I am sorry that I do not know your Christian name, which is how I like to address former members of our regiment. I do not know the precise 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 soldier you undoubtedly were, who died in the service of his country during May 1917. You were laid to rest eventually in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Loos-en-Gohelle, with four other members of our regiment. 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 Loos 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 widow, parents and other relatives who mourned your sacrifice. Rest in Peace. Harry.
Henry Harrison