James, I do not know the circumstances of your death, but, as a former Lincolns soldier myself doing my National Service in 1950-51, I can still salute you as the brave young soldier you undoubtedly were, who died in the service of his country. You were laid to rest in Maroc British Cemetery, 15km south-east of Bethune, together with 16 others of our comrades. Maroc was a front line cemetery for most of the war, but all of you in the Lincolns who were buried here lost your lives in the spring of 1917. 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 at Maroc fired the traditional salute to a fallen comrade. I also trust you were commemorated on your home town war memorial. But you are 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