bigjarofwasps

A British soldier killed in an attack on a convoy in southern Iraq at the weekend was named yesterday as Lance Corporal Alan Brackenbury. Cpl Brackenbury, 21, from the East Riding of Yorkshire, died when a roadside bomb exploded near Amara, in the Maysan region, as troops travelled to a meeting with Iraqi security officials. Cpl Brackenbury was serving with the King's Royal Hussars. His father, Stephen, said the family - mother Janet, brother David and sister Faye - were "immensely proud" that he was a soldier.

yes and yes, but they seem to be like hens teeth to NWP. I`ve only ever seen two!!

Well guys after months of searching, I`ve managed to track down an LSGC, to my force, with original ribbon, box of issue and letter from the CC of Denbighshire Police 1952. This is only the second medal I`ve seen to NWP, the other being a Special Constable`s LSGC, from the 60`s if I remember correctly. But it had been sold when I tried to buy it, as is often the case in our hobby, as I`m sure you`ll agree.

Haven`t seen any military guard dogs out here yet, but I`ll keep an eye out for you. There`s loads of stray dogs kicking round the place if that helps any, interestingly all the ones I`ve seen have all been the same colour?

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence can confirm the death in Iraq of Guardsman Anthony John Wakefield during the early hours of 2 May 2005. Guardsman Wakefield, a married father of three from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, died as a result of wounds sustained during a routine patrol in Al Amarah, Iraq. He was 24. His Company of the 1st Battalion The Coldstream Guards is currently serving alongside 1 Staffords (Staffordshire Regt.) in Maysan Province, Iraq. The Commanding Officer of 1 Staffords, Lt Col Andrew Williams has paid tribute to Gdsm Wakefield?s professionalism: "May I start by expressing my most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Gdsm Wakefield. "Gdsm Wakefield died in the early hours of 2 May 2005 as a result of wounds sustained during a patrol in the town of Al Amarah, Southern Iraq. "He was acting as the top cover sentry in the second of a two vehicle patrol when what appears to have been an Improvised Explosive Device detonated, disabling the vehicle and injuring another soldier. "Despite receiving first aid at the scene and in the helicopter that evacuated him, he sadly died of wounds shortly after being attended by the doctor at the Battlegroup?s base just outside the town. "Gdsm Wakefield was a supremely fit and popular soldier who died doing his duty and amongst his friends. A proud Coldstream Guardsman, he was attached to the Staffords Battlegroup and had made many friends during his time with us. "To all those who were lucky enough to know him, it was clear that he loved his duty and had a very bright future ahead of him. He was already a qualified Physical Training Instructor and had been selected to attend a course for promotion at the end of the 6 month tour. "Gdsm Wakefield will be sorely missed by a great many people and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

Captain Jim Philippson killed in Afghanistan 13 Jun 06 It is with immense sadness that the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the name of the British soldier from 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery killed in Afghanistan on Sunday 11 June 2006. Captain Jim Philippson [Picture: MOD] UK forces were involved in an incident in Helmand Province, Southern Afghanistan, on the evening of Sunday 11 June 2006 during which a mobile patrol was engaged in a firefight against suspected Taliban forces. Sadly as a result of this engagement Captain Jim Philippson was killed and two other soldiers seriously injured. Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this difficult time. Captain Jim Philippson, 29, from St Albans in Hertfordshire, completed his further education at Plymouth University. He joined the Army in January 2001 and, after his course at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, was commissioned into the Royal Artillery later that year. He then undertook his Young Officers’ course at the Artillery Centre, Larkhill. From the outset his sharp intellect, determination, positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm stood out and he was selected for a posting to 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. He relished the challenge of demanding commando selection where his physical stamina was more than matched by his mental robustness. Not only was he successful but he led the way. Having settled into the Regiment his confident, yet self-effacing, approach had a real impact. His unique combination of fierce professionalism, relaxed style of command and sense of fun won him the respect and loyalty of his soldiers and peers. He displayed all of these qualities in the high pressure operational environment of Iraq but also on exercises in Norway, USA and Cyprus. Moreover, he was always looking to get involved; throwing himself wholeheartedly into his sport and social life with the same passion as his work. Having concluded his tour with 29 Commando Regiment, Capt Philippson was keen to undertake the challenge of service with 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery and after a six month deployment to the Falkland Islands joined the Regiment in February 2006 as it prepared for deployment to Afghanistan. Very soon he found himself a pivotal member of the team with the role of training and mentoring the Afghan National Army. Here his maturity, patience, technical skill as an instructor and responsiveness was an example as much to his colleagues as to his Afghan counterparts who warmed quickly to his inherent leadership and charisma. He was a man that wanted to make a difference, and he did. Capt Philippson served only a short time with 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery but his influence on it and 29 Commando Regiment previously was tremendous. A genuine character who was full of life and humour yet with a highly committed edge, he will be remembered as a gifted, considerate and popular officer who would always go that extra mile for his soldiers and his friends. He will be sadly missed by everyone that that knew him. Lieutenant Colonel David Hammond, his Commanding Officer, said: "Jim was a top quality officer in the best traditions of the Regiment and the British Army. Those around him were influenced not only by his commitment, passion and drive but also his enthusiasm and ready wit. A gifted commander he had the self-confidence of an assured professional yet was also modest and willing to learn. "All of this earned him the respect of all those he touched. The commitment he showed to his task in Afghanistan and every challenge he undertook was an inspiration. "He was a rising star in every sense who had a huge amount to offer. He is a tremendous loss and our thoughts are with his family and many friends at this very difficult time." Following the incident Secretary of State for Defence Des Browne issued this statement: "I wish to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in this attack. My thoughts are with them and those troops continuing their difficult task of helping to ensure Afghanistan remains secure."

Ronald Desmond Greaves Caldecott. Son of Ronald Edwin Henry and Constance Caldecott, of Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire. A.I.A.A. Serjeant Regiment in the Intelligence Corps. Unit : 589 Field Security Sec. Age: 23 Date of Death: 16/04/1945 Service No: 14410247 Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: 21. A. 17. Cemetery: TAUKKYAN WAR CEMETERY I recently discovered that I am related to Ronald. I intend to try and research him, and post my findings here, in memory of him. I believe that he died of wounds.

Fury as dead soldier's war medals stolen CHRIS MOONEY THE mother of a Lothians soldier who was killed in Iraq spoke of her anger today after a thief sneaked into her home and stole her late son’s war medals. Sapper Robert Thomson died in the southern city of Basra in January last year in what was described by Ministry of Defence officials as a "tragic" engineering accident. The 22-year-old, from Whitburn, West Lothian, was posthumously honoured for his work in one of the most dangerous areas of Iraq during the second Gulf War with the 35 Engineer Regiment. But a thief slipped into mum Margaret Thomson’s home in Gardener Crescent, Whitburn, and snatched the medals. Mrs Thomson said she has been left devastated at the theft. The thieves targeted Mrs Thomson’s home while she was upstairs, sneaked inside and lifted her handbag from a downstairs room. The handbag contained the Iraq campaign medal, a set of wings presented by the RAF and a prayer written for the family by a padre, or military chaplain. A necklace with the initial "M" which was a present to Mrs Thomson from soldiers who had served with her son was also stolen. Mrs Thomson said she carried the medals and other gifts with her everywhere she went. She has now offered a reward of ?200 for information which will lead to them being returned. She said: "These things can never be replaced. I am not bothered about bank cards or anything like that, I just want these things back. I am so angry that somebody just walked into my house and took my bag and I don’t think they understand what they have done and how important these things are. "I always like to have these things close to me, but you just don’t think somebody is going to come into your home and steal your bag. My mobile phone was also taken which had a lot of important numbers in it which I need because the inquiry into Robert’s death is still on-going." The stolen campaign medal has the dead soldier’s name inscribed on it and "Iraq 2004" written on the back. It was attached to a yellow, black and gold ribbon. Around 90 people gathered in Whitburn to mark Sapper Thomson’s death last year with a series of remembrance events. A special chair commissioned by Sapper Thomson’s former colleagues was unveiled at a site near his grave in Whitburn Cemetery. It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Whitburn War Memorial and a presentation of the sapper’s medals to his parents in the town’s Royal British Legion Club. The MoD’s casualty visiting officer Captain Jim Rattray was in charge of co-ordinating the events. He described Sapper Thomson as a "very brave and impressive young man". Sapper Thomson went straight into the Army after leaving Whitburn Academy in 1998. A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police appealed for information which would help find the medals and catch the thieves. He said: "What was taken from the Thomson family had huge sentimental value and needs to be returned to them. The stolen items are also very recognisable. "If anyone saw someone hanging around or looking suspicious around the time of the burglary we need them to get in touch with Whitburn Police."

Saw this nonsense on Ebay........ This Medal was issued for service in Northern Ireland of more than 30 consecutive days. The recipient served a touch more than that, (a bar to the medal is issued for seven tours, the recipient missed it by one). Despite serving 10 years this medal was only presented to the recipient two months after his final discharge, by the postman! The recipient was reduced to the ranks prior to his discharge and so the inscription reads his final rank of Private. This medal is for tours of duty between 1987 & 1994. The last being when the fishmongers on the Shankill Road was bombed & when the Official IRA (and eventually loyalist) ceasefire came into effect. The Medal comes with it's original box & bears the recipients details on the back, it has been fitted with a clasp for wearing on a dress uniform, but an occasion has yet to present itself. If you require any further info please email me & I will be only to pleased to help if I can. Maybe the fact that he was a Pte when he first went to NI, had something to do with it, also a bar for additional tours, rubbish!!!!

Guys, I`ve heard a rumour, that this clasp is no longer being issued!!!!!!!!!! Can anyone confirm this for me? Is the Air Op`s Iraq clasp still being awarded, or is this the end of the GSM?

Lets hope there`s no more names added to this list, its to long already!!!

It is with very deep regret that the Ministry of Defence can confirm that Squadron Leader Patrick Brian Marshall, Royal Air Force, is missing believed killed following the loss of an RAF C-130K Hercules aircraft over Iraq on 30 January 2005. Aged 39 and divorced, he was a staff officer serving with Headquarters Strike Command, High Wycombe, and was on temporary detachment to Iraq as a liaison officer. Patrick joined the Royal Air Force in June 1990 as a pilot, serving 11 operational tours on the Tornado GR. He was awarded a General Service Medal for Air operations in Iraq, an Operational Service Medal for Operation Telic and the NATO Medal for operations in the former Yugoslavia. His last job was as a Staff Officer at Headquarters Strike Command, Royal Air Force High Wycombe, where he was part of a team responsible for coordinating Royal Air Force support operations. Although he thoroughly enjoyed his staff tours, he was eagerly looking forward to returning to his greatest passion: flying. He was a highly regarded and talented operational pilot. During his time at Royal Air Force High Wycombe he lived in the local area and had recently announced that he was engaged to be married. Patrick was a well liked and spirited officer with many friends throughout the headquarters and the wider military community. He will be sorely missed by all those that knew him. The media are asked to respect the family's privacy at this very difficult time.

Cheers Paul.

I recommend this guy for all your research needs, tell him Gordon sent you..... Mark Relf, 16 The Burrows, Delamere Park, Cuddington, Cheshire, CW8 2UG. Tel 0151 428 0133 or 0166 882528 or 07867 808601 Fax 0151 428 0148 Research@relfy.f9.co.uk

The Regimental museum, maybe help to help too. Here is my next research project...... John Rose was born to Fleetwood (Manchester), in 1895. The son of James & Martha Rose of 119 Promenade Road, Fleetwood, Lancashire. He served, in the RAMC as Pte 58544, with the 55th Fd Amb, dying of his wounds, on the 18th Sept 1918 aged 24, and is buried in Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension grave 111.F.24.

Tony, If yuo`d like some tips on how to go about researching Sid, i`d love to help!!! You could start with his MIC, service papers, unit war diary and local newspaper, these sometimes have pictures of the soldiers in. Glad you like the picture of Edward, its really nice to have a face for a name, the scroll is lovely to, it been framed inside a gold leaf frame, which in turn has been framed again, and has served the tests of time in mint condition. I lovely find!!! Yes Somme medals got for silly money these days!!!! No idea where Edward`s medals or plaques are!!! Sid would have been entitled to a trio......must dash, will chat again later.

What a truely amazing find!!!!!!!!! Gordon, Here’s part of Sid’s diary, I’ve scanned a few pages from the beginning and a few from his last weeks before going over the top. He is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial and so has no known grave but, as there is also German writing (about carrier pigeons and later about savings) present, I can only assume a German soldier took his belongings from his body. I bought this diary last year in Germany from a dealer who obviously couldn’t speak or read English otherwise he would have wanted more money for it. Sid's birthday was 11th July 1897 so he was killed days before his 19th birthday and probably just after 7.30 in the morning. A German bought 5000 war bonds at 4.40 Marks each but I don't know who he was or when he bought them. Sid enlisted on March 15th 1915 and landed in France on 24th October 1915. He was slightly wounded by shrapnel on Nov. 29th but didn't get to the trenches (north of Arras) till 9th March 1916. He joined his battalion (1/7 Sherwood Foresters) on Dec. 4th 1915. I will be visiting the Somme in July and so will take a picture of the memorial to keep with the diary. The first attachment shows the names of the men in his section. Tony I am well impressed, have you had any luck in researching him? Maybe these a picture of him in his local paper!!!! If you should ever decide to part with this please please please let me know!!!!! See below, a picture of Crowter. Sorry it won`t let me post it, but if you visit the Great War Forum, and look under soldiers, you`ll see his picture there. Gordon.

Tony, I can`t remember how long it took me to research, the three of them. I think Crowter was the longest, I really got my teeth into that one. It would be smashing if you could, post your Soome Casualties note book, I`d very much like to read it. Nick, it might be of interest to know that (Higgins), was one of two Officers to win the MC, during WW1, from Prestatyn, both of which lived in the same street!!! Gordon.

Lt Thomas Higgins MC Thomas was born in Chester on the 6th March 1890. The son of John and Amelia Higgins, of Chester. Later moving to Prestatyn North Wales. He trained as a Civil Engineer, working for H F Bullam as a County Surveyor for Cheshire for 3 years, leaving in 1908. Then going for E G Hawley as a Borough Engineer for Leicester. He lived at 9 St Peters Road Leicester. He joined the Royal Navy as a Sapper in the Royal marine Engineer on the morning of 25th September 1914 at London. His height is given as 5`6 ? ”. Chest measurement as 39 ? “ Hair and eyes as Brown in colour. His complexion as dark, with no distinguishing marks. Eye sight as 6/18 in both eyes, hearing, heart and lungs as normal. Physical development as good. Religion Roman Catholic. His home address as Hill Crest Prestatyn North Wales. Thomas first served at Gallipoli with the 1st Fd Coy RME of the Royal naval Division. His Regimental was Deal/S/241. His Marine service papers give the following details. Embarked for the M.E.F 1st March 1915. Reported sick 5th July 1915, to hospital on Gallipoli. 3rd Aug 1915 to St Andrews hospital Malta. Embarked on H.S Andania from Malta on the 23rd Aug 1915 for passage to England, suffering from Enteric. Admitted to Plymouth hospital 1st Sept 1915, next of kin informed. Granted sick leave from 9th Sept to the 30th Sept 1915. 22nd Jan 1916 granted a temporary Commission in the RE, this being confirmed by the RAO by telephone on the 31st Jan 1916. Having been discharged from the RME his character was described as Very Good. Officer training would have taken about a month. Thomas was posted to the 130th Fd Coy RE, who were serving in France on the Somme, with the 25th Div. The War Diary for the 130th gives the following details. 24th Aug 1916 in the Leipzig Salient (Thiepval). In accordance with the instructions from 7th Inf Brig, 2 Lt Higgins and 20 other ranks RE were detailed to report to the OC 1st Btn Wiltshire Regt for operations and 2Lt Locke and 20 other ranks to OC 3rd Worcester Regt . 2Lt Higgins and party were able to act as carrying party, took up wire and wood from front line captured trenches at junction 17. Wilts and Winchester took up more wire (2 journeys) and dugout frames. Put out fire in the 17th trench which offered a transit to enemy. Reconnoitring communication trenches and came in at dawn. Casualties 2Lt Higgins wounded slightly and 2 other ranks wounded. The book `Somme a day by day account` says of the 25th Aug. While consolidating from the previous days action under a German bombardment, it was observed that the German trenches were packed with troops. A barrage was called for and the impending counter attack was prevented. Divisional History says the following. During the day heavy artillery carried out a bombardment of the line to be attacked as well as trenches and communication trenches in the neighbourhood in such a way as not to attract undue attention to the particular objective. At 4.10 pm on the 25th Aug an intense artillery barrage was put down on the Hindenburg trench and a rolling barrage in front of it. Under cover of this the Wilts and Worcester advanced and assaulted the positions. The whole objective was captured except a small potion on the left where strong opposition was met with in very broken ground and little progress was made. At 4.12 pm two push mines were exploded. The attack was carried out in three waves , our casualties were very small and over 150 prisoners were captured and a number killed. In addition about 100 prisoners were killed by there own artillery. The attack undoubtedly came as a surprise to the enemy and it success was largely due to the fact that the men advanced very close to the artillery barrage which was most affective in every way. They was materially assisted by a smoke barrage near Thiepval wood which was designed to draw the enemies fire in its direction which undoubtedly succeeded in its objective. Heavy bombing went on all day on the left sector and very little progress was made. The whole of the Leipzig Salient was heavily shelled during the afternoon of the 25th causing many casualties. For this action 2Lt Higgins was awarded the Military Cross. He is mentioned in the Div history. His citation reads, `For conspicuous gallantry during operations. He persisted in the consolidation of the captured trenches under intense shell fire. Later he volunteered to assist the infantry by carrying up material, and made several journeys through a heavy barrage.` He is also mentioned in the Prestatyn Weekly on the 23rd Sept 1916.` Lt Higgins of Hillcrest has won the MC. He remained on duty after being wounded and succeeded in saving his Coy when in a tight place in France.` Lt Higgins MC was wounded again on the 15th October 1916, the War Diary reads, 4 Coys dug trace of trench and laid direction tape for 3 Coys to come up to work on. 250 men were detailed and with in 3 minutes of arriving had started work. A certain amount of shelling, 2Lt Higgins MC was wounded along with his Orderly and one other Sapper all in the first 10 minutes. The Prestatyn Weekly reports, on the 21st Oct 1916. The War Office has informed Mr and Mrs Higgins of Hill Crest that their son Lt T Higgins was severly wounded on the 15th. It was a GSW in the head and face. Only recently Lt Higgins was awarded the MC. We trust the gallant young officer will soon recover. A telegraph was sent to his parents. Urgent J Higgins Thiepval Highbury Ave Prestatyn N Wales. You are permitted to visit 2Lt Thomas Higgins RE. Seriously ill at 20 General Hospital Camiers. Another telegraph was sent on the 15th November 1916. Deeply regret to inform you 20 General Hospital Camiers reports 2Lt Thomas Higgins RE died of his wounds 4.10 am November 15th. The Army council express their sympathy. Lt Thomas Higgins MC, died on Wednesday the 15th November 1916, son of John and Amelia Higgins. Buried in Etaples Military Cemetery Pas de Calais France, I.B.68. His personal effects were sent home by Messrs. Cox & Co`s Shipping Agency LTD, 16 Charing Cross, London, S.W. These are listed as, 1. Letter. 2. Devotional Book. 3. Diary. 4. Metal cigarette case. 5. Leather purse. 6. Whistle. 7. Wrist Watch and strap. 8. Match box cover. On the 25th November 1916, the Prestatyn Weekly wrote. Sometime ago it was mentioned in these columns that Lt Higgins, whose parents reside at Hill Crest, Meliden Road, had been awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry. Now it is our sorrowful duty to record the death of this hero. He was badly wounded about the head, and succumbed to his injuries in hospital. His sister, Mrs Gasquoine, travelled to France on receipt of the news of his injuries, and was present at his deathbed. The King and Queen have sent their condolence. Several letters were sent and received regarding Thomas’s Rank at time of wounding, and asking about a death certificate as his life had been insured. Also noting a change of address to 82 Watergate St, Chester. His will states that a sum of ?1616, 3 and 8 were to be paid to his Father. His medals were sent also sent to his Father on 31st May 1917. His Plaque and Scroll were sent on the 18th Feb 1919. His Military Cross was gazetted on the 26th Sept 1916, but not sent till 3rd Sept 1917. To my knowledge only the Scroll survives. Thomas is commemorated on the Prestatyn town Memorial and the Chester City Memorial. I have been unable to find a portrait of Thomas and his medals have not appeared on the market. (Records going back to 1977).

Capt John Martin MC John Martin was born in Edinburgh on the 28th November 1888, the son of James and Euphemia Carrack Barclay Martin. He was educated at Malvern College and Edinburgh University. He served in the College Cadet Corps as a Private for two years, then in the Officer Training Corps at University. John joined the Army on the 14th August 1914, and was granted a temporary commission as 2Lt on the 26th August. In the Gordon Highlanders. He had also expressed an interest in the Cameron Highlanders and the Highland light Infantry. At his time of enlistment he was living at 13 Forbes Road, Edinburgh. On enlistment the following details are given, Age 25. Height 72 ? inches. Chest max 38 min 36. Weight 168. Hearing good. Teeth up to standard. Vision 6/6. Colour vision normal. Described as fit. Promotion details. T 2/Lt “6th Aug 1914, Lt 10th June 1915, Capt 14th April 1916. Original served with the 8th Gordon Highlanders before the amalgamation into the 8th/10th Gordon Highlanders, on May the 11th 1916. He went to France on the 12th March 1915 and is listed as Capt in A Coy, on the 11th may 1916. War Diary for the 30th Jan 1917. On the night of the 29th/30th a raid was carried out by B and D Coys on the Butte De Warlencourt and the Quarry. At midnight the two assaulting Coys, clad in white smocks and with whitened steel helmets moved up into position along tapes which were laid the night previously by Capt martin and Capt priday. Lt Mutch was in command of B Coy with 2Lt Kemp, 2Lt Walker, 2lt Hafford. Lt Kenyon was in command of D Coy with 2Lt Knowles and 2Lt Farster. Some difficulty was experienced in getting the men into place, but this was accomplished safely, by 1.30 am. The German wire was all cut by artillery and gaps were made in our own. During all this time there was practically no shelling by either side. Prompt to a second to zero 1.45 am our artillery of all calibres placed an intense barrage on the enemy trench in front of Butte, stokes guns, medium trench mortars and machine guns assisted. Immediately the artillery started the assaulting waves (2) commenced to cross no mans land at zero +1 minute the barrage lifted at the rate of 50 yards per minute. Practically no opposition was offered to our advance with the exception of the left flank which was held up for a short time by a MG on the left of the quarry. The waves moved steadily forward and reached the Butte after 10 minutes. The ground was in a very bad condition and full of enormous craters. B Coys objective was the Butte and dugouts in it. The right of B Coy encountered a German post and held by six men that immediately surrendered. They then entered the Butte Trench and discovered a deep dugout and trench mortar emplacement with gun in position. This was destroyed and dugout bombed. The left flank and centre of B Coy saw no trench before reaching the Butte, there they discovered several dugouts. The occupants were called upon to surrender those in the first refused so several mills were throw in one or two P bombs and a stokes bomb were thrown in, wrecking the dugout and setting it on fire. One prisoner was got out of the second which was treated similarly to number one. In the third 12 prisoners were captured and it also was wrecked. D Coys objective was the Quarry. This was reached after a short time, owing to the activities of a machine gun on the left edge. This gun was knocked out and then the advance was continued to the Quarry. Her many Germans were discovered and killed. One dugout in the right hand corner was successfully bombed. Six prisoners were reported to have been captured, but they never reached our Adv Btn Hq. The whole raid was a great success in all 17 prisoners passed through our hands. According to all reports many casualties were inflicted on the enemy. Its calculated that these amount to 50 or 60 all told. Our casualties were slight amounting at the very outside to be 16 or 17. There were three Officers, two 2Lt Farster and 2Lt Walker slightly wounded and 2Lt Knowles missing believed killed. The enemy did not put up a fight at all. No barrage was placed on our lines and no SOS signal were seen. It is thought that owing to the quietness that they were absolutely deceived as to our intentions and no thought of our attack occurred to them. On the admission of one of the prisoners who spoke a little English, it came as a complete surprise. The following message was received from the Div. The GOC congratulates you and your brigade on the operation so successfully carried out. Brig Gen Marshall adds. I wish to thank all ranks for the trouble taken in preparing for the raid, and gallantry displayed in the execution. About 3.15 am the dugouts on the Butte were blazing merrily at this hour an explosion occurred there and flames rose about 30 feet in the air, bombs and SAA were also heard exploding, at 10 am this morning the Butte was still smoking. Capt Martin was awarded the Military Cross for this action, it appears in the London Gazette on the 12th March 1917. His citation reads, `For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He displayed marked courage and ability in organising the arrangements previous to a raid. Later, during the raid, he personally supervised the guiding of the assaulting troops`. The Battle of Arras At 2.30 am on the 9th April 1917, the Btn began to move forward to assembly trenches for the attack. The Btn was reported in position at 4.30 am, one hour before zero, no casualties having occurred and the enemy’s suspicions apparently not having been aroused. The position of the Btn as follows- A Coy under Capt John Martin MC, right front. B Coy under Capt W McCall, on the left front. D Coy under 2Lt B Burnett, in support. C Coy under Lt P Booth, in reserve. Strength Officers 20 OR`s 702. At 5.30 am Zero our barrage opened with a thunder of sound and our support and reserve Coys moved out of their trenches. At 2 minutes in accordance with the plan, the front Coys climbed from their trenches and moved forward. The movement was made in perfect order, a tendency on the part of the men to follow our barrage too closely being the only problem calling for Officers control. The enemy’s SOS signal was put up about 30 seconds after zero, and a field gun barrage was put down on our front line and communication trenches about 3 minutes later, causing a few casualties to C Coy before they got over the front line, and the two front Coys dashed into the enemy first line before opposition was passable. From this point until the taking of the 1st objective 500 yards behind the German front line, the front Coys moved forward behind the barrage with perfect steadiness and splendid courage. News of its capture was telephoned to Btn Hq, 7 ? minutes after it was timed to be taken. Hq were advanced to the front line and remained with the leading Coys throughout subsequent operations. A halt of 1 hour 40 minutes at this point allowed reorganisation. There was little shelling the enemy having engaged in withdrawing its guns. At 7.50 am the Btn advanced to the second objective in the altered formation laid down. This objective represented a further advance of 1000 yards, A and B Coys remained in the front line attack. Before the attack had advanced 150 yards, it was held up by machine gun fire from Railway Triangle and a redoubt on the right. This redoubt was outside our area, but Capt Martin MC seeing that the Division on our right were swinging away from the redoubt, instead of attacking it, at once organised two parties to storm it. With 2Lt A C Hay he led these parties and captured the redoubt, both Officers unfortunately being killed in doing so. Their efforts coupled with the arrival of a tank, which advanced against Railway Triangle enabled the Btn to move forward and take the second objective. A telegraph was sent to Mr Martin, 61 Queens St Edinburgh, ` Deeply regret to inform you Capt J Martin, Gordon Highlanders was killed in action April 9th. The Army Council expresses their sympathy. John’s will states that his estate of ?122 9 5, was to go to his Father. James Martin Solicitor Supreme Courts of 13 Forbes Rd Edinburgh. All his personal effects were sent home, and collected by his father. In a letter dated 5th May 1917, the following items are sent home, 1. 1 Identity disc. 2. 1 Cheque book. Another letter also dated the 5th May 1917,says, Sir, I am directed to inform you that a report has been received which states that the late Capt J Martin 8th Gordon Highlanders, is buried at Blangy Cross roads, North East of Arras. The grave has been registered in this office, and is marked by a durable wooded cross with an inscription bearing full particulars. John Martin is buried in Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, Slouches, Pas de Calais France, XVII.J.48. Portraits of John Martin can be found in, Watsonians who served in the Great War and the University of Edinburgh Roll of Honour. His medals were sent to his father at 61 Queens St Edinburgh, which appears to be his offices on the 9th August 1917. His Military Cross was sent on the 15th June 1917. To my knowledge only his Memorial Plaque survives.

Edward George Crowter Edward George Crowter, was born at 2 Lowther Road `Holm Lea`, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey on the 11th May 1896. The son of Edward Evelyn Crowter and Lilly Eliza Crowter (nee Crumpter), he had a younger brother Wilfred C Crowter. He was educated at Richmond Road School. For many years was a member of The Church of the Good Sheppard Choir, and was well known in St Luke’s Parish. He was also one of the original members of Kingston United Football Club, playing in defence. Having left school he worked as a sign painter in Kingston. At some point the moved with his parents and brother to 78 Deacon Road, Kingston, (just round the corner from Lowther Road. On the 25th January 1915 aged 18 years and 9 months he joined the army, at Lochabur Street London. He enlisted in the Royal Engineers and given the Regimental number 65323. His service papers give the following details. Height 5` 8.5”, weight 139Lbs, chest 34”. With good physical development, brown hair and brown eyes. His vision was 6/6 in both eyes. On the 2nd February he began his training at the Army School of Engineering, Chatham, Kent. Further training at Rye, Bordon Camp, Henley Upon Thames, his employment was as a painter. On the 27th August 1915, he embarked with 128 Field Company Royal Engineers (23rd Div) for France, from Southampton. Arriving on the 28th, at Le Havre. The Division concentrated in the Tilques area near St Omer. On the 7th Sept, they moved to Bailleul. The next day saw the Coy employed in trench construction. On the 14th Sept they moved to Rue Marle near Armitieres. The unit war diary gives the following account, for the 23rd November 1915. Enemy very quiet, his artillery action was confined to the occasional bombardments. Weather bitterly cold. 27th November Unit employed in front line underpinning front parapet. One Sapper killed and one wounded. Edward being killed and a Sapper called Brett, being wounded. Edward was killed in Wine Ave, a communication trench leading to the front line. I have not been able to ascertain his exact cause of death, but feel sure that it was either a shell that killed him, and wounded Brett, or maybe a sniper. As the next trench along, which runs parallel with Wine Ave (Wellington Ave), saw a Sapper called King being killed by a sniper. Edward is buried in X Farm Cemetery, Armitieres. Which is very close to were Wine Ave would have been. One of Edward’s Officers had the following to say about him, when writing to his parents. “I had only just taken command of this section, but at once recognised Edward’s good soldiering qualities”. Edward served just 307 days in the army and only 91 in France. He is commerated on the Kingston Cenotaph and in St Luke’s Church, just round the corner from his home, on Deacon road. This is but a very brief summary of all the research I have done on Edward, there’s nearly enough for a short book on him. His life and military service, etc. I have no idea of what happened to Edward’s medals or personnel effects, which where sent home to his parents. But I don know the location of his Memorial Plaque and a large framed portrait of him, both of which were rescued from a SKIP!!! I just hope that his medals didn’t meet a similar fate!! I think you’ll agree, the saving of these two items is a happy ending to a sad story. His picture and scroll, now hang on a wall in my home. I never knew Edward or his family, but feel they would be happy in the fact that his sacrifice has not been forgotten, and someone cares, even after all these years!! I put forward Edward’s name be read out on the anniversary of his death, at the services which were carried out everyday in 2001 at the Menin Gate, Belgium, and am pleased to say that my wish was carried out by the Last Post Committee Association, on the 27th November, 86 years after his death.

Can anyone tell me anything about the history of the 62nd, during the Boer war. I`m trying to find out there role in Cape Colony & Wittebergen. I`m trying to research this man...... 6287 Pte R F C Thomson 62nd Coy Imperial Yeomanry Born in Belfast Northern Ireland 20/11/1875, son of William & A M Thomson, of Fountain Ville, Belfast Northern Ireland. In January 1900, he enlisted in the Middlesex Yeomanry, giving his trade as horse dealer. He is entitled to the Queens South Africa Medal, with clasps Cape Colony & Wittebergen. He served 4 years with the Middlesex Yeomanry. He joined the 14th Regiment on the 29th September 1915, in Vermont DC aged 39 and 11 months. His employment as Rancher. He was part of the 104th F&C Militia, stating that he had previous military service with the 62nd Yeomanry. His next of kin was his sister, who lived at Caragh Lake, County Derry, Ireland. He was 5` 8”. A 36” inch chest, with fair complexion, hazel eyes and hair turning grey. Various scars and birth marks, but on his right fore arm a tattoo of the 62nd Yeomanry. Killed in action Tuesday the 26th September 1916 (Somme), serving as a Pte in the 14th (Royal Montreal Regiment) Canadian Regiment. Aged 40. No known grave, he is commemorated on the Vimy Ridge Memorial. On the 26th September 1916, the 14th Regiment attacked Thiepval Ridge, on the Somme. I think I`ve got his WW1 service sorted, but am having problems finding about his Boer War service, can anyone help?

There are numerous references to gold sovereigns associated with the British support of the Arab Revolt in the 1st World War, the area must have been awash with the stuff for years. After the capture of Aqaba in July 1917 Lawrence crossed Sinai in order to secure funds to pay the Arabs involved in the operation. In the Seven Pillars of Wisdom Lawrence says: 'Clayton drew sixteen thousand pounds in gold and got an escort to take it to Suez by the 3 o'clock train' Lawrence's field diary also mentions gold: February 5–18 [1918] Lawrence returns to Tafileh with 30,000 sovereigns for the forthcoming campaign in the area. He gives the funds to the Emir Zeid, younger brother of Feisal and leader of the expedition, and leaves for a reconnaissance in the area east of the Dead Sea. In Lawrence's absence, Zeid's local advisers persuade him to pay out all the money to local tribes. In an echo of the Gulf War I think I also read somewhere that the Arabs were promised a bounty of 50 gold sovereigns for any downed allied airmen returned safely to the allies. From March 1916 (2 months before the Revolt began) Sherif Husain was paid ?125,000 per month in gold sovereigns by the British to try a sway him into coming in on the allied side (a deal which Gertrude Bell helped to set up). My guess is a lot of this gold is still knocking around, mostly as jewellery and dowry gifts for the local Bedouin women.

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence has to confirm that Private Mark Stephen Dobson of B (Green Howards) Company, The Tyne-Tees Regiment, was found dead in his accommodation at Basrah Air Station on 28 March 2005. The incident is being investigated but is not thought to have been the result of hostile action. Private Dobson was 41 years old and came from County Durham. Private Dobson joined the Territorial Army in July 1996. He deployed to Iraq on 10 November 2004, and was attached to the Force Protection Unit providing security for personnel working out of the Multi National Division (South East) Headquarters at Basrah Air Station. Lieutenant Colonel Ian McFarlane TD, CO The Tyne-Tees Regiment, said: "Private Dobson was mobilised in September 2004 as part of a 34 man group from The Tyne-Tees Regiment who joined the East and West Riding Regiment's "Normandy Company" for their deployment on Force Protection duties in Iraq. He had great support from his parents and two younger sisters all of whom live in the area. They were very proud of his achievements. "Private Dobson was an enthusiastic and popular member of B (Green Howards) Company of The Tyne-Tees Regiment based in Middlesborough. He transferred into the Infantry three years ago from another local unit, in search of further challenge and to satisfy his thirst for adventure and passion for soldiering. "Private Dobson always had a valuable contribution to make. He was a tremendously effective team member and could always be relied upon to give a full 100% in anything he was tasked to do. He had recently qualified as a Physical Training Instructor, gaining a course award considerably better than others who were many years younger than him. He was a regular attender at weekend and annual training camps, and had served since 1996 throughout the UK and in Cyprus. "Private Dobson's death has come as a great shock to the many people that knew him, and he will be sadly missed."

Was DC Oakwood, the one who was stabbed to death, by the terrorist? Or was he the one killed by that crazed yank on Boxing Day? Wasn`t there a feamle Officer, who was killed during a raid sometime ago, who was recommended for a medal? Did she ever get it? There seems to be such a broad spectrum of what qualifies for a GC, from shielding children from a madman, in a classroom, to saving your opo`s from a A10 attack. But surely being stabbed to death following a raid because A. you had no body armour on, and B the suspects should have been cuffed, and not allowing to walk around the scene, let alone into the kitchen!!!!! Now I`ve been guilty of not wearing any armour during a raid, so I`m not throwing any stones in that diection, but its just something to take into consideration before we start awarding GC`s, which I`m not convinced whatever they say that its the same as a VC. While I`m on the subject of VC`s judging by what I`ve been told about the PWRR, and Op Telic 4, well thats a subject for another day. But its fact that they are, as yet the most contacted Regiment since WW2, but lets see what Op Telic 6 holds!!!!