary School in Catford, he was later found to have a fine voice and went to the London College of Choristers in Bayswater. He was at the same time a chorister in a ch\irch in Walworth, South London, and the vicar there paid part of his fees at St. Dunstan's, which he attended from September 19O8 to April 1911. After he left he went to work in the Accounts Department of the Royal Exchange Insurance Company. He continued to live locally and was a member of the Lee Lacrosse Club.

During the War he volunteered and was accepted for officer training, joining the Inns of Court OTC on 20 September 1915; he had the number 6358 and served in No. 3 and No. 6 Companies. After passing throTigh the coiirse successfully he left the unit on 1 June 1916 and on the next day he was commissioned into the 23rd (Reserve) Battal--ion of the King's Royal Rifle Corps. He went to Prance on 8 July 1916 and was attached to the 17th (Service) Battalion of the Regiment (1st Pootball).

This xinit was part of the 117th Brigade of the 39th Division, and on 3 September 1916 it took part in the attack on Beaumont Hamel. The attack began at 5«10 a.m. after a heavy bandage on the German lines, and the Battalion was at first in reserve to the two attacking units. At 6.45 aom. news came back that the first German line had been taken but that reinforcements were urgently needed. At 8.00 a.m. "B" and "C" Companies moved off, and as they crossed No Man's Land they were heavily shelled; all the officers and many of the NCOs were killed or wounded, and only a few parties reached the German lines.

Woolmer was initially noted as missing, and later as having been killed during the advance. It transpired that he was hit in the leg by a shell fragment and was placed in a shell hole by his men; however, seeing that many other officers were down, he went back to his platoon and led his men forward, being shot and killed just as he reached the enemy lines. His body was not recovered, and he is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in Prance. His name is also on the Roll of Honour of St. Andrew's Church, Torridon Road, Catford. Records show that his next of kin was his father, who was beneficiary of his will which totalled £373. His Major Wrote;

"Everyone loved him and he is a great loss to us. Officers such as he are hard to find."

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WOEMULL, Charles Frederick. He was 'bom on 14 October 1894, the son of Mr. F.A.S. and Mrs. E.J. Wormull; his father was a partner in a surgical-instrument makers, and the family lived at 51 Bargery Road, Catford. He was educated first at Alleyne's School, Dulwich, and then came to St. Dunstan's in November 190?. He won a School Prize for Work in 1910, and was in the 5 d XI Cricket in the same year. He left in April 19II, and became a member of the Old Dunst--onian Rugby Club.

During the early part of the War he joined the Territorial Force, enlisting in the London Electrical Engineers. He was promoted to Cpl, and then sent for officer training. He was commissioned into the Royal Flying Corps on 1 October 1916, and on 22 October was confiimed as 2/Lieut and Eqizipment Officer 5 d Class. He was promoted to Lieut and Eq\iipment Officer 2nd Class on 15 Aiogust 1917» He served in the Wireless Section of the RFC, and it was while on a training flight that he was killed in an accident on 5 October 191?. His body was brough back home and he is biiried at Norwood Cemetary in London. His next of kin were his parents, by then living at 255 Bromley Road, Catford.

WRIGHT, Guy Powell. He was bom on 3 November I876, and was the eldest Old Dunstonian to die diiring the War, being 4I years old when he was killed. The son of Mary and Samuel Wright, his father was a merchant and the family lived at "Lyndale", Perry Rise, Forest Hill. His first education was with Mrs. Stafford at Hurst House School in Forest Hill, and he then came to St. Dunstan's shortly after it opened, in May 1889. After leaving in April I892 he continued to live in Sydenham until the War, and was a well-known local figure; he was a member of the Forest Hill Hockey Club, and from 1904 to 1914 was Honorary Secretary of the Upper Sydenham Cricket Club.

During the early part of the War he enlisted in the ranks of the Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regt), and would have had to take a number of years from his age to be accepted. He served with this unit in France from Au^st 1916 to March 1917» and then returned to England after being recommended for a commission. He passed through the Officer Cadet Battalion at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and was then commissioned on 29 A-ugust 1917 into the Middlesex Regt (Territorial Force). He returned to France in November 1917» and was later attached to the 1st Battalion of the Liverpool Regt. Whilst serving with this unit he was killed in action on 2 July 1918, and he is buried at Bienvillers Military Cemetary in France. His father having died, his mother was his next of kin, and by 1919 she was living at 14 Venner Road, Sydenham.

176

WEIGHT, Robert William (previously Rawleigh William), He was bom at Frant, Sussex, on 2 July 1895* His father died when he was yoxmg, but had been a commercial traveller in the com trade, and he was brought up by his mother, Mrs. J.E. Wright, at "Daintree", Hazeldon Road, Crofton Park. He was educated at West Kent Grammar School (later Brockley County School), and was then at St. Dunstan's from January 1907 to April I9O9. He left to study at Cla3±'s College for entry into the Civil Service, but appaj?ently later decided on a more adventurous career and emigrated to Canada, a course adopted by many Old Boys during this period.

He enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force at Valcartier, Quebec, on 18 September 1914» an<3- after training in Canada and England he went to France with the early Canadian contingents. It was whilst serving there with the 5th Infantry (Saskatchewan Regt) that he was killed in action on 24 May 1915* He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial in France.

WYLES, Arthur George Eddy. Bom at Romford on 25 March 1898, he was the son of Arthur Chester and Fatimah Abiah Wyles. His father had been in the Army in the Boer War 1899-1902, and had met and married his wife whilst abroad. He later became a civil servant and settled at 97 Torridon Road, Catford. Wyles was educated at Sandhurst Road Elementgiry School from 1905 to 1910, and was then at St. Bunstan's from January 19II to July 1912. He went on to Clark's College to study for the Civil Service and was appointed clerk in the Home Office.

Shortly after his eighteenth biirfchday, in October 1916, he enlisted in the Am^r and was posted to the 15th (Service) Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles (North Belfast). This unit had been formed in 1914 by the Belfast Volunteers, and by I917 it was in the I07th Brigade of the 36th Division. Wyles served with it in France from June 1917 until the following October, when he was wounded at Cambrai after seven days in the trenches. After recovering he was sent to the front again and was killed on 27 March 19I8 dtiring the great German spring offensive. He has no known grave and is comm--emorated on the Pozieres Memorial in France, The "Lee Joirmal" notes that he was a well-known member of Hither Green Congcegat--ional ChTorch. At the time of his death another brother was with the Royal Engineers and his father, who had been recalled to serve, was with the Royal Engineers in Salonika.

177

WYIiES, William Edward. Bom at Penge on 15 April 1898, he was the son of Alfred Edward and Kate May Wyles. His father was a civil servant, and diiring his early years the family moved to 112 Ard--gowan Road in Catford. He was at Sandhurst Road Elementary School f3?om 19O8 to 1910, and came to St. Dunstan's in January 19II. He left in July 1912, having won a School Prize, and went on to Clark's College to study for entry into the Civil Service; when the War began he was in H.M, Customs and Excise and had moved with his parents to 44 Claverdale Road, Upper Tulse Hill.

During the War he joined the Army, enlisting at Westminster in the 16th London Regt (Queen's Westminster Rifles). He went to France with the 1st Battalion of the Regiment and was killed in action on 14 August 1917« On the previous day the imit had advanced into Glencorse Wood by establishing forward posts there. As soon as these were noticed by the Germans the position was heavily shelled, and this continued throiighout the night and during I4 Au^st. The Battalion lost 24 killed and 51 woixnded in this shelling before it was relieved on the night of 14 August. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres, Belgium.

YODUG, Ernest Ralph Samuel. He was bom on 15 December 1895» the son of E.R.S. Young, an assurance clerk of 84 Culverley Road in Catford. He was first educated at Addey and Stanhope's School in New Cross, and was then at St. Dunstan's from March 1907 "to December 19II. After leaving he became a junior clerk at the Lawson Pneumatic Tube Company, 20 Cheapside, London EC.

During the War he served with the 1st County of London Yeomanry (Middlesex Hussars) from 1914» and was later posted to the 11th Battalion of the Bedfordshire Regt (Territorial Force). This \xnit was based at Pakefield, near Lowestoft, and while serving there he died on 14 November 19I8.