A Private with Plymouth Battalion, Royal Naval Division, William died on 23rd of July 1915 at the age of 25. William was born at Lowestoft on 2 July 1890, a son of William George and Martha Gorrod. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 7 September 1890 and his family lived at 9 Church Road, Lowestoft. By 1901 William's father had died and his family lived at 4 Raglan Street Lowestoft.William was working as a billiard maker when he joined the Royal Navy on 21 August 1910 to serve as an Officer's Steward 2nd Class. He was discharged to shore, 'unsuitable', on 29 December 1910.  William was working as a valet when he joined the Royal Marine Light Infantry, at Bristol, on 3 October 1914. He joined H Company of the Plymouth Division: this was part of the Royal Naval Division. From 6 February 1915 he served in the Mediterranean.  On 19 July 1915 William was admitted to 21st General Hospital, Alexandria, suffering from enteric fever. He died there at 3.40 p.m. on 23 July 1915. The following appeared in the Lowestoft Journal 7 August 1915, page 4:DIED AT ALEXANDRIAMr. G.R. Gorrod, of 30 Lorne Park Road, South Lowestoft, has received a letter from the Admiralty announcing the death of his brother Private W.J. Gorrod, at Alexandria. The deceased, who was the youngest son of the late Mr. W.F. Gorrod of Lowestoft and Haddiscoe, was 24 years of age. He enlisted at the outbreak of war in the R.M.L.I., and was serving in the Plymouth Battalion. He was a bright and promising young man. For several years he was a chorister in Saint Andrews Church choir, Lowestoft, and he was frequently called upon to assist at concerts in connection with that church. He was employed for some time at Mr. E.F. Thain's, The Bridge, Lowestoft. Much sympathy is felt for the family in their bereavement. William is commemorated on Saint Margaret's War Memorial. 

A Civilian, Alan died on 21st of August 1940 at the age of 19. Alan was born at Pakefield on 27 July 1921, a son of Walter Allen and Annie Gertrude Gosling. He was baptised at All Saints’ Church, Pakefield, on 11 September 1921, and his family lived at 20 Wellington Road. By 1939 his family were living at The Jolly Sailors, Pakefield Street, where his father was the licensee, and Alan was an apprentice engineering fitter.On 21 August 1940 German aircraft dropped twelve high explosive bombs in the vicinity of Harvey, Wilson and Osborne Shipwrights and Jewson’s Timber Yard at Horn Hill. Alan was killed at the Harvey, Wilson and Osborne air raid shelter. In that raid six people, including Alan, were killed and seven injured. ..thanks to information that has come direct from family we are pleased to have been able to correct previous errors

A Deck Hand with H.M. Trawler George Borthwick, Joseph died on 24th of December 1918 aged 25. Joseph was born at Pakefield on 7 April 1895, a son of Thomas George and Caroline Mary Ann Gosling. In 1901 Joseph, and his parents, were resident at the Union Workhouse, Oulton. His mother died in 1905 and his father in 1908. On 26 October 1908 he became a pupil at Saint Margaret’s School and at the time he lived with his brother Henry at 20 Saint Margaret’s Road. In 1911 Joseph was the Fourth Hand on the trawler Rose of Devon at Padstow. In January 1916 he was a Deck Hand on the trawler Loch Tay. When Joseph joined the Royal Naval Reserve he gave his next of kin as his landlady, Agnes Cole, of 7 Frances Terrace, Kirkley Run, but after his death his war gratuity was paid to his brother Henry who was living at Pierrepoint, Kirkley Cliff (now part of the Hotel Victoria). Joseph joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 9 April 1917. He served with the trawler George Borthwick Joseph died from pneumonia at the Isolation Hospital, Lowestoft. 

Formerly a Deck Hand with the Royal Naval Reserve, Edward died on 22nd of December 1920 at the age of 57.Edward was born at Kessingland on 17 June 1863, a son of Edward and Mary Gouldby. He was baptised at Saint Edmund's Church, Kessingland, on 12 July 1863.Edward married Elizabeth Ann Knights in 1890. In 1891 they lived at Belvedere Place, Kessingland, and by 1901 they were living at The Beach, Kessingland, and Edward worked as a fisherman. Later their home was at High Path, The Beach, Kessingland.Edward joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 26 January 1915. He served on the trawler White Oak until 23 March 1916. He was discharged from the Royal Naval Reserve on 1 August 1916 because of defective vision. In 1917 he received a disability gratuity. By August 1920 Edward was very ill and he was a patient at the Bethel Hospital, Norwich. A note on his service record card, dated 18 August 1920, states that Elizabeth did not expect that he would live much longer. Subsequently he was transferred to the Suffolk County Asylum, Melton, where he died.  Edward was buried at at Saint Edmund's Churchyard, Kessingland, on 28 December 1920. 

A Private with 1/4th Bn., Frank died on 12th of March 1915 at the age of 19.Frank was born at Lowestoft on 8 January 1896, a son of Robert and Henrietta Gouldby. His given names were Francis Alfred, but he was often known as Frank and this is the name he used when he joined the Army. He was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 5 April 1896. Throughout Frank's life his family lived at 51 Stanley Street, Lowestoft.  Frank was a pupil at Hervey Street School before attending Saint John's School, Lowestoft, from 2 February 1903. In 1911 he worked as a house boy - domestic. In 1914 Frank worked for Jewson and Co., at Lowestoft. He volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the 1/4th Battalion of the Suffolk Regiment, which was the local territorial infantry unit. He enlisted in late August/early September 1914. Frank arrived in Frank with the Battalion on 8 November 1914. On 11 March 1915 the Battalion received orders to move up to Nueve Chapelle to support the troops ahead occupying the German trenches. The Battalion advanced, toward Bois du Biez, in three lines. The advance was delayed and, at the end of the day, the Battalion was withdrawn to billets at Rue des Berceaux. During the day the Battalion had 20 officers men killed and 102 wounded. Overnight one man was killed and three wounded due to enemy shelling.On 12 March the Battalion were ordered to advance on Nueve Chapelle but this order was cancelled, and they were again instructed to advance on Bois du Biez. By this time the Battalion had been reduced to 173 men. The attack was delayed and the Battalion remained in their start positions throughout the day. During 12 March 1 officer was killed, and 5 wounded; 7 N.C.O.s and men were killed and 84 wounded; and 3 men reported missing. Frank was reported missing on 12 March 1915. By May 1916 it had been concluded that he must have been killed in action on that date. Interestingly a note in the Lowestoft Journal of 10 July 1915, page 8, states that Frank had died of wounds at Nueve Chappelle. Presumably his family had received that information, possibly from one of Frank's comrades.  Frank's sister, Marguerite Rand, died in an air raid in 1942. 

A Second Lieutenant with 5th Battalion (Territorial) attached 7th Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment, James died on 25th of August 1918 at the age of 24. James was born at Lowestoft in 1891, a son of William and Helena Clara Gouldby. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 21 April 1895 and his family lived at 239 Raglan Street. In 1901 they lived at 67 Raglan Street. By 1911 they were living at 133 Clapham Road and James was an assistant in his father's business as a Hay and Corn Merchant. James served with the 1/1st Suffolk Yeomanry. On 19 August 1915 James married Kathleen Reid at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. James was a Sergeant serving with the Suffolk Yeomanry, stationed at Woodbridge, and Kathleen lived at Brandon House, Old Nelson Street, Lowestoft. James arrived in Gallipoli on 8 October 1915. He was wounded and his name appears in the War Office Daily List of 30 November 1915. James was commissioned in the Lincolnshire Regiment on 27 March 1917. It seems that he was commissioned into the 5th Battalion (it is note clear whether this was the 1/5th, 2/5th or 3/5th) and then attached to the 7th Battalion in France.  On 25 August 1918 the 7th Battalion took up positions north-west of Martinpuich in readiness for an attack. They were held up by machine-gun fire. By 12.30 they had advanced from line M.28 a and c to M.23c/M.29 a and c. James was killed during this this advance.  Note because of an error he had also bee commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial and some official records incorrectly give his date of death as 25 August 1916.

A Corporal with the Royal Air Force, James died on 7th of April 1942 aged 20. James was born at Lowestoft in 1922, a son of James Edward and Violet Emma Gowen. In 1939 his family lived at 49 Poplar Road, Carlton Colville. James enlisted in the Royal Air Force as an aircraft apprentice. In April 1942 James was serving with 252 Squadron in Egypt. On 7 April he was involved with the recovery of a crashed aircraft at Edcu (given as Ikdu in some sources) when guns on the aircraft fired accidentally hitting James in the chest. James was taken to No 3 General Hospital where he died of wounds.  WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass

A Private with 19th Battalion (Canadian Highlanders) Canadian Infantry. Walter died on 10th of August 1918 at the age of 29. Walter was born at Lowestoft on 5 September 1889, a son of Walter George and Alice Gowen. In 1891 his family lived at 89 Roman Road, Lowestoft. By 1901 Walter's father had died and his mother had married Thomas Walsh: the family lived at 15 Haward Street. Later his mother lived at 67 Raglan Street, Lowestoft, before moving to 144 Chichester Road, South Shields.In 1911 Walter was a boarder at 276 Raglan Street and he worked as a warehouseman in grocery and provisions. Walter served in the Lowestoft Territorials before he emigrated to Canada in April 1912. Walter was working as a labourer when he attested for the Canadian Army at Toronto on 12 November 1914.  (His service papers are available at National Archives of Canada Accession Reference: RG 150 Accession 1992-93/166 Box 3686 - 25). Walter sailed from Montreal on S. S. Scandinavian on 13 May 1915 and arrived in England on 22 May 1915. He embarked at Folkestone, for France, on 14 September 1915. Walter served with the machine-gun section of his battalion. He was killed in a trench near Wytschaete, Belgium. His commanding officer wrote (as quoted in De Ruvigny): He was operating a machine-gun in the front-line trenches when he was shot through the head by a German sniper about 11 p.m. and succumbed to his wounds immediately. He was a good soldier, and had been with the battalion from the time of its formation for active service, during which time he had earned the respect and esteem of his officers and comrades alike.He is commemorated on the war memorial at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft.

A Leading Seaman with H.M.S. Sheldrake, Francis died on 7th of September 1940 at the age of 22. Francis was born at Lowestoft on 16 December 1917, a son of Francis William and Elsie Maria Gower. Francis was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 13 January 1918, and his family lived at 12 Albany Road, Lowestoft. Francis' father died in 1936 and his mother remarried and the family lived at 63 Worthing Road, Lowestoft.Francis served on board H.M.S. Sheldrake. Records show that he was killed in action at sea, but give the place that he died as Harwich Hospital (died of wounds?)

A Sergeant with the 7th Battalion, George died on 9th of August 1916 at the age of 26. George was born at Lowestoft on 16 August 1889, a son of William and Elizabeth Gower. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 5 November 1890 and his family lived at 7 Factory Street. In 1891 they lived at 11 Compass Street, and this was still their home in 1901. By 1907 they were living at 7 Jacobs Street.George was a labourer working for Mr. Gooch, at Lowestoft, when he joined the P.W.O. Norfolk Royal Garrison Artillery (Militia), at Lowestoft, on 11 January 1907 and continued to serve until 25 April 1908. In 1908 George married Lily Susannah Elizabeth Butcher. By 1911 George’s father had died and he, and Lily, lived with his mother at 27 Chapel Street. Later his mother lived at 15 Chapel Street. After George’s death lily married Edward Cook and lived at 2 Cox's Buildings, Raglan Street.George volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 9187, and was posted to the 7th Battalion. He was already a Lance Corporal when he arrived in France with the Battalion on 30 May 1915.On 7 August 1916 the 7th Battalion took over trenches west of Pozieres, including Ration Trench. After repeated attacks the enemy took Ration Trench on 8 August. The next day the Battalion were given the task of attacking Ration Trench in an attempt to retake it from the enemy.  

A Skipper with the drifter 'Will and Maggie', George died on 3 November 1914 at the age of 39. George was born at Flixton, near Lowestoft, in 1875, a son of Isaac and Mary Ann Gower. In 1881 his family lived at Gisleham. By 1891 they were living at 83 Albert Road, Great Yarmouth, and George worked as a labourer.On 28 December 1896 George married Elizabeth Abigail Mobbs at Saint Peter's Church, Carlton Colville. They both lived at Carlton Colville and George was a fisherman. In 1901 they lived at 21 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. In 1911, presumably while George was at sea, Elizabeth lodged at 73 High Street, Penzance. By 1914 they had a home at Beccles Road, Carlton Colville. George became the Skipper of the drifter 'Will and Maggie'. At 9 p.m. on 3 November 1914 the drifter was fishing about 17 miles off Lowestoft. A mine was brought up in the net and exploded. Six of the crew were killed including George, his son Wilfred; William Mower, Harry Flowers and Frank Newrick, all from Lowestoft area; and Frederick Steel, from Gorleston. Two other men, Edward Smith and Alfred Leverett, were injured. Two men, Albert Wright and Ernest Coe, survived and were not injured. At the inquest Wright and Coe stated that the mine was caught in the drifter's net and exploded when the net was being hauled in. They added that the drifter's small boat was damaged in the explosion: hence the men who were not killed in the explosion had to survive in the water until rescued.  The four survivors were picked up by the trawler Qui Saint and landed at Lowestoft. For further details see: World War One – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)

A Seaman with Steam Drifter Reliance (Lowestoft), James died on 7th of October 1917 at the age of 27. James was born at Carlton Colville in 1890, a son of James Henry and Harriet Gower. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville, on 26 October 1890. The 1891 census shows James, and his mother, with his maternal grandmother, Louisa Solomon, at Ship Corner, Carlton Colville. In 1901 James, and his mother, were with his maternal grandmother, Louisa Solomon, at Morses Cottages, Carlton Colville.On 30 December 1912 James married Annie Louisa Victoria Meadows at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. James was a fisherman living at 28 Beccles Road, and Annie lived at Worthing Road. Later Annie’s address was 84 Worthing Road.  In 1917 James was a Seaman with the Drifter Reliance, LT 694. The Reliance sailed from Lowestoft, on Saturday 29 September, to fish between Wintertons Ridge and Smiths Knoll, and was due to return on Monday 8 October. The Reliance was seen by several boats outside Winterton Ridge during the evening of October 6. A member of the crew of the Lord Roberts, William Westmate, stated at an inquiry that his crew had hauled their nest and gone below when, about five minutes later, they heard an explosion. This was presumed to be the Reliance striking a mine. All ten of the Reliance’s crew were lost.  See: 1914 – 1918 Lowestoft Fisherman: killed by enemy action – History of Lowestoft's Fishing IndustryJames' brother-in-law, William Meadows, died in 1916 in the loss of the trawler Boy Sam. 

A Deck Hand with Steam Trawler Derwent (Boston), James died on 26th of January 1920 at the age of 17. James was born at Lowestoft on 2 October 1903, a son of James Henry and Eva Mary Gower. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 10 April 1904, and his family lived at 26 Rotterdam Road. The 1911 Census shows James with his maternal grandparents, Thomas and Ellen Wilson, at Pyrancha Cottage, Commodore Road, Oulton Broad. Later his family lived at 68 Carlton Road, Kirkley.In 1920 James 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. 

A Fisherman with the drifter 'Will and Maggie', Wilfred died on 3 November 1914 at the age of 17.Wilfred was born at Carlton Colville in 1897, a son of George Alfred and Elizabeth Abigail Gower. In 1901 his family lived at 21 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. By 1914 they had a home at Beccles Road, Carlton Colville. Wilfred was a fisherman with the drifter 'Will and Maggie' and his father was the Skipper. At 9 p.m. on 3 November 1914 the drifter was fishing about 17 miles off Lowestoft. A mine was brought up in the net and exploded. Six of the crew were killed including Wilfred and his father; William Mower, Harry Flowers and Frank Newrick, all from Lowestoft area; and Frederick Steel, from Gorleston. Two other men, Edward Smith and Alfred Leverett, were injured. Two men, Albert Wright and Ernest Coe, survived and were not injured. At the inquest Wright and Coe stated that the mine was caught in the drifter's net and exploded when the net was being hauled in. They added that the drifter's small boat was damaged in the explosion: hence the men who were not killed in the explosion had to survive in the water until rescued. The four survivors were picked up by the trawler Qui Saint and landed at Lowestoft. For further details see: World War One – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)

A Private with 2nd Bn., George died on 15th of August 1915 at the age of 33.George was born at Lowestoft on 20 June 1882, a son of George Sead and Caroline Gowing. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 23 July 1882. In 1891 his family lived at Anguish Street, Lowestoft. By 1901 George’s father had died and his family lived at Lifeboat Cottages, East Street, Lowestoft, and George was a fisherman. On 25 December 1903 George married Alice Maud Brown at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. George was working as a fisherman. In 1911 they lived at 9 Raglan Cottages, Raglan Street, Lowestoft. Later Alice lived at 222 Raglan Street. She married William Fletcher, a Trimmer in the Royal Naval Reserve, in 1917. George volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 3/10241. He arrived in France on 3 December 1914 to join the 2nd Battalion. On 24 July 1915 the 2nd Battalion moved into trenches at a position known as Spoilbank on the south side of the canal near Ypres. We do not know when George was wounded, but note for the Battalion War Diary, that it would have been on one of several days between 26 July and 15 August.   George died from wounds at 9th Field Ambulance at Hoograf, Belgium.

A Private with 6th Bn., Thomas died on 4th of October 1916 at the age of 21. Thomas was born at Lowestoft in 1894, a son of Thomas William and Sarah Elizabeth Gowing. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 15 June 1894, and his family lived at The Hemplands. By 1901 they were living at 4 Smiths Cottages, Hemplands, Lowestoft. In 1911 Thomas and his family were still living at 4 Smiths Cottages, and Thomas was an assistant at a general store. Subsequently Thomas' family lived at 30 Church Road, Lowestoft. Thomas was working as a butcher when he volunteered to join the Army. He enlisted at Lowestoft and served, initially, with the Suffolk Regiment, number 12250 (some sources suggest he served with the 6th Cyclist Battalion). He was later transferred to Army Cyclist Corps, number 2864. Subsequently he was transferred to The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) and posted to the 6th Battalion. He arrived in France with the 6th Battalion on 31 May 1915. Note: he served with George Stebbings who also came from Lowestoft. We do not know exactly when Thomas was wounded, but he died from his wounds at No 37 Casualty Clearing Station. Thomas' brother-in-law, William Hart, died in 1947 in the loss of the trawler S.D.J., and his nephew, William Hart, died in 1942 while serving with the R.A.F. 

A Trooper with C Squadron, Thomas died on 14 April 1945, aged 29.Thomas was born at Stranraer, Wigtownshire, in 1916, a son of James and Janet Graham. In 1941 Thomas married Annie L. Brown, of 19 Florence Road, Pakefield, this was registered in the Lothingland district. Thomas enlisted in the King’s Own Scottish Borderers and subsequently transferred to the Lovat Scouts. His unit landed in Italy in July 1944. Thomas as wounded on 12 April and died of his wounds two days later.  

A Lance Corporal with 1st Bn., David died on 13th of May 1915 at the age of 28. David was born at 1 September 1886, a son of Edward and Eliza Gravelles. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 1 May 1887, and his family lived at 4 Saint George's Road, Lowestoft. By 1891 they were living at 62 Lorne Park Road. In 1901 they were living at 29 Selby Street, Lowestoft, and David worked as a shoemaker. Later his family lived at 10 Avondale Road, Lowestoft.In 1911 David lived at 78 North End Road, West Kensington, and was a Master Bread Baker.David was working as a baker when he volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Waltham Green Town Hall on 2 September 1914. He joined the Rifle Brigade and was posted to the 1st Battalion, in France, on 5 January 1915. David was promoted to Acting Corporal on 5 May 1915. On 9 May 1915 the 1st Battalion took over positions in the vicinity of Shell Trap Farm, near Ypres. The Battalion War Diary for 13 May 1915 has:Shelling started at 4 a.m. and enemy subsequently attacked at 7 a.m. but were driven off. At 12 noon a company of South Lancashires arrived to support. Relieved by Royal Irish Regiment at night and marched to canal bank.Casualties: 130.  David was reported missing on 13 May and later presumed to have been killed in action on that date. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Brock. Edward died on 19th of August 1940 at the age of 29. Edward was born at Lowestoft on 4 April 1910, a son of Joseph and Florence Gravells. In 1911 his family lived at 3 Turner's Cottages, Saint John's Road, Lowestoft. By 1921 they were living at 13 Clemence Street, Lowestoft, and this was still their home in 1939 at which time Edward was working as a fisherman. During World War Two Edward served with the mine-sweeping trawler Brock. In 19 August 1940 several members of the Brock's crew, along with members of the crew of the mine-sweeping trawler Burke, were involved in an Army vs. Navy football match at the Connaught Barracks Sports Ground, near Dover Castle. A lone German aircraft dropped ten bombs in the Castle area killing four men from the Brock, including Edward, and one member of the Brock's crew died of wounds the next day. In total thirteen men died as a result of the attack.Edward's brother, Jack, died at Singapore in 1942.  See: Air Raid on Dover - Monday 19th August 1940 (sussexhistoryforum.co.uk)

A Private with the 4th Battalion. Jack died on 14th of February 1942 at the age of 27. Jack was born at Lowestoft on 23 June 1914, a son of Joseph and Florence Gravells. In 1911 his family had lived at 3 Turner's Cottages, Saint John's Road, Lowestoft. By 1921 they were living at 13 Clemence Street, Lowestoft, and this was still their home in 1939 at which time Jack was a fish worker. Jack served with the 4th Battalion Royal Norfolk Regiment. In autumn 1940 the Battalion was on coastal defence in the Great Yarmouth area and then moved to Brooke, and then Cambridge. In early 1941 the Battalion was sent to Scotland, then Blackburn, and Ross-on-Wye. On 29 October 1941 the Battalion sailed form Liverpool and landed at Bombay on 29 December 1941 as part of the 18th (East Anglian) Division. On 19 January 1942 the Battalion re-embarked for Singapore and landed there on 29 January 1942. On 11 February the Battalion went into action at the racecourse, before falling back to defend the perimeter. On 15 February the British forces at Singapore were forced to surrender and the remaining men of the 4th Battalion went into captivity. Jack was killed in action on 14 September 1942. He was buried at Dunearn Road, between Adam and Kheam Hock Roads, map reference 809131. On 27 December 1946 Jack's body was exhumed and he was reburied at Kranji. Jack's brother Edward died in 1940 while serving with H.M. Trawler Brock.

A Private with the Army Dental Corps, Dennis died on 21st of November 1945. Dennis was born at Norwich on 16 September 1923, a son of Richard E. and Florence M. Graver. In 1939 his family lived at 100 Essex Street, Norwich.  He married Kathleen Maud Elvin, at Dereham, in early 1945. Subsequently Kathleen lived at Blundeston. Kathleen remarried in 1947.** No_address help please **

A Pilot Officer with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Richard died on 23 November 1942, aged 20. Richard was born at Pakefield on 25 December 1921, a son of Owen Eardley and Florence Gray. He was baptised at All Saints’ Church, Pakefield, on 12 February 1922, and his family lived at Sunnyholme, Carlton Road. By 1939 they were living at 10 Grayson Avenue and Richard was draughtsman and student and was also a member of the Auxiliary Ambulance. Richard joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, service number 1334648, and by October 1942 was a Temporary Sergeant. He was commissioned as a Pilot Officer on 9 October 1942, service number 137255.By November 1942 Richard was a Pilot with 4 Bombing and Gunnery School Royal Canadian Air Force, based at Fingal, Ontario, Canada. On 23 November he was flying a Lysander IIIA aircraft on a target towing flight. It seems that a problem with the elevator trim gear led to the aircraft crashing into Lake Eerie, near Eagle, Ontario, killing Richard. 

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Verdy died on 9th of April 1917 at the age of 21. Verdy's name is sometimes recorded as Verdi.Verdy was born at Fincham, Norfolk, a son of Obadiah (OBedier) and Ada Mabel Gray. He was baptised at Acle on 20 February 1898. In 1901 his family lived at 'Two Caravans in Bran Lane', Sprowston, Norwich, and his parents were proprietors of fairground 'swinging-boat' rides. By 1911 they were living at Ashby, near Great Yarmouth, and later Verdy's parents lived at Harbour Road, Lowestoft, and, subsequently, at Heath Road, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft.Verdy enlisted in the Army at Norwich and he arrived in France on 22 June 1915 to join the 7th Battalion. On 9 April 1917 the 7th Battalion were involved in a divisional attack and they, as part of 35 Brigade, had the capture of the Feuchy-Wancourt Line as a key objective. At 10.05 a.m. they were to be in position ready for the attack, but they could not move into their intended position as this had not yet been captured by the preceding battalions. During this time the battalion was subject to machine-gun and rifle fire and began taking casualties. At 12.08 p.m. their attack began and they were able to silence both machine-guns and snipers. The attack was a success and soon they captured 90 prisoners at Tilloy Quarry. The battalion then encountered a camouflaged trench running north from the Cambrai Road and took this position along with 15 prisoners and three machine-guns. Next the battalion was able to take their second objective and captured a number of prisoners including artillery officers. In total the battalion captured 150 prisoners, 11 77mm Field Guns and 6 machine-guns. The attack was judged to be a great success.The battalion's casualties were:Officers: two killed, three woundedOther ranks: 21 killed, 135 woundedVerdi was killed in action on 9 April.    

A Civilian, Peter died on 6th of March 1941 aged 72. Peter was born at Wallasey, Cheshire, on 21 June 1868, a son of William and Catherine Greasley. He was baptised at Saint Hillary’s Church, Wallasey, on 15 July 1868. In 1871 his family lived at The Village, Wallasey, and this was still their address in 1881. Peter began work with the Salvation Army and in 1891 was a Captain at the Citadel at Bridport, Devon. In 1892 Peter married Susie Swiney, this was registered in the Yeovil district. In 1901 they lived at 12 Northcote Road, Tonbridge, Kent, and Peter was a Salvation Army officer. In 1911 they were living at Saint Peter Port, Guernsey, and Peter was still with the Salvation Army.Peter began working with the British and Foreign Sailor’s Missionary Society and became the Harbour Missioner at Ramsgate and local sea-scout master. From 1915 to 1920 he was the missioner at Thanet Bethel. In 1920 Peter and Susie moved to Lowestoft where Peter was to be a missioner in the fishing community. Susie died in 1921. By 1939 Peter had retired and he lived at 58 A Kirkley Cliff Road.Peter was in Lowestoft on 6 March 1914 when an air raid took place. He was opposite Austin & Whale, on Clapham Road, when an explosion occurred. Peter died at the rear east side of Raglan Street.

A Private with 1st Bn., Lewis died on 30th of January 1915 at the age of 24. Lewis was born at Lowestoft on 3 November 1891, a son of Lewis Last Green and Harriett Green. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 2 December 1891, and his family lived at 38 Stanford Street. In 1901 his family lived at 129 Wollaston Road. Lewis attended the British School, Lowestoft, and from 16 September 1901 was a pupil at Saint Margaret's School, Lowestoft. His mother died in 1906 and his father remarried and the family lived at 18 Stanford Street, Lowestoft.In 1911 Lewis was living at Tyllwyd Mawr, Llangunnor, near Carmarthen, and he worked as a farm servant for William Jones.Lewis enlisted in the Army at Great Yarmouth in June/July 1914. He joined the Norfolk Regiment. On 23 November 1914 he arrived in France to join the 1st Battalion and probably was one of 90 reinforcements that joined the Battalion in the field on 2 December 1914. On 28 January 1915 the 1st Battalion took over trenches, near Wulvergem. The Battalion War Diary states that these were bad tranches and there was considerable sniping. The War Diary entry for 30 January 1915 has:Hard frost. One killed six wounded.  

A Gunner with C Battery, 331 Brigade, William died on 30th of March 1918 at the age of 22.William was born at Ipswich in 1895, a son of George Smyth Frank and Ellen Bessie Green. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 18 August 1895. In 1911 his parents, and siblings, lived at Kirkstall, Leeds, and later at 33 Brunswick Road, Norwich. In 1901 he lived with his aunt and uncle Elizabeth and William Rose, at 80 Beresford Road. He was still living with them, and at that address, in 1911 when he worked as an apprentice corm merchant.   William volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Royal Field Artillery, service number 98209. He was posted to France on 29 October 1915.  William was awarded the Military Medal in 1916 (London Gazette 21/10/1916, page 10218) for his services with A Battery, 65 Brigade. By March 1918 William was serving with C Battery, 331 Brigade.  The War Diary for C Battery has the following entry for 30 March 1918: Lieutenant Colonel Adams assumed command of [the] Group known as ‘Adams Group’ consisting of batteries as follows C/331 6 guns; C/330 6 guns and D/330 (two howitzers). Group headquarters being established at Villers-Bretonneux. Batteries went into action in immediate vicinity of [the] station at Villers-Bretonneux. During the whole day the enemy endeavoured to advance, two batteries maintained fire on the S.O.S. line throughout the day. The attack on the immediate front (word illegible) of the Group batteries was held up and towards nightfall the firing died down very considerably. During the night harassing fire continued at intervals on S.O.S. lines, reaching as far back as 700 yards in rear of same. The battery’s casualties from 21 to 31 March 1918 were:Officers: three killed; four wounded; three missingOther ranks: 28 killed; 38 wounded; 31 missingWilliam was killed in action on 30 March. 

A Civilian, Edward died on 29th of November 1940 aged 39. Edward was born at Oulton Broad on 31 July 1901, a son of Herbert Wallace and Eliza Greengrass. He was baptised at Saint Mark’s Church on 29 September 1901 and his family lived at Carlton Colville. In 1917 his family lived at 16 Kimberley Road. In 1938 Edward married Ethel Alice Turner, this was registered in the Lothingland district. In 1939 they lived at 155A The Avenue and Edward was a general labourer and fish worker.  In 1940 Edward worked for the Co-operative Wholesale Society at Waveney Drive. On 29 November he was injured during an air raid and subsequently died at Lowestoft and North Suffolk Hospital. 

A Cook with S.S. Laconia (Liverpool), Herbert died on 12th of September 1942 at the age of 39. Herbert was born at Carlton Colville on 20 November 1902, a son of Herbert Wallace and Eliza Greengrass. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville, on 22 February 1903. In 1911 his family lived at Hall Cottages, Cley Road, Holt, Norfolk, and by 1918 at 36 Kimberley Road, Lowestoft.On 10 January 1935 Herbert married Rosie Hettie Gertie Meadows. Herbert was a cook and they both lived at Kirkley. In 1939 their home was at 33 Saint John’s Road, Lowestoft. From 1927 Herbert worked at sea as a Cook. In 1940 he served on the S.S. Orcadies, and by September 1942 on the S.S. Laconia.   On 12 September 1942 the Cunard Line ocean liner Laconia was carrying passengers and transporting over 1,000 Italian prisoners of war when, around 110 nautical miles north-north-east of Ascension Island, the liner was torpedoed by German submarine U-156. The submarine Captain, guided by the old established prize rules, move the submarine close to the sinking liner in order to give assistance. The submarine flew a Red Cross flag and sent an unrestricted radio message to all nearby vessels stating the intention to rescue survivors. Despite this, the submarine was strafed by Allied aircraft and many of the Laconia’s survivors were killed by the aircraft fire and due to the fact that the submarine was forced to crash dive to avoid destruction. Rescue efforts by another German submarine, U-506, were also hampered by Allied aircraft. Of the 2,732 people on board the ship over 1,650 perished. Herbert was reported ‘missing believed drowned’ in the loss of the Laconia.  Herbert’s father, Herbert Wallace Greengrass, served in the Army Service Corps and died in 1918. 

A Private with 30th Division Mechanical Transport Company, Herbert died on 21st of March 1918 at the age of 38. Herbert was born at Oulton Broad in 1880, a son of Lorina Laura Greengrass. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville, on 29 February 1880. In 1881 Herbert, and his mother, lived with his maternal grandmother, Ann Miller, formerly Greengrass, at Beccles Road, Carlton Colville. By 1891 Hebert’s mother had married George Read, and the family lived at Beccles Road, Carlton Colville. Note in the 1891 Census Herbert’s surname is given as Read. On 18 September 1900 Herbert married Eliza Chapman at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville. Herbert was a fisherman and they both lived at Carlton Colville. In 1901 they lived at 65 Arnold Street, and Hebert was a mariner. In 1902-3 they lived at Oulton Broad and by 1907 at Barningham Winter, Norfolk. In 1911 they lived at Hall Cottages, Cley Road, Holt, Norfolk, and Herbert was a domestic chauffeur. By 1918 Eliza was living at 36 Kimberley Road, Lowestoft.Herbert volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Norwich in 1915. He joined the Army Service Corps, service number M2-119855. Herbert was posted to France on 8 September 1915. By late 1917 he was serving with 30th Divisional Mechanical Transport Company. Hebert was admitted to 96 Field Ambulance on 29 December 1917 with contusions to his right foot. He was discharged to duty on 3 January 1918. On 19 March 1918 the 30th Divisional Mechanical Transport Company was based at Golancourt. At 5.30 a.m. on 21 March a strong enemy attack on the 30th Divisional front line began. A heavy bombardment fell on the Divisional Headquarters and the Transport Lines. Several first line vehicles were destroyed before the transport was ordered to Villers St. Christophe, later all of the transport moved west of Ham, near Esmery Hallon. There is no record of when, where, or how, Herbert was wounded, but it is highly likely that this was during the early stages of the German offensive. Herbert was evacuated to 97th Field Ambulance where he died form his wounds. There are no detailed casualty records for the 30th Divisional Motor Transport Company, but 30th Division’s casualties for 21 to 31 March 1918 were 218 officers and 5245 men.  Herbert's son, Herbert Henry Greengrass, served in the Merchant Navy and died in 1942. 

A Flying Officer with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Jermyn died on 12th August 1943 aged 26.Jermyn was born at Lowestoft in 1917. A son of Jermyn Thomas and Agnes Jane Greengrass. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 27 May 1917, and his family lived at Old Nelson Street. In 1921 his family lived at 16 Royal Avenue, and by 1939 their address was 7 Battery Green Road. In 1942 Jermyn married Barbara Mary Eaton. This was registered in the Scarborough district. During the war Barbara served with Princes Mary’s Royal Air Force Nursing Service, and she lived at Hull. Barbara remarried in 1947.  The 1939 Register shows that Jermyn was a Sergeant in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, number 754695. Later he was promoted to Flight Sergeant before being commissioned as a Pilot Officer on 4 January 1943. He was then promoted to Flying Officer on 6 July 1943. By August 1943 Jermyn was a Navigator with 159 Squadron based at Salbani, India. On 12 August he was a member of the crew of a Liberator BII aircraft, number AL 560 ‘N’ which took off for a practice bomb sortie. The aircraft developed engine failure and crashed, soon after take-off, during an overshoot at Salbani. Only one of the crew survived. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 9th Battalion, Laurence died on 9th of October 1918 aged 19.Laurence was born at Lowestoft in 1899, a son of Robert and Mary Greengrass. In 1901 his family lived at Whites Cottages, Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. By 1911 Laurence’s father had died and he lived with his mother at Victoria Road, Oulton Broad.Laurence began working for the Great Eastern Railway Company as an engine cleaner, at Lowestoft, in 1916. Laurence enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in June 1917. He joined the Royal Fusiliers, service number G/81732, and was posted to the 13th Battalion in France. Subsequently he was transferred to the Royal Sussex Regiment, service number G/19140, and was posted to the 9th Battalion. On 9 October 1918 the 72nd Infantry Brigade attacked and captured Awoingt and the railway to the east of the village. The 9th Battalion was the lead battalion and they advanced by way of Rumilly, through Niergnies, to Awoingt. The battalion war diary states that casualties were ‘very slight.’ Laurence was killed during this attack. 

A Sapper with 991 Dock Operating Company, Alec died on 17 June 1943, aged 30.Alec was born at Winterton on 11 September 1912, a son of Arthur and Rose Greensides. In 1921 his family lived at 4 Ferry Lane, Southtown, Great Yarmouth.  In 1936 Alec married Pamela Louise Orford, this was registered in the Great Yarmouth district. In 1939 they lived at 4 Ferry Lane, Great Yarmouth, and Alec was a shipyard dock labourer. Later Pamela lived at 2 Brickfields Cottages, Somerleyton. Alec joined the Royal Norfolk Regiment on 24 June 1940. He transferred to the Royal Engineers and joined the Woolmer Depot Company on 13 October 1941. On 26 May 1942 he was posted to 991 Dock Operating Company. He embarked for North Africa on 9 October 1942. On 16 June 1943 Alec was on board S.S. Yoma siling from Tripoli for Alexandria. During the morning of 17 June, the Yoma was torpedoed by German submarine U-81. The ship sank quickly and 484 men, including Alec, were killed. 

A Civilian, Elsie died on 10th of October 1944 aged 52. Elsie was born at Sheffield on 2 August 1892, a daughter of Harry and Clara Elizabeth Rollett. She was baptised at Saint Barnabas Church, Highfield, Sheffield, on 21 August 1892, and her family lived at 48 Highfield Place, Sheffield. By 1901 her family were living at High Street, Wrentham, Suffolk, and in 1911 their home was at Belfast House, High Street, Wrentham.In 1918 Elsie married William Francis Greeves, this was registered in the Blything district. In 1932 Elsie travelled to the United States and Canada.By 1939 Elsie and William were living at 402 London Road South, Lowestoft. During the Second World War Elsie was a member of the Women’s Voluntary Service.On 13 January 1942 Elsie was injured at London Road North, Lowestoft, during the Waller Raid. She died at her parents’ home, Belfast House, Wrentham, on 10 October 1944 as a result of those injuries.

A Private with the 8th Battalion, James died on 17th of February 1917 at the age of 26.James was born at Lowestoft on 2 September 1890, a son of John Thomas and Jane Gregory. James’ parents both came from Cornwall. In 1891 his family lived at Machere Villa, Beaconsfield Road, Lowestoft. From 1895 James attended Kirkley School. By 1901 they were living at 130 Beaconsfield Road, and this was still their home in 1911 when James worked as a plumber. Later his mother lived at 41 Salisbury Road, before moving to Hayle, Cornwall. James enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 25105. He was posted to France to serve with the 8th Battalion. On 15 February 1917 the 8th Battalion moved from Varennes to trenches near Thiepval. At 5.45 a.m. on 17 February the battalion were involved in an attack known as the Battle of Boom Ravine. Soon Grandcourt Trench line was captured, despite some confusion in the attack and the enemy shelling. While Grandcourt Trench was being consolidated the battalion pressed on to Coffee Trench, where the enemy was firmly established through to Boom Ravine, and the battalion was subject to considerable machine-gun and rifle fire. Uncut wire caused casualties and held up the advance. On the right the advance was held up by three machine-guns east of the Ravine. The efforts of Second Lieutenant Walker and Sergeants Eaves and Rose meant that these machine-gun positions were dealt with and several prisoners taken. Number Two platoon was able to advance beyond Coffee Trench, to position R.10.d.47, which gave them a good field of fire over the Ravine. By about 8 a.m. the battle had virtually ended and consolidation and clearing up began. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers: three killed, three woundedOther ranks: 22 killed, three died of wounds, 91 wounded, 11 missingJames was killed in action on 17 February. He received a battlefield burial and after the war his body was found at map reference 57.D.R.11. In 1919 he was reburied at Regina Trench Cemetery.  

A Fisherman with Steam Drifter Lord Carnarvon (Lowestoft). Alexander died on 19th of November 1914 at the age of 19. Alexander was born at Lowestoft in 1895, a son of William and Jane Grey. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 30 October 1895. Throughout his life Alexander's family lived at 70 Tennyson Road, Lowestoft. Alexander worked as a fisherman on the steam drifter Lord Carnarvon, LT 1197. The drifter sailed from Lowestoft on 18 November 1914. An explosion was heard during the evening, but next morning there was no sigh of the drifter. Wreckage was later washed ashore at Gorleston and Southwold. It seems that the Lord Carnarvon was sunk by a mine, most probably when sailing off Gorleston. All ten of the crew were killed. See: Lowestoft – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)

A Driver with 18th Division Headquarters, Neville died on 17th November 1942 aged 25. Neville, who was often known as Frank, was born at Saxmundham on 8 June 1917, a son of Francis William and Muriel Jennie Grice. In 1921 his family lived at Seafield, The Esplanade, Lowestoft. By 1939 his parents were living at Rockhill, Beach Road, Kessingland. In 1939 Neville was living at 66 Stowmarket Road, Neeham Market, and he was a hairdresser. Neville enlisted in the Royal Engineers at Cambridge on 16 February 1940. By late 1941 he was attached to the 18th Division Headquarters. Neville’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. Neville 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, on 3 November 1942, to work on the Burma Railway.Neville died from Diphtheria at Tasao Camp Number 1 and buried there. He was reburied at Kanchanaburi Military Cemetery in 1946. 

A Leading Cook with H.M. Trawler Kurd, Frederick died on 10th of July 1945 at the age of 30. Frederick was born at Lowestoft on 8 May 1915, a son of Frederick and Maggie May Griffiths. His father died in 1918 whilst serving with the Royal Naval Reserve and he lived with his mother at Brierley Hill House, 13 Walton Road, Lowestoft. In 1925 Frederick's mother married Frederick Read and in 1939 Frederick was working as a boat-builder's labourer and living with his mother, and step-father, at The King's Arms, Bevan Street, Lowestoft.  Frederick married Melita Gladys Chynoweth at Lowestoft in 1941. On 10 July 1945 the trawler Kurd was part of a flotilla that was sweeping for mines south-east of Lizard Head. One mine caught in the sweep wire of the Kurd and detonated when it was retrieved causing the trawler to sink. Sixteen of the crew, in total twenty-seven men, were killed.   For more details see: Allied Warships of WWII - MS Trawler HMS Kurd - uboat.netAfter the war Melita lived at 188 Raglan Street, Lowestoft. 

A Deck Hand with H.M.S. Lavatera. Frederick died on 9th of December 1918 at the age of 25. Frederick was born at Walpole, Suffolk, on 20 April 1893, a son of Henry and Ann Griffiths. In 1901 his family lived at The Street, Walpole. By 1911 Frederick was living at Valley Farm, Walpole, and working as a farm labourer, but later he became a fisherman based at Lowestoft.  Frederick married Maggie May King at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 24 December 1914. At that time they lived at 27 Raglan Street and later Maggie lived at Brierly Hill House, 13 Walton Road, Lowestoft. In 1925 Maggie married Frederick Read and in 1939 they were living at The King's Arms, Bevan Street, where Frederick Read was the publican. Frederick joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 29 December 1917 and all of his service was with the Lavatera. Frederick died, at Gunton Hospital, from pneumonia contracted while on duty. Frederick and Maggie's son, Frederick Walter Henry, died in 1945 while serving with the Royal Naval Patrol Service.  

A Civilian, Agnes died on 19th of November 1944 aged 62. Agnes was born at Drayton, Norfolk, on 11 February 1882, a daughter of George and Maria Ribbans. She was baptised at Drayton on 10 March 1882. Agnes attended Drayton School until 2 February 1891 when she became a pupil at Martham School, and her family lived at West Somerton. Agnes left school in February 1895 to help at home. On 1 November 1904 Agnes married Harry Clare Grimble at St. Peter and St. Paul Church, Repps-cum-Bastwick. Harry was a labourer and they both lived at Repps. Agnes and Harry continued to live at Repps until at least 1914 and by 1918 they were living at Hopton. In 1921 they lived at Elms Cottages, Rushmere. Harry died in 1938.In 1939 Agnes, and two of her children, were living at Low Farm Cottages, Carlton Colville. At 8 a.m. on 19 November 1944 the air raid warning was sounded in Lowestoft and a few moments last a V-1, or Doodlebug, rocket passed over the town. The rocket exploded at Carlton Colville destroying two bungalows and an out building at Low Farm. Agnes was killed in the explosion. 

A Marine with the Siege Regiment, Arthur died on 13th of September 1944 at the age of 34. Arthur was born at Lowestoft on 7 July 1910, a son of Robert Charles and Esther Sarah Grimble. Arthur was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 2 August 1910 and his family lived at 5 Water Lane and this was still their home in 1911. By 14 July 1914 Arthur's family were living at Flora Terrace, Flora Road, Pakefield, and from this date Arthur attended Pakefield Council/Junior School.Arthur's father died in 1918 while serving with the Army Service Corps.In 1921 Arthur's family were living at 2 Flora Terrace, Pakefield. In 1936 Arthur married Grace Eileen Dexter at Gisleham Parish Church. In 1939 they were living at 2 Flora Terrace, Flora Road, Pakefield, and Arthur worked as a grocer's assistant. On 13 September 1944 the German Coastal Battery 'Batterie Todt' fired several shells that fell on Dover. At the time Arthur was near the Dover Priory Station and was killed during the shelling. Arthur served with the Royal Marine Siege Regiment. This Regiment used very heavy artillery in the coastal defence of Dover. 

A Private with 1/5th Bn. Benjamin died on 17th of May 1917 at the age of 20. Benjamin was born at Lowestoft on 6 December 1896, a son of Benjamin Snowling Grimble and Adelaide Priscilla Grimble. He was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 12 February 1897 and his family lived at Kirkley Run. In 1901 his family lived at Birds Lane, off Carlton Road. From 28 April 1903 Benjamin attended Kirkley School. By 1911 his family were living at Fir Green, Rushall, Scole, Norfolk, and Benjamin worked for his father. Later his family returned to Lowestoft at lived at 2 Birds Lane, Kirkley Run.Benjamin enlisted at Lowestoft and served with the 1/5th Battalion Gordon Highlands, initially with service number 4192. On 13 May 1917 the 1/5th Battalion were in bivouacs at the railway embankment north of the Arras-Famoux Road. On 15 May they were warned to be ready to move at 20 minutes notice as a German attack was expected. On 16 May the expected attack came at the trenches north and south of the railway embankment. The Battalion was ordered to move up to the Oppy Line and launch a counter attack. This operation continued into 17 May. The Battalion War Diary shows that 33 officers and men were killed on 16 May, with 179 wounded, and 17 missing. Benjamin's name appears in the list of men wounded on 16 May and, presumably, he died from his wounds soon afterwards.  

A Leading Seaman with H.M.S. Kelly, Ernest died on 23rd of May 1941 at the age of 22. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 18 May 1919, a son of Amos Benjamin and Elizabeth Georgina Grimble of Carlton Colville Suffolk. In 1921 his family lived at Stone Cottage, Union Place, Lowestoft.Ernest's father died in 1933 and in 1939 his mother worked as an Assistant Nurse at Lothingland House, Oulton, and in 1945 she lived at 20 Lowestoft Road, Carlton Colville. Ernest served on H.M.S. Kelly, famously commanded by Lord Louis Mountbatten. The Kelly was bombed, and sank, during the evacuation of Crete with the loss of 129 crew, including Ernest.

A Driver with 1 Company, 32nd Divisional Train, Robert died on 11th of August 1918 at the age of 40. Robert was born at Kirkley in 1878, a son of Alfred and Emma Grimble. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 28 April 1878. By 1881 his father had died and his family lived at 1 Waterworks Lane, Kirkley.  On 15 September 1900 Robert married Esther Sarah Smith at Beccles Parish Church. They lived at 5 Waterworks Lane before moving to 2 Flora Terrace, Flora Road, off Carlton Road, Pakefield.From around 1905, and for the next ten years, Robert worked as a carter for Arthur Balls of Beccles Road.Robert volunteered to join the Army and he enlisted at Lowestoft on 5 January 1915. He served with the Army Service Corps, initially with 202 Company 26th Divisional Train and, later with 32nd Divisional Train. He served in France from 18 September 1915. He was serving with 1 Company 32nd Divisional Train when, on 11 August 1918, he received shrapnel wounds to his left left and buttocks. Robert died from his wounds at 48th Casualty Clearing Station. Robert's son Arthur died in 1944 while serving with the Royal Marine Siege Regiment. 

A Seaman with H.M. Yacht Goissa, William died on 25th of April 1916 at the age of 24. William was born at Mutford on 2 August 1891, a son of William and Ann Isabella Grimble. He was baptised at Saint Andrew's Church, Mutford, on 6 September 1891 and his family lived at Mutford. By 1901 his family were living at Francis Terrace, Carlton Road, Pakefield, and by 1915 they were living at 59 Kimberley Road, Lowestoft. Later his parents lived at 9 Saint Leaonard's Road, Lowestoft.William joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 9 January 1915. During 1915 he served with the cruiser H.M.S. Europa. On 11 April 1916 he joined the crew of H.M. Yahct Goissa. William was reported to be missing from the Goissa on 26 April 1916 as the result of a collision. It was later concluded that he had drowned and his date of death given as 25 April 1916. See also Lowestoft St Margarets.

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Richard died on 30th of April 1917 at the age of 30. Richard was born at Lowestoft in 1886, a son of George and Phoebe Grimmer. By 1891 his father had died and his family lived at Bank Court, 5 Mariner’s Street, Lowestoft. In 1901 they lived at 4 Bank Court and Richard was a messenger boy. In 1914 Richard’s mother married John Revell and lived at 2 Richmond Place, Richmond Road, Lowestoft. In 1909 Richard married Sarah Elizabeth Howe. In 1911 they lived at 5 Fir Lane and Richard worked as a fish curer. Richard enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 2067, and was posted to the 1/4th Battalion in France. Subsequently he was posted to the 2nd Battalion, service number 43732. By 23 April 1917 the 2nd Battalion were in Corps reserve at Arras. The next day they moved to Shrapnel and Pick trenches. These trenches had been heavily shelled rendered useless. The battalion war diary states that on 29-30 April one man was killed and four men wounded. Richard was killed in action on 30 April.  

A Private with the 21st Battalion, Samuel died on 24th of November at the age of 20. Samuel was born at Mundham, Norfolk, in 1897, a son of Samuel and Emily Elizabeth Grimmer. In 1901 his family lived at 31 The Street, Lound, and by 1911 they were living at Lound Street, Blundeston, and Samuel was a farm labourer. Later his mother lived at 71 Northumberland Street, Norwich, before moving to Hunters Cottages, Kessingland Beach.Samuel enlisted in the Army at Norwich. He joined the Middlesex Regiment, service number G/24464, and was posted to the 23rd Battalion in France.  Samuel received a shrapnel wound to his shoulder and on 7 May 1917 he was being treated at 10 Casualty Clearing Station. Subsequently he was posted to the 21st Battalion. On 23 November 1917 the 21st Battalion moved into assembly positions near Bourlon Wood in readiness for an attack, with tanks, later that day: part of the Battle of Cambrai. During the 24th November elements of the battalion supported the 13th Battalion Yorkshire Regiment and the 12th Battalion Suffolk Regiment. At various points the battalion’s work was hampered by enemy strong points and machine-gun fire. The battalion was also subject to heavy shelling throughout the day. Between 23 and 26 November the battalion sustained the following casualties:Officers: two killed, eight woundedOther ranks: 20 killed, 7 missing, 96 wounded, 3 shell-shockSamuel was killed in action on 24 November. 

A Mate with S.S. Sixty Six (Middlesbrough), John died on 29th of June 1918 at the age of 62. John was born at Lowestoft in 1856, a son of John and Charlotte Gross. In 1861 his family lived at London Road, and in 1871 they lived at 6 Redwell Buildings, Kirkley. In 1875 John worked on the S.S. Pacific. By 1881 his family were living at West Side, 8 Saint George’s Road, Kirkley, and John was a mariner. John married Alice Elizabeth Robinson Gurney in 1882: this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1891 they lived at 80 Carlton Road, and this was still their home in 1901. By 1891 John was a Master Mariner and in 1901 he was the Master of the coasting steamer Kelvinside. By 1911 their home was at 13 Salisbury Road. In January 1915 John was the Master of the S.S. Kingfisher. Later that year he became the Mate of the S.S. Glencona. In 1918 John was the Mate on the S.S. Sixty-Six. Early on 29 June 1918 the Sixty-Six was sailing alone from Middlesborough with a cargo of cement. Off Scarborough the ship was spotted by the German submarine UB-88 which followed the ship and fired a torpedo which hit the ship amidships. The Sixty-Six sank immediately and John and five other men were killed.  

A Gunner with 39 Headquarters Brigade, James died on 3rd of December 1918 aged 25. James was born at Lowestoft on 14 January 1893, a son of James Robert and Julia Gurney. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 1 March 1893 and his family lived at Sparham’s Buildings. In 1901 his family lived at 56 The Hemplands, and by 1911 at 1 Hope Terrace, The Hemplands, Lowestoft, and James was a self-employed florist. James served with D Battery 186 Brigade Royal Field Artillery, but by December 1918 had been posted to 39th Headquarters Brigade. He died from appendicitis at 23rd Casualty Clearing Station. James' brother in law, Albert Soanes, served with the East Surrey Regiment and died in 1918.  James' name appears on Saint Margaret's War Memorial. 

A Civilian, James died on 23rd of January 1942 aged 35. James was born at Lowestoft on 22 October 1906, a son of Donald and Lily Guthrie. In 1911 his family lived at 8 Burton Street. By 1921 James lived at 5 Hope Terrace, Kessingland, and James was an apprentice monumental sculptor working for his father. In 1939 James lived with his family at Red Bungalow, Kessingland Beach, and James was a monumental sculptor. Later his parents lived at Xantho, Green Lane, Kessingland. James died at Stanley Street during an air raid.

A Signalman, with the Signal Section 21 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Felix died on 19th of January 1945 aged 34.Felix was born at Lowestoft on 7 July 1910, a son of James George and Amelia Bond Gwilliam. In 1921 his family lived at Harbour House, Lowestoft, as his father was the Harbour Master. In 1934 Felix married Hilda Florence Setterfield, this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1939 they lived at 48 Salisbury Road and Felix was a wholesale grocery and provision salesman. After the war Hilda lived at Limes Cottage, Forncett Saint Peter, Norfolk. Felix served with the Signal Section of 21 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment. His unit was sent from England to the Far East in December 1941. The Royal Artillery batteries in the regiment arrived at Java in early February 1942. However, it appears that the Signal Section were sent to Singapore and Felix is shown as missing at the Fall of Singapore on 15 February 1942. The evidence for this comes for the official casualty lists. Japanese records suggest that he may not have been captured until 8 March 1942. Felix was then taken to Java, arriving there on 26 September 1942. He left Java in October 1942, by sea, and was again reported missing in the ‘Netherland East Indies’ on 1 February 1943. It is possible that he was on board a ship that was bound for Japan which was sunk en route. Felix was then taken to Sandakan, Malaysia, where he died, from malaria, on 19 January 1945. Felix was buried a No 1 Prisoner of War Cemetery, Sandakan, and later reburied at Labuan War Cemetery.  

A Gunner with 177th Siege Battery, Albert died on 9th of December 1917 at the age of 19. Albert was born at Blundeston in 1898, a son of William James and Edith Isabel Haddingham. In 1901 his family lived at The Street, Blundeston, and they still lived at The Street in 1911.Albert enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Royal Garrison Artillery, service number 147081, and was posted to France to serve with 177 Siege Battery. In December 1917 177 Siege Battery provided artillery support for operations to the south-east of Passchendaele, particularly in the vicinity of Moorslede. On 9 December an enemy shell fell on a shelter wounding three men. It is believed that Albert was one of the men wounded. He died of his wounds at 3 Canadian Casualty Clearing Station, France. Note: transcriptions of some records give the family surname as Haddington. However, both the 1911 Census, the Army Register of Soldiers' Effects and medal rolls show Albert's surname as Haddingham. 

A Second Lieutenant with the 9th Battalion, Lawrence died on 18 July 1916 at the age of 21.  Lawrence was born at Little Wenlock, Shropshire, in 1895, a son of Samuel and Harriet Hadenham. He was baptised at Little Wenlock on 31 March 1895. By 1901 his family were living 91 Queens Road, Lowestoft. Lawrence was a pupil at Church Road Council school, Lowestoft. By 1911 Lawrence’s mother had died and his family lived at 13 Saint Margaret’s Plain, Lowestoft, and Lawrence worked as a page at a hotel.Lawrence volunteered and enlisted in the Army. He joined the East Surrey Regiment, service number 4769. He was posted to the 8th Battalion. Lawrence was promoted to Lance Corporal on 2 October 1914. He was already a Sergeant when he arrived in France with the 8th Battalion on 27 July 1915.Lawrence was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the East Surrey Regiment on 28 November 1915. He returned to France on 7 December 1915 to join the 9th battalion.    In July 1916 the 9th Battalion was in the vicinity of Messines. The 9th Battalion War Diary for 17 July 1916 has:During the morning the enemy started shelling our communication trenches. We retaliated with field guns. Casualties: wounded Second Lieutenant L.G. Hadenham.Lawrence had received a gunshot wound to the head and he died of his wounds at No 2 Casualty Clearing Station at 4.40 p.m. the next day.Lawrence is commemorated on Saint Margaret’ War Memorial.

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Stanley died on 13th of October 1917 at the age of 20. Stanley was born at Ditchingham, Norfolk, in 1894, a son of James and Alice E. Hadingham. In 1901 they lived at Cypress Cottage, Oulton, by 1911 they were living at 4 Park Road Cottages, Rock Estate, Oulton Broad, and Stanley worked as a carter. Later in 1911 he began work as a general labourer for the Great Eastern Railway at Lowestoft. Stanley enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in early September 1914. He was on one of a number of Lowestoft men who had volunteered to join the Army and who enlisted into 7th Battalion The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). The 7th Battalion was part of the 18th (Eastern) Division and was based in the Colchester area during the first few months of its formation. Stanley arrived in France on 28 July 1915 with the 7th Battalion.Stanley was wounded and his name appears in the official casualty list dated 4 February 1916. On 10 October 1917 the 7th Battalion moved into positions at Poelcapelle. On 12 October they were involved in a significant attack on the German lines which continued into the next day. The attack failed and the Battalion casualties were 10 officers and 375 men killed, wounded or missing. Stanley was killed in action.  

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, William died on 20th of July 1916 at the age of 20. William was born at Oulton Broad in 1895, a son of William and Alice Maud Mary Hadingham. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 11 October 1895 and his family lived at Carlton Colville. In 1901 his family were living at 68 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. By 1911 his father had died and his family lived at 4 Etheline Cottages, Victoria Road, Oulton Broad, and William was a shipbuilder’s labourer. William volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment. On 19 January 1915 William arrived in France to serve with the 2nd Battalion. Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 2nd Battalion’s attack at Longueval 20 July 1916:It was still dark when the artillery bombardment lifted and the advance began. The two Suffolk companies in the forward line marched in double lines of platoons with a front of 140 yards each. Much bitter fighting followed, which, although indecisive locally enabled a footing to be gained in High Wood by the 33rd Division. The battalion’s losses were:Officers: four killed, two wounded, six missingOther ranks: 108 killed – with an unrecorded number wounded and missingWilliam was killed in action on 20 July. The Lowestoft Journal, 5 August 1916, page 3, has the following report:DIED IN ACTIONMrs. Haddingham (sic), Etheline Cottages, Victoria Road, has received the sad intelligence of the death in France of her only son, Private William Haddingahm (sic) of the 2nd Suffolks. The Lieutenant of his Company writes: - “Your son was one of the best men in my platoon, steady and reliable – the sort of man we call ill afford to lose. It was with much sorrow that I learned of his death. I trust that your sorrow may be in some way lightened by the thought that he died in the noblest way a man can die – fighting for his country. I trust that in this thought you may find some consolation for as irreparable loss.”The Chaplain of the Regiment writes expressing his sympathy with Mrs. Haddingham, and adds: - “Your son is one of that great band of heroes of whom we have reason to be proud, and to die as he did should be a source of joy to you when the bitterness of your sorrow has passed.”Private Haddingham was especially commended by his commanding officer for having distinguished himself on January 22nd.William's name appears on Saint Margaret's War Memorial as Hardingham.

A Private with 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment, Arthur died on 23rd of March 1918 at the age of 25. Arthur was born at Lowestoft in 1893, a son of William Thomas and Mary Ann Hagg. In 1901 his family lived at Anguish Street. In 1911 their address was 21 Anguish Street and Arthur was a baker’s assistant.  Arthur enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 13886. He was posted to the 8 Battalion and arrived in France, with that battalion, on 25 July 1915. The 8th Battalion was disbanded in France on 7 February 1918 and it seems that this is when Arthur was posted to the 7th Battalion and he joined IV Platoon, A Company.On 20 March 1918 the 7th Battalion were in billets at Estaires. During the night of 22 March the German artillery began bombarding Estaires, and some men became casualties, also during the night German aircraft machine-guns fired on the town. During 23 March the battalion held their positions in Estaires.Arthur was reported missing on 22 March. It was later concluded that he had been killed in action on, or since, 23 March 1918.  Arthur’s name appears on the war memorial at Saint Margaret’s Church.

A Civilian, John died on 21st of August 1940 aged 42. John was born at Lowestoft on 3 March 1898, a son of John and Eliza Hale. In 1901 his family lived at 65 Stevens Street, and this was still their home in 1921. John became a pupil at Saint John’s School on 8 January 1906. By 1921 John was working as a shipwright and he worked for William Derry boat-builders, at Commercial Road. In 1921 John married Dora Lydia Ruthen, their marriage was registered in the Mutford district. By 1939 they were living at 64 Stevens Street and John was a shipwright. On 21 August 1940 German aircraft dropped twelve high explosive bombs in the vicinity of Harvey, Wilson and Osborne Shipwrights and Jewson’s Timber Yard at Horn Hill. John was killed at the Harvey, Wilson and Osborne air raid shelter. In that raid six people, including John, were killed and seven injured. 

A Petty Officer with H.M.S. Niger, Kenneth died on 6th of July 1942 aged 23. Kenneth was born at Haddiscoe on 4 October 1918, a son of George and Edith Hale, and his family lived at Haddiscoe in 1921. By 1939 the family home was at 5 Compass Street, Lowestoft. In 1941 Kenneth married Gladys Rose Cook, this was registered in the Lothingland district.  Kenneth served on the minesweeper, H.M.S. Niger. On 27 June 1942 the Niger left Murmansk as the lead ship of a convoy consisting of several merchant ships: convoy QP 13. Heavy fog, and a navigation error, on 5 July meant that the Niger mistook an iceberg for land and sailed into an allied minefield off Iceland. The ship struck a mine and sank, as did four of the ships following, while two others were damaged. All of the 148 men on board the Niger were lost.   

A Private with the 9th Battalion, Charles died on 13th of September 1916 at the age of 25. Charles was born at Lowestoft on 3 July 1891, a son of John and Sarah Ann Hales.  He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 24 July 1891, and his family lived at 4 Erskine Place. In 1901 his family lived at 5 Christchurch Cottages, Lowestoft. By 1911 they were living at 9 Gun Lane, Lowestoft, and Charles was a fish market labourer. Charles' sister, Hannah Hales, lived at Savory Cottages, Saint Johns Road. Lowestoft. Charles volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 17626. He was posted to the 9th Battalion and arrived in France with the Battalion on 31 August 1915. Charles was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (London Gazette 22 January 1916):For conspicuous gallantry at Loos on 26th September 1915, when he went back under heavy fire to assist a wounded man, and, after carrying him to a place of safety, rejoined his platoon. Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 9th Battalion’s involvement in the Battle of Loos from 25 to 27 September 1915, pages 121-122:At 8 p.m. on 25 September the 9th Battalion moved off and began to wend its way, in a double line of platoons, across the battlefield of Loos. A steady advance – not towards the 9th Division as originally intended, but in the direction of Vendin-le-Vieil – was maintained, the battalion passing in turn over its own support line, its own front line, the German front line, and the German support line. About midnight the advance was held up, the battalion digging themselves in between that hour and dawn, with the German support line still behind them. At 5 a.m. they were ordered back to that line.During the forenoon of the 26th an order was received for an attack at 11 a.m. with the 9th Battalion to support the 72nd Brigade, following some 600 yards behind. Unfortunately, however, this order was not received until 11.25 a.m., whereupon Lieutenant-Colonel, passing a message down the line, ordered the battalion to advance immediately. Without hesitation each section mounted the parapet and began pushing forward under heavy artillery fire towards the objective of the previous evening. The advance continued until the leading line reached a point about two hundred yards or so beyond the Hulluch-Lens Road where it was definitely checked. At 5 p.m. the right flank began to give way. For three hours the centre held on to the road, and during that time the flanks advanced and retired twice. Then the left flank, coming under a heavy machine-gun fire from the direction of Hulluch, was forced back. Here most of the 9th Battalion’s casualties occurred.About 2 a.m. on the 27th the battalion was relieved.The following year the 9th Battalion were involved in the Battle of the Somme. Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 9th Battalion’s attack at The Quadrilateral 13 September 1916:The battalion took part in an attack by the 61st Division on the Quadrilateral., the 71st Brigade being on the left and the 16th on the right. The 9th Battalion attacked with three companies in the front line and one in support, zero being 6.20 a.m. The battalion got through the German out post line quite easily, but on gaining the open ground, which stretched for about four hundred yards to the enemy’s wire, came under a terrific machine-gun fire from the formidable strong point known as the Quadrilateral. Across this bare expanse the men struggled bravely forward. Lieutenant Macdonald with others getting close enough to throw a bomb into the German stronghold before being wounded. No further progress could, however, be made. At 7.30 a.m. another attack, in which A Company participated, was launched; and in the evening a third. Still no entrance could be effected. The battalion therefore, in touch with the units on both flanks, dug itself in on a line about half a mile in front of the jumping off trenches of the morning.  The Battalion’s casualties were: officers 2 killed and 10 wounded; other ranks 15 killed and 185 wounded. Charles was reported missing and later it was concluded that he had died on, or since, 13-16 September. 

A Private with the 8th Battalion, Ernest died on 28th of September 1916 at the age of 33. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 7 December 1883, a son of Edward and Eliza Hales. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 3 February 1884. In 1891 his family lived at 11 Cathcart Street. By 1901 they were living at 80 Clapham Road and Ernest was a bricklayer, possibly working with his father. Ernest's mother died in 1902. Later his father lived at 25 Bevan Street. Ernest enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 24977, and was posted to the 8th Battalion in France.  On 26 September 1916 the 8th Battalion were involved in an attack on Thiepval and the Schwaben Redoubt. The 8th Battalion were at the vanguard of the attack and had the Schwaben trench as their first objective. The attack was a success and both the first line objective, and the second objective, Zollern trench, were taken. At 1 p.m. the attack was renewed with C and C Companies attacking the Bulgar trench and then the Schwaben Redoubt. The first objective was taken fairly easily but they met stubborn resistance at the Schwaben Redoubt.The Battalion’s sustained over 200 casualties between 26 and 28 September.Ernest was reported missing and his death was presumed to have taken place on, or since, 28 September.  Ernest’s brother in law, Ernest Larke, served with the 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment and died in 1916. 

A Private with the 1/4th Battalion, William died on 2nd of November 1916 at the age of 19. William was born at Lowestoft in 1897, a son of George and Elizabeth Hales. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church 26 June 1898, and his family lived at 20 Haward Street. In 1901 his family lived at 4 Cumberland Square, and by 1911 at 18 Mariners St. Lowestoft.William volunteered and enlisted in the Army, at Ipswich. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 3064, and he went to France on 18 April 1915 to join the 1/4th Battalion. Around September 1915 William was wounded, and his name appears in the War Office Daily List of 8 October 1915. Once recovered he continued to serve with the 1/4th Battalion.  In late October 1916 the 1/4th Battalion moved into trenches east of Les Boeufs. William was wounded at some point between 29 October and 1 November. He was taken to 2/2nd London Casualty Clearing Station where he died from his wounds. Note: all records refer to him as William James, other than Commonwealth War Graves which list him as James William. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Adonis. Albert died on 15th of April 1943 at the age of 26. Albert was born at Lowestoft on 21 October 1916 a son of George Gurney and Anne Emma Gurney Hall. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 14 December 1916, and his family lived at 4 Worthing Road. This was still his family's address in 1921.  In 1938 Albert married Evelyn Ethel Ruth Spindler at Lowestoft. In 1939 they lived with Albert's mother at 60 Sussex Road, Lowestoft. Albert was serving on the patrol trawler Adonis when it was sunk by a German S-Boat off Lowestoft. Twenty-one of the crew, including Albert, were killed and eleven survived.

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Brock. Arthur died on 19th of August 1940 at the age of 29. Arthur was born at Lowestoft on 16 July 1911, a son of Arthur Reginald and Ada Annie Hall. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 3 August 1911 and his family lived at 22 Oxford Road. In 1921 his family lived at 90 Cambridge Road, Lowestoft, and this was still their home in 1939.During World War Two Arthur served with the mine-sweeping trawler Brock. In 19 August 1940 several members of the Brock's crew, along with members of the crew of the mine-sweeping trawler Burke, were involved in an Army vs. Navy football match at the Connaught Barracks Sports Ground, near Dover Castle. A lone German aircraft dropped ten bombs in the Castle area killing four men from the Brock, including Arthur, and one member of the Brock's crew died of wounds the next day. In total thirteen men died as a result of the attack.See: Air Raid on Dover - Monday 19th August 1940 (sussexhistoryforum.co.uk) 

A Deck Hand with H.M. Trawler Morococala, Clifford died on 19th of November 1917 at the age of 26. Clifford was born at Lowestoft on 22 March 1891, a son of George and Mary Ann Hall. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 15 April 1891, and his family lived at Rant Score East. By 1901 they were living at 88 Oxford Road, and in 1911 at 1 Royal Avenue. Later they lived at 73 Kimberley Road. In 1908 Clifford worked on the steam drifter Agnes Weston, of Penzance. In April of that the drifter was fishing about 30 miles off the Bishop Rock Lightship, Scilly Isles, and Clifford was in the rope room clearing away. The trawler began shooting its nets and a turn of rope caught around Clifford’s right leg, pulling him out of the room, and along the deck, fracturing his leg just above the ankle, and also bruising his back. A crewman, Fred Carter, who was a member of the Saint John Ambulance, gave first aid, and Clifford was taken to the West Cornwall Infirmary for treatment. In 1911 Clifford was a deck hand on the trawler Select, LT 732, at Newlyn. In 1913 Clifford lived at Old Nelson Street.Clifford was living at 96 Grafton Street, Grimsby, when he joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 14 December 1914. He served on the trawler Maximus until 8 January 1915 when he joined the Bradford. He joined the trawler Bluebell on 10 January 1916. On 20 April 1916 Clifford was ordered to go aboard the Bluebell and refused and missed his ship sailing. He was sent to the cells for ten days and stopped six days pay. He again missed his ship on 2 June 1916, being nine hours later, and was sent to the cells for five days and lost five days pay. He joined the Monarch II on 9 June 1916.    Clifford joined the Holden on 12 April 1917 and the Morococala on 1 May 1917. He was sent to the cells again for five days on 6 June 1917. On 27 August 1917 Clifford was sent to Cork prison for 30 days with hard labour. He had overstayed his leave and was convicted by a naval court martial. He was released on 25 September.On 19 November 1917 the Morococala was sweeping for mines outside Cork Harber when the trawler struck a mine, exploded, and sank almost immediately. All thirteen of the crew, including Clifford, were lost. 

A Sergeant with 1st Wing, Eric died on 12th of June 1943 aged 25. Eric was born at Bermondsey, London, on 5 September 1917, a son of Wilfred Edward and Margaret Amelia Hall. The 1921 Census shows Eric with his grandparents, William and Sarah Gooch, at 93 Beccles Road, Lowestoft. Eric’s father die din 1932 and by 1939 his family were living at 113 Wollaston Road and Eric was a shop assistant and roundsman. During the Second World War Eric joined the Royal Norfolk Regiment. Subsequently he was transferred to the Gilder Pilot Regiment and was trained to fly gliders during airborne operations. On 12 June 1943 Eric, with Staff Sergeant Wheale, was flying a Horsa glider from the U.K. to Tunisia, as part of Operation Beggar. The glider crashed at Thiersville and both Eric and Staff Sergeant Wheale were killed.

A Deck Hand with H.M. Trawler Mary. Frank died on 5th of November 1914 at the age of 29. Frank was born at Lowestoft on 19 February 1886, a son of George Edwin (Jimmie) and Jessie Hall. In 1891 his family lived at 11 Cumberland Road, Lowestoft. By 1901 his father had died and he lived at 4 Princes Road, as did his mother, and Frank was a cooper's apprentice. On 4 June 1908 Frank married Jane Hannah Cooper Stone at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Frank was a fisherman and they were both living at 21 Worthing Road. By 1911 they were living at 18 Saint Margaret's Road and Frank was still a fisherman. Later Jane remarried, surname Woodrow, and lived at 12 Cambridge Road, Lowestoft.Frank joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 14 September 1914 and he served on the trawler Mary.On 5 November the Mary, along with trawlers Columbia and Driver, were mine-sweeping in the Yarmouth field, near the Smith's Knoll Buoy. This area had been mined by the German ship Kolberg. The Mary was destroyed by a mine. The Skipper and seven crew, including Frank, were killed, and six others rescued. 

A Private with the 12th Battalion, George died on 20th of September 1917 at the age of 22. George was born at Lowestoft on 26 June 1895, a son of James and Mary Ann Hall. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 11 August 1895, and his family lived at 4 Anguish Street. By 1901 they were living at 18 Factory Street, and by 1911 at 3 Worthing Road and George was a drift net fisherman. During the First World War George’s father was a Temporary Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve and because of this George’s family moved to Milford Haven, and lived at 30 Starbuck Street, which means that George’s name appears on the Absent Voter register for that address. Later his parents lived at 11 Bartholomew Street, Dover, before returning to Lowestoft and living at 94 Saint Margaret’s Road.George enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Training Reserve, service number TR/9/4141. He was transferred to the Suffolk Regiment, service number 13831, and posted to the 9th Battalion in France. He was then transferred to the Royal Scots, service number 353231. This service number is from a block of numbers allocated to the 9th Battalion, which implies that George had been posted to that battalion and was subsequently posted to the 12th Battalion. At 5.40 a.m. on 20 September the 12th Battalion followed the King’s Own Scottish Borderers in an attack. The immediate objective was Hannebeke Wood and at zero plus 17 elements of the battalion entered the eastern side of the wood. This was successful and the battalion mopped up pill boxes and shell holes, as they moved forward, and captured 20 prisoners, including two officers. At zero plus 88 minutes A Company were ordered to support the King’s Own Scottish Borderers in an attack on Zonnebeke Redoubt. This was completely successful and D Company dug in to positions at the Redoubt. During the day a number of counter-attacks developed and there was considerable enemy shelling.On 20 September the battalion had around 100 casualties. George was reported missing and later it was presumed that he had been killed in action on that day.   

A Private with 54th (1/1st East Anglian) Casualty Clearing Station, Harry died on 13th August 1915 at the age of 29.Harry was born at Lowestoft on 26th March 1886, a son of Edward and Hannah Louisa Hall. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 25th April 1886. In 1891 his family lived at 77 Saint Margaret's Road and by 1901 were living at 70 Oxford Road. Harry attended Lowestoft School of Art.By 1911 his family had moved to 41 High Street, Lowestoft, and Harry worked as an insurance agent. Harry was living at 138 Clapham Road when he volunteered and he joined the Army on 2 February 1915. he served with the local territorial unit of the Royal Army Medical Corps which became part of the 54th (1/1st East Anglian) Casualty Clearing Station. Harry embarked the Royal Edward at Devonport on 30 July 1915 and arrived at Alexandria on 11 August 1915. The Royal Edward sailed for Gallipoli on 12 August, but was torpedoed and sunk on 13 August. Harry was reported 'missing, believed drowned in the sinking of the Royal Edward.'After his death the Army forwarded some items of Harry's personal property to his mother, these were a New Testament; a first aid book (French); and three prayer cards.    Harry's family subsequently lived at 105 Queens Street and later, after Harry's mother's death, his father lived at 41 Old Nelson Street, Lowestoft. 

A Private with the 18th Machine Gun Squadron, Herbert died on 7th of December 1918 aged 32.Herbert was born at Blundeston on 10 November 1887, a son of Robert William and Sarah Ann Hall. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Blundeston, and in 1901 they lived at The Street, Blundeston, and Herbert was a carpenter’s apprentice. Later his parents lived at Lyndhurst, Blundeston.Herbert emigrated to Quebec, Canada, in May 1906, and later moved to Toronto. In 1910 he crossed over to the U.S.A., at Niagara Falls, in order to find work as a carpenter. By September 1915 he was living at Saint Catherine’s, Ontario.On 29 September 1915 Herbert attested for the Canadian Army at Saint Catherine’s. He joined the 2nd Depot Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles. On 21 March 1916 Herbert was admitted to the Military Hospital, Hamilton, with ‘La Grippe’, on 27 March he was discharged to duty. He arrived at Shorncliffe, England, on 12 April and on 12 June he joined the 1st Lord Strathcona’s Horse Reserve Regiment. On 1 August he was transferred to the Fort Garry Horse Reserve Regiment and on 23 December he joined the Machine Gun Pool and was posted to France. Herbert joined the Canadian Cavalry Brigade Machine Gun Squadron on 23 January 1917. He was granted 10 days’ leave, from 15 October. Herbert was admitted to the 7th Canadian Field Ambulance on 28 November 1917, with scabies, and he was discharged to duty on 30 November.He was posted to various Cavalry Machine Gun Squadrons: 48th from 31 March 1918; 34th from 27 April 1918; 58th from 12 June 1918; 75th from 22 May 1918. Hebert was admitted to 41 Casualty Clearing Station on 24 June 1918 with a fever, pyrexia of unknown origin, and was discharged to duty on 29 June. On 24 October he joined 18th Machine Gun Squadron. Herbert was granted 14 days’ leave to the U.K. from 5 December. On 7 December he was involved in a train accident at St. Ghislain. He was accidentally killed and taken to 1 Casualty Clearing Station where he was ‘brought in dead’. Note: Commonwealth War Graves online records give Herbert’s unit as the 2nd Battalion of the Canadian Machine Gun Corps. In fact, he never served with that unit and original Commonwealth War Graves documents actually give his unit as Machine Gun Squadron 2nd Canadian Division. In tis biography we have used the unit details recorded on his service papers.   

A Deck Hand with H.M. Drifter Launch Out. James died on 26th of October 1916 at the age of 20. James was born at Lowestoft on 4 March 1896, a son of James Thomas and Harriet Hall. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 19 April 1896, and his family lived at 96 Wollaston Road. In 1901 his family were living at Gladstone Cottages, Kessingland. By 1911 James’ mother had died and his father had remarried. The family lived at Providence House, Field Lane, Kessingland.James joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 2 September 1915 and served with the trawler Launch Out.  In 1916 the Launch Out was part of a fleet of trawlers that maintained the anti-submarine barrage across the Dover Strait. On the night of 26-27 October 1916 German destroyers attacked the barrage with the intent of causing maximum damage to the trawlers. The Launch Out was in the vicinity of the 9 A Buoy, at the southern end of the Sandettie Bank, when attacked. The trawler was sunk. Eight of the nine crew, including John, were killed and the other man later died of his wounds.   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 Second Hand with H.M. Drifter Dewey, Robert died on 12th of August 1917 at the age of 50. Robert was born at Lowestoft on 27 September 1867, a son of Robert and Agnes Clara Hall. Robert was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 7 June 1868. In 1871 his family lived at Rant Score East. By 1881 they were living at 5 Raglan Street North. In 1891 Robert lived at 11 Barsham Square, East Street, and it seems that Robert was a ‘shoreman’. In 1892 Robert married Elizabeth Anna Beecroft. In 1901 they lived at 17 Mariners Street, and Robert worked as a bricklayer’s labourer. By 1911 they were living at 3 Erskine Place, Factory Street, and Robert was a drift and trawl net fisherman. Later Elizabeth lived at 20 Melbourne Road.Robert was awarded his certificate of competency as a skipper on 8 December 1891. Robert joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 12 December 1914. He joined the trawler Acceptable. On 20 April 1915 the Acceptable was in Ramsgate Harbour, loading coal, when a large lump of coal fell on Robert’s left foot fracturing the last phalanx of the nails of his third and fourth toe. Subsequently Robert joined the drifter Dewey.    On 12 August 1917 the Dewey was sailing in the English Channel. The drifter collided with S.S. Glenifer, near the Royal Sovereign Light Vessel (some sources state that the Dewey was ‘run down’) and sank with the loss of ten crew.Robert was to have been appointed Temporary Skipper on 25 August 1917. 

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Walter died on 23rd of September 1918 aged 33.Walter was born at Lowestoft on 19 February 1885, a son of James and Ellen Hall. He was baptised at Christ Church on 1 April 1885 and his family lived at 24 Anguish Street. By 1891 they were living at 22 Spurgeon Street and in 1911 they lived at 2 Spurgeon Street, and Walter was a fisherman.  Walter volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment and was posted to the 9th Battalion, arriving in France with the battalion on 31 August 1915. Later he was posted to the 12th Battalion, and this may have been in February 1918 when the 9th Battalion was disbanded. Subsequently he was posted to the 2nd Battalion, and served withy D Company, this posting may have been in May 1918 when the 12th Battalion was reduced to a cadre. On 23 September 1918 the 2nd Battalion were involved in company training at Morchies-Beaumetz. The battalion war diary records that platoon commanders reconnoitred assembly positions and each platoon spent 15 minutes inspecting a model of the area of attack. During the day there were 14 casualties, but the diary offers no explanation of what happened to any of them. Walter was killed on 23 September. He was buried at Beaumetz-le-Cambrai with two other men of his unit, 15424 Private Arthur Budds, who also came from Lowestoft, and 17128 Private Hawes, who were both also killed on that day.  

A Marine with the Royal Marines, William died on 2nd of June 1944 aged 22. William was born at Lowestoft on 18 July 1921, a son of Arthur George and Vivetta Maud Hall. In 1939 his family lived at 23 Southwell Road and William was a wooden box maker. In 1941 William married Hazel Irene Bridge, this was registered in the Lothingland district. Hazel remarried in 1949 and lived at 25 Rounces Lane, Carlton Colville.In May/June 1944 William was based at the Royal Marine Barracks, Eastney. He became unwell and was taken to the Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar, Portsmouth where he died from a perforated duodenal ulcer, pelvic peritonitis and broncho-pneumonia. 

A Civilian, Susan died on 13th of January 1942 at the age of 48.Susan, sometimes known as Susie, was born at Newmarket on 28 August 1893, a daughter of William Danton and Martha Coleman. In 1901 her family lived at 9 Stevens Street, Lowestoft, and by 1911 at 77 Norwich Road, Lowestoft, and Susie was a shop assistant at the 'Fancy Bazaar.' On 17 September 1914 Susie married Bertie Francis Hambly at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft. Susie was living at 77 Norwich Road and Bertie was a fish packer living in Lowestoft. In 1921 they were living at 108 Clapham Road, Lowestoft, and this was Susie's home for the rest of her life. Susie died at London Road North during an air raid. Susan's brother, William Coleman, died at the Battle of Loos in 1915. Her brother-in-law, Alexander Summers, died in 1915 in the loss of the trawler Incentive. 

A Leading Seaman with H.M.S. Europa. Captain died on 22nd of March 1943 at the age of 25. Captain was born at Wenhaston in 1917, a son of Captain George Hammond and Florence Hammond. In 1921 his family lived at The Smear, Reydon, Suffolk. Captain married Joan Sybil Keeler at Lowestoft in 1937. In 1939 they lived at 28 Windsor Road and Captain worked as a general labourer.Captain died at the Royal Naval Hospital Chatham. He had been suffering from cancer and pneumonia.  

A Deck Hand with Steam Trawler Lord Haldane (Lowestoft), Maurice died on 7th of November 1940 aged 44. Maurice was born at Gisleham 16 January 1896, a son of Isaac and Louisa Hammond. He was baptised at Gisleham on 22 March 1896. In 1901 his family lived at Niger Terrace, Pakefield, and in 1911 they lived at 15 Wellington Road, Pakefield, and Maurice was a golf caddie at the nearby golf club. Maurice joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 29 December 1914, service number A 7221. Maurice was found to have a left inguinal hernia and was discharged on 6 March 1915. Maurice then rejoined the Royal Naval Reserve on 24 September 1915. He served as a Deck Hand, service number DA 8837. Initially he served with the trawler Forerunner and, on 10 June 1916, joined the trawler Silver Herring. He was demobilised on 30 January 1919. On 27 January 1920 Maurice married Lily May Oris at Saint Margaret’s Church. Maurice was a fisherman living at Pakefield and Lily lived at 15 Norfolk Street. They lived at 14 Beckham Road, before moving to 5 Norfolk Street. In 1934 Maurice was the Third Hand on the steam drifter Go Ahead. By 1939 Maurice and Lily were living at 9 Essex Road and the 1939 register describes Maurice as a ‘fisherman or general labourer.’In 1940 Maurice was a Deck Hand on the trawler Lord Haldane. On 4 November 1940 the Lord Haldane left Milford Haven for the fishing grounds and was last seen on 7 November 1940. Official records state that Maurice was missing, supposed drowned, on 7 November, but other sources suggest that the Lord Haldane was lost on 12 November. The trawler had ten crew, all of whom were lost.   Maurice's son-in-law, Thomas Price, served with the Royal Scots and died in 1944. 

A Private with the 1st Battalion, Ernest died on 7th of December 1917 at the age of 19. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 4 October 1898. He was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 28 October 1898, a son of Isaac and Louisa Hanton, and his family lived at 32 Maidstone Road. Ernest attended Hervey Street School and, from 7 January 1907, was a pupil at Saint John's School. Between 1907 and 1911 his family moved from Maidstone Road to 2 Clarence Road. Later his parents lived at Sanatorium Lodge, Rotterdam Road, Lowestoft.Ernest enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. Soldiers Died in the Great War states that he joined the 9th Kent Yeomanry Cyclist Regiment, service number 3859. This unit was formed in the Ipswich area, during October 1916, from men from the 2/1st East Kent Yeomanry and the 2/1st Royal West Kent Yeomanry. Later he was transferred to the The Buffs (East Kent Regiment), service number G/21878, and served with the 7th Battalion before being posted to the 1st Battalion. On 3 December 1917 the 1st Buffs took up positions at Highland Ridge, near Marcoing. The Battalion War Diary for 7 December 1917 gives no detail other than: 3 Other Ranks killed, 3 Other Ranks wounded (died same day), 2nd Lieutenant Clark died of wounds, Lieutenant Wood accidentally wounded.  

A Private with the 10th Battalion, George died on 3rd of September 1918 aged 19. George was born at Oulton in 1899, a son of George and Jane Harbord. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 16 August 1899 and his family lived at Hope Cottage, Hall Lane. George joined the Great Eastern Railway in December 1913 and in 1917 he was a stoker at Lowestoft (Civil Engineering Department) and he joined the National Union of Railwaymen on 14 September 1917. George enlisted in the Army at Ipswich on 19 April 1918. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 51840. He was transferred to the Essex Regiment, service number 44869, and posted to the 10th Battalion in France. There is no record of where, when, or how, George was wounded. The fact that he is buried at Dernancourt suggests that he died at one of the Casualty Clearing Stations based there.  

A Private with 15th (Suffolk Yeomanry) Bn. Harry died on 2nd of September 1918 at the age of 28. Harry was born at Great Yarmouth on 1 April 1891, a son of Edward and Clara Harden. In 1891 some of his family lived at 16 Raglan Street, but the Census shows Harry with an older sister and brother at 21 Row 97, Great Yarmouth. In 1901 his family lived at 90 Haward Street. From 28 May 1902 Harry attended Saint John's School and at that time his family were living at 10 Rotterdam Road. In 1911 Harry lived with his sister, Florence, and her family at 10 Haward Street, and he worked as a fish buyer. On 12 March 1916 Harry married Rosetta Olive Parker at Saint Botolph's Church, Colchester. Harry was living at 93 Butt Road, Colchester. Later Rosetta lived at 192 Greenstead Road, Colchester. Harry joined the Army at Culford, Suffolk. He joined the Suffolk Yeomanry, number 2223. In January 1917 the Suffolk Yeomanry, then serving in Egypt, became the 15th (Suffolk Yeomanry) Battalion Suffolk Regiment. The War Diary of the 15th Battalion has the following detail for 1-2 September 1918:The Battalion remained hidden in the vicinity of Hind Leg Wood during the day. At 02.30 on the 2nd the Battalion moved out in support of 229 Brigade. In the evening the Battalion manned Scutari Trench being in position about 19.30. Three men of the Battalion, including Harry, died on that day. Note: In some records Harry's first name is given as Henry.

A Boatswain and Lamps with S.S. Oriole (London). James died on 30th of January 1915 at the age of 43. James was born at Lowestoft in 1871, a son of James and Elizabeth Hargrave. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 1 October 1871. In 1881 his family lived at 6 Grosvenor Road, Lowestoft. In 1891 James was lodging at 45 Battersea Park Road, Battersea, London, and James was a lighterman's apprentice and it seems that he began work as a Thames Lighterman in 1888. On 17 January 1897 James married Ellen Eliza Woolno at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley. James was a mariner and they both lived at Kirkley. By 1901 they were living at 18 Rowell Street, Hartlepool. Ellen died in 1904. James married Alice Elizabeth Jeffery in 1906, this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1911 their home was at 78 Saint Leonards Road, South Lowestoft.On 29 January 1915 the S.S. Oriole set sail from London to take its cargo to Le Havre. The ship was last seen, off Dungeness, on 30th January 1915. The ship had been torpedoed by a German submarine. In February 1915 two life buoys from the ship washed up in Sussex. In March 1915 a bottle was found by a Guernsey fisherman containing a note written by the ship's carpenter saying 'Oriole torpedoed - sinking'. All 21 crew were lost.See: SS Oriole and the blockade of the UK | Great War London (wordpress.com)

A Civilian, Adelaide died on 5th of June 1942 aged 44. Adelaide was born at Wood Green, London, on 17 February 1898, a daughter of Samuel William and Sarah Jermy. Adelaide was baptised at Saint Helen’s Church, Ranworth, Norfolk, on 13 August 1899 and her family lived at Wood Green. In 1901 her family lived at 111 Moselle Avenue, Wood Green. By 1911 Adelaide’s father had died and her family were living at 79 Arundel Road, Great Yarmouth, and this was still their home in 1921 when Adelaide was a dressmaker working for Arnolds at King Street, Great Yarmouth. On 27 July 1930 Adelaide married Emanual William Harman at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth. Adelaide lived at Arundel Road and Emanual was working as a tinsmith and living at Walpole Road. After 1931 Adelaide and Emanuel moved to Lowestoft and by 1939 they were living at 84 Notley Road and Emanual worked as a tin cannister maker and tinsmith. By June 1942 they were living at 103 Kimberley Road.On 5 June 1942 Emanuel was unwell and suffering from consumption. Around 1 a.m. an air raid took place, and bombs were dropped at Kimberley Road and Waveney Crescent. Emanual and Adelaide had not gone to the air raid shelter because of his illness and the fact that the shelter was very stuffy. They both died at their home during the air raid. Both Adelaide and Emanual are buried at Holy Trinity Churchyard, Caister-on-Sea, Norfolk.  

A Civilian, Emanuel died on 5th of June 1942 aged 48. Emanuel was born at Great Yarmouth on 9 February 1894, a son of Robert George and Minnie Harman. He was baptised at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth, on 28 February 1894. In 1901 his family lived at 3 Belfort Place, Great Yarmouth, and this was still their home in 1911 when Emanual was a potted fish packer at a fish preserves factory. Later Emanual’s mother lived at Palgrave Road, Great Yarmouth. During the First World War Emanual served with the Northamptonshire Regiment. He was transferred to The Queen’s Regiment, service number 41628, and posted to France where he joined the 6th Infantry Labour Company. In 1917 his unit became 114 Company Labour Corps, and Emanuel was transferred to the Labour Corps with service number 68245.  On 11 October 1916 Emanuel married Ethel May Bland at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth. Emanual was a solider with the Northamptonshire Regiment and Ethel lived at Great Yarmouth. In 1921 they lived at 2 Frederick Place, Great Yarmouth, and Emanual was an out of work tinsmith who, it appears, had been employed in road making for Great Yarmouth Corporation. Ethel died in late 1921.  On 27 July 1930 Emanual married Adelaide Edith Jermy at Saint Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth. Emanual was working as a tinsmith and living at Walpole Road and Adelaide lived at Arundel Road. After 1931 Emanuel and Adelaide moved to Lowestoft and by 1939 they were living at 84 Notley Road and Emanual worked as a tin cannister maker and tinsmith. By June 1942 they were living at 103 Kimberley Road.On 5 June 1942 Emanuel was unwell and suffering from consumption. Around 1 a.m. an air raid took place, and bombs were dropped at Kimberley Road and Waveney Crescent. Emanual and Adelaide had not gone to the air raid shelter because of his illness and the fact that the shelter was very stuffy. They both died at their home during the air raid. Both Emanual and Adelaide are buried at Holy Trinity Churchyard, Caister-on-Sea, Norfolk.  

A First Engineer with Fishing Vessel S.D.J. (Lowestoft), William died on 11th of May 1947 aged 64. William was born at Gorleston on 27 May 1882, a son of Charles and Mary Ann Harman. He was baptised at Saint Andrews Church, Gorleston, on 16 July 1882. In 1891 William stayed with his grandparents, Henry and Zipporah Clarke, at 3 Blackwall Reach, Gorleston. In 1901 William lived at the England Hero Inn, Gorleston, with his aunt and uncle, Elizabeth and Henry Todd, and William worked as a carter.  In 1907 William married Alice Maud Norgate, this was registered in the Yarmouth district. By 1911 they were living at 162 High Street, Gorleston.  On 3 April 1915 William joined the Royal Naval Reserve as a Trimmer, service number T.S. 2690. He served with the trawler British Monarch and, on 1 July 1915 joined the trawler Friendly Star as an Engineman. He was demobilised on 21 May 1919. In 1921 William and Alice lived at 36 Oulton Road. Lowestoft, and William was a trawlerman with W.F. Smith, working for Messrs. Richards, trawler owners. By 1939 they were living at 3 Oulton Street and William was a First Engineer. 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 Guardsman with 1st Battalion, Arthur died on 19th of December 1916 at the age of 20. Arthur was born at Lowestoft in 1896, a son of Joseph and Sarah Eliza Harper. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 8 May 1896 and his family lived at Carlton Road. In 1901 his family lived at 6 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. By 1911 they were living at 1 School Road, and Arthur was assisting his father as a jobbing gardener. Arthur volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Grenadier Guards, service number 22981, and arrived in France on 27 October 1915 to join the 1st Battalion. Arthur was wounded in 1916, possibly at the Somme on 26 September, and his name appears in the War Office Daily List of 30 October 1916. One recovered he continued to serve with the 1st Battalion. On 19 December 1916 the 1st Battalion moved from Trones Wood to Bronfay. No details of what happened to Arthur are known, other than the fact that he was killed in action on 19 December. 

A Sergeant (Observer) with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Eric died on 14th January 1942 aged 19. Eric was born at Lowestoft on 2 May 1922, a son of William and Hilda Maud Harper. In 1939 his family lived at 56 Kent Road and Eric was a journalist. Eric moved to Tottenham, London. He joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve between September 1939 and June 1940. By January 1941 he was an Observer serving with 207 Squadron.On 14 January 1942 he was a member of the crew of a Manchester 1A bomber, number L7524 EM-M, which had flown from Bottesford, Leicestershire, in a raid on the Hamburg shipyards. On its return the aircraft crashed and caught fire at Cliff House Farm, Holmpton, near Withernsea, Yorkshire.    WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass———————————He was an apprentice  reporter for the Lowestoft Journal before he joined the RAF in 1940. He was the Observer/Bomb Aimer in Manchester L7523.  The Manchester was not a very successful or popular bomber and it is widely believed that more were lost as a result of engine failures/fires than were lost to enemy action.  When the troublesome Vulture engines were replaced with 4 x Merlins the same basic aeroplane became one of the most outstanding bombers of the war - the Lancaster CREDIT - Bob Collis

A Sapper with 288 Field Company, Frederick died on 9th of August 1945 aged 30. Frederick was born at Pakefield on 19 September 1914, a son of John Edward and Emily Folkard Harper. In 1921 his family lived at 38 Sycamore Avenue, Oulton Broad. On 10 October 1934 Frederick married Mabel May Swatman at Saint Michael’s Church, Oulton. Frederick was a gas worker living at 54 Sycamore Avenue, and Mabel was a matron’s assistant living at Saint Osyth, Bridge Road, Oulton Broad. Their home was at Saint Leonard’s, 5 Highland Way, Oulton Broad. Frederick enlisted in the Royal Engineers at Ipswich on 1 April 1940. He served with 288 Field Company, part of the 18th Division. Frederick’s unit embarked at Liverpool on 30 October 1941 seemingly bound for Egypt, but, en route, their destination was changed to India and from there they were sent to Singapore, with various elements of the Division arriving in late January and early February 1942. Frederick was captured at the fall of Singapore on 15 February 1942. Sources show that he was in a group of prisoners that were taken by sea, on 27 October 1942, to Formosa (Taiwan). Frederick died, from beri-beri and oedema, at No 6 Prisoner of War Camp, Formosa.

A Private with the 1/4th Battalion, Theophilus died on 1st of November 1916 at the age of 20. Theophilus was born at Lowestoft in 1896, a son of Arthur and Hannah Harper. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 16 January 1896, and his family lived at 54 Whapload Road and this was still their home in 1901. By 1915 his family lived at 46 Whapload Road, and later at 11 Anguish Street, Lowestoft.Theophilus enlisted in the Army at Ipswich. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 3078. In 1916 he went to France to join the 1/4th Battalion. Theophilus was wounded and his name appears in the War Office Daily List dated 3 June 1916. Once recovered he continued to serve with the 1/4th Battalion. In late October 1916 the 1/4th Battalion moved into trenches east of Les Boeufs. On 1 November 1916 a party of A Company attacked the enemy position on the right of their front line, in conjunction with an attack made by their Brigade. An enemy machine-gun, that was not dealt with during the preliminary bombardment, caused several casualties and the party had to fall back.One officer and five men, including Theophilus, were killed, and twelve men were wounded. Theophilus’ brother Walter served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1917.  

A Deck Hand with H.M. Trawler Senator, Walter died on 21st of May 1917 at the age of 31. Walter was born at Ellough, Beccles, on 28 March 1884, a son of James and Emma Harper. In 1891 his family lived at a cottage ‘near the Hall’, Ellough. In 1901 his family lived at Lowestoft Road, Worlingham, Beccles. In 1901 Walter worked on the fishing smack Genesta, LT 221, at Milford Haven. On 5 February 1910 Walter married Amy Constance Welch at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley. Walter was a smacksman and they both lived at Kirkley. In 1911 their home was at 64 Albany Cottages, Kirkley Run. For a time, they lived at 7 Arlington Street, Grimsby, by during the war Amy returned to 64 Albany Cottages. Walter joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 8 August 1914 and served on the trawler Senator. On 21 May 1917 the Senator was sunk by a mine off Tory Island. Eleven crew, including Walter, died.  

A Deck Hand with the Royal Naval Reserve, Walter died on 15th of April 1917 at the age of 29. Walter was born at Lowestoft on 18 March 1888, a son of Arthur and Hannah Harper. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 11 April 1888, and his family lived at Strand Cottages. In 1891 they were living at 54 Whapload Road, and this was still their home in 1901, by which time Walter was working as an errand boy. By 1915 his family lived at 46 Whapload Road, and later at 11 Anguish Street, Lowestoft.Walter joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 11 January 1915. He served with trawlers in the Dover Patrol but, on 3 April 1915 was discharged medically unfit as he was suffering from nephritis. William's brother Theophilus served in the Suffolk Regiment and died in 1916. 

A Lieutenant with 1st Bn., Antrobus died on 19th of March 1916 at the age of 26. Son of Clement and Mary Harris of Ellangown, Crieff, Scotland. Antrobus was born at Middlesborough where his father was organist at Saint Paul's Church. Antrobus studied music and was a graduate of the University of Edinburgh. He became the organist at Saint James' Episcopal Church, Cupar, Scotland, before, in July 1914, becoming the organist and choir master at Saint Peter's Church Kirkley.He volunteered and joined the London Scottish on 3 September 1914. He was commissioned in the Bedfordshire Regiment on 6 February 1915, and joined the 4th (Extra Reserve) Battalion. He was then attached to the 1st Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment.In March 1916 the 1st Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment were based in the vicinity of Houplines Lock. On 19 March Antrobus was in charge of a working party. In the evening he was taking measurements for a range chart between the support and fire trenches when he was killed by a bullet.  He has an entry in De ruvigny's Roll of Honour that quotes from letters sent to his family.   

A Civilian, Charles died on 21st of August 1940 aged 46. Charles was born at Lowestoft on 20 August 1894, a son of Charles and Caroline Harston. By 1901 Charles’ father had died and his family lived at 14 Clemence Street. On 2 August 1923 Charles married Elsie Gertrude Stammers at Saint Margaret’s Church. Charles was a shipwright and both Charles and Elise lived at 85 Oxford Road. By 1939 they lived at 135 Kimberley Road and Charles was a shipbuilder. On 21 August 1940 German aircraft dropped twelve high explosive bombs in the vicinity of Harvey, Wilson and Osborne Shipwrights and Jewson’s Timber Yard at Horn Hill. Charles was killed at the Harvey, Wilson and Osborne air raid shelter. In that raid six people, including Charles, were killed and seven injured. 

A Private with the 4th Battalion, Albert died on 24th of March 1918 at the age of 38. Albert was born at Lowestoft in 1880, a son of George Henry and Mary Elizabeth Hart. In 1881 his family lived at 2 Fenton Terrace, Raglan Street. By 1891 they were living at 46 Tonning Street, where his father had a shop. In 1901 they were still living at 46 Tonning Street and Albert was a fish packer. Both of Albert’s parents died in 1904. By 1915 Albert was a milk seller at 41 Tonning Street, and is believed to have been employed by John Oldrin of Rushmere.  Albert enlisted in the Army at Bury St. Edmunds around July 1916. He joined the Bedfordshire Regiment, service number 30484. Around December 1916/January 1917 he was posted to the 4th Battalion in France and joined D Company. On 21 February 1917 Albert was admitted to 2 Filed Ambulance suffering from trench foot. He was treated with 500 units of anti-Tetanus serum. The next day he was transferred, via 27 Ambulance Train, to 11 Casualty Clearing Station at Varennes. By March 1918 Albert had recovered and was serving with C Company.On 21 March 1918, at the beginning of the German offensive, the 4th battalion were in positions between Savy and Etreiller and on 22 March they withdrew to Havrincourt Wood. The next day they retreated through Neuville to Ytres and through to 24 March they continued their withdrawal through Barats to Boulencourt where they remained for two hours before moving again to Bazentin-le-Petit and then to Courcelette. There is no information in the battalion war diary or any other source, to explain what happened to Albert, but he was recorded as being missing on 24 March and later presumed to have been killed on, or since, that date. Albert’s sole executor was John Oldrin.

A Private with 10th Bn., Ephraim died on 10th of April 1917 at the age of 41. Ephraim was born at Kirkley in 1876, a son of Edward and Phoebe Hart. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 31 December 1876. In 1881 his family lived at 5 Saint George's Road, Lowestoft. By 1891 they were living at 1 Chester Cottages, Lovewell Road, and Ephraim was a labourer at an oil mill. On 7 September 1899 Ephraim married Agnes Jane Short at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley. Ephraim was a bricklayer's labourer and Agnes a domestic servant: they both lived at Kirkley. In 1901 they lived at 36 Raglan Street and Ephraim was a bricklayer's labourer. The 1911 Census shows Ephraim as a boarder at 150 London Road, and working as a general labourer, and Agnes visiting Elizabeth Southward at 36 Kirkley Park Road. Later Agnes lived at 5 Dukes Head Street, Lowestoft.Ephraim enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Royal Fusiliers. Ephraim was posted to the 10th Battalion and arrived in France on 30 November 1916 to join the Battalion. He served with B Company. The Battalion War Diary for 10 April 1917 has:At 4 a.m. the Battalion withdrew to Feuchy Chapel. About 10 a.m. moved to Brown Line by Railway. Advanced under slight enemy artillery and machine-gun fire until checked by intense machine-gun fire about 600 yards west of Monchy-le-Preux. Our casualties by this time were fairly heavy. Lieutenant-Colonel Rise was badly wounded by shrapnel in right arm at this point. The Battalion dug in for the night and reorganised and collected together stragglers. 41 men of the Battalion were killed on 10 April. Ephraim was reported missing on 10 April 1917. Enquiries were made with the Red Cross in July 1917 and by April 1918 it was determined that he was presumed to have been killed in action on 10th April.   

An Able Seaman with H.M.S. Copra, George died on 8th of October 1947 aged 34. George was born at Kessingland on 17 September 1913, a son of George Ernest and Elizabeth Margaret Hart. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 16 November 1913 and his family lived at Davy’s Cottages, The Beach, Kessingland. In 1939 his family were living at 64 Crown Street and George was a fisherman and a member of the naval reserve. In 1939 George married Ellen May Tapsell, this was registered in the Lothingland district. By 1947 their home was at 10 Marham Road.Although George has a Commonwealth War Graves Commission headstone, it seems that he had been discharged from the navy before he died. H.M.S. Copra was the Royal Navy shore base responsible for administration of pay and records of personnel serving with the various combined operations units. 

A Third Hand with the trawler Willing Boys (Lowestoft), Robert died on 2nd October 1917 at the age of 40. Robert was born at Lowestoft in 1877, a son of Robert and Isabella Hart. In 1881 his family lived at Erskine Place, Factory Lane. In 1891 his parents lived at 26 Cathcart Street and by 1901 they were living at 18 Jacob's Street, and later at 1 Mill Cottages, Mill Road.  In 1891 Robert was 'under detention' at the Formidable Training Ship for Boys (Industrial School) at Portishead. In 1901 Robert was the Third Hand on the trawler Invincible, LT 281. On 13 June 1909 Robert married May Burley at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Robert was a fisherman and they both lived at 4 Alma Street, Lowestoft. In 1911 their home was at 15 Clemence Street, Lowestoft. Robert and May separated in 1913 and later May lived at 15 Morton Road, Kirkley.  During the First World War Robert continued in the fishing industry and he worked as the Third Hand on the trawler Willing Boys, LT 67.On 2 October 1917 the Willing Boys was fishing near Smith’s Knoll Spar Buoy, bearing south, east.  About 4.10 a.m. the Skipper of the Gold Seal saw the Willing Boys about half a mile away. He knew it was the Willing Boys because of the trawler's fore topsail and his mizzen topsail which is a peculiar shape.At 6.30 a.m. there was suddenly a heavy explosion. By this time the Willing Boys was about a mile away from the Golden Seal. The stern had been blown off the Willing Boys, by a mine, and the trawler was sinking by the stern. The trawler disappeared almost at once with the loss of her crew of five. Other trawlers were not able to help because they could not reach the Willing Boys because of the lack of wind.See: World War One – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)Robert's brother William died in 1947 in the loss of the trawler S.D.J., and his nephew, William Hart, died in 1942 while serving with the Royal Air Force. 

A Second Hand with Fishing Vessel S.D.J. (Lowestoft), William died on 11th of May 1947 at the age of 54. William was born at Lowestoft on 29 January 1892, a son of Robert and Isabella Hart. In 1901 his family lived at 18 Jacob’s Street, and by 1911 they were living at 1 Mill Cottages, Mill Road. William was awarded his certificate of competency as a second hand on 29 June 1915, and his certificate of competency as a skipper on 9 June 1920. William joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 12 July 1915, service number S A 2116, and served with the trawler Placeo. He was demobilised and discharged on 13 March 1919. On 27 December 1915 William married Alice Eliza Gowing at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. The register shows their address as 30 Church Road. In 1921 they lived at 17 Park Road and William was a fisherman, out of work, who usually worked for Lowestoft Water and Gas Company. They were still living at 17 Park Road in 1939, and William was a fisherman, and 17 Park Road was still the family home in 1947.In 1947 William was the Second Hand on the trawler S.D.J., LT 1187. In May the trawler was fishing in the North Sea and was lost at some point during the night of 11-12 May. The trawler was reported missing, and debris was later found, and it was presumed the trawler had struck a mine and sank. All nine crew were lost.  William’s brother, Robert, died in 1917 in the loss of the trawler Willing Boys. William’s brother-in-law, Thomas Gowing, served with The Queen’s regiment and died in 1916. His son William died in 1942 while serving with the Royal Air Force. 

A Corporal with 8 Squadron, William died on 24th of September 1942 at the age of 22. William was born at Lowestoft on 12 July 1920, a son of William and Alice Eliza Hart of Lowestoft Suffolk England. Throughout William’s life his family lived at 17 Park Road. William served with No 8 Squadron, based at Khormaksar, Aden. The role of 8 Squadron was to fly bombing missions against the Italian forces in Eritrea and Somaliland. William died in the RAF Hospital, Aden from haematemesis.  He is buried in Maala Cemetery. CREDIT:Malcolm BarrassWilliam's father, William, died in 1947 in the loss of the trawler S.D.J. His uncle Robert Hart died in 1917 in the loss of the trawler Willing Boys. His uncle Thomas Gowing served with The Queen's Regiment and died in 1916. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Bredon. Arthur died on 8th of February 1943 at the age of 27. Arthur was born at Lowestoft on 16 September 1915, a son of Charles and Maude Harvey. In 1921 his family lived at 2 Wellington Road, Pakefield. In 1935 Arthur married Gertrude May Lydia Skeet at Lowestoft. In 1939 they lived at 187 A Economy Road, and Arthur worked as a builder's bricklayer's labourer. Arthur was serving on the anti-submarine trawler, off the Canary Islands, when it was sunk by a torpedo from submarine U-521. Forty-three of the crew, including Arthur, were killed. 

A Civilian, Beatrice died on 22nd of July 1941 at the age of 24.Beatrice was born at Lowestoft on 23 May 1917, a daughter of Eleanor Gertrude Redgrave, and twin sister of Lily May Redgrave. In 1921 her family lived at 26 Saint Leonards Road, Lowestoft. In 1939 she was still living with her family at 26 Saint Leonards Road and she was an unemployed beatster. Beatrice married Frederick Leonard Harvey, a Leading Seaman in the Royal Naval Reserve, at Lowestoft, in 1940. They lived at 12 Saint Leonards Road, Lowestoft. Beatrice, along with her mother, and sister Lily Redgrave, died at 26 Saint Leonards Road, Lowestoft, during an air raid. Beatrice's uncle Frederick Redgrave was killed in action in 1917 whilst serving with the Suffolk Regiment and her uncle James Redgrave was killed in action of 1918 whilst serving with the Royal West Kent Regiment. 

A Second Hand with H.M. Drifter Thistle. Bertie died on 8th of May 1941 at the age of 27. Bertie was born at Lowestoft on 11 November 1913, a son of Henry James and Alice Harvey. In 1921 his family lived at 51 Carlton Road, Lowestoft.On 19 June 1937 Bertie married Marjorie Gladys Crickmore at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Bertie was working as a fisherman, and Marjorie a silk weaver. They both lived at 7 Avondale Road, Lowestoft. By 1939 they were living at 78 Somerton Road, Lowestoft. In 1939 Bertie was Skipper of the Lowestoft trawler Helping Hand (LT 1239).On 8 May 1941 the Thistle struck a mine in the North Sea. Eight crew, including Bertie, were killed, and one survived. 

A Private with the 7th Bn., Frank died on 10th of July 1915 at the age of 19. Frank was born at Lowestoft on 3 April 1895, a son of John William and Ellen Louisa Harvey. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley, on 3 May 1895. From 27 February 1899 Frank was a pupil at Kirkley School and his family lived at Horn Hill. In 1901 Frank was staying with his grandmother, Emma Bird, at 8 Mill Road, Horn Hill. In 1911 his family lived at 31 Horn Hill and Frank was a milkman. Frank volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment and was posted to the 7th Battalion. Frank arrived in France with the 7th Battalion on 30 May 1915 and served with A Company. At the beginning of July 1915 the 7th Battalion were at Pont de Nieppe. On 4 July they began to take over trenches near Ploegsteert Wood with the Battalion Headquarters at Reserve Farm.The Battalion War Diary makes no mention of casualties on 10 July, hence we do not know what actually happened to Frank. However, the War Diary states that on 8 July there was a lot of sniping and that in the evening of 9 July the enemy shelled Reserve Farm.