I am sorry that I do not know your Christian name. I am not aware of the precise circumstances of your death, nor what caused it, but, as a former soldier in the 1st Lincolns myself, doing my National Service in 1950, I am pleased to be given this opportunity to salute you as a brave young soldier who lost his life in the service of his country. You were laid to rest in Varennes Military Cemetery, on the Somme, about 18km from Albert, where 27 other members of our regiment also were laid to rest, most of you in 1918 when the Allies began the final advance to victory, but a few in earlier years. Since the Cemetery had been used for funerals by several Casualty Clearing Stations when the medics had not succeeded in saving you, I do not know in which one of the many later engagements on the Somme you were mortally wounded. I can but quote the memorial hymn again, “All you had hoped for, all you had you gave to save mankind – yourself you scorned to save.”  I trust that the Guard of Honour at your graveside fired the traditional salute to a fallen comrade. In addition to your gravestone at Varennes I trust that you were also commemorated on your home town war memorial. You are all also remembered every year at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, when the parade is at the attention while the Queen’s Colour and the National Standard are dipped in salute as the Last Post is sounded.  I offer my sympathy to your parents and other relatives who mourned your sacrifice.  Rest in Peace.  Harry.  

Henry Harrison