Ernest, I do not know the precise circumstances of your death, but, as a former Royal Warwickshire soldier myself doing my National Service in 1950-51, initially with the 1st and later with the 7th (Territorial) Battalion, and also with the 1st Battalion of the Royal Lincolnshire Regiment, I can still salute you as the brave NCO you undoubtedly were, who died in the service of his country in the fighting in the former coal-mining area in the Pas de Calais, with many old slag heaps, such as that known as the Double Crassier surviving amongst the former colliery winding headgear such as the so-called Tower Bridge. The Battle of Loos involved much use of heavy artillery on both sides before the infantry launched the first attack, which also saw the first use of poison gas in the heavy mist and rain. Following the artillery bombardment the infantry attacked, and there was much hand-to-hand fighting and many resulting casualties. Most of the casualties, however, occurred during the artillery exchanges. You were commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Loos-en-Gohelle, together with many 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 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 relatives who mourned your sacrifice. Rest in Peace. Harry.
Henry Harrison