No.47469, Private, Alfred George THEOBALD
Aged 22
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Alfred George THEOBALD was born in Sudbury (Sudbury Q3-1896 4A:749), son of Harry and Harriet Elizabeth THEOBALD (née BROWN).
1901 census...Aged 4, he was at "cottage at Maltings", Sudbury with his father Harry THEOBALD, [36] foreman maltster; his mother Harriet [39] and brother Harry C [7]. All were born in Sudbury. The family later moved to 19 Camps Road, Haverhill. 1911 census... Aged 14, a matting winder he was at 24 School Street, Sudbury with his parents and brother Claude (Harry) who was now disabled. The family later moved to 19 Camps Road, Haverhill. |
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He enlisted in Sudbury . The South West Suffolk Echo of 23rd November 1918 reported that:- "News has been received by Mr. and Mrs. H.Theobald, of 19 Camps Road, Haverhill, that their son, Pte.A.Theobald of the R.A.M.C. 36th Field Ambulance has died as the result of influenza.. Deceased was 22 years of age last June, and prior to enlistment in September 1914, he was employed in the textile department of the factory. He had been in France since May 1915, during the whole of which period he had acted as a stretcher bearer. Upwards of twelve months ago he was mentioned for distinguished conduct in the field. The following letters have been received by his parents." From the Lieutenant:- "It is with great regret I heard this morning from the O.C. 42 Casualty Clearing Station that your son, Pte A.Theobald, had died from influenza. He was a very gallant soldier and an extremely hard worker in the cause of the sick and wounded. He was very popular with all ranks, who mourn his loss. It seems very hard that he should be taken away after having endured so much, at a time when his ambition of he and his comrades had been achieved-It may be some consolation to you in your sorrow to know that he helped to save the lives of many of his comrades before he himself gave his own." From the Sister in Charge:- "I am sorry to have to give you the sad news of the death of your son. He was admitted on November 6th suffering from influenza. Everything possible was done for him, but I regret to say that he passed away this morning (November 10th). I hope it will comfort you to know that he was in hospital and had every care and attention and chance for recovery. He is buried in the cemetery here, and his grave marked by a cross. Please accept my deepest sympathy in your great loss." " |
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
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