William, 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 1950-51, though sad to read of your sacrifice, I am pleased to be given this opportunity to salute you as a brave soldier who lost his life in the service of his country in the severe fighting during the later stages of the 3rd Battle of the Aisne in July 1918. The fighting began in the very early morning of Monday, May 27, with a German four hour artillery barrage using poison gas with the high explosive shells on the Chemin des Dames. The defenders at first were mostly from the British 8th and 21st Divisions with many French troops also, but they had to give ground in the face of the massive German assault. Eventually, after much fierce fighting, the Germans managed to reach the River Marne. Sadly, your remains were not recovered from the field of battle, so you were commemorated on the Soissons Memorial on the banks of the River Aisne, 100km north-east of Paris, together with 68 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.” 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 also trust that you were commemorated on your home town war memorial. I offer my sympathy to your widow, parents and other relatives and friends who mourned your sacrifice. Rest in Peace. Harry.
Henry Harrison