Roll of Honour - Kent - Birchington and Acol

ALLFREE

Geoffrey Stephen

Lieutenant Geoffrey Stephen Allfree
Image: IWM (HU 120773)

Lieutenant, H.M.M.L. “No. 247,” Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. Drowned when No. 247 sank in rough weather in the Atlantic off S.W. England, 29 September 1918. Born 11 February 1889. Resident 184, Ebury Street, London S.W. Sub-Lieutenant 7 October 1914, Temporary Lieutenant 30 November 1914, transferred to H.M.S. President (shore Base) for special service 24 November 1914. An artist. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 31. [No link to Birchington as yet established]

AMOS

Percy James

Private 14662, 6th Dragoon Guards (Carabineers). Killed in action 26 March 1918. Born Westbere, Kent, resident Birmingham, enlisted Canterbury. Baptised 10 April 1884 in Westbere, Kent, son of Mary Amos. In the 1901 census he was the son of Mary A Amos (a single parent), aged 17, born Westbere, Kent, a Butcher, resident Sturry Street, Sturry, Blean, Kent. In the 1911 census he was aged 27, born Westbere, Kent, a Journeyman butcher, lodging at 18 Victoria Terrace, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Panel 2.

BALLS

George

[Listed as BALL on the memorial] Private G/4239, 6th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 7 October 1916. Born and resident Streatham, Surrey, enlisted Margate, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 5 D.

BEERLING

William Isaac

[Listed as BEELING on SDGW] Private G/3073, 6th. Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 30 July 1915. Aged 21. Born 16 April 1894 in St. Peter's, Broadstairs, Kent, resident Birchington-On-Sea, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Baptised 17 June 1894 in St Lawrence in Thanet, St Lawrence, Kent, son of William Isaac and Mary Ann Beerling. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Beerling, of 13, Mill Row, Birchington. Buried in CALVAIRE (ESSEX) MILITARY CEMETERY, Hainaut, Belgium. Plot III. Row B. Grave 3.

BLACKFORD

George

Private 6956, 2nd Company, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) formerly 8355, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 10 July 1917. Born Burwash, Sussex, enlisted Acol. In the 1911 census he was married to Amelia Frances Blackford, aged 24, born Burwash, Sussex, a Groom - gardener domestic, resident Vine Cottage, Acol Near Birchington, Acol, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on NIEUPORT MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

BOWLING

Alfred

Master, “Enosis,” Mercantile Marine. Died at sea when “Enosis,” a collier, was sunk by U-Boat in the Mediterranean 18 November 1915. Aged 54. Born 28 June 1860 in Kingstown, Dublin. Son of Lieutenant Bowling, R.N.; husband of Florence Bowling, of "Magellan," Birchington, Kent. His son, Victor MacDonald Bowling, also died in service (see below). His last place of abode was listed as Dalkey, Birchington, Kent. In the 1871 census he was the son of John and Ellen Bowling, aged 10, born Ireland, a Scholar, resident Church Road, Gorleston, Mutford, Suffolk & Norfolk. He was born 28 June 1860, admitted to Great Yarmouth Grammar School, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk,17 April 1873, son of John Bowling, of Trafalgar Cottage, Gorleston. No known grave. Commemorated on TOWER HILL MEMORIAL, London.

BOWLING

Victor MacDonald

[CWGC states 12th Squadron] Second Lieutenant (Pilot), 29 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps. Died of accidental injuries received while flying (crashed) in a De Havilland DH2, serial number A5010, 4 March 1917. Aged 18. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of the late Alfred Bowling (Master, Mercantile Marine) and of Florence Edith Bowling, of "Magellan," Birchington, Kent. His father, Alfred, (Master:Mercantile Marine), also died in service (see above). In the 1911 census he was the son of Florence Edith Bowling, aged 12, born San Francisco, California, U.S.A., resident 76 Norfolk Road, Margate, Margate St John the Baptist, Kent. Buried in HABARCQ COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Pas de Calais, France. Plot V. Row J. Grave 1.

BRENCHLEY

Henry William

Private 29762, 1st Battalion, Border Regiment formerly GS/442, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 28 September 1918. Aged 29. Born 9 July 1889 in Margate, Kent, resident Acol, Birchington Kent, enlisted Birchington, Kent. Baptised 13 August 1889 in St John in Thanet (Margate), St John the Baptist, Kent, son of George and Eliza Elizabeth Brenchley. Son of George and Elizabeth Brenchley, of Acol, Birchington, Kent; husband of Ellen Amelia Brenchley (nee Bishop), of Halfway Farm, Challock, Ashford, Kent, married 16 May 1915, in Margate, Holy Trinity, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of George and Eliza Elizabeth Brenchley, single, aged 21. born Marate, Kent. a General Labourer, resident 1 and 3 Church Street, Acol, Kent. Buried in HOOGE CRATER CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot IX. Row K. Grave 16.

CASTLE

William Henry

Private G/5462, 2nd Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) formerly 3883, Royal West Kent Regiment. Killed in action 25 September 1915, Aged 19. Born Sheerness, Kent, resident Minster, Kent, enlisted Maidstone, Kent. Native of Acol. Son of William James and Emma Miriam Castle, of Holmwood, Seathorpe Avenue, Minster, Isle of Sheppey. In the 1911 census he was the son of William James and Emma Miriam Castle, aged 15, born Wood Street, Sheerness, an Under yardman, resident Scocles Cottages, Minster, Sheerness, Minster in Sheppey, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 13 to 15.

CHAPMAN

George

Private 8008, 2nd Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers. Killed in action 27 August 1914. Born Eastry, Sandwich, Kent, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Dover. Son of Mrs Chapman, of 12 Victoria Terrace, Birchington Kent. Buried in ETREUX BRITISH CEMETERY, Aisne, France. Row I. Grave 29.

CHECKLEY

Fred

[Listed as CHECKLE on memorial] Private G/10048, 10th (Service) Battalion, Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Died of head wounds at No. 1 Canadian Casualty Clearing Station 8 July 1916; only at the front for 9 weeks. Born Kenilworth, Warwickshire, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Enlisted 20 September 1916 at Margate, Kent, aged 29 years 202 days, resident Myrtle House, Church Street, Birchington, a Boot Repairer, married man, husband of Edith Sarah Checkley (nee Hodges) married 27 May 1908 in Warwick Register Office, two sons, Afred Leslie and William James, resident Myrtle House, Church Street, Birchington, Kent and also resident 24 Lathom Avenue, Liscard, Wallasey, Cheshire. Joined his battalion 28 September 1915, then with B.E.F. in France 3 May 1916. Height 5 feet 6¼ inches, weight 126 lbs, chest 32½-34½ inches. Buried in BAILLEUL COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, NORD, Nord, France. Plot II. Row E. Grave 66.

COOK

John [Henry Peter]

[Spelt COOK on memorial, COOKE on CWGC] Stoker 1st Class K/21119, H.M.S. “Vanguard,” Royal Navy. Died at sea when his ship sank at Scapa Flow following an internal explosion, 843 of the 845 men on board perished, 9 July 1917. Baptised 27 January 1897 in Birchington, Kent, son of Peter and Sarah Cook. In the 1901 census he was the son of Peter and Sarah Cook, aged 4, born Birchington, Kent, resident Malthouse Cottage, 1, Minnis Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 23.

COSSEY

Arthur Ernest

Engineer Commander, H.M.S. “Hampshire,” Royal Navy. Died at sea when “Hampshire” struck a mine in bad weather near Orkney, Lord Kitchener was also onboard and died, 5 June 1916. Aged 42. Born 14 June 1875, baptised 27 June 1875 in Kussowlie, Christ Church, Bengal, India, son of John Francis and Harriet Cossey (his father was in the Royal Horse Artillery). Son of the late Maj. J. F. Cossey. He was certified as an Engineering Student with the Admiralty 17 June 1891 [London Gazette 19 June 1891, Issue 26173, page 3249]. Enrolled in the Navy 25 June 1896, originally assigned to H.M.S. "Magnificent". Buried in LYNESS ROYAL NAVAL CEMETERY, Orkney. Row F. Grave 1A.

COX

Edward Samuel William

Rifleman 42077, “C” Company, 12th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles formerly 23676, King's Rifle Rifle Corps. Killed in action 22 November 1917. Aged 19. Born 10 April 1898 in Margate, Kent, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Woolwich, Kent. Baptised 19 June 1898 in St John in Thanet (Margate), St John the Baptist, Kent, son of Edward and Kate Cox. Son of Edward James and Catherine Cox, of 15, Mill Row, Birchington-on-Sea, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Edward James and Catherine Jane Cox, aged 12, born Margate, Kent, resident Hundreds Farm, Canterbury Road, Westgate on Sea, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL, Nord, France. Panel 10.

DAWSON

William Thomas

Able Seaman London Z/1584, Anson Battalion, Royal Naval Division, Royal Naval Reserve. Died from Enteric Fever, contracted on Active Service, in University War Hospital, Southampton, 8 February 1916. Aged 20. Born 31 October 1895. Son of Arthur and Emma A. Dawson, of 8, St. James’ Terrace, Birchington. Civilian occupation Ship's Steward. Enlisted 24 April 1915. Religious denomination Church of England. Height 5 feet 4¾ inches, chest 33¼ - 35 inches, medium complexion, brown hair, grey eyes. In the 1901 census he was the son of Arthur and Emma A. Dawson, aged 5, born Birchington, Kent, resident 8, St. James’ Terrace, Birchington. Buried BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent. New Ground. Grave 44.

DE TRAFFORD

Ralph Eric Galrid Antony

Lieutenant, 2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Killed in action at the Dardanelles 25 April 1915. Aged 22. Son of Cecile de Trafford, of Queensberry House, Richmond, Surrey, and the late Galfrid de Trafford (Royal Fusiliers). Joined 4th Battalion, March, 1912. In the 1911 census he was aged 18, born France, resident Royal Military Academy, Woolwich Common, Woolwich, London, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on HELLES MEMORIAL, Turkey (including Gallipoli). Panel 38 to 42 or 328.

EAST

Alfred Edwards

Private T.F.2637, Platoon XVI, “D” Company, 2nd/10th Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment). Died of exposure at Gallipoli 1 December 1915. Aged 20. Born at Cusop Hay, Hereford. Resident Chiswick, Middlesex, enlisted Stamford Brook, Middlesex. Son of Alfred and Esther Mary East, of “Ty Gwyn”, 23, Powis Gardens, Golders Green, London. In the 1911 census he was a boarder, aged 15, born Cusop, Herefordshire, at school at Stanley House School, Margate, Margate St John the Baptist, Kent. Buried in LALA BABA CEMETERY, Turkey (including Gallipoli). Plot III. Row A. Grave 9.

ERLEBACH

Arthur Woodland

Second Lieutenant (Pilot), 57th Squadron, Royal Flying Corps and General List. Killed in an accident while flying in a De Havilland D.H.4, serial number A7485, crashed 5 July 1917; with Lt. C Trotter who was injured. Aged 23. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Arthur Erlebach, of Woodford House, Birchington. His brothers Edward Eustace Erlebach (see below) and Henry Woodland Erlebach (see below) also fell. In the 1911 census he was the son of Henry Arthur and Annie Elsworth Erlesbach, aged 16, born Birchington, Kent, pupil in school, resident Woodford House, Birchington, Kent. Buried in LONGUENESSE (ST. OMER) SOUVENIR CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row C. Grave 47.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1917:

ERLEBACH Arthur Woodland of Woodford House Birchington Kent temporary second-lieutenant Royal Flying Corps died 5 July 1917 in France killed in action Probate Canterbury 23 October to Henry Arthur Erlebach schoolmaster.
Effects £154 16s. 5d.

ERLEBACH

Edward Eustace

Second Lieutenant (Pilot), 45th Squadron, Royal Flying Corps. Missing in action flying a Sopwith 1½ Strutter, serial number 7789, 7 February 1917. Aged 19. Born Birchington, Kent. Son of H. Arthur and Annie E. Erlebach, of Woodford House School, Birchington, Kent. His brothers Arthur Woodland Erlebach (see above) and Henry Woodland Erlebach (see below) also fell. In the 1911 census he was the son of Henry Arthur and Annie Elsworth Erlesbach, aged 13, born Birchington, Kent, pupil in school, resident Woodford House, Birchington, Kent. Buried in LINSELLES COMMUNAL CEMETERY, Nord, France. British Section. Row A. Grave 1.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1917:

ERLEBACH Edward Eustace of Woodford House Birchington Kent second-lieutenant Royal Flying Corps died 7 February 1917 in France (on active service) Administration Canterbury 23 October to Henry Arthur Erlebach schoolmaster.
Effects £88 2s. 3d.

ERLEBACH

Henry Woodland

Rifleman 1469, 16th. Battalion, London Regiment. (Queen’s Westminster Rifles). Died of wounds 24 October 1915. Aged 29. Born Woodford, resident Highbury, enlisted Westminster. Son of H. Arthur and Annie E. Erlebach, of Woodford House School, Birchington, Kent. His brothers Arthur Woodland Erlebach (see above), and Edward Eustace Erlebach (see above) also fell. In the 1901 census he was the son of Henry Arthur and Annie Elsworth Erlesbach, aged 14, born Woodford, Essex, resident Woodford House School, Station Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census h was living with his cousin, Hubert Martin Collard, aged 24, born Woodford, Essex, a Fourth-Class Clerk, resident 5 Rusham Road SW, Battersea, London & Surrey,. Buried in HOP STORE CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot I. Row B. Grave 2.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1916:

ERLEBACH Henry Woodland of Woodford House Birchington Kent private 16th battalion London regiment died 24 October 1915 in France of wounds Probate Canterbury 15 April to Henry Arthur Erlebach schoolmaster.
Effects £248 15s.

EVANS

Alfred Dean

Private G/25001, 3/4th Battalion, Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) formerly 242192, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 4 October 1917. Aged 20. Born Presteign, Radnorshire, resident Westgate, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Son of Edwin Alfred and Emily Evans, of 11, De Roos Rd., Eastbourne. No known grave. Commemorated on TYNE COT MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 14 to 17.

GATECLIFF

James Noel

[Listed as Second Lieutenant on memorial] Lieutenant (Pilot), 53rd Squadron, Royal Air Force formerly Royal East Kent Yeomanry. Killed in action flying in a Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8, serial number D4834, 29 June 1918. Aged 20. Native of Birchington, Kent. Only son of Mr. and Mrs. James Gatecliff, of Birchington, Kent. Buried in CINQ RUES BRITISH CEMETERY, HAZEBROUCK, Nord, France. Row H. Grave 7.

Extract from Kent Messenger 13 July 1918, page 5, and Maidstone Telegraph 13 July 1918, page 5:

Second Lieut. James Noel Gatecliff, who served as a trooper in the East Kent Yeomanry for 18 months, with his observer, manned one of the 36 machines, the crews of which made the supreme sacrifice during the week June 27th to July 3rd, when 179 German machines were accounted for. He was 20 years of age and was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. James Gatecliff, of Minnis Bay, Birchington

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1919:

GATECLIFF James, Noel of 24 Minnis Bay Birchington Kent second-lieutenant H.M. Army died 29 June 1918 in France Administration London 5 July to James Gatecliff gentleman. Effects £161 19s. 8d.

GRANT

Leonard [Arthur]

[Listed as Private, Canadian Rifles on memorial]. Private 428623, 7th Battalion, Canadian Infantry. Died of shot wounds to the abdomen in hospital 1 October 1915. Aged 18. Born 3 February 1897 in Birchington, Thanet, Kent. Baptised 27 November 1898 in Birchington, Kent. Son of Arthur Edward and Kate Grant, of Joyce, South Vancouver, British Columbia. In the 1901 census he was the son of Kate Grant, aged 3, born Birchington, Kent, resident Saddler's Shop, Park Lane, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. A Messenger at the time of enlistment. Single. Enlisted 13 March 1915 in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada, aged 18 years 1 month, height 5 feet 7½ inches, chest 32-34 inches. medium complexion, blue eyes, brown hair, religious denomination Church of England. Buried in BAILLEUL COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, NORD, Nord, France. Plot I. Row B. Grave 148. National Archives of Canada Accession refernce: RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 3735A - 5

GRANVILLE

E E

possibly Edward Edgar GRANVILLE, Private T/240734, 5th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds at Kut Al Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotmia 9 March 1917. Aged 19. Born London, resident Brixton, Surrey, enlisted Margate, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Edward Henry and Bessie Isabel Granville, aged 13, born Tttenham, Middlesex, resident 95 Stradella Road SE, Camberwell, London & Surrey,. No known grave. Commemorated on BASRA MEMORIAL, Iraq. Panel 6. Also commemorated in The Buffs (East Kent) Regiment - WWI Book of Remembrance, Canterbury Cathedral

GREENHILL

Thomas Watson

Lieutenant, 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards. Killed in action 11 February 1916. Aged 23. Only Son of Mr. and Mrs. George Fowler Greenhill, of Calcutta, India. Educated at Pembroke College, Cambridge; enlisted while at Pembroke Collge; next of kin his sister Elsie, of Epple Road, Birchington. Buried in VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row C. Grave 12.

Extract from Kentish Express 26 February 1916, page 5:

KILLED IN ACTION.

We regret to announce the death of Lieutenant Thomas Watson Greenhill, of the 4th Dragoon Guards (Royal Irish), which took place in France on February 11th. He was killed instantaneously by a shell from a German trench mortar whilst in charge of a bombing party. Lieutenant Greenhill was 23 years of age, and was the only son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Fowler Greenhill, of Calcutta, and grandson of Mrs. Watson, Treveddoe, He was educated at Doon House, Westgate-on-Sea, Uppingham and Cambridge. and obtained his commission in August, 1914, and went out to the Front on November 30th in the same year. The colonel writes that Lieutenant Greenhill greatly distinguished himself on the night of February 10th, and that the regiment had lost a brave and gallant officer as well as a bright sand cheery companion

Extract from Daily Telegraph and Courier London 19 February 1916, page 7:

It is intimated in our obituary column that Lieutenant Thornas Watson Greenhill, 4th Dragoon Guards, has been killed in France. He was the only son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Fowler Greenhill, of Calcutta and Birchington, Kent, and was 23 years of age.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1916:

GREENHILL Thomas Watson of Pembroke College Cambridge second lieutenant 4th Dragoon Guards died 11 February1916 in France Probate London 17 November to Elsie Winifred Greenhill spinster. Effects £668 15s. 8d.

HAIG

Charles Anthony

Lance Corporal Charles Anthony Haig
Image: IWM (HU 122663)

Lance Corporal 1212, “D” Company, 114th (County of London) Battalion (London Scottish, London Regiment. Killed in action at Messines 1 November 1914. Aged 27. Born and resident Chelmsford, enlisted London. Son of Charles Robert and the late Adela Haig, of Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 54.Also commemorated in St Mary the Virgin [Chelmsford Cathedral], Chelmsford, Essex, and at King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, Essex.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1916:

HAIG Charles Anthony of Felix House Chelmsford lance-corporal London regiment died 1 November 1914 at Messines in France Administration London 12 December to Ronald Frank Haig acting sergeant-major the Canadian Cavalry Training Brigade.
Effects £568 0s. 3d.

HARLOW

Thomas [Henry]

Leading Stoker 311600, H.M.S. “Pathfinder,” Royal Navy. Lost when his ship was sunk by a mine, 20 miles of the East coast, 5 September 1914. Aged 28. Son of George and Elizabeth Harlow, of 53, Sydenham St. Whitstable. Native of Birchington. “Pathfinder” was first Royal Navy ship to be sunk by a self propelled mine launched from a U-Boat; it was U-21 off East coast of Scotland. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 4.

HATCHER

Ernest Stephen

Lance Corporal G/470, 6th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds to the abdomen at 33 Casualty Clearing Station 8 January 1916. Aged 23. Born and resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Westgate-On-Sea, Kent. Native of Birchington, Kent. Baptised 3 August 1893 in Bichington, Kent, son of Charles and Mary Jen Hatcher. Son of Charles and Mary Hatcher, of "Abberley," Hindover Rd., Seaford, Sussex; brother of Thomas George Hatcher (below). In the 1901 census he was the son of Charles amd Mary Hatcher, aged 7, born Birchington, Kent, resident Ismailia Cottages, 2, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was a boarder, aged 21, born Ramsgate, Kent, a Waggoner, boarding at Court Mount Cottage, Birchington on Sea, Birchington, Kent. Attested 28 August 1914 at Westgate-on-Sea, aged 21 years 3 months, a Carman, resident Birchington, single, height 5 feet 10 inches, chest 34-37 inches, posted to 6th Battalion 31 August 1914, promoted Lance Corporal 14 October 1915. Buried in BETHUNE TOWN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row H. Grave 4.

HATCHER

Thomas George

Private G/6473, 6th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds 17 March 1916. Aged 21. Born and resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Son of Charles and Mary Hatcher, of “Abberley,” Hindover Rd, Seaford, Sussex, late of Birchington, Kent; brother of Ernest Stephen Hatcher (above). In the 1901 census he was the son of Charles and Mary Hatcher, aged 5, born Birchington, Kent, resident Ismailia Cottages, 2, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Charles and Mary Hatcher, aged 15, born Birchington, Kent, a Yard Boy, resident 5, South End Cottages, Birchington, Kent. Buried in CALAIS SOUTHERN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot B. Row 4. Grave 14.

HINE

Thomas Charles

Second Lieutenant, 20th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Killed in action 20 July 1916. In the 1911 census he was a baorder, aged 25, born South Cave, East Yorkshire, single, an Assistant Master, resident 22, 24, & 26 Minnis Bay, Birchington on Sea, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 8 C 9 A and 16 A.

HOARE

Thomas

Private 3/7938, 5th Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment. Killed in action 26 September 1916. Aged 32. Born and resident Birchington-On-Sea, Kent, enlisted Wimborne, Dorset. Son of George and Emma Jane Hoare, of 9, St. James Terrace, Birchington, Kent. Attested 8 September 1914 at Wimborne, aged 30, a Groom by trade, of Birchington-on-Sea, Margate, Kent, a Reservist, height 5 feet 5 inches, weight 142 lbs, chest 34-37 inches, hazel eyes, black hair, religious denomination Church of England, posted 5th Battalion 23 November 1915. Buried in VILLERS-BRETONNEUX MILITARY CEMETERY, Somme, France. Plot VIA. Row D. Grave 17.

HOLMANS

Frederick William

Private 13564, "A" Company, 4th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died from appendicitis in Military Hospital, Herne Bay, Kent, 28 January 1918; admitted to hospital 23 December 1917; three previous occasiosn he suffered from appendicitis. Aged 40. Born Herne Bay, Kent, resident and enlisted Birchington, Kent. Son of John and Harriet Holmans, of Faversham; husband of Alice Maud Holmans (nee Pettman), of "Pen-Y-Craig," Crescent Rd., Birchington, Kent, married 26 December 1900 in Birchington, All Saints, Kent. In the 1911 census he was married to Alice Holmans, aged 33, born Herne Bay, Kent, a Bricklayer, resident Penny Craig, Birchington, Kent. A Reservist. Originally enlisted 23 February 1903 at Birchington, Kent, served in India, Aden, Malta and with the B.E.F. Caught Sandfly Fever in Aden, hospitaised from 31 October 1915 to 9 November 1915. Height 5 ft 10 inches, weight 12 stones 4lbs, chest 39-41 inches. Buried in North of Church towe in BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent.

HORN

Frederick

Stoker 1st Class K/21075, H.M.S. “Vanguard,” Royal Navy. Died when ship blew up in Scapa Flow 9 July 1917. Aged 24. Baptised 26 March 1893, in Birchington, Kent, son of Frank and Eleanor Horn. Son of Frank and Eleanor Horn, of 1, Vincent Cottages, Nern, Margate. Native of Birchington. In the 1901 census he was the son of Frank and Helena (sic) Horn, aged 7, born Birchington, Kent, resident Maxted's Farm Cottages, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Frank and Elenor (sic) Horn, aged 18, born Birchington, Kent, a Farm Labourer, resident 1 Porch Cottages, Acol, Kent,. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 24.

HOWLAND

Charles

Leading Stoker K/16650, H.M.S. ”Botha,” Royal Navy. Killed in action when his ship sank a German destroyer my ramming and then was mistakenly torpedoed by a French ship killing 13, 21 March 1918. Aged 26. Born 10 December 1892 in Margate, Kent. Son of Ellen Howland, of Woodchurch Farm, Westgate-on-Sea, near Margate, Kent. In the 1911 census he was a servant, aged 18, born Acol, Kent, a Horseman on Farm, resident St Nicholas Court, St Nicholas At Wade, Birchington, Kent. Buried in DUNKIRK TOWN CEMETERY, Nord, France. Plot IV. Row B. Grave 16.

HOWLAND

William Henry

Private 57161, 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment formerly 9163, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds received in action 20 September 1917. Aged 23. Born 13 July 1894 in Garlinge, Kent, resident Thanet, Kent, enlisted Ramsgate. Baptised 26 August 1894 in Westgate, St James, Kent. Son of John L. and EllenHowland, of 3, Powces Cottages, Minster, Thanet, Kent, later of Woodchurch Cottages, Westgate-on-Sea, Margate, Kent; brother of Mr. Thomas Howland, of 6, Pouces Cottages, Minster, Ramsgate. In the 1901 census he was the son of Jhn and Ellen Howland, aged 6, born Garlinge, Kent, resident Durlock, Minster, Thanet, Kent. Attested 8 December 1915, single, aged 21 years 185 days, resident 3, Powces Cottages, Minster, Thanet, Kent, a Market Gardener, religious denomination Church of England, height 5 feet 6½ inches, weight 122lbs, 34½-36½ inches, transferred to Welsh Regiment 1 September 1916, with B.E.F. to France 2 July 1916. Buried in LOCRE HOSPICE CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot II. Row B. Grave 19.

JARMAN

George [Albert]

Private 24516, 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Killed in action 20 August 1916. Born 28 January 1892 in Birchington, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Baptised 17 April 1892 in Westgate, St James, Kent. In the 1901 census he was the son of Edmuind G and Lydia Jarman, aged 9, born Garlinge, Kent, resident Florence Cottage, 1, Garlinge, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Edmund george and Lydia Jarman, aged 19, born Garlinge, Thanet, Kent, a House painter and decorator, resident 4 Victoria Terrace, Birchington, Kent. Buried in BAZENTIN-LE-PETIT COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Somme, France. Grave lost. Special memorial Row B. Grave 2.

JEWELL

John Belmont

Lieutenant (Pilot), 86th Squadron, Royal Air Force and General List. Killed in an obscure accident flying out of Northolt, United Kingdom, in a Sopwith F.1 Camel, serial number C1684, 3 April 1918. Aged 18. In the 1911 census he was the stepson of Clara Agnes Jewell, aged 11, born London, resident Beaconsfield, Birchington, Kent. Buried in RUISLIP (ST. MARTIN) CHURCHYARD EXTENSION, Middlesex. Plot/Row/Section/Area I. Grave 71.

Court of Inquiry. 21208/1918 2/Lt. J.B.Jewell.

The court having viewed the scene of the accident and having considered the evidence, are of the opinion that the pilot 20196, 2nd. Lieut. J.B. Jewell, G.L. R.A.F., spun his machine purposely and due to the injury he had received in his left leg, some time before, was unable to centralise the rudder to bring the machine out of the spin, before it struck the ground.

KEARNS, CMG

Reginald Arthur Ernest Holmes

Lieutenant Colonel, Assistant Controller of Salvage, Royal Army Service Corps. Died on service 24 November 1918. Aged 34. Husband of Phyllis Agatha Kearns (nee Harvey), married 11 November 1914. In the 1911 census he was the nephew of Thomas Joseph and Haidee Ida Keanrs,aged 26, born Portsmouth, Hampshire, a Clerk, resident The Warren, Old Charlton, Kent S.E., Charlton and Kidbrooke, London & Kent. Awarded the Companion of St. Michael and St. George (C.M.G.). Buried 29 November 1918 in CLAYGATE (HOLY TRINITY) CHURCHYARD, Surrey.

Extract from Surrey Comet 4 December 1918, page 9:

CLAYGATE.

IN DEATH NOT DIVIDED.—Scarcely three hours after her husband, Lieut.-Col. Reginald Kearns, C.M.G., had been laid to rest in Claygate Churchyard on Friday afternoon last week, Mrs. Phyllis Kearns passed away at their home, "Lane End," The Avenue, C'laygate, death resulting, as in the case of her husband the previous Sunday, from pnuemonia following influenza, The deceased lady, who was 25 years of age, was the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Harvey, of The Mount, 114, Finchley-road, N.W., and she leaves one little girl for whom, as for her grandparents, the deepest sympathy is felt.. The funeral of Mrs. Kearns will take place at Claygate Parish Church to-day (Wednesday) at 2.30 p.m.

Extract from London Evening Standard 16 November 1914, page 1:

MARRIAGES

KEARNS—HARVEY.—On the 11th Nov. at St. Wilfred's Church. Haywards Heath, Sussex, Major Reginald A. E. H. Kearns, 1st Lond. Div., A.S.C.. son of Colonel T. J. Kearns. C.B. to Phyllis Agatha Harvey. daughter of E. D. Harvey. Finchley-road, London. N W., Solicitor.

KEMP

William George

Stoker 1st Class K/16280, H.M. S/M. “E34,” Royal Navy. Died when E34 was sunk by mines near the Frisian Islands; all three officers and twenty eight men were lost, 20 July 1918. Aged 22. Born 20 December 1893 in Monkton, Kent. Son of George and Elizabeth Kemp, of Woodchurch Cottage, Westgate-on-Sea, Kent (listed as Woodhcurch Farm on Naval Record]. In the 1901 census he was the son of Geogre and Elizabeth Kemp, aged 5, born Minster, Kent, resident Cold Blow Cottages, 2, Garlinge, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of George and Elizabeth Kemp, aged 15, born Hoo Minster, Thanet, Kent, a Farm Labourer, resident Woodchurch Farm, Acol, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 29.

KNOTT

Edward Joseph

Gunner 154337, “D” Battery, 307th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Died of wounds 30 November 1918. Aged 31. Born Birchington, Kent, enlisted Woolwich, Kent. Son of William and Susannah Knott, of 3, Manchester Villas, Birchington; husband of the late Catherine G Knott (nee Jaquest), married January to March Quarter 1911 in Thanet Registraton District, Kent. In the 1891 census he was the son of William and Susan Knott, aged 3, born Birchington, Kent, resident Station Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1901 census he was the son of William and Susannah Knott, aged 13, born Birchington, Kent, a Grocer's Porter, resident Money Tree, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the husband of Catherine Knott, aged 23, born 3 Flint Cottages, Birchington, Kent, a Contractors Carman, resident 1 Adelaide Cottage Station Road Birchington, Birchington, Kent. Buried in ST. SEVER CEMETERY EXTENSION, ROUEN, Seine-Maritime, France. Section S. Plot II. Row HH. Grave 25.

LAWRENCE

Albert James

Sergeant 11856, King’s Company, 2nd Battalion, Grenadier Guards. Killed in action 10 December 1916. Born Woolnesboro, Kent, enlisted Ramsgate. Baptised 11 March 1888 in Woodnesborough, St Mary the Virgin, Kent, son of John and Sarah Jane Lawrence. Buried in SAILLY-SAILLISEL BRITISH CEMETERY, Somme, France. Plot II. Row D. Grave 3.

MAXTED

Sidney John

Private 441, 6th (Service) Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds 21 March 1916. Aged 24. Born, resident and enlisted Birchington, Kent. Baptised 3 April 1892 in Birchington, Kent. Son of John and Emily Ann Maxted, of South End Cottages, Birchington, Kent. In the 1901 census he was the son of John and Elizabeth Maxted, aged 9, born Birchington, Kent, resident Eden Villas, 3, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of John and Elizabeth Maxted, aged 19, born Birchington, Kent, resident South End Cottage, Birchington, Kent. Attested 29 August 1914 at Birchington, Kent, aged 22 years 6 months, born Brichington, Kent, a Labourer by trade, single, posted 6th Battalion 1 September 1914, resident Southend Cottage, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Kent, with the B.E.F. France 1 June 1915, height 6 feet 3 inches, weight 162 lbs, chest 33-36 inches, blue eys, brown hair. Buried in LILLERS COMMUNAL CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row E. Grave 52.

MAYERS

Walter Charles

Corporal G/40220, 7th Battalion, Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) formerly 8637, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Killed in action 10 August 1917. Aged 25. Born Wingham, Kent, resident Birchington-On-Sea, Kent, enlisted Dover, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 11.

MILLEN

Percy Augustus

Able Seaman 238300, H.M.S “Vanguard,” Royal Navy. Died at sea when H.M.S. Vanguard was sunk 9 July 1917. Born 28 September 1889 in Minster, Kent; brother of Charles Victor Millen (below); husband of Ellen Millen, of Oliphant, Paddock Road, Birchington, Kent. Prior to enlisting he was a plumber. Enlisted 28 September 1907 for 12 years, height 5 feet 6inches, fair hair, dark blue eyes, fresh complexion. In the 1901 census he was the son of Walter and Elizabeth Millen, aged 11, born Birchington, Kent, resident Cottage, Margate Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Walter William and Elizabeth Rastlan Millen, aged 21, born Birchington, Thanet, Kent, an Able Seaman in H.M. Services, resident 1 Mill Row, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 21.

MILLEN

Charles Victor

Private G/5013, 6th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 7 October 1916. Aged 25. Born and resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Margate, Kent. Baptised 6 December 1891 in Birchington, Kent. Son of Walter William Wood Millen and Elizabeth Eastland Millen; brother of Percy Augustus Millen (above). In the 1901 census he was the son of Walter and Elizabeth Millen, aged 9, born Birchington, Kent, resident Cottage, Margate Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Walter William Wood Millen and Elizabeth Eastland Millen, aged 19, born Birchington, Kent, a Builders Labour (House), resident 1 Mill Row, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 5 D.

MORISON

Alexander Donald

[Served as John MURRAY] Lance Corporal 27217, 2nd Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Killed in action 6 July 1916. Aged 37. Born and resident Glasgow, enlisted Holborn, London. Son of William and Anna Murray Morison, of Stornoway; husband of Margaret Donald Morison, of 35, St. George’s Square, London. A pharmaceutical chemist. Buried in GORRE BRITISH AND INDIAN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row A. Grave 15.

PAYNE, DCM

Charles aka Charlie

Sergeant T/200597, 7th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds 6 September 1918. Aged 20. Born Faversham, Kent, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Ramsgate, Kent. Baptised 20 February 1898 in Faversham, St Mary of Charity, Kent [baptised as Charlie] Son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Payne, of "Etheldene", Paddock Rd., Birchington, Kent. Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.)[London Gazette 16 January 1919]. In the 1901 census he was the son of Charles and Clara Payne, aged 3, born Faversham, Kent, resident 12, Victoria Terrace, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Charles and Clara Payne, aged 13, born Faversham, Kent, at school, resident 4 Paddock Villas, Birchington, Kent. Buried in ST. SEVER CEMETERY EXTENSION, ROUEN, Seine-Maritime, France. Section Q. Plot IV. Row G. Grave 19.

PEGDEN

William

Sapper Deal/1093(S), Royal Marine Divisional Engineers, Royal Naval Division, Royal Marines. Killed in action 13 November 1916. Aged 38. Born 29 March 1878 in Elham, Kent. Son of Thomas and Mary Ann Pegden, of Elham, Kent; husband of Gertrude Susannah Pegden (nee Bailey), of "The Anchorage", 44, Invicta Rd., Margate formerly Rose Cottage, Acol, near Birchington, Kent, married 23 April 1898 in Elham, St Mary the Virgin, Kent. In the 1911 census he was married to Gertrude Pegden with three daughters, aged 33, born Elham, Kent, a Labourer for Colliery above ground, resident 2 Downs View Cottages, Shoulden Bank, Deal, Shoulden, Kent. Buried in ANCRE BRITISH CEMETERY, BEAUMONT-HAMEL, Somme, France. Plot VII. Row C. Grave 13.

PEMBLE

Clarence Arthur Lyon

Second Lieutenant, 8th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Killed in action 1 August 1918. Aged 28 (probably older - 30). Baptised 25 January 1888 in Birchington, Kent. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Pemble, of “Beverley”, Birchington; husband of Hannah "Annie" Pemble (nee Elliott), of “Oliphant” Birchington, Kent, marriage banns 26 March 1911 at Birchington, All Saints, Kent. Secretary of the National Deposit Friendly Society, Birchington District, prior to the war. In the 1911 census he was the son of Arthur Henry and Carlotte Hannah Pemble, aged 23, born Birchington, Kent, a Clerk Gas Works, resident 2 Paddock Road, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL , Pas de Calais, France. Bay 2.

PEMBLE

Frederick Philip

Lieutenant (Pilot), 213th Squadron, Royal Air Force. Killed while flying in a Sopwith Camel, serial number D3333, when he collided in air with another machine S.S.E. of Dunkirk 29 June 1918. Aged 18. Born 29 July 1899. Baptised 24 September 1899 in Birchington, Kent. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Belgium. Son of Mr. Frederick A. Pemble, of “Adinkerke” formerly "Summerside" (sic), Minnis Rd. Birchington, Kent. In the 1901 census he was the son of Frederick A and Frances Pemble, aged 1, born Birchington, resident Sunnyside Lodge, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. Buried in ADINKERKE MILITARY CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Row G. Grave 9.

PORT

William James

Leading Seaman 191310, H.M.S. Formidable, Royal Navy. Killed when Formidable was torpedoed in the Channel 1 January 1915. Aged 36. Born 2 May 1880 in Chilham, Kent. Baptised 28 October 1878 in Birchington, All Saints, Kent, son of John Downs Port and Laura Port. Son of John Downs Port and Laura Port, of 2, Manchester Villas, Crescent Rd., Birchington, Kent. Awarded Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. In the 1881 census he was the son of John and Lura Port, aged 2, born Birchington, Kent, resident Mill Row, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1891 census he was the son of John D and Laura Port, aged 12, born Chilham, Kent, resident 2, Mill Row, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1901 census he was a crew member of H.M.S. Pormone (a Third Class Cruiser), single, aged 20, born Chilham, Kent, an Ordinary Seaman, resident Royal Navy At Sea and in Ports Abroad, Ships and Overseas Establishments. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 9.

ROGERS

Reginald Albert

Able Seaman J/10113, H.M.S. Pembroke, Royal Navy. Invalided out with Tuberculosis 4 May 1916, died 5 September 1916. Aged 21. Born 2 January 1895 in Kingsdown, Kent. Baptised 3 March 1895 in Kingsdown Next Deal, St John the Evangelist, Kent. Son of John James and Mary Rogers, of Avery House, Birchington. In the 1901 census he was the son of John J and May Rogers, aged 5, born Kingsdown, Kent, resident Coast Guard Station, 6, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. Enlisted 2 January 1913 for 12 years, Heght 5 feet 9½ inches, chest 33½ inches,brown hair, grey eyes, fresh complexion. Buried in BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent. New Ground. Grave 264.

ROWLAND, MM

Clarence Wesley

Lance Sergeant G/15674 [incorrrectly listed as G/15074 on SDGW] 7th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 15 July 1917. Born and resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Canterbury, Kent. Awarded the Military Medal (M.M.). In the 1901 census he was the son of Harry and Amelia Rowland, aged 7, born Birchington, Kent, resident 5, Gordon Square, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Harry and Amelia Rowland, aged 17, born Birchingtn, a Plumber, resident 2 Manstone Villas, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 14.

SACKETT

Edmond Herbert

Bombardier 1138, 12th. A.F.A. Brigade, Australian Field Artillery. Died 8 October 1918. Aged 22. Baptised 26 March 1896 in Faversham, St Mary of Charity, Kent. Son of Louisa Sackett, of 3, Parfects Cottages, Birchington-on-Sea, Kent, and the late George Sackett. In the 1901 census he was the son of George and Louisa Sackett, aged 5, born Faversham, Kent, resident Dartford Villas, 3, Birchington, Thanet, Kent. Buried in BELLICOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, Aisne, France. Plot V. Row R. Grave 3.

SAFFERY

Henry [Thomas]

Private PO/14720, H.M.S. “Tipperary,” Royal Marine Light Infantry. Died when his ship was sunk at the Battle of Jutland 1 June 1916. Aged 27. Born 12 December 1888 in Minster, Margate, Kent. Baptised 16 March 1890 in Minster in Thanet, St Mary the Virgin, Kent. Son of Alfred and Esther Saffery; husband of Flora Margaret Saffery (nee Raftery), of 1, Mooreland Rd. Forton Rd. Gosport, Hampshire, married 1 January 1910 at Forton, St John the Evangelist, Hampshire. Prior to enlisting he waS a Laundry Labourer, religious denomination Church of England. Enlisted at Deal 12 March 1907, aged 18. Height 5 feet 6 inches, fresh complexion, brown eyes, dark brown hair. Bured in FARSUND CEMETERY, Norway. Grave 873.

SANDLE

Henry John

Private 818, Honourable Artillery Company (H.A.C.)(Infantry). Died, in the 7 Field Ambulance, of wounds received the previous day 25 February 1915. Aged 19. Born Camberwell, resident Bromley, Kent, enlisted 26n January 1914 at Armoury House, Finsbury aged 18 years 6 months. Son of Sidney John and Harriet Jane Sandle, of “The Hollies”, Mason’s Hill, Bromley, Kent. In business with his father as a Wholesale Stationer, of Messrs. Sandle Bros, of 17 Holwood Road, Bromley, Kent. Single. Belonged to Haileybury College O.T.C. Height 5 feet 9½ inches, chest 32½-36½ inches. In the 1901 census he was the son of Sidney John and Harriet Jane Sandle. aged 5, born Dulwich, Surrey, resident 17, Holwood Road, Bromley, Kent. In the 1911 census he was a student, aged 15, born Dulwich, Kent resident Haileybury College, Haileybury Hertford, Great Amwell, Hertfordshire. Buried in LOKER CHURCHYARD, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot II. Row F. Grave 13.

SAYER

John George

Petty Officer Stoker 311684, H.M.S. “Vanguard,” Royal Navy. Died at sea when “Vanguard” exploded while at anchor in Scapa Flow; only three survived out of 845 on board, 9 July 1917. Born 23 May 1888 in Birchington, Kent. Baptised 4 August 1889 in Birchington, Kent. Son of Arthur Gardener Sayer and Elizabeth Sayer, of 4, Manchester Villas, Birchington, Isle of Thanet. Prior to enlistment he was a Blacksmith. Enlisted 11 May 1907 for 12 years, Height 5 feet 10 inches, brown hair, brown eyes, fresh complexion. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 23.

SAYER

William Charles

Private G/5676, 2nd Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 28 September 1915. Aged 36. Born Acol, Kent, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Ramsgate, Kent. Son of Janet Sayer, of Acol, Kent, and the late Charles William Sayer; husband of Rose Ellen Sayer (nee Sutton), of Llanrwst, Denbighshire, married October to December Quarter 19109 in THanet Registration Dsitrcit, Kent. No known rave. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 15 to 19.

SHARP

Thomas Alfred Frank Joseph

Drummer L/7813, 1st Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 19 June 1915. Aged 29, Borm Pimlico, Middlesex, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Chatham, Kent. Son of Arther and Emma Maud Sharp, of 1, Dartford Villas, Birchington, Kent. Brickmaker by trade. Religious denomination Church of England. Originally enlisted in the Militia 21 October 1903, aged 17 years 10 months, height 5 feet 3 inches, chest 31-33 inches, fresh complexion, grey eyes, brown hair. In the 1911 census he was aged 25, born Pimlico, Middlesex, a Brickmaker by trade, Private, 'B' Company, 2nd Battalion, The Buffs, billeted at Headquarters, SS Singapore SS, Overseas Military, Ships and Overseas Establishments. Buried in POTIJZE CHATEAU WOOD CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Row B. Grave 9.

SIDDERS, MM *

Percy

Private 7008, 11th (Prince Albert's Own) Hussars. Killed in action 30 March 1918. Aged 27. Born Canterbury, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Dover. Son of Frederick and Emily Sidders, of 2, Perfects Cottages, Margate Rd., Birchington, Kent. Awarded the Military Medal (M.M.). No known grave. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Panel 4.

STEWART

Albert Edward

Stoker 1st Class 282246, H.M.S. “Lighting,” Royal Navy. Died when “Lightning” struck a mine 30 June 1915. Aged 38. Son of David and Elizabet Sarah Stewart, of 2, Malt House Cottages, Minnis Bay, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 12.

TERRY

Frederick John Cortopassi

Ordinary Signalman J/20300, H.M.S. “Aboukir,” Royal Navy. Died 22 September 1914; “Aboukir, “Hogue” and “Cressy” sank the same day after being torpedoed by Uboat U9. . No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 3.

THORNTON, MiD

Leslie Irvine Lumsdon Thornton

Second Lieutenant, Indian Army Reserve of Officers attached to 16th Cavalry, Indian Army. Died 9 September 1915. Aged 26. Son of Swinford Leslie Thornton and Katharine Mary Matilda Gordon Thornton, of Grouville Court, Jersey. Mentioned in Despatches (MiD). Buried in TEHRAN WAR CEMETERY, Iran, Plot II. Row A. Grave 14.

TOWELL, MC and Bar

Gerald Wyman

Lieutenant Acting Captain, "N" Battery, Royal Horse Artillery. Died of wounds 8 August 1918. Aged 21. Son of Henry J. and Alice L. Towell, of High Firs, Gt. Missenden, Bucks. Educated at Clifton College and R.M.A. Woolwich. Awarded the Military Cross (M.C.) and Bar. Buried in CORBIE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Somme, France. Plot 2. Row F. Grave 5.

WILLIAMS

Sidney Albert

Private 632996, 1st/20th (County of London) Battalion (Blackheath and Woolwich), London Regiment formerly G/24477, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Killed in action 1 October 1916. Resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Margate. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 9 D 9 C 13 C and 12 C.

WINTER

Albert Edward

Private G/6372, 2nd Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died of wounds in Salonika 22 January 1916. Born Minster, Kent, resident and enlisted Sandwich, Kent. Buried in SALONIKA (LEMBET ROAD) MILITARY CEMETERY, Greece. Grave 62.

WOODCOCK

John

Private G/41609, 13th Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment). Died of wounds 5 September 1917. Born Bishopsbourne, Kent, resident Birchington, Kent, enlisted Ealing, Middlesex. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Enclosure No.4. Plot II. Row D. Grave 5.

WOODLAND

Herbert Edwin

Boy 1st Class J/26779, H.M.S. “Hawke,” Royal Navy. Died when “Hawke” was sunk by U-boat U9 15 October 1914. Aged 16. Son of Thomas and Ada Laurel Woodland, of Margate Hill, Acol, Birchington, Thanet. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 3.

WRIGHT

Walter

Sergeant 13171, "D" Company, 6th Battalion, King's Own Scottish Borderers. Died 25 September 1915. Aged 22. Son of Mr. M. J. and Mrs. E. J. Wright, of 5, Dartford Villas, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 53 to 56.

1939-1945
TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN HALLOWED MEMORY
OF THE MEN FROM BIRCHINGTON AND ACOL
WHO FELL IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR

BAILEY

Ernest William

Driver T/63838, M.T. Reception Depot, "C" Park, Royal Army Service Corps. M issing assumed dead during the Dunkirk Evacuation 20 May 1940. Aged 31. Son of Edward and Hannah Bailey. In the 1921 census he was the son of Edward and Hannah Bailey, aged 12, born Kent, resident 1, Chapel Yard, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on DUNKIRK MEMORIAL, Nord, France. Column 134.

BAKER

Frederick Ernest

Sergeant (Special Operations) 1295239, 458 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Country of service United Kingdom. Killed in action flying out of Protville I, Tunisia, in a Vickers Wellington XI, serial number HZ536, when his aircraft was lost over the sea due to engine failure during a strike support sortie carrying flares to illuminate shipping, three of the crew survived and were captured, 24 June 1943. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Frederick Richard and Edith R. Baker, of Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on MALTA MEMORIAL, Malta. Panel 8, Column 1. See also Malta Memorial

BIRCH

Richard William

[Also recorded as BURCH] Gunner 1754818, 7th Battery, 4 Maritime Regiment, Royal Artillery. Died at sea in Malaya, Far East, presumed killed in action 26 February 1942. Aged 33. Born 12 June 1908, and resident, Birchington, Kent. Son of Charles James Birch and Elizabeth Ellen Birch; husband of Beatrice Grace Birch, of Birchington, Kent. In the 1911 census he was the son of Charles James Birch and Elizabeth Ellen Birch, aged 2, born Birchington on Sea, Kent, resident 2, Eden Cottage, Birchington, Kent. In the 19212 census he was the son of Charles James Birch and Elizabeth Ellen Birch, aged 13, born Birchington, Kent, resident 5, Epper Cottage, Birchington, Kent. In the 1939 Register he was married to beatrice G Birch, born 12 June 1908, a general Labourer, resident 5 Epple Road, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent,. No known grave. Commemorated on PLYMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Devon. Panel 103. Column 3.

BUCK

George Rupert [Metaluf]

Captain (Air Gunner) 112847, Royal Artillery attached to 9 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Killed while flying out of Honington, Suffolk, in a Vickers Wellington III, serial number X3398, on a training exercise when the aircraft crashed into the sea off Clacton beach 15 February 1942. Aged 35. Born 24 October 1906 in London S.W., resident Kent. Baptised 19 January 1907 at Christchurch Church, Folkestone, Kent. Son of Cecil Henry and Mary Strachan Buck, husband of Joyce Isabel Buck, of Cobham. Surrey. Before enlisting he was a master at Grenham House School a private prep boarding school for boys in Birchington-on-Sea, Kent. Buried in CLACTON CEMETERY, Essex. Plot C. Grave 449.

Exract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1940:

BUCK George Rupert of 55 Grovewood Chase Chorley Wood Hertfordshire died 15 February 1942 at Clacton Essex Administration Llandudno 21 May to The National Bank Limited.
Effects £112 0s. 3d.

BURR

James Orlando

Midshipman (A) (Pilot), 759 Squadron, H.M.S. "Raven," Royal Navy. Killed while flying out of Eastleigh, Hampshire, in a Blackburn Skua II, serial number L3044, when the aircaft stalled and crashed when taking off from Eastleigh, Hampshire, 22 April 1940, Aged 19. Native of Woodchurch, Kent. Son of Frank E. and Gertrude Burr, of Woodchurch, Kent. Buried in HASLAR ROYAL NAVAL CEMETERY, Hampshire. Plot G. Row 8. Grave 15.

Exract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1940:

BURR James Orlando of The Burrs Birchington Kent died 22 April 1940 on war service Administration London 13 August to Frank Euseby Burr retired stockbroker. Effects £320 17s. 5d.

COX

Alfred Vall

Able Seaman P/JX289287, H.M.S. "President" (S.S. City of Pretoria), Royal Navy. He was a DEMS gunner when his ship was sunk by U-172 3 March 1943. Aged 22. Born 6 August 1920. Son of Alfred Vall Cox, and Ellen Mabel Cox, of Birchinghton, Kent. In the 1939 Register he was the son of Ellen M Cox (a widow), born 6 August 1920, a Butcher's Rundsman, single, resident 2 Mill Cottages, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 74, Column 1.

DOWLING

George Thomas

Sergeant 1714852, 78 Battery, 35 Light A.A. Regiment, Royal Artillery. Died as a Japanese Prisoner of War in Kuching, Sarawak, from internal ulcers 14 July 1945; captured 17 February 1942 in Singapore. Aged 35. Born 2 September 1909 in Dalhouse, India resident Kent. Baptised 17 September 1909 in Dalhousie, Punjab, Bengal, India. Resident Birchington, Kent. Son of George Thomas and Nora Dowling, of 14, Hillbrow Terrace, Birchington, Kent. Civilian occupation Clerk. In the 1939 Register he was the son of Nora Dowling (a widow), born 2 September 1909, single, a Bus Conductor, resident 14 Hill Brow Terrace, Birchington, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. Column 5.

GREEN

Michael James

Sergeant 572522, 168 Maintenance Unit, Royal Air Force, North African Command. Accidentally killed at Heliopolis, Egypt, 18 August 1945. Aged 24. Son of Walter and Muriel Alice Green, of Birchington, Kent. In the 1921 census he was the son of Walter George and Muriel Alice Green, aged 1 month, born Birchington, Kent, resident 26, Minnis Road, Birchington, Kent. Buried in HELIOPOLIS WAR CEMETERY, Egypt. Plot 4. Row D. Grave 20.

HALL

Robert Ewen

Sergeant (Air Gunner) 1392121, 75 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Bomber Command. Killed in action flying out of Mepal, Cambridgeshire, in a Short Stirling III. serial number EH948, when the aircraft was shot down by a night fighter into the sea off Aero Island during a mine laying sortie to Kiel Bay 24 February 1944. Aged 35. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Robert and Christina Mackintosh Hall; husband of Dorothy Mary Hall, of Birchington, Kent. In the 1939 Register he waqs married to Dorothy M Hall, born 21 June 1909, an Air Ministry Ward., resident 2 Freeman Terrace, Minster, Eastry R.D., Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 230.

HARVEY

Thomas Frederick

Sergeant 356325, Royal Air Force, Fighter Command. Died at Heston, Middlesex 7 August 1943. Aged 51. Native of Heston, Middlesex. Son of Thomas and Eliza Harvey; husband of May Winifred Harvey, of Heston, Middlesex. In the 1911 census he was the son of Thomas and Eliza Harvey, aged 19, born Birchington, Kent, a Blacksmith, resident 10 Victoria Terrace, Birchington, Kent. In the 1921 census he was married to Winfred May Harvey, aged 29, born Birchington, Kent, a Shoeing & General Smith, resident 3, Station Road, Whitstable, Whitstable Urban, Kent. Buried in BROOKWOOD MILITARY CEMETERY, Surrey. Plot 25. Row C. Grave 11.

HEDGE

R J

possibly Raymond John Hedge, Warrant Officer 518431, 256 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Country of service United Kingdom. Killed in action flying out of Forli, Italy, in a de Havilland Mosquito NFXIII, serial number HK187, when the aircraft was lost during a bomber support sortie 8 April 1945. Husband of Joan M Hedge, married January to March Quarter 1944 in Liverpool South Registration District, Lancashire. No known grave. Commemorated on MALTA MEMORIAL, Malta. Panel 18, Column 1. Possibly also commemorated on Malta Memorial

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946:

HEDGE Raymond John of 24 Springwood-avenue Liverpool 19 died on or since 8 April 1945 on war service Administration Liverpool 29 August to Joan Hedge widow.
Effects £644. 13s. 5d.

HUGHES, MM

Harry George

Sergeant 6285931, 1st Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died 29 March 1943. Aged 28. Son of George and Emily Hughes, of Acol. Buried in SFAX WAR CEMETERY, Tunisia. Plot XIII. Row A. Grave 14.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 26 January 1943, page 2:

ACOL M.M.
AWARD TO SGT. HUGHES

Son of Mr. and Mrs. George Hughes, of 1 East View-terrace, Acol, Acting Sgt. Harry George Hughes-, who is serving with The Buffs in the Middle East, has been awarded the Military Medal.

Sgt. Hughes, who is 28 years of age, attended Minster School and afterwards worked on a farm. He joined The Buffs in December, 1934, and two years later was drafted to India. He has served with the Midd!e East Forces since the outbreak of war and until early in 1942 was with headquarters staff of a battalion of the county regiment. He was promoted corporal last April and acting sergeant three months later.

Sgt. Hughes' brother, L/Cpl. Cecil Hughes, aged 25, serving with the same regiment, was taken prisoner at Gazala in December, 1941, and is now a prisoner of war in Italy.

Another brother. Pte. H. J. (Jackie) Hughes. aged 22, went overseas recently.

KELLEGHER

Patrick Bernard

Sergeant (Air Gunner) 63291, 1667 Heavy Conversion Unit, Royal Air Force, Bomber Command. Killed while flying out of Sandtoft, Lincolnshire, in an Avro Lancaster I, serial number W4890. when the aircraft broke up and crashed near Thorney Island, Hants, possibly due to icing, during a daylight navigation exercise 10 February 1945. Aged 24. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Patrick James Kellegher and Catherine Alice Kellegher; husband of Cicely Patricia Kellegher, of Birchington. Buried in N.E. corner of BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent. Grave 96.

MORRIS

Fenton Harry

Lieutenant, H.M. Submarine Thames (N71), Royal Navy. Died at sea due to enemy action 3 August 1940; Thames was reported overdue on 3 August 1940, and had probably struck a mine off Norway in late July or early August 1940. Aged 23. Son of Edward Harry Morris, and of Ethel Mary Morris, of Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 37, Column 1.

PARTRIDGE

Robert Douglas

Sergeant 927260, 99 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Bomber Command. Killed in action flying out of Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire, in a Vickers Wellington II, serial number W5454, when the aircraft was lost without trace when returning from a raid on Mannheim with an engine fire 22 October 1941. No known grave. Commemorated on RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 50.

PERKINS

Arthur Frederick

Signalman 2357060, Army Air Support Signal Section, Royal Corps of Signals attached to III Indian Corps Signals. Died as a Japanese Prisoner of War in Thailand, Camp 4, 15 October 1943; captured at Singapore 15 February 1942. Aged 32. Born 9 August 1911 in Kent, resident Surrey. Resident Brichington, Kent. Son of Norman Albert and Harriet Perkins; husband of Audrey Victoria Perkins, of Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk formerly Thanet Forge Avenue, Old Coulsdon, Surrey. Civilian occupation Sorting Clerk. Buried in CHUNGKAI WAR CEMETERY, Thailand. Plot 9. Row C. Grave 5.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 20 July 1943, page 2:

MISSING FOR 18 MONTHS
BIRCHINGTON MAN A PRISONER

Pte. Arthur Frederick Perkins. third on of Mr. and Mrs. N. Perkins, of 74 Park-lane, Birchington, who was reported missing in Malaya 18 months ago, is now known to he a prisoner of the Japanese.

Before his capture, Pte. Perkins was for a time in Singapore serving in the Royal Corps of Signals, attached to a bomber station. He joined up in December, 1941, and was posted overseas in October, 1942.

Thirty-two years of age, Pte. Perkins was educated at Birchington Church School and was afterwards employed at Birchington Post Office. Prior to his enlistment he was working as a sorter in Victoria Post Office, London.

Two of his brothers are serving in the forces. One, L/Bdr. Maurice Perkins, R.A., is with a heavy anti-aircraft battery in England, and the other Ldg. Acm. John Perkins, R.A.F., is serving in a military hospital in Gibraltar. Mr. Clarence Perkins, another brother, is employed at an aircraft factory. Their father has been employed as a signalman at Birchington railway station for 43 years.

PETTMAN

Albert Wilfred

Sergeant (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) 1258277, 86 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Coastal Command. Killed in action flying out of St Eval, Cornwall, in a Bristol Beafort II, serial number AW279, when the aircraft crashed near St Merryn, Cornwall soon after taking off from St Eval in poor visibility 18 February 1942. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Mrs. H. M. Pettman, of Birchington. Buried West of church in BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent.

PITCHER

Stanley John

Lance Corporal 7591404, Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Died on service in the Middle East 1 September 1943. Aged 33. Born 3 October 1910. Baptised 7 November 1910 in Deal, St Andrew, Kent. Born Kent, resident London S.W. Son of William John and Annie Emma Pitcher; husband of Dorothy E M Pitcher (nee Calverley), of Fulham, London, married July to September Quarter 1939 in Thanet Registration District, Kent. . In the 1921 census he was the son of William John and Annie Emma Pitcher, aged 10, born Deal, Kent, resident 1, Grosvenor Cottages, Acol, Birchington, Kent. Buried in GAZA WAR CEMETERY, Israel and Palestine (including Gaza) Plot C. Row C. Grave 4.

READ

Peter Alfred

Ordinary Seaman P/JX14304, H.M.S. "Ranee,’’ Royal Navy. H.M.S. Ranee was on loan from America and was in Canada when Peter accidentally drowned 8 May 1944. Aged 19. Born 16 September 1925 in Birchington, Kent. Son of Alfred Henry and Elizebeth (sic - Lilian E) Read, of Birchington, Kent. In the 1939 Register he was the son of Alfred H and Lilian E Read, bor 16 September 1925, at school, resident 21 Crescent Road, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. Buried in ESQUIMALT (VETERANS') CEMETERY, Canada. Naval Section Grave 225.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 23 May 1944, page 4:

BIRCHINGTON SEAMAN
DROWNED

Ord.-Smn. Peter Alfred Read, R.N., of 21 Crescent-road, Birchington, has been accidentally drowned on active service.

Only son of Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Read, Peter was 18 years old. He attended St. Ethelbert's School and joined the Royal Navy just over a year ago.

His father served with the Army in the last war and part of his service was spent in Russia

ROBERTS

Reginald Charles

Ordnary Seaman P/JX190545, H.M.S. "Hood," Royal Navy. Died at sea when H.M.S. Hood was sunk during the pursuit of the German Battleship, Bismarck, in the Denmark Straight, 3 survivors out of 1,418 crew, 24 May 1941. Aged 21. Born 3 October 1919 in Minster, Kent. Son of Frederick Arthur and Mabel Mary Roberts. In the 1921 census he was the son of Frederick Arthur and Mabel Mary Roberts, aged 1 year 8 months, born Kent, resident Hawthorn Stores, Minster, Monkton, Kent.No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 51, Column 1.

RUSSELL

Robert Frederick

[Listed on memorial as Royal Army Service Corps] Corporal 106117, 1st Royal Gloucestershire Hussars, Royal Armoured Corps. Accidentally killed in the United Kingom when he was knocked down and killed by a lorry 16 January 1944. Aged 27. Born 27 March 1916, and resident, Kent. Son of Grace Mary Russell; husband of Joan Russell, of Easton, Lincolnshire. In the 1921 census he was the son of Ernest Alfred and Grace Mary Russell, aged 5, born Kent, resident Birchmore, Alpha Road, Birchington, Kent. In the 1939 Register he was the son of Grave M Russell, born 27 March 1916, a Birchmore, Alpha Road, Birchington, Birchington, Kent, single, resident 40a Station Road, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. Buried EASTON-ON-THE-HILL (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, Lincolnshire.

SHERSBY

John Ernest Nairne

Corporal 6291258, 2nd Battalion, The East Yorkshire Regiment (The Duke of York's Own). Died of wounds in Western Europe 18 July 1944. Aged 29. Born and resident Kent. Baptised 11 October 1914 in Margate, St Paul, Cliftonville, Kent.Son of Frank Ernest and Emily Louisa Shersby; husband of Mildred Alice Shersby, of Birchington. Buried in LA DELIVRANDE WAR CEMETERY, DOUVRES, Calvados, France. Plot VI. Row L. Grave 4.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 25 August 1944, page 1, and Thanet Advertiser 29 August 1944, page 2:

DIED OF WOUNDS
Margate Man's Ten Days
in France

Son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Shersby, of Chase-cottages, Minster, formerly of Margate, Cpl. John Shersby is reported to have died of wounds 10 days after his arrival in France.

His widow and two young children are living with her father, Mr. A. Tatham, Margate Harbour Master, at Adinkerke, Reculver-avenue, Birchington.

Cpl. Shersby, who was 29 years of age, attended Salmestone and Central Schools, Margate. On the outbreak of war he joined the Civil Defence Service and was called up for the Army in 1940. He served with The Buffs and was transferred to the signals section of another infantry regiment before going to France.

SLADDEN

Horace Benstead

Private 6291737, 5th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Prisoner of War in Italy 22 Februiary 1943, died in Italy 12 November 1944. Born 21 September 1915, and residen, Kent. Son of Richard Benstead and Ethel Florence Sladden; husband of Lilian Irene Sladden (nee Cock), of Birchington, Kent, married October to December Quarter 1935 in Thnet Registration District, Kent. In the 1921 census he was the son of Richard and Ethel Sladden, aged 5, born Birchington, Kent, resident 2, Southend Cottages, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Kent. In the 1939 Register he was married to Lillian I Sladden, born 21 September 1915, a Butcher's Assistant, resident 5 Southend Cotts, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. Buried in MILAN WAR CEMETERY, Italy. Plot II. Row E. Grave 12.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946:

SLADDEN Horace Benstead of 5 Southend Cottages Canterbury died 12 November 1944 on war service Administration (with Will) Llandudno 23 February to Lilian Irene Sladden widow.
Effects £163 13s. 6d.

SMITH

Ernest Joseph

Guardsman 2614837, 3rd Battalion, Grenadier Guards. Died at Dunkirk between 20 and 28 May 1940. Aged 24. Born and resident Kent. Son of Percy and Alice Smith; husband of Doris Smith, of Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. In the 1921 census he was the son of Percy and Alice Rhoda Smith, aged 5, born Birchington, Kent, resident 1, Streete Farm Cottages, Birchington, Kent. Buried in BBISSEGEM COMMUNAL CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Row C. Grave 2.

SMITH

William Walter Henry

Petty Officer Stoker C/K63153, H.M.S. "Sphinx," Royal Navy. Died at sea when his ship, the Sphinx, a minesweeper, was hit by a bomb which caused an explosion 4 February 1940. Aged 36. Born 27 December 1904 in Bichington, Kent. Son of Steven William and Mercy Eliza Smith; husband of Doris May Smith, of Birchington, Kent. First enlisted 10 December 1923 for 12 years, height 5 feet 7 inches, chest 34½ inches, fair hair, blue eyes, fresh complexion. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 37, Column 3.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 13 February 1940, page 2, and Thanet Advertiser 16 February 1940, page 3:

BIRCHINGTON MAN
MISSING
FOLLOWING ATTACK ON
MINESWEEPER

Stoker Petty Officer William Walter Henry Smith, of Home Cottage, Crescent-road, Birchington, is reported missing from H.M.S. Sphynx, the minesweeper which capsized while being towed to port after being damaged by enemy air attack.

Thirty-five years of age, Petty Officer Smith was educated at Birchington Church of England School and joined the Navy 17 years ago. The ships in which he had served include the Royal Oak, Bruce, Cleopatra, Weymouth, Pegasus and Fermoy.

A married man, Petty Officer Smith is the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Smith. of Crescent-road, Birchington.

Five officers and 49 ratings were reported missing from H.M.S. Sphynx.

SPRATT

Leonard Frederick Keith

Sergeant (Observer) 1393772, 10 Operational Training Unit, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Bomber Command. Killed while flying out of Abingdon, Brkshire, in an Armstrong Whitworth Whitley V, serial number AD714, when the aircraft crashed at Northmoor, Oxon when overshooting from an approach to Stanton Harcourt during night circuit training, two of the crew survived, 7 November 1942. Aged 23. Native of Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk. Born 9 November 1919. Son of Leonard and Janet Decima Spratt, of Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk. In the 1939 Register he was born 9 November 1919, single, a Post Office Telephone (Heavy Worker), resident Taleles Tone, Sussex Gardens, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. Buried in TACOLNESTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, Norfolk.

Extract from Thanet Advertiser 17 November 1942, page 4, and Thanet Advertiser 20 November 1942, page 4:

Spratt.-7th November, killed on active service, Leonard Frederick Keith Spratt, Sgt.-Obsr., R.A.F., late of Birchington, aged 22 years.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1943:

SPRATT Leonard Frederic Keith of 6 Brackley-road Buckingham died 7 November 1942 on war service Administration Oxford 18 May to Leonard Spratt postmaster. Effects £428 19s. 11d.

STOCK, DFC

Sidney George

Flight Lieutenant (Air Gunner) 43258, 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Bomber Command. Killed in action flying out of Oakington, Cambridgeshire, in a Short Stirling I, serial number N6085. when the aircraft was shot down by a Ju88 intruder at Bourn 8 miles west of Cambridge when returning from a raid on Brest, two of the crew survived, 3 October 1941. Aged 27. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Clarence A. Stock and Florence Jessie Stock; husband of Winifred Ethel Stock, of Birchington, Kent. Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C.). Buried in GODALMING NEW CEMETERY, Surrey. Plot C. Grave 417.

Extract from Surrey Advertiser 11 October 1941, page 5:

SURREY MEN IN THE FORCES
GODALMING D.F.C. KILLED

News was received on Saturday by Mr. and Mrs. C. Stock, of Pound-lane House, Godalming, that their eldest son, Acting Flight Lieut. Sidney George Stock, R.A.F., has been killed in operations.

Flight Lieut. Stock, who was 27, leaves a widow and a baby girl, aged 14 months. The widow is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Scath, of The Haven, Birchington, Kent. In June last year Flight Lieut. Stock was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for gallant conduct in operational sweeps over enemy-occupied country. He was then the rear gunner of a machine which beat off two attackers and shot down a third. The official account mentioned his gallantry and coolness on previous occasions.

Educated at Newport County School, Isle of Wight, Flight Lieutenant Stock was employed by Mr. F. W. Patrick at the Employment Exchange, Godalming, before entering the service of the Godalming Corporation, first in the borough surveyor's department, and afterwards in that of the borough treasurer. He was one of the original members of the Godalming Players.

THURGOOD

Derek John

Flight Lieutenant (Pilot) 131531, 126 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Fighter Command. Killed while flying out of Bentwaters, Suffolk, in a North American Mustang III, serial number KH546, when the aircraft collided with Mustang FZ122 of 57 OTU near Syderstone 6 miles northwest of Fakenham, Norfolk during air combat practice 23 March 1945. Aged 22. Born 8 October 1922. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Reginald and Annie May Thurgood, of Birchington. In the 1939 Register he was the son of Reginald and Annie M Thurgood. born 8 October 1922, a Surveyors Assistant, signle, resident 64 Station Road, Margate, Margate M.B., Kent. Buried South of church in BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1945:

THURGOOD Derek John of Woodville Station-road Birchington Kent died 23 March 1945 on war service Administration Llandudno 18 June to Annie May Thurgood (wife of Reginald Thurgood). Effects £488 3s. 1d.

TUMBER

Leslie Alan

Captain 176566, Royal Engineers. Died at R.A.F. Hospital, Church Village, Pontypridd, Glamorganshire, 27 October 1943. Born 1 February 1917. Son of Edward and Alice Florence Tumber, of Birchington; husband of Dorothy Elizabeth (Betty) Tumber (nee Maggs), married 3 May 1943 in St Mary's Church, Newbury, Berkshire. In the 1921 census he was the son of Edward and Alice F Tumber, aged 4, born Birchington, Kent, resident Southdown House, Canterbury Road, Birchington, Kent. Served in the ranks and then commissioned 7 March 1941. Buried in East corner of churchyard in BIRCHINGTON (ALL SAINTS) CHURCHYARD, MARGATE, Kent.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1944:

TUMBER Leslie Alan of 43 Northbrook-street Newbury Berkshire died 27 October 1943 at R.A.F. Hospital Church Village Pontypridd Glamorganshire Probate Oxford 12 February to Geoffrey Paul Hopson company director.
Effects 222 19s. 1d.

WEST

Alfred Phillip

Petty Officer Cook (S), H.M.S. "Hood," Royal Navy. Died at sea when H.M.S. Hood was sunk during the pursuit of the German Battleship, Bismarck, in the Denmark Straight, 3 survivors out of 1,418 crew, 24 May 1941. Aged 27. Born 5 March 1914 in Chatham, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 57, Column 3.

WHITTAKER

Fredrick George

Sergeant (Flight Engineer) 1877325, 76 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Bomber Command. Killed in action flyin g out of Holme-on-Spalding Moor, Yorkshire, in a Handley Page Halifax III, serial number MZ599, when the aircraft was shot down by flak into the sea near the target during a raid on enemy forces near Westkapelle, Walcheren, 28 October 1944. Aged 27. Native of Birchington, Kent. Son of Frederick Alfred and Susan Charlotte Whittaker; husband of Kathleen Ellen Whittaker. of Birchington. Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 240.

WILLIAMS

Douglas

Stoker 1st. Class C/KX95871, H.M.S. "Avenger," Royal Navy. Died at sea when Avenger was torpedoed off Portugal 15 November 1942. Aged 23. Born 23 January 1919 in Margate, Kent. Son of Geoffrey and Hannah Gertrude Williams, husband of Ivy Bertha Williams (nee Bennell), of Margate, married July to September Quarter 1941 in Thanet Registration District, Kent. In the 1921 census he was resident with his grandfather, Thomas Williams, and his parents Geoffrey and Hannah Williams, aged 2, resident Prospect Place, St Nicholas At Wade, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 63, Column 1.

WOODHAMS

Donovan William

[Memorial states Midshipman, Royal Navy] Cadet Apprentice 162524, S.S. Deptford (London), Merchant Navy. Supposedly drowned at sea when his ship was sunk by enemy action 13 December 1939. Aged 16. Born Croydon in 1923. Last place of abode Villa Ford, Acol, Birchington, Kent. No known grave. Commemorated on TOWER HILL MEMORIAL, London. Panel 35.

THESE TABLETS WERE ERECTED BY
THE MAYOR ALDERMEN AND BURGESSES
OF THE BOROUGH OF MARGATE
NOVEMBER 1952

Last updated 9 August, 2026