Formerly a Trimmer with the Royal Naval Reserve, Ernest died on 1st of February 1921 at the age of 26. Ernest was born at Kessingland on 13 October 1895, a son of James and Harriett Forster. He was baptised at Saint Edmund's Church, Kessingland, on 15 December 1895. In 1901 his family lived 'near High Street, Kessingland'. In 1911 his family were living at Church View, Field Lane, Kessingland, and Ernest worked as a gardener's boy. Later his family lived at Stone Cottage, Fields Lane, Kessingland.Ernest joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 3 January 1918. He served on the trawler Juo (sic) from 24 April 1918 until January 1919. He was demobilized on 15 February 1919.Ernest was found to have illness that had been aggravated by his war service. From mid-1920 he was granted a 100% disablement pension. Ernest was buried at Saint Edmund's Churchyard, Kessingland, on 5 February 1921.

A Corporal with the 1st Battalion, Ernest died on 4th of May 1918 aged 30. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 27 August 1887, a son of John and Charlotte Forster. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 2 February 1888 and his family lived at East Raglan Street. In 1891 his family lived at 40 Queens Road and in 1901 at 16 Queens Road.On 11 July 1908 Ernest married Anna Laura Powell at Saint Margaret’s Church. Ernest was a carpenter living at 16 Queens Road and Anna lived at 2 Trafalgar Street. In 1911 they lived at 7 Edinburgh Road and Ernest was a carpenter in the building industry. Ernest volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion Suffolk Regiment. In 1917 he was renumbered 265104 and subsequently was posted to the 8th Battalion in France and it is likely that he was transferred to the Bedfordshire Regiment, to join its 1st Battalion, in February 1918 when the 8th Battalion was disbanded. On 1 May 1918 the 1st Battalion were in support in Nieppe Forest. On 5 May they were employed in making tracks to the front line battalion headquarters, digging, wiring and providing carrying parties. The battalion was diary shows that one man was killed, this was Ernest, and seven wounded. Ernest was buried at map reference K.25.b.8.6 and his grave marked with a cross and a photograph attached. Later the Grave Registration Unit exhumed Ernest and he was reburied at Merville: they used the cross and photograph as evidence of his identity.    In 1918 Anna was living at 54 Queens Road, later she moved to 60 Mile End Road, Norwich, but returned to Lowestoft and lived at 13 Trafalgar Street. 

A Deck Hand with Steam Trawler Lindsey (Boston), Henry died on 10th of September 1920 at the age of 19. Henry was born at Lowestoft in late 1901. He was a son of William Charles and Harriet Mary Garnham. In 1911 his family lived at 5 Eastern Square, Whapload Road. What exactly happened to Henry’s biological father is not known, but in 1916 his mother married Henry Horton Forwood and it seems that, thereafter, Henry used the surname Forwood. His family lived at 33 Police Station Road. In September 1920 Henry, who served as Victor Forwood, was a Deck Hand with the Boston based trawler Lindsey. The Lindsey sailed from Boston on 3 September and should have returned on 13 September. On 9 September the Lindsey, and the Boston based trawler Bostonian, were seen fishing about 180 miles east-north-east of Spurn Point. Both trawlers were long overdue for their return and by 25 September it was concluded that both trawlers had struck mines and sank. Henry was one of ten men lost on the Lindsey. In 1996 the council at Boston, Lincolnshire, acknowledged that Henry’s name of 236 that were omitted from the town’s war memorial. 

An Able Seaman with H.M.S. Turbulent, Ernest died on 1st of June 1916 at the age of 36. Ernest was born at Carlton Colville on 12 February 1880, a son of Robert George and Amy Georgiana Foulger. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Carlton Colville, on 1 March 1880.  Ernest joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class on 11 February 1896 and he served continuously in the navy until his death. In 1901 his family lived at Jarvis Terrace, Carlton Colville, and by 1911 at 6, Epsom Terrace, Kirkley. (Later they would like at 6 Groom Terrace Kirkley Run Lowestoft).Ernest married Ethel Mary Mills at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 3rd March 1910. Later she lived at 88 Morton Road, Kirkley.  On 12 May 1916 Ernest was drafted to the newly completed H.M.S. Turbulent, a destroyer. Ernest died when the Turbulent was sunk, by the battleship Westfalen, at the Battle of Jutland. Ernest had four brothers who served in the First World War: Robert and James served with the Royal Navy; John, who served with the Norfolk Regiment; and Wilfred who served with the Suffolk regiment and was killed in action at Loos. 

A Private with 7th Bn., Wilfred died on 2nd of October 1915 at the age of 18. Wilfred was born at Covehithe in June 1897, a son of Robert George and Amy Georginanna Foulger. He was baptised at Saint Andrews Church, Covehithe, on 17 July 1898.In 1901 his family lived at Jarvis Terrace, Carlton Colville, and by 1911 at 6, Epsom Terrace, Kirkley. (Later they would like at 6 Groom Terrace Kirkley Run Lowestoft).Wilfred arrived in France with the 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment on 30th May 1915, shortly before his 18th birthday. In late September 1915 the 7th battalion moved to front-line trenches at Loos. The battalion was subjected to sporadic enemy shell-fire for most of 2nd October 1915, but at 8 p.m. a sudden enemy barrage opened up and hit members of the battalion's working parties at the 'Chalk Pit' and 'A' Companies water party (bringing fresh water for the men in the trenches). Although the battalion war diary states 'casualties not severe' Wilfred was killed on that day. Wilfred had four brothers who served in the First World War: Robert, James and Ernest served with the Royal Navy (Ernest was killed in action at Jutland) and John, who served with the Norfolk Regiment. 

A Wren with H.M.S. Europa, Esme died on 18th of February 1940 at the age of 19. Esme was born at Marlborough, Wiltshire, on 8 Jun 1920, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Fowler. She was baptised at the Methodist Church, Marlborough, on 11 July 1920, and her family lived at Bristol House, High Street, Marlborough.   In 1939 her family lived at 68 High Street and Esme worked as a short-hand typist. Later her parents lived at 128 Bridge Road, Oulton Broad. Esme joined the Women's Royal Naval Service and served at H.M.S. Pembroke X, later known as H.M.S. Europa, the base of the Royal Naval Patrol Service at Lowestoft.Esme died at Lowestoft Isolation Hospital from cerebro-spinal fever. 

A Private with the 27th Battalion, William died on 10th of April 1917 at the age of 25. William was born at Oulton on 16 December 1891, a son of Charles Robert and Bessie Fowler. In 1901 his family lived at Clarence Cottage, Commodore Road, Oulton Broad. Later his family lived at Bridge Road before moving to Plevna Cottage, Commodore Road, Oulton Broad.William moved to Canada in 1910 intending to live at Edmonton and work as a joiner. In 1914 he married Hannah Mildred Storey at Edmonton. By February 1916 they were living at 8205, 109 Street, Edmonton South, and William was a carpenter and wheelwright. Later Hannah lived at Ivy Cottage, Potter Heigham, Norfolk. William attested for the Canadian Army at Edmonton South, Alberta, on 1 February 1916, using the name William Victor Fowler. Initially he served with the 151st Battalion. William embarked at Halifax, Nova Scotia, on 3 October 1916 and arrived at Liverpool on 13 October. He was then transferred to the 11th Reserve Battalion at Shorncliffe. On 30 November he was transferred to the 27th Battalion and he arrived in France on 1 December 1916 to join the battalion. On 9 April 1917 the 27th Battalion took part in the Canadian attack on Vimy Ridge. The battalion was led into the battle by Bandsman Smith who played his piccolo. During the battel the battalion capture 10 German guns and captured 300 prisoners, but the battalion suffered fairly low numbers of casualties. William was killed in action at Vimy Ridge. William’s name appears on Saint Margaret's War Memorial.

An Able Seaman with H.M.S. Queen Mary, Charles died on 31st of May 1916 at the age of 22. Charles was born at Lowestoft on 14 November 1893, a son of Charles Henry and Emily Lavenia Fox of Blundeston Lowestoft. In 1901 his family lived at Flixton Road, Blundeston. By 1911 his parents were living at The Street, Blundeston. Charles was working as a farm labourer when he joined the Royal Navy, as a Boy 2nd Class, on 27 July 1909. On 16 September 1913 he joined H.M.S. Queen Mary. Charles was serving on H.M.S. Queen Mary at the Battle of Jutland. Early in the battle the Queen Mary was hit twice by shells from the German battlecruiser Derfflinger and the Queen Mary's magazines exploded sinking the ship. Charles was one of 1,266 crew who were killed.  

A Second Lieutenant with the 11th Battalion, David died on 15th of October 1917 at the age of 26. David was born at South Shields in 1890: his birth name was David Deacon and his parents were David William and Hannah Deacon. David was baptised at South Shields on 17 June 1890. David’s mother died while he was an infant and he was then adopted by his aunt Emma Fox, nee Deacon, and her husband William Stevens Fox. In 1891 they lived at Norwich Road, Horstead, Norfolk. In 1901 his family lived with Thomas Sampher at 30 Chapel Street, King’s Lynn. They were still living at 30 Chapel Street in 1911 and David was a law clerk. It seems that David moved to Hull before the First World War began. During the war his (adoptive) father was involved in boat-building in the Oulton Broad area. David volunteered and enlisted in the Army. He joined the East Yorkshire Regiment and was posted to the 11th (Service) Battalion (2nd Hull), service number 11/615. He was already a Sergeant when the Battalion arrived at Egypt on 23 December 1915. In March 1916 the Battalion moved to France.David was promoted to Colour Sergeant before leaving the Battalion to attend officer training. He was commissioned as Second Lieutenant n the West Yorkshire Regiment on 25 April 1917. David was posted to the 11th Battalion and appears to have joined them, in the field, after 20 September 1917. On 11 October the Battalion moved into front line trenches near Clapham Junction and Zillebecke Bund, Belgium.The 11th Battalion War Diary for 15 October 1917 has: Enemy barrage on front and support line at 5 – 6 p.m. A Company lost heavily. Lieutenant Fox and Company Sergeant major killed, Lieutenant Pearson wounded and many other ranks. David’s Medal Index Card gives his next of kin as his biological father: David W. Deacon, 41 Lemon Street, Tyne Dock, South Shields.David is commemorated on the war memorial at Saint Margaret’s Church. 

A Civilian, Frederick died on 21st of August 1940 at the age of 39. Frederick was born at Lowestoft on 14 April 1901, a son of William Gilby and Edith Clara Fox. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 3 May 1901 and his family lived at 61 Stanley Street. William’s mother died and his father remarried. By 1911 his family were living at 247 Clapham Road. In 1913 they lived at 60 Sussex Road. Later his family moved to Tipton, Staffordshire, and in 1921 Frederick was lodging with William Devey at 20 Dudley Port, Tipton, and he worked as a turner with J. Devey, General Engineers, at Dudley Port. By 1925 Frederick, and his family, had moved back to the Lowestoft area. In 1925 Frederick married Olive D. G. Reeve: this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1939, Frederick, and family, lived at Braeside, The Street, Blundeston, and Frederick was a tool turner. Frederick served with the Heavy Rescue Service. He died, during an air raid, at the air raid shelter at the rear of Zephyr Engineering Limited, Freemantle Road. Frederick’s brother William served with the East Surrey regiment and died in 1918. 

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Sidney died on 28th of February 1916 at the age of 19. Sidney was born at Norwich in 1896, a son of Benjamin and Ruth Edith Fox. In 1901 his family lived at 22 Geoffrey Road, Old Lakenham, Norwich. By 1911 they were living at 28 Beaconsfield Road, Lowestoft, and Sidney was a telegraph messenger. Sidney volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 18740, and was posted to the 7th Battalion, arriving in France on 4 October 1915. On 26 February 1916 the 7th Battalion moved into front lines trenches, near Noyelles, and including a trench feature known as the Hairpin. The Battalion’s war diary states that at 9.30 p.m. there was grenade activity ‘near right leg of hairpin. We silenced a sniper and had one killed and three wounded.’It seems that Sidney was wounded on the 26th and succumbed to his wounds on 28 February.

A Private with the Depot, Stanley died on 18th of October 1919 at the age of 19. Stanley was born at Oulton in 1900, a son of Robert and Florence J. Fox. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 3 March 1900 and his family lived at Oulton Lane. In 1901 his family lived at Workhouse Lane, Oulton. By 1911 they were living at Mobbs Cottages, Corton. Later his parents lived at Church Farm, Church Lane, Lound.Stanley served in France, with the 9th Battalion Royal Fusiliers, from 7 August 1918 to 29 August 1918. From 22 August 1918 the 9th Battalion were in action near Becourt and Mametz. Stanley was wounded, on date unknown, and evacuated to England. At this point he would have been posted to the strength of the Depot. Stanley died at the Kitchener Military Hospital, Brighton. Pension record card details state that he died of 'disease'. He was buried at Lound churchyard on 23 October 1919. 

A Private with 12th Divisional Cyclist Company Army Cyclist Corps, Walter died on 28th of October 1915 at the age of 26. Walter was born at Lowestoft on 27 June 1889, a son of Samuel Robert and Elizabeth Fox. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church, Lowestoft, on 17 July 1889, and his family lived at Town Cottages, Rotterdam Road. In 1891 their address was 4 Town Cottages, Rotterdam Road, Lowestoft, and this was Walter’s home for the rest of his life. In 1911 Walter worked on the trawler Sunshine, LT 959, at Padstow.Walter was working as a fisherman when he volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 18 August 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 9412, and, on 19 August 1914, he was posted to the 7th Battalion. On 30 January 1915 he was transferred to the Army Cyclist Corps, number 2880, and posted to the 12th Divisional Cyclist Company. He arrived in France, with his unit, on 31 May 1915. The War Diary for the 12th Divisional Cyclist Company has the following entry for 6 October 1915:Took over billets at La Bourse, the company once more bring entirely split up for duties under the Assistant Provost Marshal from this date to the 21st. The following casualties Private Bragg – seriously wounded, Corporal Pearce – died, Private Fox – mortally wounded, Private Turnbull – wounded.Walter had received gunshot wound to his head. He was evacuated to Rouen and he died of his wounds at 12th General Hospital, Rouen, at 6.50 p.m. on 28 October 1915.  His mother was sent his personal effects: one packet of correspondence and postcards. Note: some sources give Walter's date of death as 29 October, but copies of the original telegrams notifying his family, and others, of his death, are found in his service papers and very clearly state the date and time that he died.  

A Private with the 12th Battalion, William died on 24th of July 1918 at the age of 22. William was born at Lowestoft in 1896, a son of William Gilby and Edith Clara Fox. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 3 July 1896 and his family lived at 7 Stanford Street and by 1901 they were living at 61 Stanley Street. William’s mother died and his father remarried. By 1911 his family were living at 247 Clapham Road, and William was a fish packer. In 1913 they lived at 60 Sussex Road, and William was a box maker. Later his family lived at 40 Victoria Road, Tipton, Staffordshire. On 7 January 1913 William enlisted in the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment (Territorial Force) at Lowestoft, service number 1576. He was embodied on 5 August 1914 and continued to serve until 5 April 1916 when he was discharged as a consequence of the Military Service Act which means that he was discharged from his Territorial Force terms of service and could be conscripted and deployed anywhere in the Army. William enlisted in the Army at Norwich on 6 November 1916. He joined the East Surrey Regiment, service number 30724. It seems that he was to be posted to the 7th Battalion but was, instead, posted to 1st Battalion and he joined A Company.On 18 January 1917 he was admitted 11 General Hospital, Dannes, Camiers, 18 January 1917, with severe laryngitis. He was invalided to England on 13 February and, once recovered, he returned to serve with the 1st Battalion. He was then diagnosed with disorderly action of the heart and was treated at Westminster Hospital. He joined a convalescence camp on 15 May 1917 and, once recovered, he returned to France. William was wounded and his name appears in the official casualty list, the War Office Daily List, dated 20 October 1917. Subsequently he served with the 12th Battalion. From 21 July 1918 the 12th Battalion were at La Clytte. On 24 July a neighbouring battalion, the 15th Hampshire Regiment, carried out a raid. In response the German artillery shelled the British positions, including the positions held by the 12th Battalion. Seven men, including William, were killed, and three others wounded. William’s brother Frederick died in an air raid in 1940.

A Sapper with 573 Army Field Company, Bernard died on 18th of December 1942 aged 26. Bernard was born at Kessingland on 21 January 1916, a son of Bernard William and May Florence Foyster. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 5 March 1916 and his family lived at Alma Cottages. In 1921 they lived at 2 Hadley Cottages, Kessingland. By 1939 Bernard’s family were living at 5 Hope Terrace, Kessingland, and Bernard was a pipe fitter. Bernard enlisted in the Royal Engineers, at Birmingham, on 29 August 1940. Bernard arrived at Suez on 30 March 1942, and he joined 573 Army Field Company on 13 April 1942.Bernard was reported missing, in the Western Desert, on 2 June 1942, but later evidence shows that he was captured at Tobruk on 27 May 1942. By July 1942 he was at a prisoner of war camp in Italy. Bernard died at Altamora Hospital, Bari, and buried at Altamora Cemetery. In 1944 he was reburied at Bari War Cemetery. 

A Civilian, Rose died on 12th of May 1943 aged 47. Rose was born at Haverhill on 24 March 1896, a daughter of William and Selina Thake. She was baptised at Saint Mary’s Church, Haverhill, on 1 May 1896, and her family lived at 5 Snapes Yard. In 1901 her family lived at 5 Crowland Road, Haverhill. By 1911 they were living at 4 Waveney Terrace, Haverhill, and Rose was a ticket taker and a cotton warehouse. In 1919 Rose married Ernest George Foyster, this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1921 they lived at 28 Clapham Road, Lowestoft, and by 1939 their home was at 19 Albany Road. Later Erenst lived at 1 Albany Road. Rose died at the High Street during the Focke-Wulf Raid. 

A Deck Hand with Steam Trawler Derwent (Boston), Daniel died on 26th of January 1920 at the age of 24. Daniel was born at Lowestoft in 1895, a son of Daniel and Margaret (Maggie) Francis. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 4 October 1895 and his family lived at 29 Jacob’s Street, which would be Daniel’s home for the rest of his life. In 1911 Daniel worked as a labourer at the fish yard. Daniel was working as a fisherman when he volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 10 November 1914. He joined the Royal Garrison Artillery, service number 50274. He was posted to No 4 Depot and on 24 December 1914 joined 21 Company. Daniel was transferred to the Highland Light Infantry, on 22 June 1915, service number 21444, and was posted to the 2nd Battalion, in France, on 2 October 1915.On 1 August 1916 Daniel was wounded by shrapnel in his right knee and was admitted to No 21 Casualty Clearing Station. On 2 August he was transferred to No 2 Stationary Hospital at Abbeville, and, on 8 August, he was transferred to England. He was posted to the strength of the Depot on 9 August 1916. Daniel was admitted to the 3rd London General Hospital, Wandsworth, and a medical board found that he could not walk without crutches and concluded that, for the time being, he would not be able to work due to his injury. Daniel was discharged, no longer physically fit for war service, on 20 February 1917. He was awarded the Silver War Badge. On 1 February 1919 Daniel married Ethel May Beckett. Daniel was a fisherman, living at 29 Jacob’s Street, and Ethel lived at 15 Gun Lane. Later Ethel lived at 29 Jacob’s Street. In 1920 Daniel worked on the Grimsby registered trawler Derwent, GY 525. The trawler was reported missing on 26 January 1920 and is thought to have struck a mine. The vessel was lost with all ten crew. Daniel's brother-in-law, Thomas Bayes, was also lost with the Derwent. 

A Lance Corporal with the 2nd Battalion, Sidney died on 26th of December 1916 at the age of 25. Sidney was born at Lowestoft in 1891, a son of George and Annie Francis. In 1901 his family lived at 17 Edinburgh Road. In 1904 Sidney became a pupil at Lowestoft School of Science. By 1911 his family were living at 211 London Road South and Sidney was an elementary school teacher and worked at Roman Hill School. In 1915 Sidney married Edith Sarah May Newson at Lowestoft. In 1917 she lived at Saint Margarets Garden, Beccles Road. Sidney enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft around July 1916. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 33541. Around October 1916 he was transferred to the Essex Regiment, service number 41234, and posted to the 2nd Battalion in France, where he joined C Company.   On 15 December 1916 Sidney was admitted to no 34 Casualty Clearing Station suffering from inflammation of connective tissue feet (trench-foot). The next day he was transferred to No 2 Ambulance Train.Precisely what then happened to Sidney is difficult to determine. We know that he died at No 6 General Hospital, Rouen. Pension record card details state that he died of wounds, whereas Soldiers Died in the Great War states he ‘died’, implying that he died of disease or sickness. 

A Third Hand with Steam Trawler Labrador (Lowestoft), Felix died on 23rd of January 1915 at the age of 31.Felix was born at Kirkley on 10 March 1884, a son of William and Phoebe Frankling. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 9 April 1886 and his family lived at Saint Georges Road. Note the baptism register gives his surname as Franklin.  In 1891 his family lived at 49 Lawson Road, Kirkley, and by 1901 their home was at 1 Church Road, Kirkley. On 23 February 1907 Felix married Eleanor Spriggs at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Felix was working as a fisherman and the both lived at 6 Till Road, Lowestoft. By 1911 they were living at 13 Stanford Street. After Felix's death Eleanor remarried, Ince, and lived at 4 Coronation Terrace, Pakefield Street, Lowestoft.In 1911 Felix was the Third Hand on the trawler Coriander at Padstow. On 23 January 1915 the trawler Labrador, LT 1165, left Lowestoft for the fishing grounds. The trawler was due back in Lowestoft on Sunday 31st. The trawler was not seen again and it was presumed that the trawler had struck a mine and sank with all eight crew. 

A Driver with 1/1st Suffolk Battery, 3rd East Anglian (Howitzer) Brigade, Arthur died on 22nd of May 1916 at the age of 24.Arthur was born at Lowestoft on 25 May 1892, a son of John Henry and Mary Ann Freeman. He was baptise at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 17 July 1892, and his family lived at 12 Jacobs Street. In 1901 his family lived at 6 Jacobs Street, and this would be Arthur's home for the rest of his life. In 1911 Arthur worked as a shop assistant (broker). Arthur was working as a shop assistant for S. Timms (sic) when he volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 9 September 1914. He joined the Royal Field Artillery, service number 988, and was posted to the 1/1st Suffolk Battery, 1/3rd East Anglian (Howitzer) Brigade.  Arthur’s unit embarked at Southampton on 16 November 1915 and disembarked at Havre the next day. On 1 February 1916 they embarked at Marseilles and disembarked at Alexandria on 8 February 1916.On 16 April 1916 Arthur was admitted to 3 East Anglian Filed Ambulance, with a fever (Pyrexia of unknown origin) and he was discharged to his unit on 19 April 1916. Arthur contracted dysentery and was admitted to 121 Indian Field Ambulance on 14 May 1916. He was transferred to 18 Stationary Hospital, at Suez, where he died on 22 May 1916. Arthur’s personal effects were sent to his mother and comprised: identity disc, two bead necklaces, twelve photographs, purse, two coins, a letter, and a list of addresses. Later his mother wrote to the War Department requesting that his ‘gold pin’ be returned to her as well ‘if it could be obtained.’ 

A Rifleman with the Depot, Gordon died on 31st of October 1918 aged 19. Gordon was born at Lowestoft in 1899, a son of George and Elizabeth Freeman. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 19 November 1899 and his family lived at 53 Saint Margaret’s Road and this was still their home in 1901. By 1911 they were living at 54 Saint Peter’s Street and later Gordon’s parents lived at Sunshine Villa, Mariners Score.Gordon enlisted in the Army at Bury St. Edmunds. He joined the King’s Royal Rifle Corps and was posted to the 16th Battalion in France. There is no record of when, where, or how, Gordon was wounded, but he was evacuated to England, posted to the strength of the Depot and admitted to 3rd Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, where he died from wounds and pneumonia. 

An Able Seaman with H.M.S. Barham, Jack died on 25th of November 1941 aged 20. Jack was born at Lowestoft on 22 December 1920, a son of George William and Charlotte Edith Freeman. In 1921 his family lived at 57 Edinburgh Road, and this was still their home in 1939 when Jack was a labourer at a silk works. By November 1941 Jack was serving with the battleship H.M.S. Barham in the Mediterranean. On 25 November 1941 the Barham was hit by three torpedoes fired by the German submarine U-331. The ship sank very quickly and 862 of the crew, including Jack, were killed. 

A Fourth Hand with Sailing Trawler Boy Percy (Lowestoft). Lancelot died on 13th of May 1916 at the age of 31.Lancelot was born at Corton in 1884, a son of Martha Ellen Freeman. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Corton. In 1901 they lived at 6 Colman Cottages, The Street, Hopton, and Lancelot worked as a farm labourer. In 1915 Lancelot married Evelyn Mary Bacon at Corton. Evelyn was a daughter of William and Martha Bacon and William Bacon was the Skipper of the Boy Percy. They lived at 2 Mill Hook Cottage Corton Lowestoft.Lancelot was the Fourth Hand on the trawler Boy Percy. On 13 May 1916 the sailing trawler Boy Percy, LT 90, sailed from Lowestoft for the fishing grounds. Jan Letten’s website, wrecksite.eu, suggests that the Boy Percy, along with the trawler Boy Sam, were scuttled off Southwold on 17 May 1916. This seems to be based on a report from the German Navy which indicates that the Boy Percy was stopped by submarine UB-29, the crew forced to take to lifeboats and the trawler sunk. The Boy Percy had been due back at Lowestoft on 21/22 May and whatever actually happened none of the crew were seen again.  Lancelot's father-in-law, William Bacon, was also lost with the Boy Percy. 

A Trimmer with H.M. Drifter Launch Out, Sidney died on 26th of October 1916 at the age of 26.Sidney was born at Corton on 21 October 1890, a son of John Isaac and Eliza Freeman. He was baptised at Saint Bartholomew's Church, Corton, on 30 November 1890. In 1891 his family lived at Mill Lane, Corton, and by 1901 at The Cliff, Corton. In 1911 they lived at 2 Rocket Cottages, Corton, and Sidney worked as a gardener's labourer.Sidney joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 2 September 1915 and served with H.M. Drifter Launch Out. The Launch Out was one of a number of Lowestoft trawlers, in the Dover Patrol, that were attacked by German destroyers during the night of 26-27 October 1916. The Launch Out stayed afloat before sinking. Eight crew, including Sidney, were killed and the Skipper, Horace Kemp, died of his wounds two days later. For details of the attack on the Dover Barrage see: The German attack on the 'Dover Barrage' 26th/27th October 1916 (sussexhistoryforum.co.uk)

A Private with the 8th Battalion, Arthur died on 19th of July 1916 at the age of 25. Artur was born at Kirkley on 25 May 1891, a son of Last and Esther Freestone. From 1 June 1896 Arthur was a pupil at Kirkley School. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley, on 4 June 1899 and his family lived at 24 Beaconsfield Road. In 1901 they lived at 55 Beaconsfield Road, and this was still their home in 1911 when Arthur worked as a general carter. Artur enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment and was posted to the 8th Battalion and arrived in France, with the battalion, on 25 July 1915.  At 5 a.m. on 19 July 1916 the 8th Battalion were ordered to retake the village of Longueval. At 8 a.m. the battalion was heavily shelling and a number of casualties resulted. Progress was very slow and other units could not get into position. From 12.35 Stokes mortars were used to bombard the enemy positions and there was a heavy enemy barrage in the village. At 1.30 p.m. the assault was delivered by the battalion took heavy casualties from artillery and machine-gun fire. The battalion held its positions and there was heavily shelling, from both sides, during the night. Arthur was killed in action on 19 July. 

A Private with the 5th Battalion, Arthur died on 11th of April 1917 at the age of 36. Arthur was born at Lowestoft on 8 June 1880, a son of George Henry and Harriet E. Freestone. In 1881 his family lived at 20 Clapham Road, Lowestoft, and by 1891 at 2 Jacob’s Street. In 1901 they lived at 96 Haward Street and Arthur was a grocer’s assistant. Later his family lived at 241 Raglan Street. Arthur moved to Canada and by 1 April 1911 he was living at Toronto. On 25 May 1912, Arthur married Annie Laura Florence. By January 1916 they were living at 21 Fenwick Avenue, Toronto, and later Annie lived at Highfield Road, Toronto. After Arthur’s death Annie returned to her home town of Norwich, Norfolk.  Arthur was working as a clerk when he attested for the Canadian Army at Toronto on 17 January 1916. He joined the 166th Battalion. He embarked at Halifax, Nova Scotia, on 18 October 1916 and arrived at Liverpool on 28 October 1916. On 27 November he was transferred to the 5th Canadian Mounted Infantry, at Seaford. Arthur arrived in France on 1 December 1916 and spent time at the Canadian Base Depot before joining his unit in the field on 25 December 1916.We do not know exactly when Arthur was wounded, but it was most probably during the 5th Battalion’s attack at Swischen Stellung and Fickle Trenches, Vimy, on 9-10 April 1917. Arthur received shrapnel wounds to his back and a compound fracture to a femur. He died of his wounds at 22 Casualty Clearing Station on 11 April 1917. Arthur’s brother Harry served with the Suffolk Regiment and died in 1917.

A Driver with the Royal Army Service Corps, Harry died on 27th of May 1946 aged 27. Harry was born at Lowestoft on 15 September 1918, a son of Frank William and Alice Mary Freestone. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 3 October 1918. Throughout his life his family lived at 28 Jacob's Street, Lowestoft. In 1939 Harry worked as a stores clerk. Little is known of Harry’s military service, or his cause of death, but he had been discharged from the Army before he died at Melton, Suffolk. 

A Private with the 9th Battalion, Harry died on 20th of November 1917 at the age of 38. Harry was born at Lowestoft in 1879, a son of George Henry and Harriet E. Freestone. In 1881 his family lived at 20 Clapham Road, Lowestoft, and by 1891 at 2 Jacob’s Street. In 1901 they lived at 96 Haward Street and Harry was a leather merchant’s assistant. Later his family lived at 241 Raglan Street. On 2 April 1904 Harry married Ethel Clara Capps at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. Harry was a shop assistant living at 96 Haward Street, and Ethel lived at 36 Stanford Street. In 1911 they lived at 36 Stanford Street, and Harry was a shop assistant working for a leather merchant. Harry enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 35057. He was posted to France to serve with the 9th Battalion. On 19 November 1917 the 9th Battalion moved into assembly positions in readiness for an attack, with tanks, on the Hindenburg Line, north of Beauchamp, to be made the next day. Early on the 20th the battalion formed up ‘in tank formation’ immediately to the rear of the two tanks sections working with them. The tanks were to the rear of the British support line between Argyle Road and Barricade Road. Assembly was completed by 1 a.m. and the men slept in their positions. The tanks and the men moved forward at 6.10 a.m. and the supporting barrage commenced at 6.20 a.m. The men moved with the tanks, through the British wire and within 200 yards of Plush Trench. Soon afterwards two tanks were put out of action, and other lost direction. D Company was able to pass through the Hindenburg Line wire. The enemy’s retaliatory barrage was weak, but concentrated and a portion of D Company was caught in this fire and sustained several casualties. A Company dealt with Plush Trench and the rest of the battalion, and the remaining tanks, passed through to attack the main Hindenburg Line. At 9.05 a.m. it was reported that the battalion’s objective had been captured and that the enemy resistance had been feeble and casualties’ light. Half of C Company then moved with the tanks toward Marcoing. They were joined by other elements of the battalion and attacked Marcoing where the enemy offered little resistance. The elements of the battalion that had moved forward to Marcoing rejoined the rest of the battalion, in the Hindenburg Line front system, about 3.50 p.m. During the day the battalion had captured about 150 prisoners, including three officers, and captured three machine guns. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers: three woundedOther ranks: 8 killed, 56 woundedHarry was killed in action on 20 November. Red Cross records show that his body was found at Noyelles and buried by German soldiers, but his grave was subsequently lost.   Harry’s brother Arthur served with the Canadian Mounted Rifles and died in 1917. 

A Captain with S.S. Rubens, Thomas died on 8th of October 1915 at the age of 51. Thomas was born at Lowestoft on 15 May 1864, a son of Thomas Turner and Maria Elizabeth French. In 1881 his family lived at Ivy Cottage, Denmark Road, Lowestoft. Later his parents lived at 8 Wellington Esplanade, Lowestoft. On 31 July 1880 Thomas began a four-year Merchant Navy apprenticeship with J. Corry of London. Thomas was awarded his Mate’s Certificate on 14 June 1888. On 13 April 1891 Thomas married Clementina Minnie Watts at Saint Mark’s Church, Bow. Thomas was a Master Mariner and they lived at 11 Trego Road. On 30 March 1895 Thomas was his Master’s Certificate. He was also a member of the Imperial Merchant Service Guild. By 1914 Thomas and Clementina had a home at The Alders, Old Lakenham, Norwich.In 1914 Thomas was the Captain of the British cargo ship Rubens. When the war began the Rubens was at the German port of Hamburg and was seized by the Germans and Thomas was imprisoned. On 6 November 1914 he arrived at Ruhleben prisoner of war camp, Germany, and was held at Barrack 8. Thomas died, from heart-failure, at the Lazarette (hospital) at Ruhleben on 7 October 1915. Thomas is commemorated on the war memorial at Saint Margaret's Church. Note: The Registers of Miscellaneous Foreign Deaths gives the correct date for Thomas' death, 8 October, rather than 7 October as shown in some sources. 

A Private with 4th Bn., Walter died on 21st of August 1918 at the age of 18. Walter was born at Gorleston in 1899, a son of Harry and Sophia Ellen Friston. In 1901 his family lived at 12 Nile Road, Gorleston. By 1911 they were living at 6 Bells Marsh Road, Gorleston. Later they lived at 566 London Road, Lowestoft.Walter enlisted in the Army at Ipswich. Initially he joined the 53rd Battalion Training Reserve, number TR/LON/136130. He was then transferred to the Royal Fusiliers and he served with the 4th Battalion in France from 14 July 1918. Describing the events of 21 August 1918 the Battalion War Diary has:At 12.05 a.m. Battalion moved off to assembly position south of Ayette. Zero hour for attack was 4.55 a.m. - 99th Brigade attacked at zero and advanced a distance of approximately 2,000 yards. The 9th Brigade passed through the Blue Line and advanced to Achet le Grande - Arras Railway a distance of approximately 2,500 yards more. The 1st Northumberland Fusiliers attacked on right, the 13th Kings on the left and the Battalion in Brigade support. Owing to very heavy thick mist lost contact with the 1st Northumberland Fusiliers and advanced direct to railway objective, reaching it before the 1st Northumberland Fusiliers who came up later.The Battalion's casualties for 21 August were: Officers three killed and six wounded; Other Ranks 25 killed, including Walter (number of Other Ranks wounded is not known). 

A Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Ernest died on 27th of April 1943 aged 26. Ernest was born at Wood Dalling, Norfolk, on 21 July 1916, a son of Henry James and Julia Ada Frostwick. In 1921 his family lived at Hall Cottages, Wood Dalling. By 1939 they were living at 3 Council Houses, Wood Dalling, and Ernest worked as a carpenter and joiner. Ernest married Joyce Evelyn Edith Williamott in 1942. Joyce was born in the Lowestoft area and, in 1939, had been a Salvation Army Lieutenant based at Reepham. Later she lived at Carlton Colville and spent her later years living at 13 Runnymede Court, Lowestoft.Ernest enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after November 1940. In April 1943 he was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner serving with 13 Operational Training Unit on attachment from 26 Operational Training Unit.On 27 April he was a member of the crew of a Blenheim IV aircraft, number L8850, flying from Wing, Buckinghamshire, on a night cross-country exercise. The aircraft exploded in the air and crashed near Stewkley, Buckinghamshire. The cause of the crash was not known. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 1/4th Battalion, Alfred died on 18th of August 1916 at the age of 21. Alfred was born at Kirkley on 16 August 1895, a son of Leander and Alice Maud Fuller. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley, on 10 February 1897. From 1 May 1899 Alfred was a pupil at Kirkley School. In 1901 his family lived at Kirkley Street. In 1911 the family’s address was 23 Kirkley Street and Alfred was a butcher’s boy. Alfred volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment and served with the 1/4th Battalion. He was mobilized when the war began, and he arrived in France with the 1/4th Battalion on 8 November 1914. On 14 August 1916 the 1/4th Battalion moved into an area of trenches known as Seaforth, Black Watch and Worcester Trenches, near High Wood. At 2.45 p.m. on 18 August the battalion attacked the German trenches opposite their position as part of a brigade assault. D and C Companies reached the German line but had to retire as they had both flanks ‘in the air’ and no reinforcements were forthcoming. Two Lewis rifles (machine-guns) were positioned in the German trench and hostile bombing attacks repulsed. Finally, the men withdrew to Seaforth Trench. In the attack the battalion had three officers killed and three wounded, and 33 other ranks killed, 108 wounded, 17 missing presumed killed and 23 missing.  Alfred was killed in action on 18 August. 

A Driver with 21 Battery, 2 Brigade, died on 2nd of May 1918, and the age of 29.Ernest was born at Kirkley in 1889, a son of William John and Mary Ann Fuller. In 1891 his family lived at 1 Beaconsfield Road (Westgate Buildings) and in 1901 at 9 Beaconsfield Road. They were still living at 9 Beaconsfield Road in 1911 and at that time Ernest worked as an engineer's assistant at a motor manufacturer. It seems that at some point Ernest moved to London and a transcript of Soldiers Died in the Great War states that Ernest lived at Millwall and enlisted at Poplar. He joined the Royal Field Artillery and was posted to France to serve with 21 Battery, 2 Brigade. Ernest married Flossie Jezebel (Jessie) Beamish at Flore Street Wesleyan Chapel, Brixham, Devon, on 21 October 1917. Flossie was a daughter of William and Jessie Beamish of 5 Epsom Terrace, Kirkley Run, Lowestoft.In May 1918 2 Brigade occupied positions in the vicinity of Chateau Segard and the western edge of Zillebeke. The Brigade war diary records that from the evening of 1 May there were several cases of ‘what may be gas poisoning’. It seems that Ernest was gassed and evacuated to one of the Casualty Clearing Stations at Arneke where he died from the effects of gas shell poisoning. After Ernest's death Flossie lived at Hill View, Higher Brixham, Devon, and then at 125 Carlton Road, Kirkley, Lowestoft. Flossie remarried in 1924. Note: Commonwealth War Graves records give Ernest's unit as 21 Battery 2 Brigade, but other sources, such as the Army Register of Soldiers' Effects, give 11/2 Brigade (meaning 11 Battery of 2 Brigade). 21 Battery only served with 2 Brigade and 11 Battery did not serve with 2 Brigade. 

A Gunner with 73 Anti-Tank Regiment, John died on 22nd of March 1943 aged 26. John was born at Saint Denis, Southampton, on 15 September 1916, a son of Patrick and Charlotte Furlong. He was baptised at Saint Edmund's Church, Southampton, on 9 October 1916. John married Esther Minnie Singer at Birmingham Register Office on 23 April 1938. At that time John and Esther were living at 224 Stratford Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham. By 1939 John's father had died and John's mother lived with him at 260 Balsall Heath Road, Birmingham. John worked as a carpenter for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Company.John joined the Army at Birmingham, serving, initially, with the North Staffordshire Regiment, as indicated by his service number, before being transferred to the Royal Artillery. John served with the 73rd Anti-Tank Regiment, part of the 8th Army, in North Africa. On 22 March 1943 he was serving with B Battery at Birbsir, Tunisia. During the night of 22-23 March he was killed by enemy shell-fire.  In 1944 Esther married Basil Robert Kirkby, who was from Lowestoft, and they lived at 147 Fir Lane, Lowestoft.

A Supply Petty Officer, Patrick died on 27th March 1943, at the age of 26. Patrick was born on 20 July 1917, a son of Roy Onesley and Hilda May Furrell of Wales Farm Road, Acton, London. Patrick was serving in the Royal Navy when he met Dorothy Jane Colby, who was in the Women's Royal Naval Service. They were married at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 18 December 1940.  Dorothy was a daughter of Dorothy May Martin, formerly Colby. The family lived at 8 Coastguard Cottages, Battery Green Road, Lowestoft. Dorothy Jane's father, William Walter Colby, served on H.M. Trawler Bracklyn and was killed in the First World War. Patrick was serving on board H.M.S. Dasher when he died. The 'Dasher' was an American merchant ship that had been converted for use as an aircraft carrier. In March 1943 the 'Dasher' had been on convoy duties and was returning to port when it entered the Firth of Clyde. A catastrophic explosion took place which sank the ship and 379 of the 528 crew, including Patrick, died. The reason for the explosion is the subject of much debate. Because the ship was American and there were questions about its construction, the government covered-up news of the sinking and newspapers were instructed to make no mention of the incident. Survivors were also under orders not to speak of what had happened. Patrick's wife's father, William Walter Colby, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1917. 

A Private with the 11th Battalion, George died on 24th of October 1918 aged 21.George was born at Lowestoft on 8 February 1897, a son of William H. and Fanny Gage. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 3 March 1897 and his family lived at 13 Crown Street. In 1901 his family lived at 4 Orchard Terrace, Union Place, Kirkley. George became a pupil at Kirkley School on 3 June 1901 and by that time his family had moved to London Road. By 1911 they were living at 57 Park Road. George became a student at Lowestoft School of Science on 23 April 1912.George enlisted in the Army at Ipswich in early 1916. He joined the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion Suffolk Regiment, service number 2316. Around August 1916 he was posted to France to serve with the 7th Battalion, service number 43180, and he joined C Company. George became unwell at Arras on 17 January 1917, he had, pyrexia, or fever, of unknown origin. From 19 January he was being treated, at 18 General Hospital, for an abscess on his neck. He was evacuated to England on 28 January. Once recovered George was posted to the 11th Battalion. On 24 October 1918 the 11th Battalion crossed the River Ecaillon to secure high ground near Vendegies and then they were to push on a take Vendegies itself. The attack began at 4 a.m. and by 5.15 a.m. the initial objectives were achieved, and the battalion captured seven machine-guns, two trench mortars and took 100 prisoners. A heavy enemy counter-attack prevented them from entering Vendegies until the Germans withdrew during the night. George was killed in the attack.  

A Pilot Officer with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Charles died on 11th of April 1944 aged 31. Charles was born at Herringfleet in 1913, a son of Charles George and Annie Elizabeth Gale. In 1921 his family lived at Priory Road, Saint Olaves. Later his family lived at 7 Station Terrace, Herringfleet. Charles enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, service number 1208599. On 6 April 1944 he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer, service number 174617. In April 1944 Charles was a Pilot serving with 30 Operational Training Unit, based at Hixon, Staffordshire. On 11 April he was a member of the crew of a Wellington X bomber, number HF471 'D', that took part in a night cross-country exercise. The aircraft dived into the ground, out of cloud, on the east bank of the River Ouse at Skelton, near Goole. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Civilian, Laura died on 13th of January 1942 aged 52. Laura was born at Lowestoft on 17 April 1889, a daughter of George Rix and Mary Ann Gall. She was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 29 May 1889 and her family lived at Whapload House, Whapload Road. By 1901 Laura’s family were living at 8 Seago Street. In 1911 Laura lived at Temple Bar Farm, Earsham, Norfolk, and she worked as a school mistress for Norfolk Education Committee. By 1921 Laura had moved Reading and she lived at 27 Newcastle Road, and she was an elementary school teacher at Christchurch School, Reading.Laura returned to the Lowestoft area and in 1939 she lived at 63 Corton Road and she worked as a school mistress. Laura died at London Road North during the Waller Raid.Note: Commonwealth War Graves records give her date of death as 23 January 1942, but other records, such as probate, give the correct date.  

A Deck Hand with H.M. Drifter Kent County, William died on 8th of December 1916 at the age of 47. William was born at Lowestoft on 10 October 1869, a son of James and Emma Gallant. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 7 November 1869. In 1871 his family lived at Scarl’s Buildings. By 1881 they were living at 10 Burtons Place. In 1891 William was working as a general labourer and lodging at 2 Timpson Street, Liverpool. In 1901 he was working on the trawler Autumn at Penzance.  On 6 January 1902 William married Agnes Neve at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. William was a fisherman and they each gave their address as 3 Mariners Street, and this was still their home in 1914. Later Agnes lived at 15 Albany Road.Bertie joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 10 August 1914 and served on the drifter Kent County. The Kent County was a Special Service Vessel, also known as Q-Ships. The drifter was sunk by a mine about one mile off Cross Sand, near Lowestoft, with the loss of all ten members of crew. 

A Fisherman with Trawler Ivy (Lowestoft), Edward died on 17th of December 1914 at the age of 23. Edward was born at Lowestoft on 15 June 1891, a son of Francis (Frank) Robert and Clara Elizabeth Gamble. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church on 10 July 1891 and his family lived at 19 Stanford Street, Lowestoft.Edward attended Saint Andrews School and, from 14 February 1899 he was a pupil at Saint John's School, before, on 25 February 1901, becoming a pupil at Saint Margaret's School. By 1901 his family lived at 306 Raglan Street and in 1911 they were living at 306 Raglan Street and Edward was working as a fisherman.Edward served as Fisherman on the Ivy. An eye-witness, the Skipper of the trawler Sis, saw the Ivy about 52 miles east by north of Lowestoft when an explosion was heard and the smack was enveloped in smoke. The Sis sailed to the spot, but no wreckage was found, nor any sign of the five crew. It was supposed that the Ivy had struck a mine. Lowestoft – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)Three of Edward's brothers served in the Navy during World War One.Edward's brother in law, George Jackson, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1919. 

Formerly a Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve (Patrol Service), Joseph died on 23rd of December 1946 at the age of 64.Joseph was born at Lowestoft on 8 May 1882, a son of Frances Joseph and Clara Gamble. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 28 May 1882. In 1891 his family were living at 19 Stanford Street. In 1901 Joseph worked on the trawler 'Fisherman' LT 568 and the Census shows him at Padstow. On 23 June 1903 Joseph married Louisa Maria Stock at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Joseph was a fisherman and they were both living at 306 Raglan Street.In 1907 Joseph was awarded his certificate of competency as a Skipper.On 1 November 1916 Joseph was appointed Temporary Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve, number SA 2765. At the time his home was at 30 Pyrenees Terrace, Brixham, Devon. From 1 November 1916 Joseph served on the trawler Idaho; from 30 January 1917 with the trawler Ivy II; with the Osinio 2 from 24 February 1917; with the trawler Hopeful from 5 November 1917. In February 1918 a telegram from Taranto reported Joseph as 'seriously ill', he recovered and, from 1 July 1918, served with the trawler Coltman. He was discharged on 22 January 1919. In 1920 Joseph, Louisa, and family, lived at 325 Raglan Street. By 1921 they were living at 98 Alexander Road. In 1939 they were living at 59 Avondale Road and Joseph worked as a trawler skipper. From 17 April 1940 to 19 August 1940 Joseph served as a Second Hand with the Royal Naval Patrol Service. He was appointed Temporary Skipper, number TS 709, from 20 August 1940. From 20 August 1940 he served with the trawler Umbriel; from 15 December 1940 with the Sunspot. He joined the Craigmiller on 17 February 1941 as Second Skipper and took command from 9 May 1941. On 25 August 1941 he joined the Anere Esperance; the Martello from 21 January 1942; Prosperine from 17 February 1942; in command of the Maggie Gault from 18 February 1942, and the Drainie from 4 October 1942. On 7 June 1943 Joseph was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital Kingseat, Aberdeen, and found to be suffering from organic heart disease and medically unfit for further service. His engagement was terminated on 31 July 1943 and he was granted a disability pension. In 1944 Joseph and Louisa lived at Loandi, Normanston Drive, Oulton Broad. 

A Private with 4th Bn., Robert died on 14th of February 1942 at the age of 26. Robert was born at Willingham, Suffolk, on 1 August 1916, a son of Robert and Edith Florence Gardner. In 1921 his family lived at Willingham and in 1939 Robert lived with his parents at Grange Cottages, Gisleham.In 1941 Robert married Doris May Gook, at Lowestoft, and their home was at Dell Road, Lowestoft. Robert's brother-in-law, Alfred Gook, died in 1943. In autumn 1939 the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment was on guard duty in the Lowestoft area and from July to September 1940 had various local deployments, including guarding Great Yarmouth. The Battalion then moved to Bedfordshire and then Scotland until April 1941. Next the Battalion moved to Bury, Lancashire, and Hereford, before embarking on the S.S. Andes at Liverpool and sailing for Halifax, Nov Scotia. The Battalion changed ship, to the American liner Wakefield, and sailed for Trinidad and then Cape Town, arriving on 9 December 1941. The Battalion was given three days shore leave.The Battalion was part of 54 Brigade in the 18th (East Anglian) Division. With the Japanese entry into the war the Battalion was now allocated to the Far East and sailed for India, arriving on 5 January 1942. The Battalion had three weeks of training before embarking at Bombay and sailing for Singapore, arriving on 29 January 1942. The Battalion had orders to defend the Golf Course and then fell back to defend the perimeter before the Singapore garrison was forced to surrender on 15 February 1942. Ninety men of the Battalion were killed, or died of wounds, in the defence of Singapore and 865 were taken prisoner.    Robert was reported as missing on 15 February 1942 and later was presumed to have been killed in action between 11 and 15 February 1942 (detail from British Army Casualty List 1923 dated 29 November 1945). However, Commonwealth War Grave Commission records show that Robert was killed in action on 14 February 1942 and buried at Bukit Brown Chinese Cemetery on 16 February: map reference 816146. In June 1946 his body was exhumed and reburied at Kranji War Cemetery.

A Private with the 10th Battalion, James died on 8th of September 1918 aged 19.James was born at Wrentham, Suffolk, in 1899, a son of James and Martha Ann Garnham. In 1901 his family lived at Hall Farm, Benacre, Suffolk. By 1911 James’ father had died and his family lived at 10 Oaklands Terrace, London Road, Pakefield. His mother married Alfred Andrews and lived at 4 Catherine Terrace, London Road, Pakefield.James enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the East Yorkshire Regiment, service number 51171, and served in France with the 10th Battalion, the 1st Hull Pals. In the first days of September 1918 the 10th Battalion were in the Nieppe System, Belgium. There is no record of when, where, or how, James was wounded, but given that he is buried at La Kreule it seems that he died of wounds at a Casualty Clearing Station.  

A Driver with 1 Mechanical Equipment Unit, Leslie died on 26 November 1946, aged 21. Leslie was born at Rickenhall, Suffolk, on 8 July 1925, a son of Ernest George and Minnie Garnham. In the 1930s his family lived at Redgrave and, by 1946, his mother was living at 8 Wellington Road, Pakefield.  Leslie enlisted in the Royal Engineers, at Gosforth, on 16 December 1943. He served in North-West Europe with 1 Mechanical Equipment Unit and was later part of the British Army of the Rhine. Leslie was found on 26 November 1946 with a gun-shot wound to his head. He was taken to 26 (Hanover) British Miliary Hospital, but was dead when he arrived. A pistol was found next to his body and a Court of Inquiry concluded that Leslie had taken his own life. 

A Skipper with H.M. Trawler Clifton, Edward died on 18th of February 1917 at the age of 39.  Edward was born at Wangford in on 31 October 1877, a son of and Emily Garrod. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Wangford, on 24 March 1877. In 1881 Edward lived with his maternal grandparents, William and Johanna Garrod, at Wangford Hill, Wangford. By 1891 his family lived at Bishops Buildings, Mariners Street, Lowestoft, and Edward was a rope twine spinner.On 21 January 1898 Edward married Ellen Maria Nunn at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. Edward was a smacksman and they both gave 79 Cambridge Road as their address. They would go on to have seven children. In 1901 they lived at Bell Road, Carlton Colville, and Edward was a smacksman. By 1911 they were living at 84 Stanford Street and Edward was still a smacksman, and this was still the family home in 1917. In 1904 Edward was awarded his certificate of competency as a skipper. Edward joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 7 October 1915. He joined the trawler Clifton, as second hand, on 15 October 1915. The Clifton was used as a minesweeper. On 12 February 1917 Edward was promoted to Skipper. On 18 February 1917 the Clifton was minesweeping near the Kinsale Lighthouse, off Cork Harbour, Southern Ireland. The minesweeper struck a mine, blew up, and sank. Royal Navy records state that twelve crew, including Edward were lost, but other sources suggest that thirteen men were killed, and another man rescued. Edward’s body was recovered and brought back to Lowestoft for burial.   Edward's brother-in-law, Harry Nunn, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1918.

A Corporal with 1st Suffolk Battery 3rd East Anglian Howitzer Brigade, Eldrick died on 18th of January 1915 at the age of 20. Eldrick was born at Lowestoft in 1895, a son of Robert and Mercy Webb Garrod. In 1901 his family lived at 1901 152 Denmark Road, Lowestoft, and by 1911 at 22 Norfolk Street, Lowestoft. Later his mother lived at 81 Dalyell Road, Brixton, London.Eldrick was living at 22 Norfolk Street, Lowestoft, and had completed two and a half years of his apprenticeship, with Robinson Elias, printer, at High Street, Lowestoft, when he enlisted in the 3rd East Anglian Howitzer Brigade Royal Field Artillery (Territorial Force), at Lowestoft, on 6 October 1911. He was promoted to Acting Bombardier on 15 November 1912 and Bombardier on 4 April 1913. Eldrick was embodied for service on 5 August 1914 and signed the declaration to say that he was willing to serve overseas. He was promoted Corporal on 16 December 1914. Details of the circumstances of Eldrick's death were reported in the Bury Free Press, 23 January 1915, page 6:SOLDIER KILLED AT CAVENHAMFatal Accident Whilst Riding - Horse Stumbles In A Rabbit HoleA fatal accident occurred on Monday morning at Cavenham, the unfortunate man being a young solider named Eldrick Webb Garrod, a Corporal in the 1st Battery of the 3rd East Anglian Howitzer Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. The Battery is at present stationed at Tuddenham Saint Mary, a village adjoining Cavenham. Garrod was out riding when the horse got one hoof in a rabbit hole and he was thrown to the ground sustaining fatal injuries. The deceased soldier was the son of an ex-Sergeant of Police, who used to be at Lowestoft. His untimely death is regretted by his comrades, amongst whom he was very popular, and also by his officers, who, it is stated, had great confidence in him. The sad news of his death caused quite a shock to the villagers of Cavenham and Tuddenham.    

A Private with the 8th Battalion, Herbert died on 19th of May 1917 at the age of 27. Herbert was born at Calton Colville in 1890, a son of John and Elizabeth Garrod. Herbert was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville, on 1 May 1891, and his family lived at Lowestoft Road, Carlton Colville. In 1901 the family lived ‘near Low Farm’, Carlton Colville, and by 1911 at Hall Cottages Carlton Colville, and Herbert worked as a cowman on a farm. Herbert volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in 1914. He served with the Suffolk Regiment, service number 14163. He was posted to the 8th Battalion and arrived in France with the battalion on 25 July 1915. Herbert was awarded the Military Medal and this was announced in the London Gazette of 21 December 1916.On 18 May 1917 the 8th Battalion moved into the Hindenburg Support Trenches. No precise details of what happened to Herbert can be traced, other than the fact that he was killed in action on 19 May 1917.   Herbert’s brother-in-law, William Ernest Porter, served in the Royal Engineers and died in 1917. 

A Civilian, Maurice died on 13th of January 1942 aged 17.Maurice was born at Lowestoft on 27 September 1924, a son of George Leonard and Evelyn May Garrod. In 1939 his family lived at Tintern House, Chapel Street, and Maurice was a drapery porter.Maurice was an Air Raid Precautions messenger.  Maurice died at Morling’s Music Shop, 106 London Road North, during the Waller Raid. 

An Air Mechanic 1st Class with 17th Squadron, 5th Wing, John died on 19th of June 1916 at the age of 29. John was born at Grimsby on 20 February 1887, a son of James and Sarah Garside. He was baptised at Saint Paul’s Church, Grimsby, on 10 December 1889, and his family lived at 23 Fildes Street and this was still their home in 1891. By 1901 they were living at 19 Claremont Terrace, Isaacs Hill, Cleethorpes. By 1911 John’s father had died and his mother lived, with his sister, at 423 Grimsby Road, Cleethorpes. Later she lived at 296 London Road, Lowestoft. It is possible that John was living in London in 1911.  John was working as an electrical engineer and living at 50 Coronation Road, Coventry, when he enlisted in the Royal Flying Corps, at Coventry, on 19 February 1915. He was given service number 3711.On 1 October 1915 he was promoted to Air Mechanic 1st Class. In 1916 he was posted to the Middle East and served with 17 Squadron.On 15 June 1916 two BE2c aircraft of 17 Squadron flew to an advanced post, around 50 miles to the west of Kharga, Egypt, with the intention of flying again the next day and making a reconnaissance of the Dakhla Osais and monitor any activity of the Senussi tribes. John was the observer in one of the aircraft which was piloted by Second Lieutenant Stewart G. Ridley. The next day John’s aircraft could not take off due to engine problems. The other aircraft did take off: the crew intending to return with help.It seems that John kept a diary of the events as they unfolded. After working on the engine they got it to start and were soon airborne, but after about 25 minutes the engine failed again and they landed. Again they managed to start the engine and flew on, but again the engine failed. Reports, based on the account of the officer in charge of the party that searched for them, suggest that Lieutenant Ridley shot himself in the hope of giving John and better opportunity to survive. This was to no avail. According to John’s service papers he died from exhaustion, though other sources state dehydration or exposure.These quotes are taken from John’s diary:Six p.m. (Sunday 18 June): Found it was further than we thought; got there eventually; very done up. No luck. Walked back; hardly any water, about a spoonful. Mr. Ridley shot himself at 10.30 on Sunday whilst my back was turned. No water all day; don't know how to go on; got one Very light; dozed all day, feeling very weak; wish someone would come; cannot last much longer.Monday (19 June).—Thought of water in compass, got half bottle; seems to be some kind of spirit. Can last another day. Fired Lewis gun, about four rounds; shall fire my Very light to-night; last hope without machine comes. Could last days if had water.Meanwhile the crew of the second aircraft returned to find John and Lieutenant Ridley. When they could not find them at the original landing point an extensive search was undertaken, but was too late to save either John or Lieutenant Ridley. See: “He spent his dear boy’s life for England” - The tragic story of 2/Lt Stewart Ridley | The Western Front AssociationDied from exposure after a forced landing in the Libyan Desert on 16 Jun 1916 with "Lt S G Ridley, who died on 18 Jun 1916 CREDIT:Malcolm Barrass

A Private with 3 Home Counties Field Ambulance attached 66th Casualty Clearing Station, Frederick died on 18th of November 1918 at the age of 22. Frederick was born at Lowestoft in 1896, a son of Ephraim Dowe and Tabitha Ann Garwood. In 1901 his family lived at 228 Raglan Street, Lowestoft. By 1911 his family were living at 1 Leiston Road, Lowestoft, and Frederick was a watchmaker's striker. By February 1915 they were living at 78 Alexandra Road Lowestoft.Frederick enlisted in the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorial Force) at Lowestoft on 9 February 1915, with service number 90. He embarked the troopship Royal Edward, at Devonport, on 30 July 1915 and was one of the Lowestoft men who were involved in the sinking of the Royal Edward on 13 August 1915. Frederick was one of the survivors.After the loss of the Royal Edward Frederick was not sent to Gallipoli, but was posted, as a nursing orderly, at Port Said, spending the rest of the war in the Middle East. On 11 April 1916 he was attached, for duty, to 2/1 East Anglian Field Ambulance at Shallufa. On 24 April 1916 he was posted to the 54th Casualty Clearing Station at Kuliri. From 19 June 1916 he was granted additional pay for his work as an operating room attendant. On 13 March 1917 he was appointed Acting Lance Corporal. In 1917 the territorial soldiers were renumbered and Frederick was given the service number 479007. On 29 September 1917 Frederick was posted to the 66th Casualty Clearing Station. He was promoted to Corporal on 16 March 1918 and appointed Acting Sergeant (unpaid) on 10 April 1918 and appointed (paid) Acting Lance Sergeant on 4 September 1918. Frederick became unwell and, on 8 November 1918 was admitted to 66th Casualty Clearing Station with a high temperature and coughing. He had contracted pleurisy and this led to his death on 18 November 1918.   

A Deck Hand with H.M. Trawler Remindo, Henry died on 2nd of February 1918 at the age of 22. Henry was born at Lowestoft on 10 January 1896, a son of Henry Dowe and Elizabeth Garwood. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 7 February 1896, and his family lived at 39 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft. By 1901 his father had died and his family still lived at 39 Wollaston Road. In 1911 they were living at 26 Till Road, Lowestoft, and Henry was a labourer at a saw mill. By September 1914 his family were living at 32 Norwich Road, Lowestoft. His mother later remarried (Youngs).Henry was working as a fisherman when he joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 17 September 1914. From 15 November 1915 to 30 July 1917 he served on H.M.S. Amsterdam. On 1 October 1917 he joined the trawler Remindo. The Remindo was equipped for anti-submarine work and had been requisitioned in September 1917. On 2 February 1918 the trawler was sunk off Portland. It was presumed to have been sunk by a mine, but some sources suggest it was sunk by submarine U-79. All of the crew were lost. 

A Private with 1st Bn., Robert died on 24th of April 1915 at the age of 33. Robert was born at Toft Monks, near Haddiscoe, in 1881, a son of Frederick and Elizabeth Garwood. In 1881 his family lived at Haddiscoe and by 1891 were living at 9 Brickfield Cottages, Somerleyton.On 18 May 1902 Robert married Edith Gertrude Spooner at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Robert was a labourer and they both lived at 13 Arnold Street. By 1911 they were living at 76 Stanford Street, Lowestoft, and Robert worked as a labourer for the Great Eastern Railway.Robert was working as a labourer for the Great Eastern Railway Company at the Harbour Works, Lowestoft, when he volunteered and joined the Army at Lowestoft. He enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment. He arrived in France on 1 April 1915 to join the 1st Battalion. On 22 April 1915, at the northern end of the Ypres Salient near St Julien, the French and Canadian troops were subjected to a gas attack. This attack caused the troops to retreat and caused up to 5,000 deaths and 15,000 casualties. The Germans  advanced 3-4 km, broke the Allied lines and threatened Ypres. The 1st Battalion Suffolk Regiment moved forward and fought alongside the 1st Canadian Division to counter the German attack. The 1st Battalion was taken out of the line on 24 April and went into reserve near Frezenberg. However, they were immediately ordered to take up a position on the Frezenberg Ridge near the village of Fortuin. They took a position of the left flank of the Canadians. The Battalion was also exposed to a gas attack, suffering a large number of casualties.The Battalion was taken out of the line on 28 April. They had suffered 400 casualties in the previous 10 days. The Battalion was heavily shelled and suffered repeated mortar attacks. The ranks had been severely depleted.A note in the Great Eastern Railway Magazine (July 1915 Supplement No 2, page 1) states that Robert was killed in action at Hill 60. He was noted for having bund up the wounds of another solider, Private R. Cook, while under fire. 

A Deckhand with H.M. Trawler Boy Roy, William died on 13th of July 1918 at the age of 26. William was born at Great Yarmouth on 6 January 1892, a son of William and Mary Ann Gates. He was baptised at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth, on 13 February 1901 and his family lived at number 16 Row 12, and his parents were still at that address in 1911. William was living at Great Yarmouth, and working as a fisherman, when he joined the Royal Horse Artillery, at Great Yarmouth, on 2 March 1909. He served with Z Battery in South Africa in 1910-1911 but returned to England in 1912 to be discharged as he was medically unfit for further service. William married Emma Ellen Smith in 1913: this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1915 William and Emma lived at 1 Spurgeon’s Score, Lowestoft. Later Emma lived at 13 Compass Street.  William joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 16 March 1915. He served on the trawler Oak Apple until January 1917 when he joined the trawler Boy Roy. William was a navy signaller. William died from pneumonia.  

A Civilian, George died on 13th of January 1942 aged 43. George was born at Lowestoft on 7 August 1898, a son of William A. and Caroline Gayfer. In 1901 his family lived at 171 Saint Margaret’s Road. By 1911 their home was at 2 Sussex Road. During the First World War George served with the East Kent Regiment, service number 240371, and was posted to France on 5 October 1917. On 9 October 1917 he was transferred to the Royal Fusiliers, service number GS 81128, and posted to the 17th Battalion and then, on 11 June 1918, he was posted to the 10th Battalion. He returned to England on 5 August 1918 and was discharged on 16 October 1919. He received a pension of 5/6 per week and his address, on discharge, was Sparrows Nest Park, Lowestoft. In 1921 his family lived at Sparrows Nest Park, The Ravine, and George was a dental mechanic working at H.G. Oaten’s, Dental Surgury, 4 Regent Road, Great Yarmouth. In 1924 George married Emma May Ward, this was registered in the Mutford district. By 1939 their home was at 74 Long Road and George was an Air Raid Warden.George, and his son Leslie, both died at London Road North during the Waller Raid. 

A Civilian, Leslie died on 13th of January 1942 at the age of 14. Son of Emma May Gayfer of 74 Long Road and of George Birkwood Gayfer. Died at London Road North.

A Second Lieutenant with 93 Squadron, Donald died on 31st of January 1918 at the age of 23. Donald was born at Lowestoft on 16 December 1894, a son of Alfred James Edmund and Amy Ellen Gee. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church, Lowestoft, on 13 September 1895, and his family lived at 4 Surrey Street. The 1901 Census shows Donald with his grandparents, John and Charlotte Gee, at 61 Albert Street. By 1911 his parents were living at 5 Regent Road and later they lived at 22 Marine Parade. Donald was a rancher when, on 13 January 1915, he attested for the Canadian Army at Calgary. He joined the 12th Canadian Mounted Rifles, service number 12299, and was part of the 1st Reinforcements and sailed for Engand on 10 June 1915. He joined the Canadian Cavalry Depot at Canterbury on 3 August 1915. Donald was promoted to Corporal on 25 November 1915.Donald transferred to the 3rd Canadian Signal Company, service number 117019, and arrived in France on 14 January 1916. On 31 July 1917 Donald went to England to join the Royal Flying Corps Depot, South Farnborough, pending transfer to the Royal Flying Corps Training Wing. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on the General List (and Royal Flying Corps) on 4 November 1917 (London Gazette 13 November 1917) and joined the 24 Training Squadron, Reading, on 21 November 1917. He was posted to 93 Squadron on 9 December 1917.  Donald was flying an Avro 504J from Chatteris Hill aerodrome when an accident occurred, and the aircraft crashed, killing Donald. An account of the inquest into Donald’s death appeared in the East Suffolk Gazette, 12 February 1918, page 5. Donald had been at Chatteris Hill for three weeks undergoing flying training, part of which included learning to loop the loop. On the day of his death Donald was practicing the manoeuvre when his aeroplane turning on its back and fell. Donald was badly injured, the propellor having penetrated his chest. Donald had died by the time an ambulance had arrived. He was given a funeral with full military honours. Killed in a flying accident in Avro 504J, C4369 CREDIT:Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 6th Battalion, Arthur died on 28th of March 1918. Arthur was born 'Near The Bell', Carlton Colville, in 1888, a son of Walter and Emily George. In 1891 his family lived at 16 Severn Terrace, Oulto Broad. By 1901 they were living at Chipperfields Yard, Bridge Road, Oulton. By 1911 Arthur's father had died and his family lived at 5 Lothing Street, Oulton Broad.Arthur begin working as a lock keeper for the Great Eastern Railway in 1905 and he worked at Lowestoft Harbour.Arthur enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in March 1916. He joined The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Initially he served with the 2nd Battalion before being posted to the 11th, then 1st Battalions and, finally, serving with the 6th Battalion. On 28 March 1918 the 6th Battalion were in the vicinity of Hamel. They were subject to enemy shelling throughout the day and six men, including Arthur, were killed, and 43 wounded. 

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Charles died on 28th of April 1917 at the age of 30. Charles was born at Lowestoft on 20 May 1886, a son of Frederick and Anna George. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church, Lowestoft, on 6 May 1887, and his family lived at 2 Saint George’s Road, Kirkley. In 1891 his family lived at 83 Lawson Road, and this was still their address in 1901 when Charles worked as an errand boy. By 1911 they were living at 34 Lorne Road and Charles was a cycle maker. On 27 September 1913 Charles married Eliza May Howe at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley. Charles was an engineer and they both lived at Kirkley. Later Eliza lived at 12 Fir Lane.Charles enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Norfolk Regiment, service number 26481, and was posted to the 7th Battalion in France. On 27 April 1917 the 7th Battalion were at Monchy, near Arras, and received orders to attack and capture both Rife Trench and Bayonet Trench, and consolidate other positions, the next day. About midnight on the 28th the front companies report an enemy attack and sent up the S.O.S. signal for artillery support which saw off the enemy attack. At 4.25 a.m. the battalion advanced and after around 50 minutes had reached Rifle and Bayonet trenches, however A and B Companies had not been able to join up with C and D Companies. In fact A and B Companies had been held up by machine-gun fire and had to take cover in shell-holes. Some men from A and B Company tried to crawl back to their start line and were sniped. Any further advance for C and D Companies was made impossible because of machine-gun and rifle fire and they found a German trench that had not been touched by the artillery and some of the wire had not been cut. For the rest of the day the men of C and D Companies lay in shell-holes and when it was dark they set about returning to their lines and bringing in the wounded, but this was severely hampered by enemy machine-gun and rifle fire and the enemy’s use of Very lights. This meant that many men could not be rescued.  Three officers and 70 men of the battalion were killed, with an unknown number wounded and missing. Charles was killed in action on 28 April.Note: all military records give Charles’ first name as Arthur with Charles as a middle name.   

A Skipper with H.M. Drifter Troup Head, Harry died on 21st of October 1918 aged 41.Harry was born at Beccles on 19 October 1878, a son of Benjamin and Alice Elizabeth George. In 1881 his family lived at Temperance Place, Beccles. In 1891 they lived at Smallgate Street, Beccles. On 12 July 1900 Harry married Ellen Mary Soanes at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. Harry was a trawlerman living at Oulton Road and Ellen lived at Blundeston. In 1901 they lived at Wood’s Loke, by 1910 at Oulton Road, and in 1915 at 6 The Street, Oulton. Later Ellen lived at Elmfield, Gorleston Road, Oulton. Harry was awarded his certificate of competency as a skipper in 1906 and in 1911 Harry was Master of the trawler Bittern, L 228. Harry joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 12 July 1915. He served on the trawler Margaret (St. Margaret?) and then joined the trawler W. Elliott on 16 December 1915 and then, on 14 November 1916 the Oswy. He joined the trawler Troup Head on 1 July 1918. Harry died at Dover from pneumonia following influenza. Harry is named on the war memorial at Saint Margaret’s Church.

A Civilian, Annie died on 18th of May 1943 aged 68.Annie was born at Lowestoft on 11 July 1875, a daughter of Samuel and Jemima Sparrow. She was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 7 May 1876. In 1891 her family lived at 52 Crown Street and Annie was a stationery shop-woman. They were still living at 52 Crown Street in 1901 when Annie was a tobacconist’s assistant.  On 8 April 1901 Annie married George Robert Gibbons at Saint Margaret’s Church. George was a hairdresser and they both gave their address as 52 Crown Street. In 1911 they lived at 20 Crown Street. George died in 1917 and by 1921 Annie was living at 6 Duke’s Head Street.  By 1939 Annie was living with her daughter, Florence Utting, and family, at 73 Oxford Road. Annie was injured at 73 Oxford Road during an air raid and died same day at Lowestoft and North Suffolk Hospital. She was buried at Lowestoft (Normanston Drive) Cemetery on 25 May. 

A Civilian, Sidney died on 12th of May 1943 aged 52. Sidney was born at Great Yarmouth on 19 May 1890, a son of James Benjamin and Jane Gibbs. In 1891 his family lived at 7 Nelson Terrace, Great Yarmouth, and by 1901 their home was at 48 Market Place, Great Yarmouth. Sidney’s father became a publican and in 1911 Sidney’s family lived at The Vauxhall Tavern, Great Yarmouth, and Sidney worked as an electrician. By 1921 Sidney’s father was the publican at the Fox and Hounds, Filby. Sidney’s father died in 1934 and in 1939 his mother lived at 169 Lowestoft Road, Gorleston.  Sidney married Rose Emma Hewitt in 1915, this was registered in the Blofield district. Sidney was working as a licensed victualler when joined the Royal Navy, as a stoker, on 25 September 1916, and served with H.M.S. Roberts, the guard ship at Yarmouth, from 6 December 1916 until he was demobilized on 12 February 1919.  Until 1922 Sidney and Rose lived at 4 Middlegate Street, Great Yarmouth. Nothing is known of Sidney between 1922 and 1934, when his father died, and in 1934 Sidney was a caterer’s manager. Sidney and Rose seem to have become estranged and in 1939 Rose was living at 64 Crown Road, Great Yarmouth, but Sidney was living at 23 Fir Lane, Lowestoft, with Ethel May Sims, and he worked as a grocer. Sidney died at the High Street during the Focke-Wulf Raid.  

A Sergeant with the 11th Battalion, Stanley died on 28th of April 1917 at the age of 22.Stanley was born at Great Yarmouth in 1894, a son of Frederick and Kate Gibbs. In 1901 his family lived at 65 Winifred Road, Great Yarmouth. In 1911 his family lived at 31 Tennyson Road, Lowestoft, and Stanley worked as a draper’s porter. Later his parents lived at 29 Alexandra Road.Stanley enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in October 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 1464, a was posted to the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion. He did not serve overseas before 1916. Stanley was posted to the 11th Battalion in France, and renumbered 43381. He served with C Company. On 26 April 1917 the 11th Battalion were at the railway cutting south-west of Fampoux. On 27 April they received orders to prepare for an attack on Rouex the next morning. By 3 a.m. on the 28th they were in position and at 4.25 a.m. a barrage commenced with the battalion beginning the attack at 4.27 a.m. By 5 a.m. the attack was both held up and driven back by heavy machine-gun fire from a trench that had been missed by the preliminary barrage. About half of the battalion had returned to the front line trench and at 9.45 a.m. the Germans made a counter-attack from the direction of Rouex and were able to capture Mount Pleasant Wood and a communication trench called Ceylon Trench. The battalion held the front line and by 10 a.m. had recaptured Ceylon Trench and Mount Pleasant Wood. Next the battalion were moved into support line trenches while the British heavy artillery laid down a bombardment on the Chemical Works at Rouex. Late in the day the battalion returned to the front line trenches.  Stanley was killed in action on 28 April. 

A Private with the 12th Reserve Battalion, John died on 27th of June 1917 at the age of 26.John was born at Monaghan, Ireland, on 27 September 1890, a son of Alexander and Kathleen Gibson. In 1901 his family lived at Monaghan, and by 1911 their home was at 1 Stanley Terrace, Monaghan. Later his parents lived at Victoria Villas, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft.John was living at Hirsch, Saskatchewan, Canada, and working as a teacher, when he attested for the Canadian Army, at Regina, Saskatchewan, on 25 April 1916. John joined the 195th Battalion, service number 908098. John arrived in England on the S.S. Empress of Britain on 11 November 1916. He was posted to the 32nd Battalion and taken on strength at East Sandling on 14 November. He was seconded to the Signals Base on 13 December 1916. On 4 January 1917 he was transferred to the 6th Reserve Battalion, at East Sandling. On 1 March 1917 he was transferred to the 12th Reserve Battalion.John was admitted to Moore Barracks Hospital, Shorncliffe, on 13 April 1917, to be treated for cerebro spinal meningitis. He died, from that condition, at the hospital on 27 June 1917. 

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Randle died on 28th of March 1918 at the age of 33. Randle was born at Lowestoft on13 September 1885, a son of William and Emily Gilby. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church on 7 October 1885, and his family lived at 3 Raglan Cottages. In 1891 his family lived at 222 Raglan Street. By 1901 they were living at 63 Stanley Street, and Randle was a housepainter’s errand boy. In 1911 Randle was working as a railway carter and lodging with his uncle, Randall Wright, at 435 Liverpool Road, Platt Bridge, near Wigan. On 3 June 1914 Randle married Lydia Sabrina Ames at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth. Randle was a carman living at Lowestoft and Lydia lived at Row 104, Great Yarmouth. By 1918 their home was at 79 Stanley Street, Lowestoft. Later Lydia lived at 3 Row, 104 South Quay, Great Yarmouth. Randle enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 32047. Randle was transferred to the Essex Regiment, service number 35427, and posted to the 2nd Battalion in France. In March 1918 the 2nd Battalion were in positions near Arras, moving into the front line on 24 March. At 3 p.m. on 28 March a heavy hostile enemy bombardment commenced on the front, support, and reserve lines as well as the rear areas. The bombardment continued for several hours and all communication wires were cut. At 7.05 a.m. the enemy could be seen massing in large numbers. At 7.15 a.m. all companies sent up S.O.S. rockets. By 7.35 a.m. there was severe fighting in the support and reserve lines. At 7.40 a.m. the enemy broke through on both flanks and advanced down Chili Trench toward battalion headquarters. At the junction of Chili, Harry and Hussar trenches about 35 men formed a strong point to check the enemy advance. The remaining men of the battalion came under command of the 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers. The battalion’s casualties on 28 March were:Officers: three missing believed killed; eight missing; one missing believed prisoner; one woundedOther ranks: 15 killed; 1 missing believed killed; 342 missing; 5 wounded and missing; 1 gassed; 49 wounded; five gassed to Field AmbulancesRandle was reported missing on 28 March and later presumed to have been killed in action on, or since, that date.  

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Cornelius died on 13th of October 1915 at the age of 24. Cornelius was born at Blundeston in 1891, a son of Charles Elijah and Ellen Gillings. He was baptised at Saint Mary’s Church, Blundeston, on 7 June 1891. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Blundeston. By 1901 their address was The Street, Blundeston. By 1911 they were living near The Plough, Blundeston, and Cornelius was a gardener. Cornelius married Emma Melinda Atkins in 1914: this was registered in the Erpingham district. Their home was at The Street, Blundeston. Emma married Arthur Riches in 1920. Cornelius volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 18528. He was posted to the 7th Battalion, in France, on 12 August 1915. The War Diary for the 7th Battalion has:12 October. 5.45 p.m. Parade to take over trenches from 1st Guards Brigade near Hohenzollern Redoubt.13 October. 12 noon. Intense bombardment of German lines by our artillery.2 p.m. Attack commences in accordance with Battalion order.B Company under cover of smoke attacked German trenches . .advancing over fire trench. Owing to smoke lifting and very heavy machine-gun fire . . this attack did not reach its objective but was instrumental in keeping out bomb attacks on (our) sap.Major Currey, 2nd Lieutenants Hartopp and Lee were killed. Lieutenant Daveron wounded and about 70 other ranks killed and wounded. At the same time A Company supported the Norfolk bombers in attack a sap. Great opposition was encountered at first and many casualties occurred. The party eventually rushed the German barrier and proceeded to bomb a trench.The machine-guns were ordered to follow this party and support advance with fire. Captain Cobbold was killed whilst leading the party of Suffolk bombers and 2nd Lieutenant Smith severely wounded.As the Suffolk bombers had become expended when the point G.5.d.10.3 was reached and the attack checked in consequence. O.C. A Company was ordered to consolidate his position on the line gained. At the same time D Company supported the Norfolk bombers in attacking a sap. This attack was temporarily held up by German bombers at their barrier which was eventually rushed by D Company.Captain Henty was wounded and Captain Sorley and Lieutenant Wood killed whilst leading the attack. Lieutenant Deighton then took command and by bombing down the trench drove the enemy back . . when this point was reached it was reported that the bombs had been used up. D was ordered to consolidate this position.As soon as points G.5.d.10.3 and G.6.c.2.1 were reached there were pushed forward 3 Suffolk and 1 Northamptonshire machine-guns with the object of establishing a strong point at G.5.d.9.1 and commanding the approach from the enemy’s trenches which had been closed by us with double stops. This arrangement proved quite satisfactory as by it the German bombers were easily kept at a distance by rifle and machine-gun fire. Casualties: eight officers killed and three wounded. 150 Other Ranks killed and wounded.    Cornelius was killed in action on 13 October.Cornelius’ brother Sydney served with the 2nd Battalion Suffolk Regiment and died in 1916. His nephew, Sydney Charles Gillings, served in the Royal Army Medical Corps and died in 1944.   

A Private with the Royal Army Medical Corps, Sydney died on 25th of September 1944 at the age of 26. Sydney was a son of John Frederick and Elizabeth Blanche Gillings of The Street, Blundeston. Sydney had worked as a gardener before he joined the Army. Sydney was a medic and he was attached to the 2nd Battalion Gordon Highlanders. As part of Operation Market Garden the 15th (Scottish) Division were involved in taking the town of Eindhoven, where they arrived on 21 September, and then moving northwards to Best. Capturing Best proved to be extremely difficult because of the well placed German forces. The battle focussed on the brick factory which, effectively, became a fortress. The 2nd Gordon Highlanders were committed to an attack on the brick factory and were unsuccessful losing over 40 men. Later RAF Typhons aircraft with rockets attacked the brick factory, but this proved fruitless. Eventually heavy artillery had to be employed to flatten the brick factory and it was no until September 26th that Best was finally in Allied hands. (See www.ww2marketgarden.com for more details)Sydney would have been involved in tending the wounded and he was himself killed on 25 September. Commonwealth War Grave documents show that initially he was buried at Best. After the war battlefield clearance saw burials concentrated at Mierlo which is where Sydney now rests.  Sydney's uncles: Cornelius Gillings and Sydney Charles Gillings, both served with the Suffolk Regiment. Cornelius died in 1915 and Sydney in 1916.

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Sydney died on 22nd of January 1916 at the age of 33. Sydney was born at Blundeston in 1883, a son of Charles Elijah and Ellen Gillings. He was baptised at Saint Mary’s Church, Blundeston, on 4 February 1883. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Blundeston. By 1901 their address was The Street, Blundeston, and Sydney was a bricklayer’s labourer. Later his parents lived near The Plough, Blundeston. On 5 September 1908 Charles married Ethel Louise Dade at Old Buckenham, Norfolk. Charles was a bricklayer, living at Blundeston, and Ethel lived at Old Buckenham. In 1911 they lived at Down Moor, Old Buckenham, and Sydney was a bricklayer. Sydney volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 18380. He was posted to the 2nd Battalion and arrived in France on 24 August 1915. At 2 a.m. on 22 January 1916 the Germans exploded a mine beneath the 'Bluff' trenches, close to the Ypres-Comine Canal, held by the 2nd Battalion Suffolk Regiment. The explosion created a crater 60 by 40 yards wide and 40 yards deep. About 100 men were killed, buried alive, or injured by the explosion. The Germans did not follow up the explosion with an attack, but hampered rescue efforts with rifle fire. Sydney was among those killed at that time.Sydney’s brother Cornelius served with the 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment and died in 1915. His nephew, Sydney Charles Gillings, served in the Royal Army Medical Corps and died in 1944.  

A Seaman with H.M. Whaler Pilotwhale, Leonard died on 14th of May 1917 at the age of 19. Leonard was born at Lowestoft on 13 October 1897, a son of James and Laura Agnes Girdlestone. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 13 August 1902, and his family lived at 54 Saint Peter’s Street. For a time his family lived at Hull and Leonard attended Saint Paul's School. From 13 November 1903 he attended Saint John's School, Lowestoft, and his family lived at 12 Kimberley Road. By 1911 his father had died, his mother had married John Spencer, and the family lived at 13 Epsom Terrace, Kirkley Run. Leonard joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 19 December 1914. In August 1916 he was sent to the cells for 7 days for bring drunk, he also had leave stopped for 30 days and ‘grog’ stopped for 50 days. On 15 September 1916 he joined the Edinburgh Castle and on 31 January 1917 the Pilotwhale. Leonard disappeared, at Aberdeen Docks, on 14 May 1917. On 23 June his body was recovered, and he was buried at Saint Peter’s Churchyard, Carlton Colville, on 25 June. It was concluded that he had accidentally drowned. Leonard’s father had drowned at Milford Docks in 1902, and his brother Norris drowned at Hull Docks in 1924. 

A Private with the 8th Battalion, Frederick died on 23rd of October 1917 at the age of 37. Frederick was born at Barnby, Suffolk, in 1881. He was a grandson of Jonathan and Mary Girling and is believed to have been the son of their daughter Hannah. If so, he was baptised at Barnby on 13 February 1882. The 1881 Census shows Frederick with his grandparents at Beccles Road, Barnby. In 1891 he was living with his grandparents at Marsh Lane, Carlton Colville. In 1901 Frederick lodged at Grove Cottages, near Henley Road, Whitton, near Ipswich, and he worked as a furnisher’s assistant. By 1911 Frederick was lodging at 2 Dove Street, Lowestoft, and he worked as a gardener.    Pension record cards give his next of kin as Hariett Girling of Ship Corner, Carlton Colville. Note: one card states that Harriet was his aunt, another states that she was his mother. Frederick enlisted in the Army at Great Yarmouth. He joined the Norfolk Regiment, service number 22311, and was posted to the 8th Battalion in France. Frederick was wounded, but there is no record of when, how, or where he was at the time. He was evacuated to a Casualty Clearing Station at Dozinghem, near Poperinge, Belgium, where he died of wounds.  Note: a number of official records give his surname as Garling. 

An Engineman with H.M. Trawler Tettenhall, George died on 23rd of May 1917 at the age of 25. George was born at North Cove, Suffolk, on 15 June 1891, a son of George Edward and Ellen Gladwell. In 1901 his family lived at Back Lane, Barnby. By 1911 the family were living at 6 College Street, Lowestoft. In 1911 George worked on the trawler Arimathea at Penzance.  On 18 July 1916 George married Annie May Charlotte Ayers at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley. George was an engineer and they both lived at Kirkley. Subsequently they lived at Brackendale, 63 Carlton Road, South Lowestoft.George attested for the Army at Lowestoft on 10 September 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 12696, and was posted to the 9th Battalion on 24 October. George was discharged medically unfit, on 20 November 1914, due to tachycardia and a dilated heart.George joined the Royal Naval Reserve, as a Deck Hand, on 11 January 1915. He served with the trawler Quick Set, before joining the Boy Allen, on 11 February 1915. George was promoted to Engineman on 1 March 1915. George joined the trawler Tettenhall on 14 March 1916. He died when Tettenhall struck a mine off Lowestoft. Six of the crew, including George, were killed.  Details of George’s funeral were reported in the Lowestoft Journal, 2 June 1917, page 3:A NAVAL FUNERALOn Tuesday afternoon [May 29] another double naval funeral took place at Kirkley Cemetery, Mr. S. C. Rowe (Missioner at the Sailors and Fishermen’s Bethel) officiating. The deceased were accorded naval honours. The service was an impressive one, and was witnessed by a considerable concourse. The deceased men were George Edward Gladwell, aged 25, late of 63 Carlton Road, Kirkley, married, with one child, and Henry J. Blowers, of Morton Road, aged 50, married with family, two or three of whom are with the Forces. The “Last Post” was sounded at the conclusion of the service, and there were several handsome floral tributes. The coffins were conveyed on gun carriages. Mr. Horace Riches, Raglan Street, was the undertaker.The widow and family of the late George Edward Gladwell desire to thank the many kind friends who have shown sympathy with them, also those who sent flowers on the occasion of the funeral.      

A Private with the 18th Battalion, Albert died on 13th of September 1918 aged 19. Albert was born at Lowestoft in 1899, a son of Albert and Margaret Maria Godbold. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church on 14 July 1899 and his family lived at 17 Arnold Street and in 1901 they lived at 22 Arnold Street. Later they lived at 49 Carlton Road, Pakefield.Albert enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Lancashire Fusiliers, service number 56795, and was posted to the 18th Battalion in France. From 8 to 16 September 1918 the 18th Battalion were at Belgian Battery Corner, mainly involved in wiring at the front line trenches. There is no record of precisely what happened to Albert other than that he was killed in action. 

A Gunner with 215th Siege Battery, Ernest died on 26th of August 1917 at the age of 37.Ernest was born at Oulton, Lowestoft, in 1880, a son of Benjamin and Emma Godbold. He was baptised at Saint Michael’s Church, Oulton, on 28 March 1880. In 1881 his family lived at Mutford Bridge, Oulton Broad, and by 1891 at 42 Beccles Road, Oulton. In 1899 they lived at Saint Anne’s Terrace, Bridge Road, and by 1911 at 4 Rock Dene, Rock Estate, Oulton Broad. Ernest was living at Oulton Broad, and working as a labourer for James Bullen of Lowestoft, when he enlisted in the Suffolk Artillery (Militia) at Lowestoft on 16 January 1899. He then joined the regular Royal Artillery on 20 March 1899. He served with the Royal Garrison Artillery, service number 34266. In 1911 Ernest was serving with 81 Company Royal Garrison Artillery at Roorkee, India. He was awarded the Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.In June 1915 Ernest married Ethel Rose Notting. This was registered at Alverstoke. Later Ethel lived at 68 Saint Thomas’ Road, Hardway, Gosport, Hampshire.Ernest served at Sierra Leone in 1916, returning to England on 4 December 1916. He then went to France and served with 145th Siege Battery before being posted to 215th Siege Battery. Ernest was wounded and treated at 47 Casualty Clearing Station where he died from his wounds. Ernest’s brother Henry served with the Army Service Corps and died in 1916.  

A Private with the Guards Divisional Supply Company attached Guards Division Headquarters, Henry died on 18th of November 1916 at the age of 35.Henry was born at Oulton Broad in 1882, a son of Benjamin and Emma Godbold. He was baptised at Saint Michael’s Church, Oulton, on 5 February 1882. In 1881 his family lived at Mutford Bridge, Oulton Broad, and by 1891 at 42 Beccles Road, Oulton. In 1899 they lived at Saint Anne’s Terrace, Bridge Road, and by 1911 at 4 Rock Dene, Rock Estate, Oulton Broad. In 1908 Henry married Agnes Newman. This was registered in the Sudbury district. In 1911 they lived at Downside Cottages, Park Road, Woking, and Henry was a domestic chauffeur. Later Agnes lived at 1109 Avenue C North, Saskatchewan, Canada. Henry enlisted in the Army at London. He joined the Army Service Corps, service number M2/032940. Henry served with the Motorised Transport and was a member of the Guards Divisional Supply Company, attached to Guards Division Headquarters, when he was accidentally killed on 18 November 1916. Henry’s brother Ernest served in the Royal Garrison Artillery and died in 1917.

A Civilian, Jessie died on 23rd of January 1942 at the age of 42. Jessie was born at Lowestoft on 11 June 1899, a daughter of Arthur Jacobs and Olive Moore. In 1901 her family lived at 48 Stanley Street, and this was Jessie's home for the rest of her life. Jessie married William Arthur Godbold, at Lowestoft, in early 1919.Jessie died at 48 Stanley Street.Jessie's brother-in-law, Joseph, was killed in 1942. Her nephew, Leonard, was killed in 1941. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Canna. Joseph died on 5th of December 1942 at the age of 22. Joseph was born at Lowestoft on 8 September 1920, a son of Thomas George and Emily Godbold. In 1921 his family lived at 57 Seago Street, Lowestoft. Later his father lived at 35 Beaconsfield Road, Lowestoft. Joseph was serving on the Canna, at Lagos, when an accidental explosion took place and the vessel was burnt out. Six of the crew, including Joseph, were killed. Joseph's sister-in-law, Jessie, was killed in an air raid in 1942. His nephew, Leonard, was killed in 1941. 

An Ordinary Seaman with H.M.S. Jaguar, Leonard died on 26th of March 1942 aged 18. Leonard was born at Lowestoft on 5 March 1924, a son of George Frederick and Miriam Jane Godbold. In 1939 his family lived at 103 Oxford Road.On 26 March 1942 Leonard’s ship, the destroyer H.M.S. Jaguar, was, with a Greek ship, escorting the tanker R.F.A. Slavol. The Slavol was torpedoed by German submarine U-652. The Jaguar came alongside to rescue the Slavol’s crew but was hit by two torpedoes from U-652 and quickly sank, off Sidi Barrani, Egypt. Leonard was one of 193 men lost with the Jaguar.  Leonard's uncle Joseph served with the Royal Naval Patrol Service and was killed in 1942. His aunt Jessie was killed in an air raid in 1942. 

A Stoker with H.M.S. Invincible, Arthur died on 31st of May 1916 at the age of 22. Arthur was born at Barnby on 18 March 1894, a son of John and Florence Mary Goddard. He was baptised at Saint Edmunds Church, Kessingland, on 21 November 1897. In 1901 his family lived at Beach Road, Kessingland, ‘near the church.’ By 1911 they were living at 5 Surrey Place, Field Lane, Kessingland, and Arthur was a fisherman.In 1912, after committing a series of offences, Arthur was sentenced to two years detention at a borstal (see The Diss Express 10 January 1913, page 8).Arthur joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 4 December 1914.In 1915 Arthur married Beatrice Florence Meaden, this registered in the Alverstoke district. Their address was 13 Trinity View, South Street, Gosport. Beatrice also died in 1916.He joined H.M.S. Invincible on 26 November 1915. On 30 May 1916 the Invincible engaged the German light cruiser Wiesbaden, during the Battle of Jutland. Having disabled the Wiesbaden the Invincible engaged the battlecruiser Lutzow, which was holed below the waterline. At 18.30 the Lutzow and battlecruiser Derfflinger both fired on the Invincible. Shells struck a midship turret and the explosion led to a further explosion in the ship's magazine and the Invincible was blown in two. Of the 1,026 men on board only six survived. 

A Private with the 21st Battalion, William died on 27th of May 1918 aged 19.William was born at Newcastle-On-Tyne in 1899, a son of William and Effie Goddard. In 1901 his family lived at 22 Honiton Road, Romford and by 1911 they lived at 10 Beresford Road, Lowestoft. In 1921 his parents lived at 304 Dereham Road, Norwich, but afterwards moved back to Lowestoft and lived at 128 Beaconsfield Road.William enlisted in the Army at Ipswich and sources suggest this was in October 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 2464. Later he was transferred to the Machine Gun Corps and served in France with III Section, B Company of the 21st Battalion. On 27 May 1918 the 21st Battalion were at Vaux Varennes when the enemy laid down a heavy bombardment, including gas, as a prelude to an attack on the whole divisional front. The battalion lost many guns and men with 13 killed, 51 wounded, 6 wounded and missing and 92 missing. William was reported missing on 27 May and his death was accepted to have taken place between 27 May and 27 September, with some sources giving the latter date as his date of death.  

A Company Sergeant Major with 419 (West Lancashire) Field Company, Arthur died on 31st of July 1917 at the age of 35.Arthur was born at Oulton in 1882, a son of John and Harriet Anne Godfrey. In 1891 his family lived at Horne Hill, Kirkley, by 1901 they were living at Southwold House, Bridge Road, Oulton Broad, and Arthur was an apprentice carpenter and joiner.By 1911 Arthur had joined the Royal Engineers and the Census shows him as a 2nd Corporal serving at Chatham. Arthur had enlisted at Ipswich.  In 1914 Arthur married Jessie Mannall at Ipswich. Their home was at 27 Waterworks Road, Ipswich. Arthur arrived in France on 31 December 1914. During the war Arthur was promoted to Company Sergeant Major. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in 1916 (London Gazette 11 March 1916).Arthur served with the 1/1st West Lancashire Field Company. In January 1917 his unit was renamed as the 419th West Lancashire Field Company. On 31 July 1917 the Third Battle of Ypres began. Arthur was part of III Section, under Lieutenant Talbot, and the section, working with Second Lieutenant White of the 1/8th Battalion Liverpool Regiment, were given the task of searching for mines on the Wieltje-Gravenstafel Road to 100 yards east of Kansas Cross. They were also to locate dumps and water supplies in the left area of the German lines as well as searching for booby-traps in the German trench system. At 3.10 a.m. the attack began and Arthur's section went to their duties. By 6.45 a.m. it was reported that Second Lieutenant White had been killed and that Arthur was wounded. Arthur died form his wounds later that day. During the day III Section suffered a large number of casualties and at 8.45 a.m. Lieutenant Talbot reported that other than himself there were only three men in the section who had not been killed or wounded.  His brother Robert served with the Royal Navy and died in 1920.

A Petty Officer with H.M.S. Marmora, Robert died on 25th of January 1920 at the age of 39. Robert was born at Oulton on 22 January 1881, a son of John and Harriet Anne Godfrey. He was baptised at Saint Michael's Church, Oulton, on 24 June 1881. In 1891 his family lived at Horne Hill, Kirkley. Later his parents lived at Southwold House, Bridge Road, Oulton Broad.Robert served with the merchant navy before he joined the Royal Navy, as a Boy 2nd Class, on 21 February 1899. He served continuously with the Royal Navy until he was invalided from the service on 23 January 1918. Robert was present at the Battle of Jutland with H.M.S. Canterbury. Robert was awarded the Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in 1916. On 17 October 1909 Robert married Grace Hill at Saint James' Church, Ealing. Robert and Grace were living at 85 Leighton Road, Ealing. After being discharged Robert's home address was 64 Conisboro Avenue, Caversham, Oxfordshire, but he died at the Berkshire County Asylum, Cholsey, Berkshire.  His brother Arthur also died.On Saint Margaret's War Memorial.

A Civilian, Thomas died on 8th of March 1942 aged 62. Thomas was born at City Road, Shoreditch, London, on 26 August 1879, a son of Henry and Kate Godwin. In 1881 his family lived at 138 City Road. By 1891 they were living at 4 Conyer Street, Bethnal Green. In 1901 Thomas’ family lived at 36 The Green, West Ham, and Thomas was a van and cart builder. In early 1911 Thomas married Alice Victoria Hume, this was registered in the Saint Pancras district. They lived at 68 Prince of Wales Road, Kentish Town, and Thomas was a coach, bus and cab body maker. Alice died in 1915. By 1921 Thomas had moved to Lowestoft, lodging with the Jenner family at 46 Stevens Street. Thomas worked as coach body maker for the United Automobile Services Company at Laundry Lane. In 1936 the United Automobile Services works at Lowestoft became Eastern Coach Works Limited and was the largest full-time employer in the town. On 24 April 1926 Thomas married Laura May English at Saint John’s Church. Thomas was a coach body maker and both Thomas and Laura gave their address as 13 Laundry Lane. Laundry Lane was later renamed Eastern Way. In 1939 Thomas and Laura lived at 13 Eastern Way and Thomas was a vehicle body builder. In May 1940 Eastern Coach Works was closed for production and 950 staff laid off. Thomas then became a naval police warden. In March 1942 Thomas and Laura lived at 15 Eastern Way and this is where Thomas was killed. On 8 March 1942 an enemy aircraft dropped a number of bombs in the Essex Road area of Lowestoft. Thomas and Laura were at home and a bomb destroyed their house and Thomas was killed. Laura was seriously injured but was able to shout to her rescuers and guided their work and it took three hours to rescue her. In the raid Thomas was the only person killed and thirteen, including Laura, were injured.

A Civilian, Elizabeth died on 12th of May 1943 aged 69. Elizabeth was born at Lowestoft on 16 July 1873 a daughter of Robert John and Ellen (Nellie) Yallop. In 1881 her family lived at 22 Anguish Street and by 1891, when Elizabeth worked as a beatster, they were living at 100 Rotterdam Road.  On 29 December 1895 Elizabeth married Ernest William Weeds at Saint Margaret’s Church. Elizabeth was living at Rotterdam Road and Ernest, a trawlerman, lived at 248 Raglan Street. In 1901 they lived at 42 Stamford Street and this was still the family home in 1911. Ernest died in late 1910 in the loss of the trawler Girl Muriel.  On 29 November 1914 Elizabeth married Robert Goldacre at Saint Margaret’s Church. Elizabeth was living at 59 Rotterdam Road and Robert, a shipwright, lived at 4 Kent Road. By 1921 they were living at 17 Norfolk Street and this was Elizabeth’s home for the rest of her life. Elizabeth died at Norfolk Street during the Focke-Wulf Raid.Elizabeth’s brother, John Yallop, served with the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1918. 

A Civilian, Oliver died on 13th of January 1942 aged 50. Oliver was born at Colchester on 27 February 1891 a son of James Edward Golding and Priscilla Golding. His family lived at 27 Saint Mary’s Road, Colchester. Oliver was baptised at Saint Botolph’s Church, Colchester, on 16 October 1900, and his family lived at 66 Priory Street, which was still their home in 1911 when Oliver was a grocer’s assistant. By 1915 Oliver was living at Bedford and working as a grocer for the Maypole Dairy Company at Silver Street. Oliver attested for the Army, at Bedford, on 16 August 1915. He joined the Royal Engineers, service number 522773. He was in hospital between December 1917 and March 1918 undergoing treatment for a hernia. He then served in France with 503 Field Company. Oliver was treated in hospital for influenza and pneumonia in late 1918. On 6 May 1917 Oliver married Louisa Skitterall at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. Oliver was a Driver with the Royal Engineers, based at Barlow, Buckinghamshire, and Louisa lived at 68 Tonning Street. Once Oliver was discharged from the Army they lived at Fairhead Farm, Carlton Colville. In 1921 they lived at 5 The Prairies and Oliver worked as a shop assistant for the Mayole Dairy Company at 22 London Road. By 1939 they were living at 82 Lowestoft Road, Carlton Colville, and Oliver was a shop assistant. Oliver died at Waller’s Grocery, 86-88 London Road North, during the Waller Raid.  

An Engineman with H.M.Trawler Sisapon. Leslie died on 12th of June 1940 at the age of 33. Leslie was born at Kirkley on 24 July 1906, a son of Harold and Clara Goldspink. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 19 October 1906 and his family lived at 12 Lorne Road. By 1911 his family lived at 50 Acton Road, Kirkley. In 1921 his family lived at 16 Blackheath Road and Leslie was an apprentice barber working for Watkins and Lockwood at 261 London Road. On 12 December 1936 Leslie married Ivy Maud Cooper at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Leslie was living at Oulton Broad, and working as a fisherman, and Ivy lived at 60 Reeve Street. By 1939 they were living at 23 Durban Road, and later Ivy lived at 14 Colville Road. In 1939 Leslie worked as a stoker.During World War Two Leslie served on H. M. Trawler Sisapon. On 12 June 1940 the Sisapon struck and mine and sank in the North Sea, off Harwich, with the loss of eleven crew, including Leslie. 

A Sergeant with B Squadron, Arthur died on 22nd of December 1940 at the age of 29.Arthur was born at Coltishall in 1911, a son of Ernest Henry and Florence Maud Gooch. In 1921 his family lived at Bridge Road, Ludham, and by 1939 they were living at Blacksmiths Loke Lound. Later his parents lived at they lived at 2 Widow's Cottages, Somerleyton. Arthur married Mona Connor at Chelmsford in 1937. They had a home at 1 Jubilee Cottages, Chelmsford. Arthur enlisted in the 3rd Hussars on 29 September 1930 and served in India before World War Two. His regiment arrived at Egypt on 22 August 1940 and from 13 October 1940 were part of the 7th Armoured Brigade - the original 'Desert Rats'. On 10-11 December 1940 Arthur's regiment took part in the Battle of Sidi Barrani which forced the Italians out of Egypt.Arthur was accidentally killed on 22 December 1940.Later Mona lived at Andsell, Lytham St. Annes. Arthur's sister, Lily Ray, was killed by a V-1 Rocket in 1944. His brother Leonard died in the loss of the submarine Triad in 1940. 

A Private with the 8th Battalion. Charles died on 21st of March 1918 at the age of 19. Charles was born at Somerleyton on 21 December 1899, a son of Benjamin Charles and Edith Georgina Gooch. He was baptised at Saint Mary's Church, Somerleyton on 5 February 1899 and his family lived at The Street, Somerleyton. By 1911 his family were living at 15 Severn Terrace, Kirkley Run, and later at 57 Oxford Road, Lowestoft.  Charles enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft, serving initially with the Suffolk Regiment, number 48533. He was transferred to the Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent Regiment), service number G/25868, and posted to the 8th Battalion in France.On 19 March 1918 the 8th Battalion were in the Vadenourt area. Patrolling was carried out during the night of 20-21 March and no abnormal enemy activity was reported. At 4.30 a.m. on 21 March a general bombardment by the enemy commenced. Vadencourt Chateau was heavily shelled with gas shells for six hours. A dense fog hampered vision through to 11 a.m. By 10.30 a.m. it was understand that the enemy had advanced on the battalion’s right, cutting off the two front companies. By 11.30 a.m., as the fog cleared, the enemy could be seen occupying Mareval and Pontru Trench to the battalion’s front. The general advance of the enemy toward Vadencourt and Cookers Quarry now began. Vadencourt was subject to very heavy enfilade and direct machine-gun fire and the enemy attempted to advance across the battalion front, in closed up order, to attack Cookers Quarry: the battalion’s machine-gunners did a lot of effective work to break up that advance. In the afternoon huge numbers of Germans could be seen in front of the battalion and requests for artillery support went unheeded. During the afternoon the enemy’s attempts to take Vadencourt were held up by the battalion. Enemy shelling on Vadencourt was recommenced, but the area provided excellent natural defences and providing the troops to the battalion’s left could hold Cookers Quarry and Cooker Trench the, the commanding officer felt, the battalion could hold the position. At 7.15 p.m. the troops on the battalion’s left retired, leaving both flanks in the air. At 8 p.m. the commanding officer gave the order to withdraw, leaving a strong rearguard at Vadncourt Chateau, which did valuable work and held up the enemy advance for an hour, allowing an orderly withdrawal of the battalion.The battalion’s casualties on 21 March were:Officers: four died of gas poisoning; seven missingOther ranks: 41 killedThe number of men wounded and other ranks missing is not known. Charles was reported missing on 21 March and it was later concluded that he had died on, or since, that date.  Charles in mentioned on Saint Margaret's War Memorial. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Recoil. Douglas died on 28th of September 1940 at the age of 22. Douglas was born at Lowestoft on 27 March 1918, a son of Robert Philip and Agnes Gooch. He was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, and his family lived at 23 Clemence Street and this was their address in 1939. The 1939 Register states that Douglas was 'Royal Naval Reserve - called up in September'.Douglas was serving on the minesweeping trawler Recoil when it was mined and sank in the English Channel off Portland Bill. Seventeen crew, including Douglas, were killed. 

A Signal Boy with H.M. Drifter Fearless., died on 26th of August 1915 at the age of 17. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 15 July 1898, a son of Thomas William and Edith Gooch. He was baptised at Saint Mark's Church, Oulton Broad, on 15 February 1899. In 1901 his family lived at 60 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. Ernest attended Carlton School and from 9 May 1904 attended Denmark Road School, and his family lived at 3 Laundry Lane, Lowestoft. From 13 July 1905 Ernest attended Saint John's Boys School, and, from 15 July 1898 the British School, Lowestoft. In 1911 his family lived at 83 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft.Ernest joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 6 February 1915. From 16 February 1915 he served with the drifter Fearless. On 26 August 1915 Ernest, at Dover Harbour, left his ship in a rowing boat and was not seen alive again. Ernest's body was recovered, near the Prince of Wales Pier, Dover, on Wednesday 1 September.   An account of the inquest appeared in The Dover and County Chronicle on 11 September 1915, page 5:ERNEST E. GOOCHThe Coroner said that in the case of Ernest E. Gooch he had no evidence at all, the witnesses being at sea. He had a statement, which he read, to the effect that the deceased was missing from his ship; he had gone ashore in a boat, which was afterwards was found drifting, with his cap in it. The police were informed that he was an absentee, and a warrant issued for his arrest. On September 1st, it was reported that the body had been recovered, and steps were at once taken for its removal to the mortuary, and the police were informed. The body had been badly mutilated, having apparently been in contact with propellers. The Coroner explained that he was afraid he could not do much without the presence of witnesses; and that the doctor who had been called in to the previous case, was concerned in that, was also absent. It was agreed to adjourn the inquest till Tuesday afternoon, at 3 o’clock.The adjourned inquest was held on Tuesday afternoon when P.C. A. Baker gave evidence to receiving the body, and removing it to the mortuary, where it was examined by Dr. Bailey, who said that death was probably due to drowning. Dr. Baird gave evidence to examining the body on September 1st, at the mortuary. It was much decomposed, and had evidently been in the water several days, and in his opinion death was due to drowning. A statement was handed in, to the effect that deceased was missing since the 26th  ult. He had gone ashore in the boat, which was found drifting. The police were informed as to his absence, and a warrant was issued for his arrest, as an absentee. After further evidence, the Coroner summed up, and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death. The remains of the lad Gooch were removed to his home at Lowestoft on Tuesday morning. 

A Sergeant with the Army Catering Corps, attached to the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment, George died on 14th of August 1943 at the age of 24. George was born at Gisleham on 1 May 1919, a son of Albert Alfred and Ethel Agnes Gooch. he was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 23 May 1919 and his family lived at Church Farm Cottages, Gisleham. George's father died in 1930 and his mother remarried and in 1939 she lived at 153 The Avenue, Lowestoft.George married Hilda Maud Rivett in 1940, this registered in the Bury St. Edmunds district. George enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment. He was a cook and was transferred to the Army Catering Corps and attached to the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment. In autumn 1939 the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment was on guard duty in the Lowestoft area and from July to September 1940 had various local deployments, including guarding Great Yarmouth. The Battalion then moved to Bedfordshire and then Scotland until April 1941. Next the Battalion moved to Bury, Lancashire, and Hereford, before embarking on the S.S. Andes at Liverpool and sailing for Halifax, Nov Scotia. The Battalion changed ship, to the American liner Wakefield, and sailed for Trinidad and then Cape Town, arriving on 9 December 1941. The Battalion was given three days shore leave.The Battalion was part of 54 Brigade in the 18th (East Anglian) Division. With the Japanese entry into the war the Battalion was now allocated to the Far East and sailed for India, arriving on 5 January 1942. The Battalion had three weeks of training before embarking at Bombay and sailing for Singapore, arriving on 29 January 1942. The Battalion had orders to defend the Golf Course and then fell back to defend the perimeter before the Singapore garrison was forced to surrender on 15 February 1942. Ninety men of the Battalion were killed, or died of wounds, in the defence of Singapore and 865 were taken prisoner.      George was captured at Singapore on 15 February 1942. He was made to work on construction of the 'Burma Railway'. He died of malaria at Tamaran Pat, Thailand. 

A Sapper with 560 Field Company, Harold died on 24th of November 1942 aged 24. Harold was born at Lowestoft on 19 November 1918, a son of Ewart William and Lily Maud Gooch. In 1921 his family lived at 93 Raglan Street, and this was still their home in 1939, when Harold was a fruit salesman.  Harold enlisted in the Royal Engineers on 19 October 1939. By late 1941 he was serving with 560 Field Company in the 18th Division. Harold’s unit embarked in October 1941 bound for Egypt, but, en route, their destination was changed to India and from there they were sent to Singapore, with various elements arriving in late January and early February 1942. Harold was captured at the fall of Singapore on 15 February 1942. He would, like most of the men of his company, have been held at Changi and sources show that he was in one of the groups of prisoners that were taken overland to work on the Burma Railway. There is no record of what happened to Harold other than that he died on 24 November 1942 and was buried at Wat Koke Mor, Nong Pladuk, the next day. Nong Pladuk was the start point for the Burma Railway and contained a large camp where British and Commonwealth prisoners of war were held. Harold was reburied at Chungkai Military Cemetery in 1946.

A Stoker 1st Class with H.M. Submarine Triad, Leonard died on 20th of October 1940 at the age of 26. Son of Ernest Henry and Florence Maud Gooch of Blacksmiths Loke Lound.Leonard was born at Coltishall, Norfolk, on 11 January 1914, a son of Ernest Henry and Florence Maud Gooch. By 1921 Leonard's family were living at Bridge Road, Ludham, and by 1939 they had moved to Blacksmith's Loke, Hopton. Subsequently they lived at 2 Widow's Cottages, Somerleyton. Leonard served in the Army for four years before joining the Royal Navy on 3 February 1938. He volunteered for the submarine service on 8 December 1939 but did not join the service until 22 April 1940. On 10 June 1940 he was drafted to H.M. Submarine Triad and he was a Seaman Torpedo Operator. On 9 October 1940 the Triad sailed from Malta to operate in the Gulf of Taranto and with instructions to arrive at Alexandria on 20 October. The submarine failed to arrive. Initially it was concluded that the Triad had either struck a mine or had been sunk by Italian aircraft, however a more recent account suggests that the Triad was sunk by the Italian submarine Enrico Toti during the night of 14-15 October 1940. The Triad was lost with all 59 crew, including Leonard. Leonard's sister, Lily Ray, was killed by a V-1 Rocket in 1944. His brother Arthur died in 1940 whilst serving in Egypt. 

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Walter died on 23rd of November 1917 at the age of 20. Walter was born at Lowestoft in 1897, a son of Walter William and Charlotte Evelina Gooch. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church on 16 May 1897 and at that time his family lived at 51 Clemence Street, Lowestoft. His first names were Walter George Vincent. In 1901 his family loved at 8 Factory Street, Lowestoft, and by 1911 they had moved to 149 Saint Margaret's Road. The 1911 Census shows that Walter worked as an assistant at a boot and shoe merchants. Walter enlisted at Lowestoft and he joined the Suffolk Regiment. Initially he had the service number 1432 and he served with a cyclist battalion. He was posted to the 4th Battalion and then served with the 7th Battalion in France, with service number 43267. The 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment was part of 35th Brigade, 12th Division. On 20 November they were involved in a tank attack at Cambrai and subsequently attacked and captured Hindenburg support line trenches. The battalion War Diary does not give any indication of what happened to Walter. Soldiers Died in the Great War records his date of death as 23 November 1917, as does Commonwealth War Graves, but other sources, such as Pension Record Cards, state that he was killed in action on 24 November, for which date the War Diary states 'casualties very slight'.Walter has no known grave and is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial.  

A Second Lieutenant with 4th Battalion (Territorial) Suffolk Regiment, Garnett died on 20th of July 1916 at the age of 24. Garnett was born at Sydenham, Surrey, in 1892, a son of Arthur Hammond and Frances Marieanne Goodall. In 1901 his family lived at 13 Kirkstall Road, Streatham. By 19016 they were living at Lees Farm, Oulton Broad. Garnett was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Carlton Colville, on 4 April 1906, aged 14. In 1911 his family lived at The Dell, Oulton Broad, and Garnett was a general engineer working for Brookes. On 27 February 1913 Garnett sailed from London, for Buenos Aires, Argentina, on the S.S. Highland Pride. He stated that his occupation was engineer. Garnett sailed from La Plata, Argentina, on the S.S. Highland Glen, and arrived at London on 25 July 1914.   Garnett volunteered and enlisted in the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion Suffolk Regiment. He was promoted to Lance Corporal. On 28 July 1915 he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the 4th Suffolk Regiment. In April 1916 he was serving with the 3/4th Battalion, at Halton, near Aylesbury, when he was cautioned for obstructing the highway with his motor-cycle. Garnett arrived in France on 30 May 1916 to join the 1/4th Battalion. The 1/4th Battalion War Diary has the following entry for 20 July 1916:The battalion were relieved by the L.N.Lanc 56th Infantry Brigade, and returned to Shell Valley where improvements to trenches were continued. At 7 a.m. instructions were received to move to a position in the vicinity of the Cemetery in support of the 19th Infantry Brigade in an attack on High Wood and a German trench north of same. D Company was first sent forward, the remaining companies taking shelter and digging in. D Company with 2nd Argylls attempted to take a German string point, but this effort was held up by heavy machine-gun fire, and the Company returned to await darkness. At about 4.30 p.m. A and B Companies under Lieutenant Brown, were sent forward, but they also were compelled to retire. The Battalion's casualties were one officer, Garnett, killed and three officers wounded, and 32 other ranks killed.Garnett is commemorated on Saint Margaret's War Memorial. 

A Pilot Officer with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Philip died on 2nd of May 1941 aged 27. Philip was born at North Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, on 19 October 1913 a son of Arthur and Elena Goode. In 1921 they lived at Ghetty, Rubery, Birmingham. On 19 December 1936 Philip married Evelyn Hilda Agnes Grice at Saint Margaret’s Church. Philip was a storeman living at 272 Raglan Street and Evelyn lived at 57 Reeve Street. By 1939 they were living at 234 Raglan Street and Philip was the chief managing clerk at a rope manufacturer.  Philip joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, service number 928130. On 2 March 1941 he was commissioned as a Pilot Office, number 61507. In May 1941 Philip was a pilot with No 3 School of General Reconnaissance based at Squire Gates, Lancashire. On 2 May 1941 Philip was flying in a Botha I aircraft, L 6326, in a navigation exercise. The aircraft developed engine failure and crashed into the sea off Carrick Rock, near Port St. Mary, Isle of Man. Philip’s body was recovered and he is buried in Lowestoft (Normanston Drive) Cemetery. Philip's service dress trousers are held in the Imperial War Museum collection. Philip's brother-in-law, Leslie Westoby, served with the Royal Navy and died in 1942. WITH THANKS TO :Malcolm Barrass

A Cook with Fishing Vessel S.D.J. (Lowestoft), Reason died on 11th of May 1947 aged 63. Reason was born at Snape, Suffolk, on 28 November 1883, a son of William and Mary Ann Gooding. In 1891 his family lived at Gromford, Snape, and by 1901 they were living at Church Common, Snape, and Reason was an agricultural labourer. On 19 March 1919 Reason married Hannah Elizabeth Dines at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley. Reason was a fisherman and they both lived at Kirkley. In 1920 they lived at Pakefield Street and in 1921 at 60 Saint George’s Road. By 1939 they were living at 20 Southwell Road and Reason was a fisherman.  In 1947 William was working on the Lowestoft trawler S.D.J., LT 1187. This was reported missing on 11/12 May and it was presumed to have been sunk by a mine in the North Sea with the loss of all nine crew. 

A Civilian, Gladys died on 12th of May 1943 aged 47. Gladys was born at Lowestoft on 2 December 1895 a daughter of Robert Charles and Ellen Day. She was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 1 January 1896 and her family lived at Cumberland Square. By 1901 Gladys’ father had died and her family lived at Sea View Cottages, East Street. Subsequently her mother remarried, and her family lived at 14 Beckham Road. In 1911 Gladys worked as a beatster and in 1921 she worked as a tin lacquerer at Morton’s factory on Belvedere Road. On 30 August 1927 Gladys married Robert Charles Goodman at Saint Margaret’s Church. Gladys lived at 14 Beckham Road. Robert was a fisherman living at 8 Beckham Road. By 1939 their home was at 19 Norfolk Street. On 12 May 1943 Gladys was at Essex Road and she died as a result of the Focke-Wulf Raid. Note: Commonwealth War Graves records state that Gladys died at 19 Norfolk Street, but probate records show that she was at Essex Road. 

A Deck Hand with Trawler Excel (Lowestoft), Archie died on 4th of June 1915 at the age of 17. Archibald, often known as Archie, was born at Framlingham in 1898, a son of William and Catherine Goodwin. In 1901 his family lived at 20 Sandringham Road, Lowestoft. In 1911 Archie, and his sister, lodged at 4 Sandringham Road and he was at school but also worked as a baker's boy/errand boy. Archie was a Deck Hand on the trawler Excel, LT 460. The last sighting of the Excel was on 4 June 1915 at a position fifty miles south east by east from Lowestoft. It was concluded that the Excel had struck a mine and all four of the trawler's crew lost. 

A Private with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, Alfred died on 12th of November 1943 at the age of 31. Alfred was born at Lowestoft on 29 December 1912, a son of Alfred William and Harriet Elizabeth Gook. Alfred's father died in 1936 and his mother remarried and in 1939 lived at 14 Poplar Road, Carlton Colville. Alfred married Vera Lucille Bennett at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 2 August 1937. Alfred was a shop assistant living at 22 Saint Leonard's Road, Norwich, and Vera lived at 79 London Road South, Lowestoft. In 1939 they were living at 5 Eversley Road, Norwich, and Alfred worked as shop assistant at a grocers.Alfred joined in the Army. Initially he served with the Royal Norfolk Regiment and was transferred to serve with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Alfred was admitted to the Derby City Hospital on 1 November 1943. His illness was the result of a head injury (See Derby Evening Telegraph 13 November 1943 page 5). However, the inquest into his death heard that the injury occurred eighteen months earlier when he was lying on a table demonstrating a physical training exercise and the table tipped up and Alfred slid backwards onto the floor. Vera gave evidence that since that time he had suffered from headaches. The jury returned a verdict of death by misadventure (See Derby Daily Telegraph 4 December 1943 page 4). Subsequently Vera returned to Lowestoft and in her latter years lived at 9 Plaisir Place, Thurston Road, Lowestoft. Alfred's sister Doria married Robert Gardner who was killed at Singapore in 1942.

A Private with the 6th Battalion, Bertie died on 21st of March 1918 at the age of 31. Bertie was born at Lowestoft on 7 December 1887, a son of Raca and Emma Gorrod. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 12 March 1887, and his family lived at 2 Newsom’s Buildings, Kirkley. In 1891 his family lived at 1 Southwell Road. Around 1891 Bertie became a pupil at Kirkley School. In 1901 his family lived at 20 Southwell Road and Bertie was a greengrocer on his ‘own account.’ By 1911 they were living at 16 Southwell Road and Bertie was a nurseryman. On 5 August 1912 Bertie married Anna Edith Watling at Westwick, Norfolk. Bertie was a gardener, living at Kirkley, and Anna lived at Westwick. Later Anna’s address was 3 Kings Cottages, The Avenue, and, subsequently, 152 The Avenue.Bertie enlisted in the Army at Richmond. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 34806. Bertie was transferred to the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry and posted to the 5th Battalion in France. He was wounded in late 1917 and his name appears in the official casualty list, the War Office Daily List, dated 27 December 1917. Once recovered Bertie served with the 6th Battalion in XIII Platoon, B company. On 7 March 1918 the 6th Battalion arrived at Gugny and spent several days works on Corps defences. Around 12 noon on 21 March the battalion were ordered to man battle stations, and they moved to positions around 2 p.m. They occupied quarries near Bray St. Christophe. B Company were in the centre by Le Tordoir. The next morning was misty and when this cleared, about 1.30 p.m., the Germans attacked the Irish regiments in positions in front of the battalion. The Irish regiments fell back, but the battalion held their positions. At 7.30 p.m. the enemy attacked the battalion from a sunken road at Happencourt, but were repelled with machine-gun fire. At 8.30 p.m. the battalion withdrew and begin digging in from Bray St. Christophe to Aubigny, with B Company in the centre. About midnight enemy patrols managed to creep up to the battalion’s positions and opened fire with rifles and machine-guns. The enemy managed to get in behind B Company, surrounding them, and practically the whole company, with all the officers, was taken prisoner. Enquiries with the Red Cross state that Bertie was wounded and missing on 21 March and later it was presumed that he had been killed in action on, or since, that date.       Bertie's brother Charles died in 1914 in the loss of the trawler Speculator.

A Fourth Hand with Trawler Speculator. Charles died on 9th of November 1914 at the age of 30. Charles was born at Henstead on 21 April 1884, a son of Raca and Emma Gorrod. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 17 September 1886. In 1891 his family lived at 1 Southwell Road and later they lived at 16 Southwell Road, Lowestoft. On 24 December 1911 Charles married Susanna Charlotte Woods. Charles was a fisherman living at Southwell Road and Susanna lived at 25 Commercial Road. The trawler Speculator, LT 1050, was last seen between 4 and 5 p.m. on 9 November 1914 fishing in the Yarmouth field near Smith's Knoll. The Skipper of the trawler Achieve reported that he heard an explosion around 8 p.m. that evening and it was presumed that this was the sound of the Speculator being blown up by a mine. The next day wreckage from the Speculator was found. See: World War One – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)Charles' brother Bertie died in 1918 whilst serving with the King's Shropshire Light Infantry.