No.146318, Gunner, William SMITH
Aged 20
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William Smith was born in Timworth (Thingoe Q2-1898 4A:815), son of Jabez and Jane SMITH (née PARISH).
1901 census...Aged 2, he was at The Green, Timworth with his widower father, Jabez SMITH [52] thatcher, born Culford; brothers Harry [13] and Frank [6]; sister Nellie [11]. All the children were born in Timworth. His mother had died in September 1900. 1911 census...Aged 12, he was at The Green, Timworth with his father, sister Nellie and brothers George (labourer in woods),and Frank (farm labourer. |
| He enlisted in Bury St Edmunds.
The Brigade were at Grevillers according to the war diary:- "Grevillers - 26th -5 am - The Brigade fired a barrage in support of infantry attacks on Ligny Tilloy and Tilloy. The attack was unsuccessful being broken up by MG fire, and on two other occasions during the day barrages were fired for the same objective but without success. Casualties 4 O.R. killed & 17 wounded. CWGC have recorded only 2 dead on 26th and 1 on 27th The Bury Free Press of 9th November 1918 reported:- TIMWORTH MAN FALLS IN FRANCE Official intimation has been received by Mr. J. Smith, of Timworth, that his son, Gunner W.Smith, was killed in action in France on August 26th. Gnr Smith, who was only 20 years of age,joined the Royal Field Artillery in May 1915,and after a brief training was drafted overseas. A fearless and trustworthy solider, his death is deeply regretted and much sympathy is expressed to Mr. Smith in his loss.
William's temporary grave marker at Bucquoy cemetery photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission click here to go to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website for full cemetery/memorial details |
